Long MEET 6 OF LONG ISLAND’S ToP FITnESS TrAInErS 36 IMAGE Fall 2008
Island’s Top Trainers elyse schuster A fter studying anatomy and becoming certified by both Hofstra University’s Academy of Applied Personal Training education and AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America), elyse decided to make fitness her career. She’s been at it for seven years now and is as passionate now about working out as she was at the age of 18. elyse’s approach to physical conditioning is twofold: One, she loves being with people and helping them feel confident about themselves. Two, she can’t stress enough the health benefits of a good workout regimen. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and bone density issues can all be managed and even overcome through the right kind of training. elyse, who is now affiliated with the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center, trains clients and occasionally teaches fitness classes. She says it’s better to work out for 30 minutes and get your heart rate up, rather than working out for an hour on the treadmill. “exercising is important for several reasons,” she explains. “We want to look our best and avoid problems like osteoporosis as we get older. Working out also changes a person’s mood—makes them feel good. Once those endorphins kick in, I can see a difference, and they’re so glad they did it.” For those interested in getting started with a fitness regimen, elyse emphasizes the benefits of a personal trainer. “Try to have a minimum of three sessions with a personal trainer to get started,” she suggests. “Many people think a personal trainer is a luxury, but getting started isn’t the easiest thing, and people get intimidated. Most gyms offer a free consultation with a trainer. Take advantage of that. You definitely need someone to show you how to work out effectively.” The benefits can be nothing short of amazing. “At 68, you can do the same thing as a 28-year-old.” elyse schuster can be reached at (516) 770-9568 BY EMILY SKYE Unquestionably, being fit goes far in helping you look your best. With this in mind, Long Island Image takes a look at some of Long Island’s top fitness trainers. michAel shArinn m ichael Sharinn was coaching soccer at St. John’s University and working on his MBA when he found himself more interested in watching athletic trainers and strength coaches work. Before long he had a Master’s in exercise Physiology and was training people formally in local fitness facilities. For a year or two, he worked at St. Francis Hospital’s cardiac rehab program and throughout various physical therapy centers. Though the work was rewarding, he soon decided he wanted more flexibility than physical therapy or cardiac rehabilitation offered. Next, Mike directed one of the biggest gyms on Long Island, the east Coast Athletic Club. Things evolved from there, and he moved into becoming part-owner of a gym. His current project is opening L.I.F.T. (Long Island Fitness & Training) with John Fernbacker and robert Fisher. “I believe in a variety of training techniques,” Mike says of his particular approach to getting his clients in shape. “To elicit a change in people, changing training techniques constantly is important. A lot of trainers get stuck doing just one form of training, but my style is that I don’t have a particular style.” Boxing, high repetition training, heavy weight training, Olympic-style lifts, and functional training, as well as other methods might find a spot in his routines. “You have to constantly challenge people if you want to change their bodies or help them to be better athletes.” Once L.I.F.T. is a success, Mike would like to revisit the academic side of his background. “I’d love to pass on what I know to future generations of trainers and other health professionals. I’d like to do personal training seminars and/or teach at the university level. As I say to my clients, ‘To grow as a person, you have to constantly challenge yourself in body and in mind.’ That’s what I plan to do.” mike sharinn can be reached at (516) 241-2841 Fall 2008 IMAGE 37
Change language