Getting Started

If you have not received a physical within a year, do so. It is also a good idea to obtain a physician’s medical release for initiating a strength program. Fancy equipment and expensive shiny machines are not necessary to benefit from a well-designed strength-training workout. Usually, the machines that are the most complicated to operate do the least. Working out at home with a set of dumbbells or adjustable dumbbells (Sport Blocks or Power Blocks) and a bench or Swiss ball will do just fine. I train many people with varying fitness levels (from 80 year old stroke victims to pro athletes), and no one needs much more equipment than previously mentioned. Many quality exercises do not even require any equipment.

Keep It Simple

A complete total-body strength-training workout should take you no longer than one hour. Compound multi-joint movements such as pushups, chin-ups, and squats should be the core of your workout. Multi-joint movements stimulate the most muscular growth because they work many big muscle groups. The big range of motion from these exercises also stimulates a greater metabolic response (i.e. burns fat at a more rapid rate), as opposed to an exercise like calf raises that isolates a very specific area. I could write at great lengths about this topic, but just “keep it simple” – perform compound multi-joint movements. Seven to nine exercises are sufficient for a complete workout. In general, one set is sufficient, but two sets can be performed.

The Workout

A “set” consists of 8 to 20 repetitions using impeccable form taken to a point of momentary muscular fatigue or close to that point. A typical workout would look like this: pushups – 1 to 2 sets of 8 to 15 repetitions, chin-ups – 1 to 2 sets of 8 to 15 repetitions, squats – 1 to 2 sets of 12 to 20 repetitions, presses- 8 to 15 reps, rows – 8 to 15 reps, lunges – 12 to 20 reps, and crunches or sit-ups – 15 to 20 repetitions. Take about 3 to 4 seconds to raise the weight and 3 to 4 seconds to lower it. Make sure you allow at least 48 hours between workouts in order for your muscles to recover and grow. These are very broad and basic guidelines for setting up a strength program. I would suggest consulting a qualified strength coach or fitness professional regarding any questions you may have and or designing a more personalized strength-training regime.

“ I started training with Joe after having my first baby. He helped me tone and sculpt my body back into shape. During my second pregnancy I continued to train with EIF. I was nervous about weight training while pregnant, but Joe provided a routine that fit the needs of my pregnant body. Also, I always felt safe during the workouts and could let him know if we needed to slow down or adjust the routine.”

Karen Gunsior
Annapolis, MD

“As a multi-sport high school athlete, I always thought that I was in good shape. After completing 1 full year at Excellence In Fitness, I now know what it feels like to be in great shape. I’m bigger, stronger, and faster now! All of the trainers at EIF are great guys to work with and they really care if you are doing well. I can’t thank them enough for helping me realize my goals and giving me the self confidence I now have. I want to especially thank Justin Mullen for all of his help and treating me like a brother. Thanks again! ”

Kyle Clise
Queenstown, MD

“My cholesterol went from 247 to 198 – a 20% drop! Thank you so much for pushing me to excel!”

Sharon Keys Seal
Pasadena, MD

“With my wedding coming up in May I knew I wanted to get myself into shape. I had heard about Excellence In Fitness from a friend and decided to give it a try. Their training is unlike anything I have ever experienced at any of the gyms I have belonged to. They truly cater your workouts to not only your body type, but also to the goals you would like to accomplish. Three months later I now weigh what I weighed in college (eight years ago!) – I thought that would never happen again and I really feel great. I will never go to another training facility; I am sticking with EIF !”

Jessica Schmidt
Annapolis, MD

“As a nurse in a critical care unit, I was always stressed, both mentally and physically. I began weight lifting with EIF in October ’05 and since that time I have increased my stamina, energy level and significantly reduced my mental and emotional stress. My neck tension is gone and my knees feel great! This is the best therapy there is and Joe is a great motivator!”

Jennifer Crisp
Pasadena, MD

“I have never made a better decision than going to EIF. After working with Joe for just five months, I have lost 71/2 lbs. of fat and gained 151/2 pounds of muscle. My body fat is down 5 percent, and my cholesterol and blood pressure are back down to healthy levels. I’ve added over an inch to my biceps and several inches on the thighs. I can already see and feel a huge difference in my shoulders, abs, back, and legs. It’s thrilling to be seeing these muscles for the first time in my life! I still have a way to go to reach my goals, but I just know it’s only a matter of time. Joe and his staff teach me something new every time and keep me looking forward to every workout. I used to dread working out, but with EIF I love it and thus I keep at it. It’s interesting how everything else in life seems to fall into place when fitness is improved. I no longer just want to “veg” in front of the TV after coming home from work. I actually have energy to do all those little things that I was always putting off. I have no more cravings for pizza and other unhealthy foods. And perhaps most importantly, my self-confidence has skyrocketed.”

Mark McInnes
Severna Park, MD

My Annapolis area Personal Training Studio is equipped with machines from some of the top strength manufacturers in the industry such as MedX, Hammer Strength, Nautilus, and Pendulum. It is conveniently located on Ritchie Highway in the Severn Commerce Center (across from Severna Park Golf Center) and is just north of Annapolis and a short drive from Baltimore as well as Washington DC.

I have hand selected all of the studio’s machines, which are designed to give the most effective and efficient workouts through the fullest yet safest ranges of motion possible. My vast knowledge of strength training coupled with the most technologically advanced equipment enables me to gear my instruction towards weight training for weight loss, weight training for women and men as well as sports conditioning.

I practice and teach high intensity strength training which is the ideal exercise method of weight training for seniors, youth weight training and physical rehabilitation. This provides greater RESULTS in a short amount of time – maximizing your time in the studio and allowing you to spend more time enjoying life with strength and enthusiasm.

It’s hard work – but hard work and a positive attitude, coupled with expert instruction and motivation, equals RESULTS!

All clients have sole and exclusive use of the new and fully equipped Personal Training Studio and are given my undivided attention – focused only on YOU! This uninterrupted environment reduces distraction and helps maintain proper focus during the training session. All workouts are by appointment only and you pay NO additional membership fees.

Your anonymity and confidentiality is guaranteed. You can be assured that there are no prying eyes or eavesdropping and because the workouts are private there is no waiting and competing for the use of machines with other gym members. Every workout is private and each client’s progress is charted in a personal journal with meticulous records kept for each exercise, setting, weight, repetitions, etc.

Call us today at (410) 544-5780 to schedule an appointment, or contact us to receive a free consultation.