Getting fit sign of season

NORTH COLLEGE HILL - He respectfully calls them "gung-ho" fitness hopefuls.

Ricardo Tipton, the certified personal trainer for Colonial Tennis, Fitness and Swim Club, said this is the time of year when folks decide they need to resolve to get in better shape.

"The problem, and I tell my clients this, is that you didn't get out of shape in a few days and you're not going to get in shape in a few days," Tipton said.

"It takes months of dedication and sticking to a program to get results."

Tipton, 37, who lives in Monfort Heights, has been the club's only personal trainer for the past eight years. He has both the certification and an associate's degree to whip people of all ages into the shape they want.

Along with the one-on-one training, Tipton also leads exercise classes and provides weight training and body sculpting instruction.

When he's not at the Hamilton Avenue club, Tipton teaches at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.

Being a fitness guru wasn't always Tipton's career plan. He was installing garage doors for a living and trying to work out at a local health club when his schedule allowed.

"The owner spotted me working out and often helping other members and asked me if I wanted a job. Now, here I am," he said.

"Our club here is different than most. We know our members on a first-name basis and while I do personal training, if I see someone possibly not using the equipment correctly, I'll offer suggestions.

"I also like to offer suggestions to members I see doing the same workout routine over and over. I like to suggest something new to both improve their progress and to keep them motivated."

Tipton said he sees an anticipated surge in people wanting to hit the exercise equipment just days after Thanksgiving.

"There has been a steady flow since Thanksgiving and we can expect more just before and after Christmas. People like to make getting healthy one of their top New Year's resolutions.

"Unfortunately, many will fall by the way side, but I have a whole arsenal of exercises to keep them interested and on track.

"They start gung-ho, but it's hard to maintain that attitude without help."

More help is about to come in the form of a new line of fitness equipment is scheduled to be installed at the club soon.

"It's going to make everyone's workout better and easier. The new equipment is more user-friendly and offers more flexibility," he said.

Jim Mitchell, club owner, said he's excited to offer both the updated equipment and the new personal trainer classes.

"There is need and a demand for it, and we have one of the most affordable programs anywhere," Mitchell said.

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