Member Showcase

March 2020 Member of the Month

(photo courtesy of Kelley DeSmit Photography)

 

Name / nickname :
Jake Keeler

Age :
43

What city do you live in?
Eagan, MN

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
September of 2018

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
I actually live nearby so I would see Renegade Fitness almost on a daily basis.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
For work, I’m the VP of Marketing for company called Brewers Supply Group (BSG). We sell ingredients to breweries, distilleries, and wineries in the U.S., Canada, New Zealand and Australia.  The job is exciting, I get to travel to great places, and I work with amazing people and customers. I’ve worked in the beer industry for about 16 years now.

For fun it’s a balance of family, fly fishing, making art, and playing/watching soccer. I try to fill my time outside of work with these things as much as possible..they are certainly not hobbies but rather lifestyles. 

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
When finally made the decision to work out on regular basis, I looked at a few options online and Renegade really checked all the boxes; the short commute was good, but what really appealed to me were the trainers, the mix of options/classes, and for lack fo better descriptor “vibe” – I could tell right away that it was a welcoming, supportive and positive place!

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
I do classes – 3 times a week M/W/F. 

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Great question.  I really enjoy the workouts over the week that leave you feeling like your entire body gets worked…which is most of the time actually.  I really appreciate that there is thought and planning that goes into the classes and workouts to make sure we’re getting a balanced approach to fitness.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
There are frankly so many small and big accomplishments since September of 2018…my energy is better/higher for sure, I have a much better command of my limits and endurance, I can feel the increased strength and stamina as well.  I took a break from playing soccer but got back on the pitch recently and the difference in my balance, endurance and control was amazing.  I also think the mental and emotional health benefits along with stress relief can’t be overlooked – a good workout can do wonders!

What motivates you?
Knowing that my body and mind are going to benefit every-time I put in the effort and push myself at the classes.  I can’t imagine not doing this.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I was once a Professor, teaching at couple local colleges before I got into the beer industry for work.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
Don’t feel intimidated!  The trainers and folks that work-out one on one, or in classes come from all levels and ages.  Everyone supports each others’ engagement and goals.  It can be a supportive and positive environment which has impacts beyond getting in shape.  If you have never done classes or used a gym to work out (like I was), just take each class/session one at a time, and within a few weeks it will seem like second nature to show-up, push yourself, cheer on your classmates, and leave with a smile on your face.

February 2020 Member of the Month

Name / nickname:
Julie/Jules/Jolly/Choo/Choowee

Age:
33

What city do you live in?
Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
May 2019

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
The gym that I was a member at closed, I found renegade online.

What do you do for work, fun, etc.?
I work for the USPS. I enjoy traveling, laughing (even if they’re my own jokes), hanging out with my friends and family.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
I liked that it was so close to my house and the 10am start for classes.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
If I’m being honest, I hate all of it until it’s over and the endorphins start kicking in ? If I had to give an answer it would be: running/sprinting on the treadmill.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Lifting with a barbell. It has always intimidated me for some reason, but now it’s a normal thing.

What motivates you?
I like to feel confident. If I don’t workout I don’t feel confident. Also, the guilt. If I don’t workout the guilt sets in and I become annoyed with myself for being lazy. Nothing is worse than when the guilt sets in for not making it to class when I could have.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I have a pretty serious addiction to chapstick and flossing. You’ll never find me without either.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
It’s intimidating no doubt, but it’s so cool to push yourself out of your comfort zone and see what you can accomplish and how STRONG you can become—- if you put the work in. There are many new muscles I’ve noticed on myself that I never knew existed. Plus, the people are seriously so sweet and welcoming! I look forward to seeing them in every class—it feels like a team getting it done together.

 

January 2020 Member of the Month

November 2019 Member of the Month

Name/nickname :
Jeff Meyer

Age :
55

What city do you live in?
Eagan MN

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
Summer of 2017.

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
I started doing 1:1s with trainer Brian Waldo way back in 2011 even before Brian joined the ranks at Renegade.  Once that happened, I cliented with Brian in the Renegade facility for several years until I joined a Renegade class in 2017.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
For work, I manage a team of software engineers that develop the controls for commercial machinery at a well-known local corporation in Bloomington.

For fun, I’m an avid mountain biker.  I’ve completed over a hundred events since I started racing bikes seven years ago and I am looking forward to introducing myself to more ultra-endurance events in the coming year.  I also enjoy playing music (drums and bass) and competing in chess tournaments when time allows.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
Like I mentioned above, I originally followed a trainer to the Renegade facility.   That gave me the opportunity to observe other Renegade trainers and classes going on around me before joining a class for myself.

