Fit for Life pt 87 South Main St. Marlboro, NJ United States 07746
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Thomas Phillips: Biography
Thomas Phillips owns one of the most successful personal training studios in central New Jersey. Thomas is best known for his accomplishment as the 2002 EAS Grand Master Champion (earning him a $50,000 grand prize). Thomas has been in several different books and magazines, including a 6-page biography in the August 2003 Muscle Media. Thomas has also been featured in Bill Phillips' best selling cookbook Eating for Life, and was featured with Bill Phillips in the Fall 2003 Outside magazine in the article "Muscle Mania." Thomas was featured on the front cover of the 2005 EAS Challenge packet . . . distributed to over an estimated one million people around the world.
Thomas' recognition has earned him speaking engagements at several prestigious corporations including: two EAS transformation camps; The Vitamin Shop headquarters in Seacacus, New Jersey; Baltimore construction agency; Keyspan corporation in Manhattan and Long Island; and many others.
As a trainer, Thomas is always growing and pushing his limits. He has competed in Girevoy Sport, Olympic Weight Lifting, Power Lifting and has been trained privately in gymnastics. Thomas is a master of body weight calisthenics, and is proficient in several lower-arm strength tools including the clubbells. Thomas has also released a product on www.torqueathletic.com specifically for functional lower-arm strength.
Vital Stats
Co-owner Fit-for-life pt
2002 Body-for-life Grand Master Champion
Certified facilitated stretching
Certified Personal trainer
Certified Sport specific trainer
Certified Kettlebell instructor and RKC team leader
1st place National AAU deadlifter
National qualifier for the sport of kettlebell lifting
1st Place National TSC Elite class
1st Place National TSC Open call
U.S. Army certificate of Achievement Physical Fitness
I have known Tom Phillips for a while. I have worked out with and learned quite a bit from him. However, Tom has taken things to a different level. I took a few of my players to meet and train with Tom and he has shown them little tidbits of information and small technique adjustments that have already paid dividends. I have been lifting on and off for the past 35 years and I just wish someone like Tom was around to point out the little things that make a big difference back in the 70's. We are now all excited about kettle bell training and hope to learn more about the proper ways to build strength faster and smarter.
James "Buck" Buchanan, Coach - Freehold Township, NJ
EXERCISE HIGH FROM AN AWESOME WORKOUT
Rated 10 out of 10
Training with Tom today was a real treat.
Tom took the time to explain kettlebell moves and encourage me, giving me the tools to practice and increase my endurance and strength and new moves to keep my workout exciting and fresh. Because of my session and Tom's evaluation I realized I had not been working to my potential.
After my workout with Tom, I felt very powerful and I am excited to practice all the moves we went over. In the hour and half we worked out he gave me more information than I had been getting in numerous training sessions with prior trainers.
Tom also made sure that the session included everything I was interested in and made sure I did not leave with any unanswered questions. I could tell Tom is in this business to help myself and others to get the best results possible.
I am looking forward to working with Tom in the future.
Donna Disney - Waretown, NJ
Why go to anyone else?
Rated 10 out of 10
When I first met Tom, almost five years ago now, I was a wreck. My lower back was so weak and messed up that i could hardly function. Through my training with Tom, along with some chiropractic work, I have strengthened my back to the point of nonissue. I have been without problem now for over 2 years, but still i workout with him every week. With his help I have improved my body and built muscle that has allowed me to move beyond the weakness of my youth and instead to become nearly unmatched for strength by my peers.
When you come to Tom Phillip's gym you are not just a client, you become part of a family. Tom cares about the people who come to him, he will do everything he can to help you achieve your goals and is a great guy while helping you get there. With his grounding in education he is a smart and witty companion who will motivate you and make you laugh all the same. You will enjoy both the road to your goals and the inevitable achievment of them.
