2024 New Years Day Hike at Jimmy Nash Park

A new year is here and what better way to kick off 2024 than being outdoors. Jimmy Nash Park trail is a hidden gem in Martinsville. We had 30-plus individuals brave the cold, but warmed up quickly once they hit the hills. Some of us even hiked the new trail extension. It was great seeing all of the smiles and hearing positive comments today. I hope everyone has a great 2024! Here is a group photo from today’s event.

4th of July Plogging Event

Never heard of Plogging? Well…the morning of July 4th is your chance to find out by showing up and participating. It basically involves jogging around the community and picking up litter. What better way to be active, meet new friends, and help the Martinsville community!

Show up early at the courthouse gazebo for instructions, head out at 8am sharp and return at 9am with your bag of litter.

It is suggested that you bring your own bags and gloves, but there will be some available. Everyone is invited to this fun, FREE event. Hope to you see you all there!

Check out these links for more information on plogging.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plogging

https://www.wthr.com/article/plogging-is-sweeping-the-nation

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/inspired-life/wp/2018/02/23/plogging-is-the-swedish-fitness-craze-for-people-who-want-to-save-the-planet-its-making-its-way-to-the-u-s/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.6ced72460b1f

https://www.nbcnews.com/better/pop-culture/all-about-plogging-newest-eco-friendly-workout-trend-ncna882886

2018 Running and Cycling Events

Here are the 2018 events that I know about and this list will grow. There are many opportunities to be active and also support some of the organizations this year.

**These are not affiliated with Motivate Martinsville and may not be accurate. Some websites are provided, but a quick Google or FaceBook search may return more information**

4/14 – Feline Frolic 5K Run/Walk
Website: http://www.mchumanesoc.org/feline-frolic-5k.html

5/12 – Run with the Foxes Trail 5K, 13K, 10 miles, Half-marathon
Website: https://www.hoosierhikerscouncil.org/trail-races/

5/12 – Fallen Officers 5K

5/19 – Interact Club 5K

6/2 – Dewey Dash 5K for the Morgan County Library

7/7 – ArtieFest 5K – Downtown Square

8/4 – Morgan County Fair & Square 5K – Morgan County Fairgrounds

10/14- Fall Foliage Festival 5K – Bell Intermediate Academy

11/22 – Tri Kappa Turkey Trot – Foxcliff Estates

If you have an event, email me at rgeeblues@gmail.com and I’ll be sure to promote here and on the MM FaceBook page.

Inspirational Story #6 – Jalisa

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This is just one of many success stories coming from Bars on Fire Crossfit. If you would like to learn more about Bars on Fire, stop by their facility located at 265 Morton Avenue Martinsville, IN 46151, call 317-509-3119, or visit their website at http://www.barsonfirecrossfit.com. You can also find them on Facebook.

Hour of operation

Class Schedule:

6am and 8am M,W,F
4:30 M-F
5:30 M-F
6:30 M-F
7:30 M-Thur
9am Sat
12-2 Sun

FREE CLASS on Saturdays AT 10am!!

Inspirational Story #5 – The Bonneys: Ultrarunners

image1-2My husband Tyler and I are relatively new to running. A year and a half ago I knew I had to make a change in my life. I was dealing with depression and a friend suggested I sign up for a 5k and start training. I brushed off the idea, but then saw a groupon in September of 2014 for a “Chocoholic Frolic 5k.” I quickly signed up because I read there would be lots of chocolate involved at the finish line. I did some research online and discovered a couch to 5k training plan. It was almost unbearable to run a half mile at first, but week after week it became easier and before I knew it, I could run a 5k without stopping or being completely out of breath. I began to feel so much better mentally and physically. As a result, I began to really enjoy going out for a run everyday.

When Tyler watched me finish my first 5k I remember him telling me how proud he was of me and that it inspired him to want to do the same. He made up his mind that he wanted to live a healthier lifestyle because he was tired of being overweight and not feeling well a lot of the time. He came home from work one day and decided to put on some tennis shoes and see if he could run a mile. Ever since that day, he hasn’t stopped running! He has lost over 50 pounds and feels incredible. After several 5k’s and a half marathon, in May of 2015 at the Indy Mini expo, we came across a booth advertising a marathon four months later in September. Ready for the next challenge, we decided to sign up!

For our marathon training, Tyler would run trails at Mccormick’s creek state park during his lunch break and loved it. Some friends of ours who are ultra runners encouraged us to get on the trails together and described a much more enjoyable running experience. It took me some time before I decided to go out and try the trails. Honestly, I was very comfortable on the road and a little intimidated by the trail. I thought it would be way too difficult for me. Tyler ran the “Run with the Foxes” 10k trail race two weeks after his first 5k and was immediately hooked with the trail running world.

