How long have you been working out?  I've been active all of my life- from high school sports to urban leagues for nonprofessional professionals.

What is your current exercise routine?  I'm currently training for a marathon so running consumes most of my time (approx. 5 days/week). When doing Sonki Fitness, I try to go 3 to 4 days/week depending on my schedule. If I can't make it to class, I focus on doing my own strength training (using, of course, techniques I've learned through none other than Sonki Fitness). Every so often I'll throw in stair running, trail running, swimming, iron man competitions (kidding).

What is your motivation to stay in shape?  My motivation...the rush. The improvement in overall wellbeing. I like the physical challenges and knowing if I truly work at it, I can conquer whatever feat I take on. Ultimately you see great improvement and it gives you a sense of pride. You feel like you can accomplish just about anything. Of course, knowing that I could potentially run into Brad Pitt at any given moment on any LA city street doesn't quite hinder my motivation either.

What is your greatest challenge to staying in shape?  My greatest challenge is eating properly and absolutely making sure to get to Sonki's class (...and be on time). But once I'm there, I have a lot of fun.

What is your key to success?  Determination. If the challenge is there, whether I like it or not, I have to take it and give it 101%. If I don't do as well as I had hoped, I keep working at it. And when I have done as well as I had hoped, I push myself to do better.

How long have you been doing Sonki Fitness Boot Camp?  Since April 2004. Almost 2 years!!!

What do you like about Sonki Fitness Boot Camp and how has it affected your life?  There are so many things to like about Sonki Fitness (my check's in the mail, Sonki?). When I tell people I do boot camp, they cringe. Everyone imagines a ruthless drill sergeant, grueling regimen, e.r.-worthy pain. Sonki, however, challenges, but doesn't overwhelm. He offers only positive motivation. I've done the gym thing working with weights, but was never able to achieve the
strength and tone I've gotten through Sonki's program. Equally important, I love the people I've met and the friendships that have developed. The camaraderie makes the classes that much more fun. What a great way to release a little stress- watching everyone suffer just as much as you. No, but seriously, it's a great environment to be in.

What advice would you give to others about fitness?  When you feel like you're about to collapse, think "I can do one more, I can do one more, I can do one more." That initial "one more" eventually turns into several and will continue to multiply as long as you push yourself to do just that "one more." Have a positive attitude. Nothing is impossible. Well, almost nothing, but you get the drift.

Any other comments?  Need I say more?

December Sonki Fitness All-Star (Trina Geiss)

November Sonki Fitness All-Star (Bill Dolinsky)

October Sonki Fitness All-Star (Olin Hyde)