Emily J.
Emily has been a member at Renovation Training Company for the past two years. She attends the mom lifting session on Wednesdays and Fridays and has recently begun powerlifting training under RTC while her son participates in the gym's kid & teen lifting classes. Now that her son has started attending the evening Youth Strength & Conditioning classes, she often comes in and makes use of the Open Gym time as well.
This homeschooling, homesteading mom makes time weekly to focus on her health by attending classes. Her personality shines as brightly as her smile.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
A post was shared on a local homeschooling page about the RTC student class opening up, and I noticed the mom class was happening at the same time! It seemed like a good opportunity to try training and see if it was a good fit for us. After one class we were both hooked!
What’s your favorite style of workout?
There’s really nothing I don’t like. My favorite workout so far had a “pirate row,” which was a blast!
What’s your favorite move?
Deadlifts!
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
Lunges…but I’ll avoid the bike, too, if I can help it! 😊
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
It’s just been a reminder that our children follow our lead, even in terms of fitness. In that regard, it’s been a refocus of sorts for me as a parent. It was also pretty eye-opening how much strength and ability I’ve lost over the years without even realizing – so starting to regain that strength has been fun!
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
Having a family-focused and Christ-focused gym is priceless. RTC is not an example of a typical gym or fitness culture, in my opinion – but a focus on intentional movement, being strong for daily life, and encouragement!
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
Toss-up: Shopping carts not returned vs. People who don’t dim their brights when driving.
What’s your favorite color?
Green
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Audiobooks 😊
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
I love to cook/bake and play games with my fam!
Do you have any hobbies?
A little over two and a half years ago I started taking a quilting class. An unexpected opportunity, but I have learned a ton and made some sweet friends!
M&Ms or Skittles?
M&Ms
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Coffee
Toilet paper – over or under?
Over. Always. Is this even up for debate?
What do you do for work?
At this stage of life, I’m very grateful to be a stay-at-home mom! Before moving to Maine in late 2021, I worked in Marketing and loved it.
Tell us about your family.
I’ve been married for almost 20 years to my husband (Daniel) and have one son (Finn). We have two shepherds (Chloe & Kilo), guinea pigs (George & Kevin), a Leopard Gecko (Leo), and a flock of chickens and ducks!
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RTC why they should, what would you tell them?
If you’re intimated at the thought of working out alone or have been away from the gym for a long period of time, you find a more encouraging group of people to learn from and with. You’re stronger than you realize, and RTC is full of people who will help you to remember that. Your gym family is waiting for you!
Aleta H.
Aleta has been coming to our Legends class since last May. Her son gifted her a membership for Mother’s Day. She’s been a fixture in our Legends class ever since. We’re happy she decided to stay.
Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?
My son, who is a CrossFit trainer and goes to a different gym, gave me a gift certificate to Renovation CrossFit for Mother's Day last year. I had a membership at another gym before COVID but didn't go back because it was really crowded.
What’s your favorite style of workout?
No real favorites, I like them all.
What’s your favorite move?
Anything with the rings.
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
Squats are not my favorite, we do a lot of them, and I'm not a fan of the rowing machine.
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?
I am a lot stronger and can lift heavy items.
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?
I have a lot more stamina when working outside, and I can help Gene move things that previously would have been a struggle.
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
Dirty dishes in the sink
What’s your favorite color?
Blue
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Just about anything, but I'm not a fan of country.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
I enjoy being outside walking or hiking.
Do you have any hobbies?
Hiking, exploring our beautiful state, reading, puzzles
M&Ms or Skittles?
M&Ms
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Maple Walnut
Toilet Paper – over or under?
Over
What do you do for work?
Retired teacher
Tell us about your family.
Gene and I have three children between us, and five grandchildren. We keep pretty busy attending the grandchildren's sporting events. We don't have any pets at this time, but Gene did have Siberian sled dogs at one time, and we had a cat.
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?
Give CrossFit a try, you might be surprised how much you enjoy it and how much stronger you will be. The great trainers at Renovation CrossFit let you work at our own pace while gently encouraging you to do more.
Finn J.
Finn has been a member at Renovation Training Company for the past two years. He first started by attending the weekly kids' classes offered in the morning for homeschooling families. Since then, he has also started attending the evening Youth Strength and Conditioning classes.
Finn’s sense of humor shines through at every class. He always puts in his best effort and makes every class he attends fun.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
I started coming to RTC for the student homeschool class two years ago.