George Gordon - Marlboro, NJ USA
A True Professional
Rated 10 out of 10
Tom is a professional, knowledgeable, caring, and dedicated trainer who is committed to bringing out the best in his clients. I've been training with him for almost a year, and I've learned so much from him about form and function. He has a gift for designing personal programs to get maximum results.
I have a congenital neurological condition, and Tom crafted an individualized program for me. It helped me gain balance and strength, not only in my workouts, but in my daily activities as well.
I am very fortunate to have found him. I recommend him highly.
Mavis L. Johnson - Clark, NJ
Tom is the best.
Rated 10 out of 10
I've been training with Tom for 3 and half years. With his help I got into the best shape I've ever been in my life. I was able to loose a lot of weight after my pregnancy in a pretty short period of time with his trainings (63 pounds). There is nothing that can stop me from going for my workouts even though we meet at 6:15 in the mornings. I always recommend Tom to anybody who asks which gym I go to. He is a great motivator, has a great personality and a great trainer. My life changed since the day that I started to work out at Fit for life. He makes it chalenging at all times, and makes it fun . Tom, thank you for working with me.
Galina Goldenberg - marlboro, nj
A positive change in my life
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been exercising most of my life. But recently, due to certain stresses in my life, I stopped my workouts. This had both physical and mental negative effects on me. I became aware of kettlebell training and that Thomas Phillips of Fit for Life offered this form of Training. Seven weeks ago I walked into the gym ready to lift my first kettlebell,but this did not happen until the past week. Instead, Thomas and my other trainer, Steve,evaluated my complete physical condition and started me out in a conditioning program to improve my mobility, flexibility and strength. This has included alot of core work. I have never been trained this way before and feel that I have become more aware of my physical self then ever before. In a very short period my flexibility, mobility and strength and posture have improved beyond anyother period in my life.
Alan Dubowy DVM - Manalapan, NJ
RKC Certification
Rated 10 out of 10
I contacted Thomas after I signed up and started training for the Russian Kettlebell Challenge. I wanted to make sure my technique and form were good and to get some pointers on where I should be focusing my training. I spent 1-1/2 hours with Thomas and covered an amazing amount of material! From Kettlebell Swings to the Turkish Get-Up, Thomas took the time to explain everything in detail. At the end of the session he wrote a list of the things I needed to work on. I am looking forward to taking my RKC Course in California in two weeks! Thomas gave me the confidence and piece of mind I needed! Thank you
Deb V. - Flemington, NJ
Great training
Rated 10 out of 10
Not to long ago I heard about a new thing called Kettlebells. Always looking for different workouts my husband and I asked Thomas to show us how to use Kettlebells. Thomas made us feel welcome. He is an amazing teacher and very knowledgeable in what he is doing. Within only 1 1/2 hours we were doing all different kind of exercises. We had a great time. It was a pleasure working with Thomas. Thank you so much!
Daniela Josi - Middletown, NJ USA
Great Learning Experience
Rated 10 out of 10
Have been working out with weights for years and mixed martial art for two years. Tom is a extremely knowledgable trainer and has taught me some great excersise to loosen my tight shoulders and hips.I went to him for instruction on Kettlebell work. Learned some great excersises and how the body is supposed to work. Thought I new it all until I trained with Tom. Hats off to him.
Joe Califano - Cranford, N.J.
Tom is priceless!
Rated 10 out of 10
I started working with Tom four months after having my second child and returning to my full time career. I was always physically active but after gaining 50 pounds with each pregnancy, suffering knee and hip pain and managing a challenging career, I was in need of some help. I was shocked by Tom's willingness to train me at very early and late hours. His dedication to his clients and their goals is unmatched. His personality and individual strength are an inspiration and certainly got me to 5:45 am sessions! In only five months, I was pre-pregnancy weight and leaner, stronger and healthier with the ability to take on my two babies and have all the energy I needed to succeed in my work. I've never spent a cent so worthwhile. Tom is priceless! My husband, my kids and I thank him!