Shortly after our first road marathon in September of 2015, we watched a documentary about an IT100 event and knew right then and there that we wanted to participate in it someday. It was quite a bit of money so we contemplated signing up for a while until a friend suggested we ask to be registered for this event as a Christmas present. Tyler’s mom and dad ended up registering us as a gift! January of this year we started training for our very first ultra marathon. That’s when I had no choice but to get over my fear of the trails and give it a try. My first time out there, I was hooked just like Tyler. I loved every second of being out in nature. I didn’t have to use headphones and never got bored as there was always an incredible view. We trained for 16 weeks and during that time had many unforeseen obstacles that we had to overcome, but those didn’t stop us and we pushed through. On April 30th, we ran our very first 50 mile ultra marathon together and finished under the 15 hour time limit. What a wonderful experience we had! We are already looking forward to running it again next year.

Also, we are excited for many more trail runs and races this spring and summer. We love to run/walk with our friends and family any chance we get. We have two little girls ages 5 and 3 who love going out and hiking/running on the trails as well as supporting us during our races. When they see us cross the finish line and see our medals they always say with excitement, “you won!” That’s so special to us. Our oldest participated in two races last year and did very well! We absolutely love that we can be role models for our children to be active and have fun at the same time. We love to inspire others to be active in any way they can. Without a doubt, if we can do this, anyone can!

-Shayna Bonney

Thank you Shayna and Tyler for sharing your awesome story. Congratulations on becoming ultrarunners over the weekend!!

Fitness Feature: Balanced Fitness with Erin

20151230_180126My name is Erin Phelps and I am a born and raised Martinsville native that graduated from Martinsville high school in the year 2000.  I began my love for working out in my early high school years when I would watch fitness shows on tv and something just struck me that I wanted to be fit and train others to be fit too.  I took weight training class in high school and never stopped working out!

I began working at the Martinsville Curves in 2000 and worked there until 2012 when I left to start my own personal training business.  I trained clients at my home and then in January of 2015 I began working at Reps Fitness here in Martinsville and am continuing to grow my clientele there.  I love being a personal trainer because I get to help others improve their quality of life and the friendships I’ve gained through working with people on a regular basis is definitely a bonus!  It truly does not feel like a job at all.

I try to keep my workouts fresh so people don’t get bored.  I have people do weight training, cardiovascular exercises, boxing, pilates and yoga.   I use a variety of equipment to keep the body guessing such as stability balls, bosu balls, medicine balls, kettlebells, battle ropes, TRX suspension trainer and resistance bands.  I also include nutritional counseling.

If you’re thinking of getting fit and don’t know where to start or what to do, a personal trainer is a great way to go!  A good trainer will teach you what to do and how to safely do it while tailoring the workouts for you and your body.  We help keep you accountable so you’ll be more likely to stick with it and get the results you want!

My certifications include;
NESTA Certified Personal Trainer since 2003
NESTA Certified Lifestyle and Weight Management Specialist since 2003
ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer since 2013
NESTA Spencer Pilates Instructor since 2014
NESTA Sport Yoga Instructor since 2016

My contact number is (765) 516-0244
My business Facebook page is Balanced Fitness with Erin

Fitness Feature: Hamilton Trained

IMG_0398Hey there! I’d like to first thank you for reading. Hope you enjoy!

First of all my name is Jared Hamilton. I founded my brand called Hamilton Trained around 5 years ago.

People ask me why I do what I do, and the answer is I absolutely love changing lives and helping people. Whether that’s helping someone go after their dreams and get on a bodybuilding stage, help get a grandma where she can actually play with her grandkids on the floor again, or just help people to live longer.

To be Hamilton Trained means that you are getting the best possible help, coaching, and personal training for your fitness journey. And that’s for any goal. It doesn’t matter whether that goal is to gain some serious size, drop a few pounds, or have a complete body transformation and have your life changed forever. We’re committed to continue challenging the status quo when it comes to getting real people real results. That why we all start on a fitness journey isn’t it? It’s to get actual results. My company does that through in personal training, or online coaching.

There’s a lot of “one size fits all” programs (and trainers) out there but I’m pretty well against those. People aren’t “one size fits all.” Everyone has different goals, needs, and limitations.

It all really comes down to this: Give me your trust, commitment, and dedication, and I’ll give you the results you’ve always wanted.

If you aren’t already, follow me on social media!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jared.hamilton.501
Instagram:@RealJaredHamilton
Snapchat: jhamilton911

Thanks again for reading and for your support!
Be blessed,

Jared Hamilton
HamiltonTrained@gmail.com
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Inspirational Story #4 – Jared Crismore

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-via Bars on Fire Crossfit

Tell us about yourself, whats your story?

My name is Jared. I am 42 years old,married and have two small children. I am
a middle school teacher and a coach. I was in relatively good shape until the
age of 30. I then realized I had arterial fibrillation and I waited eight years to
have the ablation procedure to correct this heart problem. Over those 8 years,
my activity level decreased significantly. My poor eating habits remained and I
began putting on weight. My greatest weight gain was in 2014, and I knew I
need to make changes.

What made you decide to start your CrossFit journey?

A friend told me I needed to check out CrossFit. I decided to check out Bars
On Fire CrossFit in early 2015. I was pretty nervous, but when I walked in the
door a former student of mine said, “Crismore you going to workout tonight?”
The rest is history. It wasn’t easy but I realized I COULD do it.

How has CrossFit affected your life?