I chose Renegade for several reasons:  (1) class variety – every day is different which keeps it interesting, (2) a great balance and pacing in the class, you don’t spend the entire hour doing the same thing over and over (3) trainers that genuinely care about you, and fellow classmates that are fun to work out with and motivate me to do better, (4) class times that fit perfectly around my work schedule, and (5) I’ve gotten great (in fact, the best) results at Renegade classes – more so than anywhere else.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
I started with 1:1, but my wife Tora convinced me to try the classes with her.  I am now completely sold on the class format.  I really enjoy working out with other folks and never finish an hour-long class wanting or needing more – very efficient and effective use of my time.  Very appreciated given my busy schedule.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
I don’t have a favorite class – I like the balance and variety of classes they offer through the week.

Favorite exercise?  Dead lifts are great – they reflect your overall core strength.  And as a bonus, it’s cool when the bar bends.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Plenty.  Just this past year I topped both my bench press and deadlift lifetime maximums.  Didn’t expect to be peaking in strength in my mid-50s.

My bike racing results have significantly improved over the last two years which correlate with my classes at Renegade.  I’m making it to the podium now and I’m crashing much less often (from having better control of the bike).

What motivates you?
I’m very goal oriented.  Goals in my sport are critical for me to focus on and prepare for the upcoming summer race season. (Long winters can take their toll in Minnesota.) My particular sport requires a lot of physical exertion and opens me up to injury, especially flexibility injuries. I see a lot of guys dropping out of mountain bike racing as they approach 60 and I want to try to avoid that.  The trainers at Renegade help me build and maintain the strength I need to perform while also cross-training all my muscle groups to help me avoid injury.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
In the 90’s I took up mountain climbing for a recreation for a short time.  Interest peaked with a climb to the top of Mt Rainier.  However, tent sleeping on glaciers cooled my interest in the sport.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
De-emphasize the bathroom scale.  Instead, let the many other physical and mental benefits reveal themselves and be your metric for success.  You’ll have plenty to celebrate beyond a bouncing number on a scale.

October 2019 Member of the Month

July 2019 Member of the Month

Name / nickname:
My name is Kristi Peterson.

Age:
30

What city do you live in?
Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
March 2019

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
I drove by while looking for lunch one day.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I work in retail at the Mall of America. For fun I like to spend time outside and going camping.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
Once I found Renegade Fitness I couldn’t stop thinking that to join was something that I could benefit greatly from. Also, the person I spoke with at my initial inquiry seemed to really enjoy his work and genuinely wanted to help the client he was with at the time.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? 
Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Each class is different enough that I don’t have a favorite. While the individual exercises are getting easier for me, there is always a way to challenge myself.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
I already have more endurance than my dog while on walks and have gone down a clothes size but most of my goals are a work in progress. Such as I am halfway to doing a pull-up on my own. And my actions, while not habits yet, are getting easier to make better decisions.

What motivates you?
I have a health condition that I have been trying to control for the last few years but have been unsuccessful before starting at Renegade. Physical fitness helps control the condition but a healthy and balanced diet is the other component. Once I got serious about exercising and cleaning up my nutrition habits I began to make major progress in bringing the condition under control. I recently received the good news that the condition is within acceptable control levels. But my journey is far from over. I have to continue exercising and keep up with my clean eating efforts until they become habits. I am confident nutrition will no longer be a daily struggle for me.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
There is plenty that people don’t know about me but all you have to do is ask:)

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
Getting started is the first and hardest step but the effort you are putting in now will let you do something you would otherwise be unable to do. There is nothing like that sense of satisfaction when you do finally accomplish it! Also, this sounds cliche, but the trainers truly want to see you succeed in whatever your specific goals are and will do their best to support you.

April 2019 Member of the Month

Name / nickname:
My name is Ellen.

Age:
I’m 28 years old, but I’ll be 29 May 6th!

What city do you live in?
I live in Eagan right now, but I’ve lived in several cities in Minnesota; including Saint Peter, Mankato, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, and Burnsville.

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
I started Renegade Fitness in mid December 2018

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
I actually found out about Renegade by googling different gyms around me. I was looking for a gym that offered either some type of classes or personal training, that wasn’t too much of a drive for me.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I work as an optician at the Costco in Burnsville, so I fit and order glasses and contacts, and do repairs and troubleshooting for people who are having issues with their glasses.

For fun, I like to run when it’s nice out; I completed a Tough Mudder last year, and am looking forward to doing another one in June! I also really enjoy cooking, I am learning to bake my own bread right now.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
I chose Renegade because it had all the elements I was looking for in a gym- it was close to me, offered a variety of classes and personal training options, and it worked with my weird retail work schedule. I have continued to stay with Renegade for the past almost four months now because I love the people and the instructors!

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? 
I am currently doing all boot camp classes, 5-6 days a week, usually at the 6am or 10am time slots.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
My favorite exercise is the back squat, because I have just recently started being able to squat over my body weight, which is super exciting!