Karyn Lollin - Monroe Township, New Jersey
Driving force, source of power, motivating and enthusiasm. These are are some of the qualities Tom exudes. More importantly these are the qualities that I exude having trained with Tom the past 3 years.
Tom has shaped my body into muscle I could never imagine existed. Training with kettlebells, pushing sleds and cardio has been the standard by which I start my day. I have seen many videos and witnessed many trainers who don't expect the high standards that Tom exemplifies.
NIX THE BIGGEST LOSER, THOMAS PHILLIPS IS THE REAL DEAL.
Jeff Strumeier - Marlboro, NJ
The Challenger
Rated 10 out of 10
Working with Tom has been the best experience I've ever had todate, he brought out the best in me by challenging me in doing certain workouts that I never thought I would be able to do. He not only fits in the best workouts suitable to you but also has new workouts, that make things more interesting.He slowly and steadily builds the self confidence in you and and brings out the best. I continue to workout with Tom and would highly recommend him. He's the 'Guru' of fitness.
Monish Thakur - Marlboro
A Great Trainer
Rated 10 out of 10
I wanted to start going to the gym about a year ago, but I felt uncomfortable because I didn't know how to use any of the equipment. I've been going to Tom Phillips for personal training for almost a year now and he taught me how to use the equipment and gave me a regular exercise routine to do along with a diet I should follow. He is very knowledgeable and I would recommend him to anyone. I now go to the gym often and have confidence going.
Michael A. Maffattone - Manalapan, NJ USA
Tom Phillips Review
Rated 10 out of 10
I am a 45year old former Triathlete and Kickboxer who trained intensly in 5 different martial arts forms. In 1997 I injured my hip & lower back kickboxing. I could barely tie my shoes without pain. After numerous Doctors, Chiropractors and Therapists I virtually gave up. In 2004 I met and started training with Tom. Four months later I had full mobility and freedom back with no pain. Tom is an exceptional trainer with a real focus on an individuals needs. He is able to change and adjust routines to keep things fun and interesting. I am probably stronger now than I was in my 20s. I would recommend Tom to the beginner or professional athlete alike. I continue to work out to Tom on a regular basis.
Thanks Tom.
Doug Thaler - New York, New York
A Positive Life Changing Experience
Rated 10 out of 10
I began working with Tom Phillips about three months ago and it has been the most valuable and enjoyable life change I have experienced. Working with Tom is a pleasure. He is not only extremely knowledgeable but he motivates you to get the most out of the time you spend with him. I look forward to our weekly sessions and I not only feel a physical change but I feel better about myself and have been encouraged to live a much healthier physical and mental lifestyle. I have joined numerous gyms in the past and never made a long-term commitment to any of them. I can honestly say that I will continue to work with Tom as long as I am physically capable. I couldn’t recommend anyone with more enthusiasm, and I encourage anyone who is looking to become physically and mentally better people to see Tom Phillips!!
Jason Hand - Manalapan, NJ
Thanks Tom
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been training with Tom for 2 years and I cannot believe the impact he has had on my physical shape and mental attitude towards working out. At 51 years old I am in better shape now then I was 20 years ago. Tom's no nonsense approach to training helps to keep me focused on achieving my long term fitness goals.
Thanks Tom, I appreciate all that you do for me.
Gary - Manalapan, NJ
The Motivator
Rated 10 out of 10
Tom Phillips is truly the best! He is a very self les person that really cares about his clients and their progress, you really do not get to find many trainers like that. When me and my father came to him some four years ago, we did not know what to expect. However, when we came to him routinely on sundays he would always provide one hundred and ten percent of his attension and focus into your progress, it was great.
I was a freshman in high school with very little meat on my bones. I wanted to get stronger and bigger, and he helped me do that. He didnt just wiz by the routines each week, instead he stressed each excersize and what they where doing. Then he gave me a routine to perform at home.