What’s your favorite style of workout?
I like workouts that are RFT --- I feel like I have more fun when it's a specific amount of rounds over time.
What’s your favorite move?
I like box jumps! They're fast and fun.
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
I don't like AMRAPs, and I don't like to run inside. (I do like to run outside.)
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
I am learning how to exercise properly, and I am getting stronger.
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
I get to try things that are new to me and sometimes hard, but I have learned a lot in a short time.
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
When my mom sees someone she knows and talks forever and ever!
What’s your favorite color?
I like cool colors - green, blue, purple.
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Instrumental -- I like soundtracks.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
Pet chickens!
Do you have any hobbies?
I build and collect Star Wars Lego sets (prequels mostly).
M&Ms or Skittles?
Neither – Twix
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Cookie Dough
Toilet paper – over or under?
Over -- under is WRONG. I can cite my sources.
What do you do for work?
I'm a full-time 7th grader, and pet chickens.
Tell us about your family.
I have my mom and dad, two dogs, two guinea pigs, a gecko, 10 chickens and six ducks.
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?
Where else can you get Conditioning, Christ, and Conspiracies? ™️
Jackie M.
Jackie has been a member at Renovation Training Company for around two years. When she first began, she was the member who stood in the back corner working quietly as she watched. Over the last two years, we’ve seen her confidence grow in her abilities at the gym She is a blast to have in class. She's become the PT for many of our members as well. And watch out…if there is any type of gymnastic-y movement, she is all over it! Her personality shines through and she is always the first to encourage others to do the hard things.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
I had always wanted to try the gym! I started this winter after moving to town and didn’t know ANYONE that was a member. I just called the number listed on the website, talked to Betsy, then showed up to a class that night! I’m so glad I did and found that I really enjoy the gym!
What’s your favorite style of workout?
I’m honestly just a fan of movement! I think the biggest appeal of training for me is the wide range of workout structures and demands; it’s really hard to get bored of it!
What’s your favorite move?
Anything that makes me go upside-down! Wall walks, handstand push-ups…you name it! All our barbell lifts are a close second though; they always s make me feel powerful!
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
Ugh…wallballs…. They’re humbling for me!
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
Probably feeling like Livermore Falls has become my home. Sappy and cliché …but still true! It’s hard to come to a new town and get to know people outside of our work lives and family. RTC has given me that opportunity to expand my bubble and get to know this area of the world outside of my professional life!
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
The biggest benefit for me has been the community. Being new in a small town can feel so isolating, but all the coaches and members have been so welcoming and have made living here so enjoyable!! (THANK YOU!)
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
Folding laundry? Does that count?
What’s your favorite color?
Periwinkle!
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
I enjoy a little bit of everything, I think! Hard to pick just one genre.
Favorite thing to do when not at the gym.
Reading snuggled up with my puppy on the back deck.
Do you have any hobbies?
I try to keep myself busy with a variety of hobbies: reading, embroidery, exploring old cemeteries with Ben and Syl, hiking, surfing…the list goes on!
M&Ms or Skittles?
Skittles – extra points for the sour ones!
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Mint Chocolate Chip!
Toiler paper – over or under?
My preference? Over. Since getting a puppy? Under.
What do you do for work?
I am a physical therapist. 😊
Tell us about your family.
I have an amazing significant other, Ben, a sweet baby girl named Lucy, and our sweet fur baby, Syl! Syl is a nearly nine-month-old golden retriever who keeps us busy and on our toes. Ben is also a physical therapist, and maybe one day he will grace us with his presence at the gym!
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?
This is such a fun place to work out; there is no judgment, and this space is incredibly motivating. The emphasis on coaching good form and safe movement/mobility work makes it a really safe place to try something new and challenging!
If there’s anything else you’d like to add, please do!
RCF has a great community, and I’m so excited to have found a stellar group of humans to enjoy movement with! Thank you for giving me a space to unwind, to stop thinking critically and clinically, and just letting me enjoy being active.
Karen M.
Karen has been a member of Renovation Training Company now for years. She began exercising long before she joined us. As a member of the Legends class, she comes faithfully three days a week to workout. Many in this group of women have been with Renovation Training Company since they first started coming to our original location. Yet their group has been together far longer than that. While they have had to move locations a few times for various reasons, it hasn’t stopped them from continuing to focus on their health and movement - just like Karen.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
I decided soon after I retired that I needed to do something to keep active. It was a long and convoluted path. I started on Union Street and when that closed, we moved to the dojo in Jay before we ended up at the school with Betsy and crew.
