Get the expertise of a personal trainer at a fraction of the cost

By Patricia Nugent

As a personal trainer with a degree in exercise science, who has worked both with private clients and in other studios for the past decade, Evan Ferwerda has a unique perspective on what works.

When he decided to open his own studio, he researched the market for a franchise that offered all the intensity of one-on-one training, with the accountability and affordability of small classes, in a state-of-the-art facility with advanced equipment. Designed by exercise physiologists, physical therapists, dieticians and behavioral specialists, Alloy Personal Training stood head and shoulders above the rest.

“Small-group training seems to be a sweet spot for attaining the best results,” says Evan. “Our goal is empowerment. We empower people by helping them get in the best shape of their lives. Our classes build muscle strength, core, stamina and flexibility. The members enjoy the community aspect here.”

Within the 1,600-square-foot boutique studio, you’ll find sleds, medicine balls, TRX resistance bands, kettle bells, stationary bikes and battle ropes. The equipment is hand-picked for foundational and functional strength training. All the exercises translate to real life movement.

“There are 55 classes each week, with a maximum of six participants, led by trainers who are 100% focused on the goals of each individual,” he says. “Trainers have iPads they monitor during the sessions with detailed notes on the members’ goals, so they get the expertise of a personal trainer at a fraction of the cost.”

Part of the program encompasses nutrition as well. Evan says they review members’ intake to make sure they have a balanced diet with enough protein to build muscle. They offer a pre-workout protein and BCAA drink that fortifies the body with electrolytes that are lost during a workout.

Meet Val Bigler
In facility management for a large corporate campus, Val Bigler has a full-time-plus job that can be overwhelming at times.

At 59, she felt like she was starting to slow down a little.

“I was basically a gym rat in my teens and 20s,” says Val, who was one of the first people to join the studio last September. “Over the years, I’ve had spinal issues and a bad left elbow. The thing with aging is, it catches up with you slowly. At Alloy, I feel like I’m in the hands of professionals who will put together the safest program for my needs. My trainer recommended a brace to support my elbow, and all the moves are modified to be safe.”

One of the things she loves about Alloy is the flexibility in working around her busy schedule.

“There’s usually about four people in each class, and no matter your capabilities, the workouts are tailored to you,” she says. “Although I haven’t lost much weight, the InBody analyzer shows I’ve gained muscle weight while losing fat. My core is stronger now than when I was in my 20s. My clothes fit differently. I’ve dropped a few sizes.”

Val adds that during the initial Starting Point Session with Evan and another trainer, Calerb D’haiti, she was immediately put at ease by their professional demeanor and overview of the spread sheet generated by her InBody scan. Joining Evan and Calerb on the training staff is Andrew Zwick.

“There was no pressure, and I like how thorough they were with the FMS Functional Movement Screen,” Val adds.

Alloy Personal Training is located within Merchants Square at 123 Ghent Road in Fairlawn. Memberships are $299 per month for two weekly sessions and $359 per month for three weekly sessions. Call 330-964-6954 or visit AlloyPersonalTraining.com for more information.