Eventhough I am now a freshman in college, I still keep in touch with him. Since I am still not an expert on weight training and I still want to gain weigt, I email him every quater to change my routing. This semester I can proudly say I have went from to weighing 158 to weighing 180.. .in muscle. Thanks to his kindness, motivation, and perseverence with my progress I am living a more fulfilling life!!
Thanks Tom!
Nick - Philadelphia, PA
You won't be disappointed!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have personally seen incredible gains in strength, power and flexibility with kettlebells. There is no other exercise that allows you to gain functional strength that will carry over into athletic competition. If you haven’t had the chance, go see Thomas Phillips . . . you won’t be disappointed!!!
Dr. Joe Cilea - Marlboro, NJ
A Great Trainer
Rated 10 out of 10
My daughter is a multiple sport athlete in high school. She's been been training with Tom for 7 months. Since training with Tom, she has shown dramatic improvement in strength and conditioning. In addition, Tom has also included speed & agility training, focussing on techniques which not only improve performance, but concentrate on general movement to reduce risk of injury. We couldn't be happier with his efforts.
Chuck - Marlboro NJ
I would recommend Thomas to anyone who is looking to take their workouts to the next level
Rated 10 out of 10
I recently bought some kettlebells and was looking for a trainer to improve my techniques. Thomas has an extensive knowledge of all the lifts and was easily able to both demonstrate and convey what I was aiming for in each movement. Thomas brings a positive energy to each session. I would recommend Thomas to anyone who is looking to take their workouts to the next level.
Brian Bannan - New York, NY
Tom makes exercise fun
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been training with Tom Phillips for quite some time. He makes the otherwise arduous process fun and I look forward to the sessions. At the same time it is enjoyable he will push you to levels of achievement you would otherwise not think possible. However, in doing so, great concern will be paid to your current ability and avoidance of injury. I am certainly not alone in these thoughts as most of his clients are very long term clients.
Aaron Fischer - Marlboro, New Jersey
A Great Christmas Gift
Rated 10 out of 10
Last Christmas my wife gave me a gift of 10 personal training sessions with Tom Phillips. It has turned out to be the equivalent of a new bike to a ten year old. During the last year Tom has taught me exercises to streghten my my body and most especially my back, and I can now do things that I was not able to do for the last twenty years. Tom pinpointed the areas that I needed to improve and set-up routines that would help me acheive fantastic results. I have been training on a weekly basis with Tom for the last year and will continue to for the coming year and beyond.
Kevin Ridgway - Marlboro, New Jersey
Truly worth the time and effort !!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been training with kettlebells for over two years with Thomas at Fit for life. I have lost over 20 lbs of fat and put on nearly 10 lbs of lean mass. At 44 years old, I am in the best shape of my life! I can honestly say I look forward to waking up in the morning to go train. The results and enthusiastic atmosphere keep me motivated. I would highly recommend Thomas' services to anyone. His kettlebell training is top-notch.
ROBERT FEDERICI - MARLBORO, NEW JERSEY
Fit for Life
Rated 10 out of 10
Even though I've been weight training most of my adult life I now realize that I did not understand the meaning of "strength and conditioning". I always believed that if you lifted weights, ran and stretched you were going to maintain a good level of physical fitness. However, as I aged, all three of these activities became more difficult each year. I was in a constant state of recuperation from a recent injury, strain or pain. I was starting to develop hip and shoulder problems that prevented me from walking pain free during a round of golf.
It was soon after my 45th birthday that I started training with Tom Phillips and started to learn that strength and condition was not a series of disconnected exercises but a coordinated program to improve all aspects of physical health. Tom constantly monitors my physical state, level of performance, and personal goals to adjust my workout program. With Tom's help I was able to obtain a level of fitness that allows me to not only enjoy my favorite physical activities but maintain an overall fit for life state of well-being. I highly recommend Tom as a personal trainer.
