Category Archives: Newsletter Cover Model Interviews

Read the full issue here

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am from Lindenhurst, New York. My favorite hobbies include working out, dancing, shoe shopping and going to the beach! I am an instructor, trainer, Zumba instructor and dance teacher! I have been a dancer my whole life and it is a strong part of who I am.

2. How did you end up working at Lucille Roberts?

I ended up working at Lucille Roberts because I was a member there starting when I was in high school. When I started college going to the gym became less frequent. I gained some weight when I was dating someone who was a bad influence on my food choices & sleeping habits. I also didn’t dance as much as I had in high school and the freshman fifteen came to life!

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
MB: I took a huge leap of faith when I came to NYC from Romania after I turned 21. I found a job fast and began my love affair with New York. Since coming here, I have become seriously interested in fitness, diet and wellness (just like most New York women!!)

2. How did you end up working at Lucille Roberts?
MB: I started working at the Lucille Roberts Grand Central location in July 2011 as a front desk girl. I really saw how much women struggle with weight loss and dedication. I began to love being part of an encouraging environment, it made me feel good about myself – just sharing a tip about exercise or diet meant a lot to me.

3. What are some personal fitness goals you have and how do you achieve them?
MB: My goals are, obviously, to stay in great shape, keep my body fat really low, work more on my posture and flexibility and become more muscular in my lower body. I try to take at least 2 High Intensity Interval Training classes a week, 1 Pilates session and I try to use weights every time I go to the gym. The muscle I get from doing a little weights each time helps burn off all the chocolate I eat. I’ve also learned that the most valuable piece of equipment is your body weight. I used to hate exercises like push-ups, side-planks, and burpees, but now I’m addicted to these tough exercises. They help you build strength in both upper and lower body while completely toning up these areas. Between these series, for cardio, I jump rope.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Hi my name is Mayra and I was born in Ecuador raised there until I was 7-years-old. Then I came to the USA and pretty much was raised here. I have always been in to sports like soccer, basketball and I love to dance  and stay active with a group of friends.

2. How did you end up being an assistant manager at Lucille Roberts?

I started working for Lucille Roberts about 4 or 5 years ago. After starting college and majoring in international business, it became my passion. This job is my two favorite things combined: working out and being a sales person for an all woman’s fitness club where we help women get back into shape.

3. What are some personal fitness goals you have and how do you stay fit in New York City?

Fitness wise I’m down to losing my last 4lbs which I’m hoping to achieve within the next month. Then I’m going to focus on toning my abs so I can be ready for Summer 2013 and wear my bikini in Punta Cana, DR.  Between studying, taking care of my house and work I keep myself in shape dedicating 30 to 45 minutes of my day to a simple but consistent workout plan. Taking a 45-minute class like chickboxing or abs and arms is always my best option. Sometimes I have a personal training session for 30-minutes and I’ll do a total body workout. A good meal plan is important too. I made it a  point to not skip meals whether I make my meals at home or buy them in the city.  Salads are always my first choice: filling, nutritious and delicious.

4. What do you think is the best thing about Lucille Roberts?

The best thing about Lucille Roberts besides our many convenient locations are our classes! We change them with each season and we are always keeping up to date with what’s new in the fitness industry. Summer is near and it’s all about getting back into our skinny jeans and back in to our bikinis. The classes are always convenient and they’re only 45-minutes long. They’re great for all fitness levels and they fit in to everyone’s schedule even a busy woman like me who travels from NJ to NY every day. Because of the great class schedules, I still find the time to workout every day.

5. What advice do you have for women who are trying to lose weight and meet their fitness goals?

My advice to women trying to lose weight is to JUST DO IT! Don’t think about it anymore!  How long could you possibly think about it? It’s not a choice. It’s something you must do to stay healthy and look beautiful. Take baby steps and look for activities or fun classes that will get you started on some type of routine and then make it a habit. I never really thought about working out but once I did and started to see and feel the difference it made, it became my hobby and my passion. Over thinking is only going to postpone your fitness goals and at the end of the day we all know it’s something we must do. Nothing is impossible and it’s never too late to start regardless of where you are and how far you have to go.You can do it!

