Our 69th Athlete of the Month in Island Park Fitness is Joe Dressler, aka Joey Tatz. There was no hesitation when selecting Joe for our May 2022 honor. He has made some serious lifestyle changes for the better and feels great. Like many others you meet in our community, they take you by surprise and offer way more than you could imagine. Joey is truly one of the most enjoyable people to be around. He served our country, he serves up cocktails as a bartender and his extremely disciplined. He and Margo went for nearly back to back 75 Hard and I know how much they enjoy their tequila. Joe is the guy that enjoys other people’s success more than his own. His favorite moment in the gym is Margo achieving toes to bar. He showed up at my wedding rehearsal dinner to buy me a drink and congratulate us. I am thankful to have Joe in our gym community. Good people attract good people. At this rate, our gym community will continue to grow in the right direction. Cheers Joe!
Written by: Coach Rob Moloney
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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
I was tired of feeling tired… I saw a picture of myself, and almost didnt recognize myself. I immediately went down to the new crossfit that opened near my house, and started to make a change.
What’s your background? (Athletic)
I played Ice and roller hockey as a teen and lacrosse in High school.
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I started 8 years ago and became a member at IP 2 years ago during the pandemic.
What is your favorite thing about the gym?
The programming. Seeing the progress of other members, whether you see them every day or not, really shows that the process and programming really works. You may not see it in yourself because that can be hard for people, but its easy to see it in those around you which can be very motivating.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
Learning to create a better balance between fitness and “real life”. Im trying not to “un-do” all the effort and hard work by making better choices when i leave the gym.
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Margo getting her first Toes-to-bar and learning that im athlete of the month number 69.
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
Pasta… 100%… because tacos aren’t cheating.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Just start. i hear too many people say they have to get in shape first, on their own, before they could even walk into a functional fitness facility. I call bullshit. It’s both, not true and an excuse. The programming is designed to allow every different level of ability to be able to get the most out of their time.
What drives you?
Definitely seeing the physical changes i’ve been making lately. I can also see progress in my gymnastics skills and mobility.
What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Staying on track. I made some serious changes this passed year, and would like to keep it going. I don’t ever want to be going backwards.