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Tying back into my last answer; when I started working out at Renegade my ultimate goal for the back squats was to be able to lift my body weight. Now I’ve completed that in 4 months!

Back in 2014-2015 I had a personal trainer at a big chain gym, and I tried to get into barbell exercises and lifting, but was pretty much only allowed to use an empty bar, and it kind of put me off attempting anything else for several years.

I am so stoked to be doing workouts that really feel like they are pushing me in terms of strength and endurance!

What motivates you?
Recently I watched the Women’s Brute Showdown series on YouTube, which pits an Olympic lifter, a powerlifter, a Crossfit athlete, and a bodybuilder against one another in different strength and athletic challenges. It was so cool to see super strong women in their element! It made me immediately want to go and work out!

As far as personal motivation, I want to be able to more easily complete the Tough Mudder this July, and I am planning on doing the Wonder Woman 10k in LA in November, and I want to have a respectable time. Setting goals and working towards them really motivates me to keep going.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
Oh boy, I feel like I’m pretty boring outside of work and gym! Even though I work in the optical field now, my degree is actually in Japanese Studies, and I studied abroad in Japan in 2011 right around when they had that huge earthquake and tsunami! My Japanese is pretty rusty now, but i would like to go back someday!

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
My advice would be to just keep going! This first week is the absolute worst, you will be so sore and feel like you can barely move, but after that first week you’ll became less sore after every workout and start feeling stronger and more confidant working out! The post-workout endorphins rush is a great way to start your day too!

February 2019 Member of the Month

Name / nickname:
Jane and Julia

Age: 21 & 52

What city do you live in?
(Jane) Minneapolis and (Julia) Burnsville

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
(Jane) Summer 2017 and (Julia) Spring 2018

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
(Jane) I was looking for training to keep up my fitness over the summer for college soccer and found Renegade through a Google search. (Julia) Jane loved it so much and kept trying to get me to go too. I finally ran out of excuses.

What do you do for work, fun, etc.?
(Jane) I’m a student at the U of M. For fun, I recently started playing Ultimate Frisbee. (Julia) I’m an Actuary at Blue Cross Blue Shield. For fun, I’m passionate about running – both roads and trails. I also like biking – road, mountain, and gravel.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
(Jane) I like the small size. I find the classes motivating and I like that the workouts are always different. (Julia) I was hooked after one complimentary class. I like the small, more personal atmosphere.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
(Jane & Julia) Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
(Jane) I like 50/50 days. They’re tough and I feel beat but also energized when I’m done. (Julia) For some strange reason, I like pull-ups and push-ups.

What have you been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
(Jane) I can do an unassisted pull-up! (Julia) TBH, I never thought I’d enjoy strength training and considered it a necessary evil. But, I find myself looking forward to the workouts at Renegade.

What motivates you?
(Jane) The feeling of accomplishment when you’re done with a hard workout. (Julia) Chocolate and beer.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
(Jane) I’m going camping and canoeing through the Everglades in a couple of months. (Julia) I was often picked last for team activities in grade school gym class.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
(Jane) Consistency is important. (Julia) Stick with it and don’t feel intimidated. The workouts are easily tailored to all abilities and everyone is super supportive.

January 2019 Member of the Month

Name / nickname: Lisa Pasiuk

Age: 55

What city do you live in?
Apple Valley

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
A long time ago.

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
I was invited by a friend

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I am a Financial Analyst for Telecommunications supporting three companies currently

I like to travel with my husband. A couple of my favorite places are Germany and the British Virgin Islands.

I have a grandson in Iowa and a granddaughter in California that I enjoy spending time with

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
I enjoy the variety of the workouts and the small group size

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
I enjoy all strength training. I believe it is very important for women and everyone as they age. I want to continue to have long active life.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Increase strength and endurance

What motivates you?
Staying healthy and active. I have a family history of diabetes and heart disease.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
Before joining Renegade I had lost 70 lbs

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
The classes can be challenging, you just need to keep with it at your own pace. The reward of a healthier life is so worth it.

December 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname: Maria

Age :51

What city do you live in? Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 4/17

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? Google search online

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? I wanted a personal trainer to help get me back in shape after surgery had me laid up for awhile. I walked (or rather limped) into Renegade and with some trepidation, Ryan accepted the challenge.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? I started out doing 1:1 then began classes 1/18

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade? I really enjoy all of the classes but my are the strength training Mondays and Fridays.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? All of it! Considering how weak and broken I was when I started out I’m just happy everyday Im able to improve on the previous work-out.

What motivates you?  My desire to keep my health and stay in the best shape possible.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? Just stick with it. Results aren’t instant!

October 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :
Dennis

Age :
Almost 61. Contact me for birthday gift ideas.