Check out the full February 2013 issue here.

 (Editor’s Note: I love all of our cover stories and success stories, but this one is particularly moving. Jennifer is an inspiration to us all whether you want to lose 5, 10, 50 or over 100lbs. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your story!)

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am 40 years old, happily married, mom to four wonderful kids aged 17, 15, 12, and 8 years old, from North Babylon, NY on Long Island. I love music, dancing, working out, running races, baking and taking pictures, especially of my family.

2. When and why did you commit yourself to losing weight?

My Weight Loss Journey started on November 3, 2010. In late 2010, I faced a number of different health problems. I was overweight, suffered from herniated and slipped disks, had high blood pressure and cholesterol as well as ovarian cysts and nodules on my thyroid (cancer scare). With a family history of Type 2 diabetes, I was at risk of developing the disease. To top things off, I was diagnosed with Lyme disease in September 2010. I felt like my world was falling apart. But the wake-up call that snapped me into action happened on a vacation to Aruba when I could hardly fit into my airplane seat and wasn’t able to buckle the seat belt. I thought to myself, “I can’t be that fat, can I?” But I was. That day, I made the commitment to quit my bad habits and adopt a healthier way of life through diet and exercise.

3. What led you to join Lucille Roberts ?

After working out at home for a couple of months, I was getting bored of the same old workout DVD’s and one day my friend took me as a guest to the gym that she belonged to. I enjoyed working out at the gym but did not feel comfortable working out in front of men. That night I came home and actually saw a commercial on TV for Lucille Roberts and the next day I took my friend with me to the Lucille Roberts in Bayshore with our guest passes, to check it out. When I walked in I was welcomed with open arms. The staff understood my goals and challenges and explained to me how I can make it happen and how it will happen. They were very encouraging. I have been a member ever since. I also love that it is an all women gym. I feel very comfortable working out because I feel we can all relate to each other. Working out in a group setting with all women is also very encouraging and motivating. I find that I push myself more working out with others and it is so much more fun!

4. What steps did you take to lose over 100lbs?

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I grew up in Monmouth County NJ and I loved to dance as a child. I followed my dreams of dancing professionally and became and NFL cheerleader.

2. How did you end up becoming a district manager at Lucille Roberts?
I was working for the company a short period of time, less then a year. At the time I was managing our club in West Long Branch. Lucille had an opening for a district manager in South/Central Jersey. She liked what she had seen of my work as a manager and asked me come to the city to interview for the position. From there I got the job.

3. Tell us when you decided to lose weight and how you lost 55lbs?
I am an emotional eater like so many women, plus I never had a problem with my weight and was always able to eat what I wanted and not gain anything. As I got older and went through some tough personal times I turned to food. I didn’t realized how much weight I was gaining. Then I saw a picture of myself and thought who is this girl????? I needed to get back on track with my eating and fitness.

I started watching what I ate, specifically following the Lucille Roberts diet plan and taking the Live Rite shakes. I loved the many varieties of shakes I could make, so I never got bored. I also starting taking classes before or after my shift at work. For me, classes are the most fun way to get a workout in and keep me motivated. I especially enjoy the FIT Bootcamp and Chickboxing classes. Being in the fitness industry for many years I knew I had to challenge myself and mix up my workouts. So even though I don’t enjoy cardio equipment such as the elliptical and treadmill I knew I had to do it. So I made myself a great playlist on my iPod and starting running. Having great music that I enjoyed listening too made it easier. Being determined to get back to my previous shape was a huge motivator.

4. What do you think is the best thing about Lucille Roberts?
The best thing about Lucille Roberts is our classes. They are so much fun, you laugh, smile and just have a great time while working out! You make great friends at the gym and everyone motivates each other!