John Mac - Freehold, NJ
Not just a trainer, but a friend
Rated 10 out of 10
I just turned 50 in December and I feel better and stronger now than I have ever felt. I would have never imaged that I could squat over 300lbs. I owe all this to Tom, and my wife of course for introducing me to him. We have been going to Tom for over 2 years now. Tom's apporach to training effects not only the body but the mind as well as diet. Tom tailors each work-out to your specific needs and limitations, always challenging you to be the very best, the work-outs are intense, no b/s. That why he gets results. Tom, thanks for helping me and Kathy as well, and most importantly for being a FRIEND.
Phil D'Ambrisi - Marlboro, N.J.
TOM'S THE MAN !!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have had the pleasure of training with Tom Philips for the past 2 years. In that time, Tom has totally changed the way I look, as well as the way I feel about myself. He has motivated me to achieve goals that i thought were completely out of reach. He teaches you not only the aspects of weight training, but motivates you to excel in all aspects of life. In closing, he does this with a fantastic sense of humor.
Victor Novogrodzky - Marlboro, NJ
Best Shape of my life !
Rated 10 out of 10
I never had the patience for regimented weight training, but four yers ago, my wife dragged me in to start training with Tom. He created a total fitness program which has included different combinations of isometrics, kettles bells and strength training exercises. In combination with the Fit For Life nutrition principles and Tom's training program I lost 17 ugly pounds (mostly gut) over a two year period and went from 21.6 percent body fat to 15.9% (and still dropping) while picking up muscle mass. I've since knocked off a century ride (100 miles), run a half marathon and a high altitude triatholon, and am currently training for a full marathon in March 2008. There is no doubt that I could not have done this without the proper training techniques that Tom has developed for me. When I visited my orthopedic for a pair of orthotics, he complimented my leg muscle structure as superb and rare to see amoung long distance runners. The compliments go to TOM. Thanks to him, I'm a weight training convert.
Michael Solondz - Colts Neck, NJ
Tom you are great!
Rated 10 out of 10
I met Tom in May of 2006. Through his unique teaching techniques, he has slowly changed my mind and my body. His dedication to his clients is second to none! I have gained so much physical strength and endurance by training with him. Through his knowledge, I have acquired so much self confidence. The impact he has made in my life cannot be described in words. Thank you so very much for this wonderful opportunity to train with you!
Rimma - Marlboro, NJ
The Best Shape of your Life
Rated 10 out of 10
Tom introduced me to kettle training two years and 25lbs ago! The workout is extremely intense, and with Tom, the instruction is always tailored to each of his client's abilties and goals. No other workout I have ever experienced has yielded the results that kettlebell training provides. Tom Phillips is extremely successful as a trainer for his positive attitude, high energy, and genuine personal interest he takes in helping his clients reach their training objectives.
Michael West - Holmdel,NJ
A new and improved me
Rated 10 out of 10
In order to understand what a positive effect Tom has had on my life (physically and emotionally) I need to start from the beginning.
At the age of 27 (1990) I had anterior and posterior spinal fusion which in layman terms means my spine is fussed together from my neck to my waist in addition to having steel rods support the S curvature. Several years ago my lower back started to become bothersome and as such I made an appointment to see my doctor who, unfortunately informed me that there was some disk deterioration and possibly another surgery would be needed. Well, after the first surgery (12 hours, 3 weeks in the hospital and a full year to recover) this was not an option. We discussed exercise as an alternative but for me it would need to be with a certified trainer. So off I went to obtain such a person. I was extremely lucky to find Tom and his gym "Fit for Life". Today after 2 years of training my back is better than ever and things that were not able to be adjusted surgically have been amended and improved thru Tom's personal workout for me. As this has been such a positive experience I am now an advocate for exercise for all but especially for anyone who has endured any type of physical disability. At 44 years old I feel better than I did at 20. Thanks Tom your worth your weight in Gold.
