Congratulations Jarrod! We are proud to honor your dedication and hard work with the title of September Athlete of the Month. The first time I met Jarrod was when Izzy brought him and Amir in to introduce me and show them the gym. They were on motorcycles and stunk like cigerettes. They were also extremely up front with what their fitness level was at the time and desire to change poor habits. Well I am pleased to say that Jarrod definitely has adjusted his health habits for the better (Amir too). One of the great parts about starting brand new members with someone one on one sessions is that I get to know them a bit. I quickly learned Jarrod grew up in South Africa, played professional soccer and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Being that he and I come from completely different parts of the world and have such different life experiences, it’s awesome to learn about him. I am pumped with the consistency and efforts put into gym and happy to see the trust he has in the coaches as well as Dr. Jeremy as he navigates past an injury. If you have yet to meet Jarrod, introduce yourself when you see him. He’s a great guy and has an awesome sense of humor. Jarrod, continue to work hard and work smart. I know “Murph” is a workout you have your eyes on to complete this upcoming year. You are on track to not only complete but do well in it.
Written By: Coach Rob Moloney
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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
My main motivation was to improve my overall health, lose weight and get back into shape. I have been in and out of shape for the past few years. I wasn’t really consistent with my training and fitness. When I stopped training I would start smoking again and being careless about my diet etc. I moved to Lido Beach just over a year ago and I met Izzy who encouraged me to check the gym out. Took me a few more months after that initial visit to sign up and start working out. It has been an incredible journey since then. I am totally hooked!
What’s your background? (Athletic)
Growing up I played many different sports and was in many different teams, from soccer to track and field, cricket and swimming. However it was evident at a young age that soccer was my favorite and was always my main focus. I turned professional at 16 and played for two of South Africa’s biggest clubs. I would have training twice a day, 5/6 days a week. My entire life revolved around school and soccer.
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I joined at the end of March 2022 and started coming to classes in April. I had never done this sort of training before so it was a bit nerve wracking in the beginning. I had to learn all new movements and a totally new way of training.
What is your favorite thing about the gym?
I am a huge fan of this gym. I love the fact that the coaches and staff realize that there are a wide variety of people with different skill sets and abilities. They find ways to make each session work for every member. They will tailor the workouts on the spot for individuals so that everyone can get the best out of an intended workout. I also like that everyone is encouraging and helpful. Ego’s are left outside and everyone comes to train hard.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
I would say consistency has been key for me. Even Though the first few months were extremely challenging, I kept coming back five or six times a week. The result of that is I don’t have to drag myself to the gym. It’s the exact opposite, I am eager to get to the gym every morning and workout.
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Although I am not a veteran of the US Military, I am a combat veteran of the IDF. So some of my favorite workouts are the Hero workouts. It’s also great when you achieve something you weren’t able to do before. Being able to have that measurable success is always encouraging.
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
HAAGEN DAZS Vanilla or Vanilla Bean. If there’s a pint in the freezer, I have a hard time not eating it.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
DO IT! Don’t hesitate or think about it. Just sign up. You will not regret your decision!
What drives you?
I think seeing where I was when I started at the gym, to where I am now is very motivating. There’s always room for improvement so I’m working hard every day to improve and to stay healthy.
What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Being consistent and injury free. I want to improve on what I am currently doing in the gym. That’ll take time, patience and hard work. So I just want to work hard daily and keep focused. These things take time so I have to make sure not to get disappointed if results aren’t coming as quickly as I would like.