5. What advice do you have for women who are trying to lose weight and meet their fitness goals?
Don’t give up!!! You may not notice the small changes at first then all of a sudden a few weeks later you go to try on a pair jeans and they FIT! So stick with it! And you must vary your workouts! Change it up, take all different types of classes, not just your favorites, lifts weights and mix it up!

This issue is available at your club’s front desk or online here.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I have been working at Lucille Roberts since August 2009 and I absolutely LOVE what I do! I am married to a supportive husband whom I have been with for 18yrs, and together we have 3 amazing children–2 boys ages 9 and 5, and a daughter age 4. I also have 2 wonderful stepdaughters ages 24 and 26 whom I love dearly. I have lived in the Bronx my entire life, born and bred. But it was when I joined the Army Reserves in 1997 as a 54 Bravo (Chemical Specialist), where I got the opportunity to travel many places and learn many skills that are useful to me to this day. My hobbies include dancing, reading, learning new choreography for my Zumba classes, and spending as much time with my family and friends as possible.

2. How did you end up being a manager at Lucille Roberts?
It was probably happenstance. I was a loyal member of Lucille Roberts as far back as 2006. I got laid off from my previous job at an office in February of 2009. Since I always felt drawn to fitness,, I went to the 3rd Avenue location where I routinely worked out at, and submitted my resume with Manager Damasa, whom I now have the great opportunity and privilege to be constantly learning from. I started at the St. Nicholas location for a few months, then got transferred as a trainee (training to become assistant manager) to the Harlem location. After a few weeks there, I was transferred as an Assistant Manager to the 3rd Avenue location, where I currently work.

3. What are some personal fitness goals you have and how does being an instructor help you achieve them?
Some personal fitness goals I have are to one day participate in a women’s fitness competition. I know the training is quite vigorous and challenging, but it goes with the territory in the fitness industry. I intend to participate in one before I turn 40 (I won”t volunteer my age, lol!) I think if I can motivate other women to be as healthy as they can be, then that to me is an outstanding acheivement as well. Being able to reach out to women, and make even the smallest difference in their life is another goal of mine, For 2013, my goal will be to train hard and maintain a healthy lifestyle for myself, my job and my family.

4. What is the best thing about Lucille Roberts?
The best thing about Lucille Roberts is the passion we all possess in helping women achieve their own personal fitness goals. Whether it be to lose weight, maintain, tone, or even have that “me” time at the gym and release stress, these ladies have a safe haven, a place where they can be themselves and feel comfortable enough to work out, and speak to us about anything and everything, like a second home. You won’t find that at other gyms. Needless to say, we have the BEST classes and instructors, personal trainers, managers and staff overall, which is hard to beat. Our environment focuses on exuding fun and positivity –we do whatever is possible to keep our members happy, with a genuine and humble approach.

5. What advice do you have for women who are trying to lose weight and meet their fitness goals?
Having battled obesity as a child, then battling it once again after having my first child being 85 lbs overweight ( I weighed 215 lbs after the birth of my child), I had a very difficult time, emotionally and physically, trying to get fit mind AND body. All I can say is that ladies, you CANNOT EVER give up on yourselves! Stay positive even when it seems that the odds are all against you. It was a challenge for me to lose that weight but I was able to take off 85 percent of that weight in a year, with self-motivation and dedication. With that being said, just have faith in yourself, that no matter what you CAN and WILL reach your goals! For some it may take days, weeks, or months– whatever the wait, just keep at it! Things get better when you change your perspective on things. Nobody ever said it would be easy, but trust me, it will be WORTH IT! Strong mind=strong body!

Check out the full newsletter here.

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1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am from Levittown New York. I am a mom of two. I love shopping, watching movies, running and being with my family. And of course teaching group fitness! That is my passion!

2. How did you end up being an instructor at Lucille Roberts?
I started as a member in 1992. I loved taking all the classes at Lucille Roberts. They kept me motivated. One day the instructor could not make it to teach her class. I said to myself, “I am going to get up there and teach the class.” I knew I could, and I did! It was the best feeling in the world! I got certified and have been teaching classes at Lucille Roberts for over 17 years. Quite an accomplishment!