Nancy Remini - Marlboro, NJ
Review of Thomas Phillips
Rated 10 out of 10
Dear Tom,
As a former strength, conditioning, and boxing coach at the Bergen County P.A.L. and a self-employed chiropractor of 25 years, I have had the opportunity of attending a multitute of seminars and hands-on training programs with some of the top educators in the country, but few have impressed me as you have. Your combination of knowledge, teaching skills, and confidence will unquestionably lead you to the top of your profession.
I look forward to training with you again.
Bob Spina, DC, BC, CSCS - NJ
Recovery from Injury
Rated 10 out of 10
When physical therapy only went so far after I suffered a neuro-muscular injury, I was referred to Tom by a friend who had been training with him. I had never been to a trainer but had always worked out on my own. Tom took the time to learn about me and my issues and, after doing his own research, he developed and led me on a program that included both traditional and non-traditional strength training and functional movement work. I found Tom to be patient, supportive and very motivating during our sessions. He is very knowledgeable and over time, the work I did with Tom helped me to regain a lot of the strength I had lost as a result of my injury.
Though I no longer see Tom regularly I am thankful for the time I trained with him. I also continue to do many of the exercises he gave me (as well as others he recomemnded for me) on my own. I would recommend Tom to anyone without hesitation.
GB - Marlboro, NJ
My time with Tom is invaluable
Rated 10 out of 10
After meeting Tom at an Olympic meet earlier this year, I finally got around to getting a few sessions to learn basic kettlebell skills. What I got from Tom was so much more. In only a few sessions, he taught me so much, I thought I was at a 3 day seminar! He really has a knack for teaching. He was very intelligent about focusing in on my strengths and weaknesses and was very clear in instructing me correctly.
With a few words and examples he gave me a greater understanding of all the strength lifts, things only a great coach can teach you, even after you've spent a number of years lifting and reading dozens of books.
Tom is basically my coach now, im going to visit him as frequently as possible. I'm also very confident in reaching my 3x bodyweight deadlift soon with his coaching.
Neal Snyder - Queens, NY
Thomas Gets It
Rated 10 out of 10
My name is Charlie Weingroff, and I am the Director of Sports Therapy at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold, NJ and the former Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA.
As a competitive powerlifter, the community of co-athletes is tightly
knit, and upon moving back to New Jersey, I became acquainted with
Thomas Phillips and his staff. In getting to know Thomas and his staff, I am pleased to say that they "get it." While this compliment may seem minor, it is perhaps the best compliment I can give to a fellow practitioner.
Where doctors, therapist, and trainers have such a poor grasp of what it is truly important and effective in rehabbing and training individuals, those that "get it" are few and far between. Thomas "gets it," and the results he achieves with his clients clearly demonstrate this.
Charlie Weingroff - Jackson, NJ
A Mentor, Not a Trainer...
Rated 10 out of 10
I'm a 4th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do karate and have trained with Tom for three years. Tom’s greatest asset to his clients is he walks his talk, he leads by example. His work ethic is what drives me more than the techniques he teaches me. Tom has the ability to adjust his training sessions to his client’s needs and abilities. Introduction of kettlebells to my routine has been invaluable, if not addictive. The overall cardio combined with strength training they provide is tough to beat.
I'm 48 years old and have had the opportunity to train with some great athletes; Tom Phillips is one of the best. He’s the real deal, he possesses unparrelled knowledge with a unique ability to transfer that knowledge to the people he works with. Tom is not a trainer, he’s a mentor, a person who cares deeply about the people he works with and is dedicated to helping them reach their goals.
Dr. Nicholas Despotidis - Hamilton, NJ USA
The Best Instructor
Rated 10 out of 10
Tom Phillips has literally changed my body with kettle bells. I spent many years in different gyms with different machines and different trainers until I found Tom. The kettle bells intrigued me because it was something different. At first it seemed like I was just using my arms to throw around a metal ball. Through Tom's expert instruction I learned how to shift my weight and throw my body into the movements rather than my arms. I have increased my core strength and have really seen results. What sets Tom apart from other trainers is his ability to "teach". So much of training is mental. Tom really focuses his training on how you should feel during the movement than just teaching the motion. He has a unique ability to relate his examples and make a lightbulb go off so you really understand what he is saying. This is what make Tom an excellent "instructor" rather than just another trainer.