What city do you live in? 
Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
I think it was late 2010 when I started individualized training with Brian Waldo to address injury management.

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
I heard about Renegade from a running group member who noticed muscle imbalances while we were on a training run.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
Software engineer.
Isn’t work fun?  I enjoy summers at the family lake cabin.  I’m still searching for something fun during our cold and dark winters. I have grandchildren that are fun.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
I was in a cycle of chronic running injuries and was looking for help to increase my running strength and failed trying to do it alone.  At Renegade I’m working with trainers who get to know me, work with my abilities (e.g. lack of mobility) and urge me to improve.  They make sure I’m performing the exercises correctly and efficiently, which maximizes results.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Barbell Foundations.  I enjoy compound movement lifts and working with Ryan as I try to improve my Olympic lifting technique.  Every class, every workout is different.  I love the variety.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Deeper squats.  I’m proof that regular strength and flexibility training can improve mobility in the elderly.

What motivates you?
I’m training for 2020 Olympics games in Tokyo.  Plan B is to continue building strength and flexibility, as I get older; building strength will help me continue running injury-free.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I have 3 grandchildren who still “sort of” like me – Jonathan (2 years old), Lillian (1 year) and Teddy (brand new).
I qualified for and ran Boston Marathon in 2010 (before it got a lot harder to get into) but as a friend (ex-friend!) told me at the time; “even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in awhile.”

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
Its simple: just show up.  The trainers at Renegade will take care of the rest.

September 2018 Member of the Month

Name/nickname: Asif 

Age: 30

What city do you live in?
Eagan, MN

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
July 2017

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
Internet search

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I work as a Healthcare Business Analyst in St.Paul Minnesota. For fun, I love hanging out, photography and travel.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
My very first trial class with Ryan was tough but helped me to realize that I need improve my strength and make myself fit enough. All the coaches were helpful in understanding and adjusting or replacing any exercises Which I was having hard time doing.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
I started with classes which is fun and recently started doing 1:1 with Max Buffie.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Renegade Strength classes are my favorite followed by Metabolic classes. Thanks to Max, he is pushing me had enough to balance all.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
My strength has increased a lot and so did my endurance. I am enjoying my workouts a lot and I am fully motivated to do more and accomplish more. In fact, I am now working out 5 times a week on average.

What motivates you?
To strive for everything which I haven’t achieved so far or which I achieve more through family, friends and workplace.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I take one road trip in a month mostly and I am an aspiring Travel photographer as well.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
Be patient, keep coming to classes and in time you will see those results.

August 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :
Connie Cotterman

Age :
63, but it is just a number

What city do you live in?
Burnsville

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
Dec, 2017

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
Internet Search

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I have run an in-home daycare for 37 years. I enjoy traveling, and being with my family.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
After the gym I was using closed down, I talked to Ryan & thought Renegade would be a good fit for me. Bonus because it was only 2 miles from my home.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
I started out with boot camp classes (and still do) and eventually added 1:1 training with coach Katie. She has been a great trainer and has helped me improve my weaknesses!

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
My favorite is the 1:1 with Katie on Thursday mornings. My lower body is definitely weaker than upper body. So, I enjoy any upper body exercises.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Definitely Push Ups! I still can’t do many, but I can do them.

What motivates you?
My family. They want me to be healthier. And I work on that every day. Focusing on eating right!

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
That I started this journey 4 years ago. I’ve found success, having lost 85 pounds! It started coming back on, and I had to get back in shape. I am also a 14 year breast cancer survivor, and a widow of 5 years.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
Don’t ever give up! If you fall off, get back on. Keep a positive attitude, and enjoy life.

July 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :
Tom Mahowald

Age :
53

What city do you live in?
Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
Fall 2012

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
My wife, Tracy. A friend of ours was working out in one of the group sessions and Tracy followed up with Ryan. She was looking for the perfect birthday gift. Well, she didn’t find that. Instead she surprised me with an introductory set of one-on-one sessions with Ryan. The sessions started out with an assessment and then we worked on fitness and nutritional goals.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
Professionally, I am a portfolio manager with Evercore Wealth Management. Evercore works with families to coordinate their wealth strategies and portfolio management efforts.

In addition to that, I help out with the Saint John’s Alumni Board, the True Friends Foundation, volunteering with Saint John Neumann Catholic Church and Saint Paul Winter Carnival “activities”.

