A big congratulations and thank you to Lauren Lopresti (Lopes on the whiteboard) for being our October Athlete of the Month. This really was an easy decision when thinking about what makes a model member. I first met Lauren back in August of 2020 when Sami brought her to a parking lot class. The one thing I remember from then is that she could move a barbell well. It wasn’t long after that when Lauren joined Island Park Fitness and has since been the energy when she’s at the gym. It’s not everyday you get a member, athlete or person in general who is always in a great mood, loves to encourage others to become better and has a contagious energy. Lauren possesses those qualities all while being a smart and discipline woman with her job, training and life. It’s clear that fitness is a top priority for Lauren because she makes it happen. Her work schedule was affording her to come to the gym mid morning or afternoon while she worked from home. Now the 5:30am class is a frequent spot for her and there is still that big smile and excitement each time she walks into the gym. That’s something every single coach loves to see. The coach responds well to it, and so do other athletes. Aside from moving the barbell well, Lauren has set aside dozens of hours in the past year to improve her aerobic capacity, and it’s paid off big time. That discipline stands out. Keep your focus and you will continue to see success. I continue to look forward to every time I coach you and those classes I am participating in with you as well.
P.S. If you didn’t all know, Lauren is the biggest Taylor Swift fan.
Written by Coach Rob Moloney
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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
I was working at a commercial gym at the time, where one of my coworkers kept talking about functional fitness and how great it was. He recommended a gym for me to try. I took my first class (with Coach Ryan!) and haven’t looked back since. It was terrible but I loved it.
What’s your background? (Athletic)
I played soccer, basketball and softball in high school and have continued playing sports recreationally. I started lifting weights in college, lots of bicep curls and stair master.
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I’ve been a member for a little over a year and have been doing functional fitness for about 6 years.
What is your favorite thing about the gym?
The people and the programming. I was nervous starting at a new gym after being a member at the same gym for a long time. Every class I’ve been to here, people have been so welcoming! It’s such a great blend of getting the work done but having fun at the same time.
The programming has been great. It’s exciting to see such clear progress in the cycles that we run. Whether it’s a bike test or strength cycle or anything in between, the coaches make sure we are prepared. The warms ups are great and very specific to what we are working on that day. I can’t say thank you enough for how much individual attention we get. Whether a scale is needed that day, you are just looking to do something a little different or have an injury, the coaches are prepared and ready to give a number of different options.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
Engine wods lol. Considering my favorite time domain is about a minute long and usually involves a barbell, I was hesitant about 20 to 30 to 40 min workouts especially when they involve running. But I’ve slowly grown to love them (mostly).
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Walking into class everyday is my favorite moment. I can’t explain it but the joy and excitement that comes along with stepping through the garage door is unmatched. It’s my favorite.
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
Bud Light and cinnamon rolls.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Just show up! Don’t overthink it. I know fitness can be intimidating at first but the hardest part is walking through the door. It’ll be the best decision you’ve ever made though.
What drives you?
Feeling good, looking good and enjoying life. I use IP Fitness as a way to start my day off on a high note. I want my body to look and feel the best it can while getting the most out of my life. Also, there are so many motivating people at the gym so it’s easy to want to go to class everyday.
What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Right now I’m focusing on improving my running and the deadlift cycle we are starting.