What’s your favorite style of workout?
I really like the ones that happen by chance – picking a playing card, etc.
What’s your favorite move?
Wallballs (they remind me of my lacrosse playing granddaughter). I also really like ring rows.
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
I don’t think I have one.
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
I know that I can get up off the floor without anything to hang on to.
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
See the answer to question #16 below.
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
Tailgaters
What’s your favorite color?
Blue
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Folk music and elevator music
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
Anything but housework
Do you have any hobbies?
Reading, quilting, playing word and number games – either on the computer or (better yet) with friends.
M&Ms or Skittles?
Neither. Anything made with dark chocolate.
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Tossup between Grapenut and butter pecan – depending on my mood.
What do you do for work?
Nothing! But when I did, I was a science teacher for 38+ years.
Tell us about your family.
Between us, my hubby and I have three daughters, five granddaughters, and four grandsons. Each daughter lives in a different one of the three northern New England states. Beth, in Maine, has two adult daughters. Barbara, in New Hampshire, has three boys ages 10 to 17. Nicole, in Vermont, has three girls and one boy, ages 5 to 24.
My early family history is as follows. I was the youngest of 10 but felt like an only child until I started school. I had 2-1/2 sisters and 3-1/2 brothers (think about it).
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RTC why they should, what would you tell them?
It will get you out of bed and the house three days a week and keep you from sitting with a cup of tea and reading until lunchtime. Seriously, you will feel better about yourself, do physical things you thought you couldn’t, and you may make some new friends along the way.
Toilet paper roll, over or under? Under, please.
Barb L.
Barb has been part of Renovation Training Company since even before its inception. Her daughter, Tamara, used to teach Zumba classes and Barb used to go to those. When those classes became part of Renovation Training Company, Barb followed along and realized she liked lifting weights more than dancing.
Her quiet strength shines out in every class. She’s always willing to try something new. Run with a weight vest? Sure! Try a new banded pull-up option? Why not! Her attitude is always positive. She gives every class her best effort.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
I started going to the gym because Tamara thought it would be a good idea. Guess what? She was right.
What’s your favorite style of workout?
I like the chippers.
What’s your favorite move?
My favorite move is deadlift, but I also like any workout with a dumbbell or a kettlebell.
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
Burpees are awful and cleans.
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
My posture has improved. I’m much stronger. Physically, I feel better.
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
I feel better mentally and physically. Everyone has been supportive. I love the 6am class. I do things I thought I couldn’t do. Sometimes I need a little push, but I get it done. I always feel better after the WOD.
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
Put it back from where you got it from.
What’s your favorite color?
Blue
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Old country and 70s and 80s rock.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
Reading and going for walks. This time of year I enjoy my pool.
Do you have any hobbies?
Reading and walking.
M&Ms or Skittles?
M&Ms
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Cookie Dough
What do you do for work?
Factory work, but I just retired!
Tell us about your family.
I have four children: Amy, Darcy, Brian, and Tamara. I have five grandchildren: Bill, Marissa, Keegan, Bobby, and Nolan. And I have one great-grandson: Westin. I have a miniature dachshund named Sophie.
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RTC why they should, what would you tell them?
Come give it a try. You’ll love it. You’ll get a great workout while having some fun and laughs, too. There is a different workout every day. All the coaches are awesome. To me, it’s like having a second family. I love RCF.
Travis T.
Travis T. is the tall, quiet guy lifting a 400 plus pound deadlift in the back corner. He started coming to lift heavy things alongside his wife, Tamara, and their son, Nolan. Travis loves lifting odd objects like tractor tires. He also really enjoys watching and is now competing in Strongman competitions.
When he’s not at the gym, he can be found building things. In addition to building his own house from the foundation up, he also made us those really great boxes we have for box jumps. We also have him to thank for a lot of the work going on in our new space!
If It’s a lifting day and you need some help, don’t be afraid to approach Travis. He always has some great tips on how to move weight more efficiently.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
My wife pressured me into it. I had just recently started working out again after a 15-year hiatus and CrossFit offered me things I couldn't/wouldn't do at home.
What’s your favorite style of workout?
I like anything low rep/high weight, or anything resembling Strongman movements, i.e. tire flips, sled pulls, etc.