For fun: golf (avid frustrated golfer), trips to the North Shore, patio time, sporting clays, boating, watching the Packers and SJU football.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
Renegade is extremely close to home.  More importantly, the fitness and nutritional goals are always there – and Ryan helps to reinforce the accountability I have with myself.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
I mainly do the 1:1 sessions. I have participated in the small group sessions in the past and still look to add that back into the schedule.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
My 1:1 schedule has always had a variety of exercises/routines and I have been at this long enough that we are coming back to some of those strength exercises. The small group sessions allow for a better cardio and agility workout. I notice there was no mention of the least favorite exercise – that would be the ab roller.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
This has been part of a long-term commitment to get into shape – both physically and nutritionally. Seeing the results has been great but maintaining the results has been fantastic.

What motivates you?
With most things, trying to advance the ball – get something accomplished, cross things off the list and enjoying the journey along the way.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
Good question…I might want to bring my own playlist for the 6:30 AM session!

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
The journey begins with the first step. Take the leap and set up the initial meeting – be honest with yourself about what you want to accomplish and celebrate the accomplishments along the way.

June 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :
Amy Ness

Age :
30

What city do you live in?
Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness?
May 2017 or sometime close to then

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
Google

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
For work I groom dogs at a Pet Hotel, for fun I like going to Wild hockey games and other MN sporting events, and I also enjoy rollerblading Lake Calhouni and walking and hanging out with my 2 dogs

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
I chose Renegade after my prior personal trainer moved to another state because I was looking for some awesome trainers or classes to help me stay motivated with my fitness goals and Renegade definitely offered that

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
My favorite exercise is definitely deadlifts but I really enjoy any type of strength/weight lifting, not a big cardio fan

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
I have been able to run a full 3 miles without stopping, and set a personal record of one 200lb deadlift

What motivates you?
Working out with others and having coaches that push you in a positive way

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I danced for 10 years (tap and jazz mainly)

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?
Stick with it and you WILL get stronger and faster. Don’t be intimidated by equipment or exercises the coaches and other members are always there to help. Everybody starts somewhere and doesn’t matter how you compare to others you are there to better yourself and other members will always cheer you on.

May 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :
Carol Nystrom

Eric Nystrom

Age :
Carol – 53

Eric – 58

What city do you live in?
Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

“Officially,” we joined in July 2017, but had been training at Renegade Fitness with another trainer, Brian Waldo, since 2009.

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?

Brian Waldo was Eric’s personal trainer at another gym.  When he left to start training at Renegade, we followed him.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?

Eric is a trial lawyer.  I golf and pheasant hunt and golf and golf and golf (according to Carol).  Not so much so far this year, however.

Carol is a legal assistant.  I sing at church, pheasant hunt, and enjoy taking long walks with our dog (soon to be two dogs) so I’ll be training a puppy this summer.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
We originally joined for one-on-one personal training with Brian Waldo, then transitioned to 5:00 a.m. classes.  When Brian left to run his own place full-time in Cottage Grove, we transitioned to Ryan’s classes.  Ryan’s classes are a little different (more intense), but we really enjoy them and they have kicked our fitness up a notch (or two or three).

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Eric:  I used to run much more than I do now, so the metabolic and interval workouts have kept my fitness level high.  And I really like the variety of each workout—it keeps the classes interesting and challenging.

Carol:  I really enjoy the classes.  I used to run to keep in shape and the weight off, but I hated it.  The classes (with all of the metabolic work in them) accomplish this and I enjoy them so much more than running.  I also like the variety of each workout.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
One health benefit that has been confirmed for both of us is that our cholesterol numbers were significantly better after a year of working out in Ryan’s classes.

Carol:  The strength that I have been able to develop in my lower back and glutes has significantly improved my lower back issues.  My chiropractor confirmed that my improvement is most likely because of all the squats and deadlifts that we do.

Eric:  Achieve and Maintain a high fitness level in my late 50s.

What motivates you?
Carol:  I want to prevent osteoporosis which both my mom and grandma had very badly; I want to be in shape so that I can do whatever I want; and I don’t want to gain weight.

Eric:  Keeping my heart healthy since I have a family history of heart disease on both sides. Also maintaining my weight.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
We’ve been coming to Renegade for so long that there isn’t much everyone in our classes and our coaches don’t know about us. (We’re not shy.)  So we’re going back in history a bit…

Eric:  My grandfather and dad were both Senators in Iowa.  While I worked many campaigns, including running one for my dad, I decided not to follow in their footsteps.

Carol:  Years ago, I used to do community theater.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?

Get started and be consistent.  Consistency is the key to obtaining all your goals.  This is also something you need to keep doing.  It is a lifestyle change of regular exercise.  For us, the classes make it easier to stay motivated to exercise. It’s a place where you make friends that help keep you motivated.

April 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname : 

Sandra (Mark, Kaitlin, Dana)

Age : 

59, 58, 25, 22

What city do you live in? 

Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

July 2016

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? 

I did an internet search for gyms in the area.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?

Spend time at our lake cabin in Wisconsin.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? 

