Profiles In Business Excellence: Maximum Health

     Sal Peperno's enthusiasm for health and dedication to her work is in her genes. The owner of Maximum Health and Fitness Club comes from a family in which fitness has always been a top priority. So it was no surprise when she got certified as a personal trainer and has spent the past 20 years helping people live better.
     An employee of Gold's Gym for 10 years, Sal seized an opportunity two years ago and purchased the gym. She says the transition from trainer to owner has been worth it.
     "It's great. I'm able to still train clients, own the gym, and be a mom," she said.
     Maximum Health and Fitness Club's renovated 15,000-square-foot facility has modern colors, extensive hours, and sleek training equipment like Cybex VR3 for strengthening and Cardio Theater, which allows exercisers to individually listen to TV with their headphones.
     The gym's goal, "Maximum Health and Fitness=Maximum Results" is put into practice as early as the customer's free initial appointment.      That's when a prospective member meets with a personal trainer who develops a program for him or her. Sal recalls an initially nervous client who, after her consultation with trainer Pam, felt comfortable and confident. Since then, she has lost more than 15 pounds in the last several weeks.
     Sal is also proud of a gentleman who has lost more than 65 pounds- a priest who enjoys coming to the gym because everyone is so friendly. Maximum even has three pregnant women who work out and feel that exercising is a better alternative to sitting on the couch.
     "I personally pride myself in the fact that we have all different fitness levels and different age groups at the gym," said Sal. "People walk in and arenÕt intimidated because they see people of all shapes and sizes. We have college students to people in their 80s."
     Classes in aerobics, yoga, kickboxing, cycling, and Pilates are free to members. And, a CPR-certified staff provides free daycare during certain hours. This highly qualified staff of 20 has been with Sal since she assumed ownership. She believes the staff stability indicates how well they work together.
     Maximum boasts high retention and renewal rates. Clients have stayed through ownership changes because, Sal believes, they trusted her first as a trainer and now as an owner.
     "Fitness is important. A healthy lifestyle contributes to healthy living. Working out increases endorphins and makes you happier," she laughed. "And we can always use a world of happier people."