Allie Smith

MY GROup FITNESS Experience at Next Phase

For years, I was doing my same gym workouts, rotating between machines and weights where I wasn’t seeing a difference. Not good or bad. Next Phase was convenient to my apartment and though I wasn’t a fan of group fitness, my boyfriend and I gave it a shot - quickly realizing it was on of the hardest workout we’ve ever done.

Next Phase soon became an addiction for us both and changed my mindset of group workouts. Even in a class setting, the trainers make your workout feel personal. They will start to recognize you, push your fitness limits and encourage you through every class.

Every time I walk into the studio now, I know I am walking into a fun and supportive community rather than feeling like a number in the group. The workouts at Next Phase are like nothing you have done before. Every week and every day has a new focus combining strength, power, toning and endurance training which creates fun workouts that actually show results.

Since starting at Next Phase just 7 months ago, I am the leanest I have been since moving to DC 3 years ago. My muscles have significantly toned and while I didn’t drop pounds, I did drop body fat percentage. Try a class, I promise you will not regret it!

Wes

MY Personal Training Experience at Next Phase

I have received personal training at Next Phase for over two years and the results have been excellent: both my upper body and core strength have improved dramatically, and my overall conditioning has improved as well.

This has allowed me to continue to participate in competitive sports at a high level and to significantly reduce sports-related injuries.

My current trainer, Shannon Ropelewski, is awesome!

Shannon worked with me to establish specific strength and conditioning goals and created detailed training programs to meet those goals. Shannon provides strong positive encouragement during all my workouts, and has a great sense of when to push you and when to step back. She is a terrific trainer and person!

Michelle

why next phase?

When I first moved to the Bethesda area, I tried a few other studios in the area but nothing kept my interest.  Then I discovered Next Phase. From the moment I walked in the door, I knew this place was unique, in the best way. The workout was incredibly challenging and rewarding, and the other participants were welcoming and encouraging. Now Next Phase feels like a second home. I have made lifelong friendships, worked out consistently and properly for the first time in my life, even during an entire pregnancy.  I’m now in my mid-30s with two children and in the best shape of my life. Results aside, I continue to come back to Next Phase because I enjoy it. I can leave all my external stresses and to-do lists at the door for an hour, laugh and challenge myself in new ways, and end each session looking forward to the next workout.

How did the addition of personal training help? 

I’ve always been skeptical about working with a personal trainer.  In the past my preference was to set goals, and attempt to achieve them on my own; however, I never obtained the desired results. I’ve always considered myself in shape and fit, but after having my second child, I decided it was time to try working with a personal trainer.  I set a lofty goal for myself to begin training for a full marathon a few months after my son’s birth.  
When I first met Steve, his dedication and excitement was contagious.  He is constantly evolving and focused on making sure he provides you with all the necessary tools to achieve your goals.  With his support, guidance, and weekly sessions, I was able to successfully complete my marathon, feeling stronger than ever before, while setting a new PR by more than an hour.

Billy

why next phase?

There are many reasons why I choose Next Phase to workout over other places; the location is great, the instructors are motivating and knowledgeable, the class schedule works well with my schedule, the instructors offer modifications to make exercises harder or easier and the #NPfam is a real thing!

As a golf pro and athlete, how have the classes at Next Phase helped your performance and strength?

As a golf professional and instructor I have knowledge of how weak areas of the body can negatively affect the golf swing. The majority of the exercises performed at Next Phase are beneficial for anyone involved in golf and really any other sport.  I have seen a noticeable difference in areas of my swing and the ability to swing the club with more speed and precision.

Anything else you'd like to share?

When I joined Next Phase in 2016 I had just recovered from a neck fusion surgery and needed to get back to the gym and get back in shape.  My wife had joined the #NPfam and she encouraged me to come take a class. I never thought I would enjoy the group classes; I honestly didn’t think it would be hard enough for me.  I was wrong! Every class and every exercise can be made harder or easier by modifying weight or level of difficulty, I don’t need to write out my own workouts and I have people around me that motivate and create a positive, enjoyable workout experience.

Erin

why next phase?

3 years ago I tried out Next Phase, and have kept coming back because it’s now a community for me. So much of life is online which makes making meaningful connections with people rare.  

Have you seen any results with the new Signature Circuit classes?

How have they helped you?

I find that I am never bored and the new classes keep my muscles guessing. I have seen more muscle definition and noticed I can lift heavier and have more endurance in and out of class. The new equipment is fun so that you’re not focusing on how challenging it is.

Anything else you'd like to share about Next Phase?

I schedule my day around my workouts. No matter what I have going on outside of Next Phase, getting a workout in helps me to manage stress and give me energy throughout the day. I know I will sweat, I will laugh, and my anxiety will be replaced with endorphins. Trying new things can be terrifying, but at Next Phase you’ll find a community of friends who are waiting to meet you.

Kelly

Why Next Phase?

Next Phase was a Google result while searching for a personal trainer. When I perused their website, I appreciated learning that they tailor your workouts to meet your specific goals. I also liked that they offer nutrition counseling, and are located in a lovely facility in the heart of Arlington.

How did personal training help?

Getting set- up with a personal trainer helped me be accountable for my workouts. My trainer not only instructs me on various exercises, but explains what part of the body they are targeting. My training sessions have helped me be more aware of my body and how fitness plays a role in my overall health - both mentally and physically. After only eight weeks, I lost 20 inches throughout my body!

Manju

Her personal training Experience at Next Phase

I am a breast cancer survivor and Shannon Ropelewski has been my personal trainer at Next Phase for the past year. Since Shannon has been training me, I have felt the strongest than I have felt since my diagnosis in 2016.

Shannon is the best combination of motivator and warmth, and also knows when to step back to avoid injuries. She works with the whole person -- mentally, emotionally, and physically.

She also welcomes and coaches my kids when they join me at the studio. After my workouts, I always walk out of Next Phase in a better physical and mental space. Shannon is just awesome!

CINDY

Her personal training Experience at Next Phase

Shannon Ropelewski has been my personal trainer for the past year and half. I am a High School Cross Country Coach, Ironman Finisher and Marathon Runner. Shannon has been working with me to increase my overall strength, balance and flexibility and thus improve my running keeping me healthy and fit!

I currently spend several months a year in Florida and Shannon's online program is perfect for me.

She provides a detailed program which also includes a video on each exercise. I simply bring my phone to the club and have everything I need to workout. This program keeps be motivated and on track to maintain my fitness and strength while I am away. Shannon is only a phone call or text away if needed.

Shannon's best qualities as a trainer are her knowledge and passion for her field. She motivates and encourages me always setting new goals and raising the bar for improvement. She has been an absolute blessing to me athletically and personally!

Let me know your thoughts and I can make any and all changes you need.

Thanks for all you do for me!!!