3. What are some personal fitness goals you have and how does being an instructor help you achieve them?
During both my pregnancies I gained over 55 pounds. My goal was to lose the weight! I was determined to get my body back. I knew I needed to change my workouts and my eating habits. Being an instructor, I am always thinking of challenging ways to change my workouts. I wanted to look lean and feel strong. My classes along with my fellow instrucor’s classes, pushed me to be the best I can be. Through hard work, dedicatication and motivation from other trainers, I was able to acheive my goals! Group energy keeps you motivated and that’s what you get at Lucille Roberts.

4. What is the best thing about Lucille Roberts?
The best thing about Lucille Roberts is how I feel when I am there. Everyday that I walk through the doors, there is always a smiling friendly face to greet me. I never feel intimidated and love that the staff are always helping women achieve their fitness goals. There are lots of fun events and promotions happening each week. The club is always decorated and I love the new class changes during open house weeks. It’s just a fun and friendly environment that always makes my workouts enjoyable.

5. What advice do you have for women who are trying to lose weight and meet their fitness goals?
The advice I would give to women who are trying to lose weight is to start today and never give up! Stop procrastinating and just do it! Think of how great you will feel in your new body. You will feel healthy and happy. Being healthy keeps you young and vibrant! So what are you waiting for! If I can do it, you can do it!! I can’t wait to see you at Lucille Roberts!

Check out the full newsletter here.

Read the full issue here!

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am from Long Island City, Queens. My hobbies include playing basketball, softball, handball, listening to music, dancing, shopping and my favorite one: working out!

2. How did you end up working at Lucille Roberts?
I was a member in 1999 and I spent so much time there I applied for a desk girl position in January 2000. I continue to work for Lucille Roberts but now I’m in the corporate office. Soon I will have been a proud Lucille Roberts employee for 13 years!

3. When did you realize you wanted to lose weight?
Well honestly I realized I needed to lose weight 7 years ago as soon as I gave birth to my son. Of course that didn’t go well, so I maintained my “fat” weight till last year. Last year was the year I finally committed to losing weight. I realized if you don’t commit, it will never happen. In order to lose the weight you must want it.

4. Tell us how you lost 50lbs!

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Tina Jones and I am a manager at Lucille Roberts (Fulton). I’m currently a Brooklyn resident. My hobbies included spending time with my 10 year old son, dancing, jogging, swimming, long walks and writing poetry/short stories.

2. How did you end up being a manager at Lucille Roberts?
My first experience at Lucille Roberts was at the Pitkin location. I went in to become a member and was totally impressed by the kindness of the staff and members. I immediately became addicted to working out there. Within 7 months I’d lost over 50 pounds! Which I’ve maintained for quite a few years now.

3. What are some personal fitness goals you have?
I’ve recently been focusing on toning and meditation techniques. Classes like Tonoga and Pilates Mat help me beyond belief!

4. What do you think is the best thing about Lucille Roberts?
Lucille Roberts is the perfect environment for women who are serious about reaching their fitness goals. The unlimited classes, visits, orientations and endless support guarentee success.

5. What advice do you have for women who are trying to lose weight and meet their fitness goals?
My advice to woman who are ready to see results is to JOIN NOW!

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Melissa and I am 25-years-old. I am currently a full-time college student at Brooklyn College with a double major in Physical ED k-12 and adaptive PE k-12 for children w special needs w a minor in exercise science.  I just recently got engaged to my boyfriend of 10years on May 5, 2012. I have a 3-year-old English Springer Spaniel and his name is Sam. I also just became an aunt on June 29, 2012 when my little niece Adriana Skye was born. I have an older sister, a younger sister and a 7-year-old family  Golden Retriever named Bear. I hope to become a PE teacher by September 2013 if the Department of Education starts hiring again. I also work part-time on the weekends at a kids party place. I love to workout, being outdoors, hunting, fishing and taking vacations. I am also the worst pesco vegan ever because I go fishing and hunting!