Sandi Moffet - Marlboro, NJ
Running with KettleBells!
Rated 10 out of 10
As a runner and athlete I am always looking for a competitive edge. Thomas's kettlebell classes provides another option for me to increase my GPP, while increasing my strength, flexibility and power. Many of the people I train with and run against have begun to inquire about what is "new" about my training that is providing such phenomenal results. Tom takes the time to meticulously critique each move by each member of the class, while taking part in the moves himself! His classes, expertise, counsel and mentorship has been instrumental in my training regimine as i prepare for the U.S. nationals in June.
Tyrone Ross - Metuchen, New Jersey 08840
Simply the best
Rated 10 out of 10
While other trainers might stand around watching you do your reps, talking about last night's (non)reality show and complaining about why they themselves can not work out because they are too busy or too tired or whatever, Tom Phillips is completely focused and disciplined. He is always in the moment, constantly challenging you and encouraging you to give your best and achieve your goals.
Not only that, he is an excellent role model. He works out harder than anyone he trains and still manages to balance work, business and family.
If you have the chance to train with Tom, I highly recommend it.
Howard Feldman - Freehold, NJ
Start Swinging! Kettlebells That Is...
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been participating in Tom's kettlebell and bootcamp training sessions for more than a year. They are an awesome way to take your fitness to the next level. Tom's sessions are brutal and fun at the same time, and they have been instrumental in improving my overall strength, conditioning and agility.
Domenick Cilea - Marlboro, NJ
KEEP SWINGING
Rated 10 out of 10
Tom Phillips and the Fit For Life Studio is my home away from home. Tom instructs kettle bell classes and boot camp training sessions in a group setting that offers an enhancement to my private training sessions. Where I can focus on strength in my private sessions, in the group setting that Tom teaches I have increased my speed, co-ordination using the hand to hand kettle bell techniques that he recently taught us as well as developing a great increase in my core stability. He always pushes us to meet our personal best.
Carrie Gold - Marlboro, NJ
Kettle Bell Classes
Rated 10 out of 10
When I first started going to Fir for Life, I didn't know what a Russian Kettle Bell was. Now, four years later, I'm still training at the studio and my husband and I go to Tom's Kettle Bell class every week. It's an awesome workout that combines the best of cario with resistence training.
Tom keeps the class motivated and encourages us to challenge ourselves in different ways. The first time my husband came with me to this class, he'd never heard of a Kettle Bell, but he got individual attention from Jody (Tom's wife) and now he can't wait to go to this class with me every week!
Meredith - East Windsor, NJ
Life Changing Experience
Rated 10 out of 10
I trained with Tom for my Junior and Senior year of high school to increase my strength and endurance. Things went great during those two years and I began to see changes physically and mentally. I went into college expecting to go through the same routine as I did in the previous years. Freshman year of college I did not lift. I did not have the motivation that I once had, and it put a negative effect on my appearance and health. Sophomore year (this year) I had a new roommate who was into going to the gym. This was the perfect opportunity to actually have someone push me. Since our classes didn't really line up well, I was forced to go to the gym alone. Of course I was intimidated at first, but I sucked it up and went. September 5th, I weighed approximately 125 to 130 pounds. This was the approximate weight I was when I trained with Tom. When training with Tom I had trouble with a 105 pound bench press (I know, embarrassing) and my all around strength was laughable. I did however learn what exercises I should be doing through his help. I took this knowledge into the weight room with the goal in mind to be stronger, more confident, and overall healthier. It is now March 1st which would equal 6 months of lifting. I worked out 4 to 5 days a week religiously and kept a very solid schedule. Months of hard work are paying off. I now weigh approximately 145 pounds. I am benching 135, 3 sets of 10, and I only struggle on the 9th or 10th rep of the 2nd/3rd set. I have gotten 155 twice after a set of 115 10 times. And my strength has increased by a very large amount. I am hoping to max out at 185 by the end of this school year which would be in early May. By Tom showing me the various exercises and routines and proper form, I could then work out by myself to get the results I wanted. I know I am not at the plateau I want to be at, but I am making significant gains physically and mentally and I also have much more confidence due to his help and for that I am very thankful. I would recommend Tom to anyone who is looking to become stronger, healthier, and have an all around sense of confidence.