The trainers and people are what make CrossFit so special. We all unite for a
common goal. The workouts can be scaled down for people,like myself, but we
are all in it together until everyone is finished. It’s more than a gym. It’s a
community of people that care about each other and want to see others
achieve great things. My body has changed so much. I move better,feel better
and the boys don’t talk about dad’s big stomach anymore.I want to do CrossFit
for the rest of my life. I’ve enjoyed the journey so far and can’t wait for the
future.

Thank you Jared and Bars on Fire Crossfit for sharing the story!

If you are curious about Crossfit, check out Bars of Fire located at 265 Morton Ave. Martinsville, IN 46151, call 317-509-3119, or check out their FREE class every Saturday at 10am.

Inspirational Story #3 – Heather Fisher

It has been awhile since an inspirational story has been posted and this one from Heather Fisher could not have come at a better time.  As you read Heather’s story, you will see the impact that our local YMCA has had not only on Heather, but in our community.   The YMCA is all about providing a safe, healthy place for kids and adults to be active.  There are those individuals that give so much to the Y.   And the Y gives so much more back to members, non-members, and the community.  The Y has been a staple in this community for years and they always have something going on.  One of their big events of the year is the Sweat-a-thon which is next month (March 5th).  You can still register online at https://bbjymca.formstack.com/forms/sweat_a_thon. It is a great way to be active for a good cause and meet new friends.  If you have any questions, you can contact the Y at 765-342-6688.

Now on to Heather’s story….

 

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Hi, I am Heather Fisher and I want to share my Y experience with you! I joined the YMCA a year and half ago. I came here looking to lose weight which is what I did. I was not always heavy. I had always lead an active lifestyle. I graduated high school in 2009, married my high school sweetheart in 2012, found out I was pregnant in 2012, and had my son in 2013. Pregnancy is where my weight gain took place. I was always hungry, being pregnant I expected that. A few months into my pregnancy I found out that I had gestational diabetes. I  had never had any health issues to that point. So I had to change my eating to keep my baby and myself healthy, safe, and without insulin shots during pregnancy. I had a hard time with the eating change because I had never had to deal with anything like that before. I knew I had gained weight during pregnancy, but I didn’t realize how much.

In March 2013 I had my son. The nurse came in and told me to eat whatever I wanted, so I ordered pizza and had pop. From there I went back to my bad eating habits. I continued my bad eating habits for a few months. I saw a picture of myself one day and that was my breaking point! That is where I realized how far I had let myself go. I wasn’t happy with myself at all. That’s when I decided it was time for change! I needed to be healthy for my family and for myself. I started eating less, walking, and joined a Zumba class at my church. I wanted to be more active so I joined the Y. I started doing fitness classes there. I had people motivating and pushing me to do better. I did and I lost 76 pounds. I now exercise at least 60 minutes a day, eat clean, and use portion control. The Y and the people there changed my life! Fitness, clean eating, and helping others is my passion! I want to help you!

Thank you Heather for sharing your story.  Keep on inspiring!

Fitness Feature: Bars On Fire Crossfit

Have you ever wondered what Bars On Fire CrossFit is all about? Well, let me tell you about us.

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Owners- Owned by Martinsville residents, Chris and Angie Miller.

Mission – Our goal is to make CrossFit the best part of your day.

Vision – We want to help you establish good habits through fitness and nutrition, while helping you reach your potential in and outside the gym.

Core Values we strive to practice daily –

(Quality)
Here at Bars On Fire CrossFit, you will be taught and coached correct technique from L1 certified ,caring and dedicated trainers. They will be with you every step of the way to create a higher functional level to your fitness, wether its lifting a bar or getting your first pull up. We intend to put you slightly outside your comfort zone each day to improve not only your fitness, but to prepare you for anything in life. We can also help you with your nutritional needs so that you receive best value in your membership.

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(Community)
Our gym is like family. Most of the classes are about 6 to 10 people. We work to foster a community that supports and encourages each other. You will be surrounded by fun, hardworking, positive people. This is community that offers support and inspiration to help you achieve your goals. Working out together helps you get through tough workouts when you may have quite too early in a traditional gym. The LAST one finishing their workout receives the most cheers.

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(Engagement)
We will follow up with you often to make sure you hold your self accountable. We are here for you every step of the way. Don’t be surprised to see your accomplishments on our social media. We love showing you off.

Who should join? – Anyone. No one is to old or out of shape. We believe in using functional movements that you would use in every day life such as pulling, pushing and squats. CrossFit is designed to meet the needs of varied abilities due to the scalability of the movements. If you aren’t sure about CrossFit then maybe you can check out our CrossFit Lite class that will begin in a few weeks. This class would let you get the CrossFit experience without the use of barbells.

Are you ready to set goals and accomplish things you never dreamed you could do? If yes, your journey starts here!

Help us celebrate our re-grand opening by attending our Community Day Free Workout November 7th at 10am.  More information here:  Community Day Free Workout

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Address
265 Morton Ave. Martinsville, IN 46151

Class Schedule:
8am M,W,F
4:30 M-F
5:30 M-F
6:30 M-F
7:30 M-Thur
9am Sat
12-2 Sun