We belonged to another gym but the workouts were repetitive and not always challenging.  We didn’t feel our fitness was improving.  We were restricted to certain class days/times, class sizes were too large for their space, and we were not getting enough value for the money we were spending.  Renegade doesn’t repeat workouts and we get a full workout that is always challenging.  We can sign up for classes that meet our schedules and class sizes are limited. The staff really gets to know you and is interested in helping you improve.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?  

Bootcamp classes for Sandra, Mark, Kaitlin.  Dana participated in the transformation program and was surprised by how strong she really is.  That class helped her lose weight and improve her confidence levels.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade? 

We are a family of strong legs.  Strength days are best and a variety of squats would be the favorite. This is the first time most of us have had exposure to barbells so that is part of the fun.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? 

Deadlifting my weight.  Pull-ups. Running.  Seems there have been a number of surprises for all of us as we have gotten stronger.

What motivates you? 

We are a competitive bunch.  Doing a little better than the last set is motivating.  See changes in strength and fitness helps as well.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
Mark ran with the Olympic torch in 1984 on its trip across the US. (In Eagan)

Sandra has been in all 50 states in the US.

Kaitlin won a baby race (crawling) when she was 10 months old.

Dana’s 10U fast pitch softball team went to Nationals (she was 9)

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

Make the commitment. Those first classes will be hard but you are worth it so keep coming back.  Don’t be intimated by the equipment – the trainers are there to help and explain everything.

March 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname:   Jim Lundberg

Age : 60

What city do you live in? 

Apple Valley

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

Best I can remember is summer of 2012

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
Through a friend

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I am the General Manager of Overhead Door Co.

For fun, I work out, run, build furniture, foodie, and wine connoisseur.

I have too many hobbies…

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
Initially choose Renegade to recover from a hamstring tear.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Started out doing 1:1s, now doing classes.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Enjoy all of the classes, favorite probably Barbell Plus, or Renegade Strength.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
The Murphy Challenge.

What motivates you?
Every day is a God given gift; I strive to improve in everything I do every day.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

Keep at it, no changes happen overnight, it takes time to gain endurance and change your body. Being consistent is the secret to fitness, not only in exercise, but what you put into your body.

Renegade is a fun place, filled with motivated people.

February 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :
Warren/Sugar Daddy

Anne/Sugar Momma

Age :
46

A real lady never tells

What city do you live in? 
Rosemount

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

Anne – May of 2010

Warren – in January of 2016

 How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? 
Anne – I had worked out with Ryan when he was a trainer at a larger gym. We started our family and I ended up leaving that gym. I took some time off and then when I was ready to go back, Ryan had started Renegade so I signed up with him.

Warren – I’m not a fan of large gyms.  Anne had been encouraging me to try it for several years.  With our schedules and the ages of our kids, it finally worked out.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
Warren – I’m a customer success manager for SPS Commerce.  I enjoy long walks on the beach at sunset, quiet nights by the fire, and cuddling.
Anne – I am not sure who Warren is with when he is taking sunset walks on the beach or  cuddling, because it is not me. I am the VP of Product Development for a small software company. In my free time, I enjoy running, binge watching HGTV and I am learning to knit.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? 
Warren – Anne was already a member so we were hoping for a family discount…
Anne – I like the smaller class size and the variations in the workouts.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? 
Warren – boot camp classes, 3-5 days a week

Anne – boot camp 3 to 5 days a week but not in the same class as my husband. I find his sense of humor off-putting at 5am.
What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?

Warren  – probably the Saturday morning class as it’s later in the morning and I don’t have to head to work afterwards.  Deadlifts.

Anne – Fatty Fridays, although my favorite is pull-ups because I like the shoulder definition.
What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? 
Warren – be partnered up with my wife for a class.   Do unassisted pull-ups

Anne – get up early – before sunrise – 3 to 5 days a week. Run as much as I do, thanks to strength training, strength endurance workouts, HIIT.

What motivates you? 
Warren – I want to be active with our kids and be a good role model for continuing to exercise.   Family history of cancer, heart disease, and bi polar disorder so need to take better care of myself.

Right before my 41st birthday, I realized that I was getting heavier and just didn’t feel good about myself. I committed to eating better (not dieting, actually changing my eating habits) and exercising on a regular basis. It has been 4 years now and I have stuck with it. At this point, it seems like it would be a waste to give it up and go back to my old habits.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know? 
Warren – Anne finds my jokes as annoying as the coaches do.

Anne – Warren and I are actually happily married. I may be annoyed by his jokes and choose not to be in his workout class but it’s a system that works.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

Warren – Be prepared to stick with it for at least 6 months.  The first three are a grind but after that, it becomes more fun.  The other folks in the classes are great.

