Meet January Member of the Month Mark Johnson. Before joining MINT, Mark was a runner for many years. He always loved outdoor exercise and was concerned that he would not find a gym that would adequately substitute his fitness passion once he began feeling pain in his feet from running. Fortunately for us and the rest of the MINT family he gave MINT a try!
Like most first-time gym-goers he started on the cardio machines and quickly found that although he loved to run outside he wasn’t the biggest fan of indoor cardio equipment. He then began working with personal trainer James Parker-Ashley, who suggested that he might enjoy taking some classes. Well, James was right! MINT quickly became a vital part of Mark’s routine.
Mark loves the camaraderie that he’s developed between the members, instructors and staff. “It makes me feel welcome.” He said. “My first thought when I leave class is when my next class will be.”
Mark’s fitness goals have changed over the years. When he first started at MINT he would only stay for half a class and couldn’t complete one pull up. But over time and with the encouragement of MINT’s talented instructors he was going to classes six days a week! Then he broke his foot and was sidelined on the couch for nearly six months. Today he is just getting back into classes and his goal is to ease into regaining his strength without overdoing it while his foot finishes healing. Once he’s fully healed and ready to go his plan is to maintain his strength, endurance and flexibly while working on his balance.
You can typically find Mark taking any class taught by Braegan or Colleen. He loves their creativity and how they mix up exercises to avoid routine in a workout.
Check out Mark’s thoughts on his favorite classes:
- Power Row is wonderfully low impact which is just what his body needs these days
- Flex is a great introduction to lifting weights
- Power Playground is a challenge that pushes Mark’s boundaries
Next time you see Mark in class be sure to give him a wave and introduce yourself!
Get to know Ariele Foster, doctor of physical therapy, physical therapy practice owner, and a yoga teacher at MINT! You can catch Ariele’s yoga classes at 