What’s your favorite move?
Deadlifts
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
Cleans because I lack good wrist and elbow mobility. Also, anything with kettlebells.
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
I didn't know how bad I felt until I felt better. Now I can feel the difference in energy and overall well-being when I haven't worked out regularly in a while.
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
It pushes me to do things I otherwise wouldn't want to do on my own. It also holds me accountable to push harder than I might at home.
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
That most people are stronger than they think they are, but aren’t willing to push themselves to find out.
What’s your favorite color?
That shallow tropical aqua blue ocean color.
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Metal or classic rock
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
Read my bible, spend time with my family, soak in the hot tub, work on stuff around the house.
Do you have any hobbies?
Woodworking
M&Ms or Skittles?
Neither. I’m not a big candy guy.
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
Key Lime
What do you do for work?
I work in code enforcement for the city of Lewiston.
Tell us about your family.
I have a wife Tamara, a son Dom 19, a stepson Bob 17, and son Nolan 9. All are very active with sports and exercise.
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RTC why they should, what would you tell them?
It's an incredibly supporting atmosphere here. Even if you don't think you need it, you need the community support to keep you accountable in your fitness and life goals Just try it! If you can push past that initial soreness phase, you will be amazed how much better you will feel, physically, and mentally.
Judy F.
Please let me introduce you to Judy F.. Judy is a long-time member of our Legends class, which is for older adults. Judy always arrives with a warm and welcoming attitude. She’s willing to try anything we offer in class and does so with a smile on her face.
Along with many of the members of our Legends class, Judy has been doing fitness classes for a long time. The class has moved locations numerous times as well as instructors!
Judy doesn’t let her age slow her down. It’s just a number after all! She enjoys many activities and makes sure her gym classes are a priority in her schedule.
Why did you start coming to Renovation Training Company?
I started coming to Renovation Training Company after carrying on from a previous class. I really enjoyed the workout.
What’s your favorite style of workout?
I really like the rings.
What’s your favorite move?
I like the dancing we do for the warmup. I really enjoy most of the moves we do in class.
What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?
I do have to be careful with weights because of a shoulder problem, so I guess that’s my least favorite.
What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RTC?
As for the big thing that has changed in my life since working out at RTC – I feel much better after a workout. I have also been getting good reports from check-ups with my cardiologist and PCP.
What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RTC?
The biggest benefit is it’s nice socially to do this with others. It really makes you try different workouts that you might feel you can’t do.
What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.
I really don’t have anything that bothers me. I pretty much just go with the flow.
What’s your favorite color?
Purple/lavender
What’s your favorite music to listen to?
Country or 50s/60s
What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?
I go dancing a lot. I also play cribbage, have coffee with my friends, and I do love to eat out. I never refuse!
Do you have any hobbies?
I do lots of crafts, ceramics, silversmithing – all sorts of craft things. When my parents became ill and then my husband, I had to put crafting aside. I do like to have some R&R time, too.
M&Ms or Skittles?
I love M&Ms and chocolate of any kind! HAHA! Which I’m not supposed to eat much of.
What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?
I love ice cream and love most flavors. Grapenut is my most recent favorite. Recently my sister and I dug out my parents old ice cream maker and made homemade vanilla ice cream. It was delicious!
What do you do for work?
I have been retired for 23 years. I was a Guidance Secretary at Jay High School. I helped to get students ready for college and “this big world.” I really enjoyed the students. When I graduated from high school, I went to work at Livermore Falls Trust Company for 13 years.
Tell us about your family.
I have a son and daughter. My son and his wife live next door to me. My daughter lives in Italy presently. She works for a government contracting company. I have a granddaughter who lives in Lyman. She is a nurse. I have two sweet great-granddaughters as well. No furbabies at present. But I love cats and dogs. We had all kinds of pets when my kids were younger.
When my kids were growing up, we went camping all summer. We rented a cottage for fishing up north. We went ice-fishing in the winter. We went hiking. We went snowmobiling and did all the fun things for winter entertainment. We had a backyard pool for 33 years, which was enjoyed by many. We always had a pool full of nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. I had the pool taken out after my husband passed away. We also traveled for a little bit after our kids graduated college.
If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RTC why they should, what would you tell them?
I tell the gals who invite me to go to Silver Sneakers with them that it’s for “old people.” RCF really gives you more of a workout. I really like people, so I like the social aspect of class as well.