Anne – It is tough at first but stick with it and you will be amazed at what you can do. I have found that the other people in class motivate me to push myself – run harder, lift heavier, get in more reps – and I really appreciate that.

January 2018 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :

Kelly Larson

Age :

29 (I mean 44)

What city do you live in?

Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

Spring of 2013 (I think but am not sure)

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? 

One of my neighbors encouraged me to try a bootcamp style of workout with her at Renegade after she tried it previously and thought the workout was a good one.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?

I am the CFO of Summit Brewing Company in Saint Paul.  We have 3 kids in our family that keep us very busy with their active sports schedules so the “fun” generally involves transporting them to activities.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? 

I wanted to try a different workout other than distance running.  I had been running long distance for over 20 years and wanted to increase my strength, along with maintaining my running endurance.

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? 

I usually attend Ryan’s 5 am class.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Anything that is an endurance or metabolic class is one I enjoy.  I wish there were more handstands in our workouts as they are one of my favorites too.  I suck terribly at pull-ups and if the kettlebells were retired I would not be upset. 

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? 

I was pretty much clueless on muscle building exercise or form before starting at Renegade.  I think it is fantastic that I know what a proper snatch, goblet squat or turkish get-up is now.

What motivates you? 

I work a lot of hours and being able to unplug from work for 60 minutes and bust out an intense workout is what I need to mentally and physically stay focused.  I am terribly crabby if I don’t workout for more than two days (just ask my husband).

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know? 

Chuck Knoblauch hit a line drive foul ball that broke my elbow at a Twins game back in the late 1990’s.  I waited for a week to go to the doctor and get it checked out.  I ended up wearing a cast in August for six weeks.

OR

I was a pretty darn good basketball player back in my high school days.  I grew up playing 6 on 6 half court basketball in a small town in Northeast Iowa (Edgewood) where only the 3 offensive players could shoot and you were only allowed two dribbles.  Iowa (and Oklahoma) were the only states that played 6 on 6 basketball for years.  The schools in Iowa changed and switched to traditional format basketball in 1993.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

It is a great place to get a killer work out in a class setting.

December 2017 Member of the Month

Member spotlight questions for website

Name / nickname : Theresa

Age : 51

What city do you live in? 

Apple Valley

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

2015

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?
My fried Introduced me to Renegade. Now she is an amazing coach and trainer at Renegade!

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I have been a preschool teacher in Eagan for 16 years. I am a part-time Target employee. I love spending time with my kids and taking long walks with my dog. Over the past couple of years I have become more active in participating in the sport of Triathlons and mud runs. I don’t mind getting dirty and I love how the obstacles test your abilities.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
I love the classes and small group atmosphere, the fact that each workout is different each day, the challenges, and the friendships. All of the coaches and trainers are amazing. They keep you motivated and constantly challenge us.

It’s a very encouraging place to be!

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
Classes/Small Group

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
Renegade Bootcamp – Strength classes have been my core workouts. I have recently branched out and enjoy various classes, like barbell and the metcons.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do?
Un-assisted pull-ups! I can do 1 or 2 now. Recently I conquered the warped wall at the Rugged Maniac!!!

What motivates you?
I am a competitive person(mostly with myself). I like testing out my limits and challenging myself. Also, my mom is 75 and is in awesome physical shape! A lot of you are probably too young to remember that at one point gyms were men only. When Bally’s first opened the doors to women, my mom was one of the first in line. She has not stopped since. She is a testament to what fitness does for you. If I can be as beautiful and strong as she is at 75, well – that says it all.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I love the show Ninja Warrior! I secretly aspire to be the oldest female on the show. LOL!!!

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

Have no Regrets! Push yourself and test your limits. Don’t be intimidated or afraid. Everyone starts at a different level of fitness. You will see results and be motivated to keep on going! You will feel great….physically, mentally and emotionally.

November 2017 Member of the Month

Name / nickname :  Kris

Age :  49

What city do you live in? Burnsville

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? December 2015

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness?  Through a friend

What do you do for work, fun, etc? I’m a third grade teacher.  In my free time I like to run, hike, travel, try new restaurants, and spend time with my family.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? I chose Renegade because of the personalized training that I get in small group classes. I had always been a member of a large fitness center and was looking for a way to improve and enhance my fitness.  Renegade was just what I was looking for!

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? I do classes.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
My favorite class is Renegade Performance Boot Camp because it pushes me beyond what I ever thought I could do.  I have learned to like deadlifts and am amazed at how much stronger I’ve gotten throughout my workouts at Renegade.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? I never thought that I’d be strong enough to increase the weight that I front squat.  With encouragement from my trainer and other classmates I have exceeded what I thought I could do.

What motivates you?  Seeing muscle definition when I look in the mirror and feeling stronger definitely motivates me, as well as working out in a positive environment where those around me push themselves and encourage others.  Having a trainer that pushes me past my comfort zone and believes in me is the biggest motivator!