Josh Rosengarten - Marlboro, NJ
When you're finally serious about real change
Rated 10 out of 10
It's about tough love. That sums up the "Tom Phillips training experience". Kettlebell class is no exception. If you do your part, Tom will give you all he's got. You will be stronger. And it will have unexpected results on other aspects of your life, like in business. If I can get through that gut-wrenching class, I can manage this client, this deal. Tom's approach to KB sessions works well. Whether the group is large or small you're going to get your money's worth. He incorporates a full body approach: a preventative stretch, upper and lower body KB power moves, heart pumping action, with strategic rest periods, topped off with a gut busting ab finale. Get ready to have your posture and form monitored, get ready to laugh and groan and get ready to feel an unparalleled sense of accomplishment in the car on the way home.
L. Moran, business owner NYC - Colts Neck, NJ
Breaks it down very simply
Rated 10 out of 10
Several months ago I had the chance to train with Tom Philips. I have been working with Kettlebells for quite some time and wanted to perfect my technique. Being a fellow teacher and trainer I easily related to the way Tom broke down each of the exercises and critiques on performance. My training and my clients are better from it. Thanks
Thomas Babyak Personal Trainer - Marlboro NJ
Keeps me in the Game
Rated 10 out of 10
I've been training with Tom for about 1 year and have been completely satisfied with the experience. In that time period, my strength, conditioning, flexibility and diet have all improved to the point where I feel like I am in the best shape I've been in since my college days. I'm now 43 and stay extremely active with sports year round and there is no doubt in my mind that without Tom's help, I would soon be a spectator instead of playing the sports I enjoy. On a personal note, once you train with Tom, you'll soon get the feeling that you've made a "Friend for Life" as well as being "Fit for Life". Thanks T
Mark Feldman - Freehold, NJ
OUTSTANDING
Rated 10 out of 10
I can pretty much some it up in one word "OUTSTANDING". Tom has motived me physically, biochemically and mentally. What is most interesting is his class is always changing from week to week. He is always changing the routine and pushing us a little more each week. I actually look forward to this workout so much that I am now going 2 days a week
Paul Banco - Colts Neck, NJ
Very Professional
Rated 10 out of 10
Tom was my team leader at the Philly RKC October 2009. He was incredibly positive and professional, offering constructive feedback at all times. He always made the candidates feel as though they could achieve anything even if they were struggling. His friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge made my RKC experience truly enjoyable.
Neghar Fonooni - Ellicott City, MD
Awesome KB knowledge and RKC Certified!
Rated 10 out of 10
I had the honor and pleasure to have met Thomas at the 2009 Ronnie Coleman Classic in Mesquite, Texas. As a fellow Kettlebell enthusiast and martial artist (Taiji and Bagua), I had much to ask Thomas, and he proved to be extremely knowlegable, not only in the kettlebell form, function, and technique, but also in body mechanics as well. I was MOST IMPRESSED with his expertise, sincerity, extremely holistic and positive attitude towards fitness, and the kettlebell in particular. If I lived in Jersey, there is no doubt I would be in his facility! Thanks, Thomas, for your continued inspiration!!
Regards,
Steve
www.totalqualityphoto.com
Steve Solomon - Dallas, TX USA