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know? I have an identical twin sister.
 

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade?  Set up a good routine and stick with it.  Don’t give up, even when the going gets tough.  You’ll be amazed at what you can do.

October 2017 Member of the Month

Name / nickname : Chrsitian Puzder

Age : 42

What city do you live in?  Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? March 2017

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? Internet search

What do you do for work, fun, etc? Responsible for Platfrom technologies at Thomson Retuers. I try to get on the bike 4/5 days a week in the summer, both road and mountain, but I focus on going fast at high power on the road. In the winter I train indoors using The Sufferfest training videos.

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? I wanted to focus on growing muscles, as cycling is not a mass building exercise. After attempting to meet with various trainers in the area, Ryan returned my email on a Sunday, and met with me the following Monday. He seemed like an alright dude who knew what he was talking about, so I joined his 530a classes

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? classes

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade? Anything that is not running or pullups

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? Look good in a tight tee shirt. That’s what matters. At 42 when your wife of 18 years comments on the size of your arms after 3 weeks, you know you made the right decision. HOOHAH!

What motivates you? Success, beating something that previously beat me.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know? Ryan and team do a great job of getting to know you as a person. I am not sure there is much Ryan doesn’t know about me. My affinity for pizza and gummi worms (not together) my passion for cycling, my vacation schedule. Its this customer service that makes Renegade enjoyable at 530a
 

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? Be prepared to recover after your first day, jump in with both feet.

Name / nickname :  Kim Puzder

Age : 40

What city do you live in?  Eagan

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? 

March 2017. My husband and I were getting ready to go on a vacation – the longest we’ve ever been away from all 4 of our kids (4 days)- and we wanted to look HOT by the pools!!

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? 

My husband, I think he found you via the interwebs.

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
I don’t have a job, officially. I’m MOM.  To 4 kids (13, 12, 7 & 6) a 4 month old puppy. And well, Christian, if it’s not too weird to call him one of my kids… Acts like one, anyway! In my free time I like to hike, read, cook (what I want to – not mac n cheese) and sleep!

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness? 
 My husband told me the small classes would be good for me 🙂

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group? 
I do the classes.

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?

Hiking! LOL!  I hate working out, I just like the results! I do like the challenge that Renegade brings to me. I’ve been a member of many clubs before and I’ve never had the small “family” style training where I feel like the trainers actually care about me getting stronger, not just finishing the class. The trainers, especially Ryan, pushes me every time I’m there.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought you’d be able to do? 

Got nothing here… sorry. Getting stronger on my pull ups though. IF I can ever do an unassisted pullup, that will be my answer 🙂

What motivates you? 
Being thin and fit. Vacations, obviously ?.  Praise, though not necessarily verbally. I like a little competition, but not the way my husband CRAVES it. And judgement… I would like to be able to track my growth by having monthly fat-check visits and/or a recording system of the weight I’ve been able to lift/squat, etc. Make me afraid to fail at my numbers that you all will judge me for being worse than where I started.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know? 

I want to learn how to swim as a form of exercise… do the whole flippy-push-off-at-the-end-of-the-pool thing. The only reason I hesitated on joining Renegade; there was no pool.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

Show up, eat right, get results.

 

September 2017 Member of the Month

Name: April

Age : 29

What city do you live in? Apple Valley

When did you become a member of Renegade Fitness? November 2017

How did you find out about Renegade Fitness? Google

Why did you choose Renegade Fitness?
 I knew that I would be pushed to take my fitness to the next level

What do you do for work, fun, etc?
For work – I’m a dentist

Fun – golf, rollerblading, camping, traveling, spending time with family and friends

Do you do 1:1, classes, small group?
I started out by doing 1 on 1 with Ryan and then joined up with classes about 6 months ago

What is your favorite exercise, class or workout at Renegade?
I love the Renegade Performance Boot Camp; I always get my butt kicked! My favorite exercise is probably Cleans.

What have been able to accomplish since starting at Renegade that you never thought possible?
I’ve gotten so much stronger since I started working out at Renegade. I had never been able to do a true push up and now can do multiple. My next goal to tackle is pull-ups!

What motivates you?
I have always strived for overall health and though diet is a huge component to achieving that, fitness in my opinion is just as important.

What is something about you that Renegade coaches and members may not yet know?
I have done the world’s highest commercial bungee jump in South Africa.
 

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Renegade? 

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Everyone struggles with fitness, whether its getting started, finding the time, pushing through the soreness, getting stronger, running faster, or doing that one pull up you’ve never been able to do. No one’s perfect. However, it’s worth the struggle when you reach goals you’ve set for yourself. Achievement is such an amazing feeling.