From Dennis L

 

For those of us who make fitness or sports performance goals a priority in their lives, there comes a point when you realize you need to get help. Because to have success with whatever your goals are, it requires a combination of consistent hard work and the right tools.

Training with Russ at Total Performance Sports gave me everything I needed to reach my goals and then set new ones to strive for. I am stronger, healthier, look better, and am confident as hell. To be honest, I was hesitant to get a "trainer" at first because I felt like that was a cop out. "Couldn't I do this on my own. There's lots of info on the web... " Fast forward 5 months and it has been one of the best investments I've ever made in myself.

When you start training with a knowledgeable and experienced coach you quickly realize how much of a disservice you did to yourself delaying the investment. For the first time in my life I was using proper technique on all my lifts and smashing numbers that I never thought were possible. My perspective on setting goals and what was possible has completely changed, and I'm even thinking about competing. And I'm not a meathead.

"Nagging ailments" I had always lived with suddenly disappeared because I was actually recruiting all of my muscles and firing as a single unit. No more back pain or knee aches. Not only was I performing well at the gym, I was able to function freely outside the gym, which for even the biggest gym rat is a majority of your time. But aside from all of the physical benefits, what I value most is the knowledge and confidence I have gained. I know how to do every exercise in my routine properly, meaning I get the most out of each rep, and you should too. I know what my body responds well to and now have a program that I can follow that allows me to make progress EVERY SINGLE WEEK.

Most importantly, I know the little things that make a difference day in and day out... attitude, effort, consistency, understanding the importance of recovery. None of this would have been possible without Russ and the team at TPS. Long story short, working with Russ at Total Performance Sports has made this "beginner" who thought he was pretty good with weights and turned his world upside down. In a short time I've built a solid physical AND mental base that will last me a lifetime.

As I continue on my journey toward elite fitness, I look forward to the challenges, the gains, and working with the team at TPS to smash through anything I thought possible to be my absolute best.

 

 

Murph,

We haven't met yet, but I am a new TPS member. I just wanted to make sure that you knew that I have had an excellent start to my time at TPS. Not only have all of the front desk staff been really helpful and friendly, but I wanted to share my class experience with you as well.

A week ago Saturday, I signed up for a free week to try out some classes and see if TPS was the place for me. I attended the Kettlebell class and was a little bit more than a little bit overwhelmed before it even started. After walking into the class area, I asked someone if they were teaching the class or if he knew who was teaching that day. It turns out that I had asked Chuck who was so helpful! He explained that he does teach but wasn't teaching that class. He came to attend the class and wound up helping me out throughout the entire class from picking kettlebells and explaining the warm-up moves to helping me get down the basics. After a week of trying classes, I decided that TPS was right for me and joined. I attended Kevin's kettlebell class again last Saturday. Since I had some of the basics down (more than I initially realized), Kevin would tell everyone what to do and then come over and explain the movements to me before checking in with everyone else. This gave me the confidence that I was really getting the fundamentals and receiving excellent instruction. That was the best instruction that I have ever received in a class experience.

I am not a morning person and TPS isn't the most geographically convenient but I know that I will be a regular at Saturday morning kettlebell classes. I am looking forward to my intro sessions as well which I will schedule soon.

-Sue P August 2012

P.S. I will only skip this Saturday's kettlebell class if I get the courage up to attend the Strongwoman session as a total newbie--I don't think that I'd survive both in the same day and be moving at all on Sunday.

 

 

From Danielle B.

 

Hi Murph,

Hope this email finds you well. I wanted to write you a note to say thank you to you and your team.

The emails you send are always inspiring particularly the one below.

My experience with TPS has been amazing and eye opening.

I joined the gym several months ago signing up for your Total Transformation Camp. Chuck, Russ and Jen were awesome during camp. Ten years ago, I shattered my kneecap and its never been the same. I've often used it as an excuse and while its still an issue during workouts - the people above were diligent in making sure I not only worked to my full potential but helped me to acknowledge when it was time to pull back a bit. I've worked out in a lot of gyms in the Boston area and I can honestly say - TPS has unquestionably the best + most knowledgeable staff around.

I confess my health has taken a detour the last few months with the holidays and today after reading your email - I know its time to kick some butt again! Thank you for that. My goal is to lose 40lbs and I hope actually I KNOW TPS will be able to help me achieve that goal.

Thanks again. I look forward to my next workout!

Have a great week!

 

 

From Dick M.

 

Hello Murph, Happy New Year, to you and your family.

I would like to take this time to thank you and your staff for everything you do. My son Matt is a member at TPS, and he can't say enough good things about you and your gym. He told me yesterday that you are always there to lend support.Whether it's advice on his lifting technique, positive encouragement or just a simple hello.

I don't know if you know this, but Matt went through a total body transformation this year. Of course he gets all the credit for making the necessary life style changes. He did it by making drastic changes in his eating habits and working hard in the gym.

He has attended many training days on Saturdays and Training seminars with the big boys at TPS.

His journey started in May of this year. In 7 months he has lost a total of 75 Lbs. So thanks again to you and all the staff at TPS, keep up the good work. Matt is the kid on the left in the attached photo, which was taken at the last Spring track meet of 2011.

Sincerely, Dick M

 

 

 

 

 

 

From Carol M.

 

I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you that I couldn't be happier that I switched to TPS over a year ago. I must admit that I was a little intimidated at first when I walked into the location at Victoria Street (and even from what I saw on line) but that feeling evaporated the minute I began talking to Erica. She showed me around, answered all my questions and never once tried to force me to join with some crazy story about prices changing after today, you can change your mind if you don't like it, etc...I came back 2 days later and signed up. One of the things that impressed me about Erica was when I asked her for her name so she could get credit for my membership (after all I thought ALL gyms worked on commission) she said not to worry because "it didn't work that way". Bonus points for not being like my other gyms.

My first experience with TPS and Group X classes was Chuck's "Gutts and Butts" class...I was definitely the new girl and not only did HE know it, so did every one else. Normally that would be uncomfortable but the way that Chuck singled me (and every one else) out with nicknames, I felt like I had been there for a long time. The other people in the class quickly became "friends" and not just members. Offering everything from encouragement when completing stations to assistance on how to do exercises correctly. I still take Chuck's classes every Monday and Wednesday and although I no longer am the "new girl" he does make sure I'm working hard, continues to push me to challenge myself using heavier weights and notices when I'm having an off day.

My second experience with Group X classes was kettlebells with Kevin on Thursday nights. I had no idea how to even use a kettlebell so I decided to come to class a little early. Kevin spent at least 20 minutes before class helping me choose the correct weight and working on my form. This made my first class a lot easier not to mention that since I was new to his class I actually got one on one attention to do things right until I was up to speed. Chuck has since started teaching Thursday night kettlebells which is a great class and I still love to take Kevin's Saturday morning class. The patience they both exhibit with new members while keeping the pace challenging for regulars is unbridled. Speaking from experience on both sides, as a new member you never feel like you are slowing down the class and as a regular, you never feel like you are being slowed down.

My first year at TPS was a great experience and the classes only seemed to get better. As I met more members of the staff I noticed one thing...once they knew my name, they always used it. I found this really interesting because I know they meet and see a lot of people on a daily basis and have a base of their own personal clients that they need to remember. I didn't have any personal one on one sessions with any of them so I was impressed that when I would see them in passing they would use my name. Specifically Steve has taught ONE kettlebell class that I have taken. He recognized me as a 'veteran' and asked me my name (and eventually put me and 2 others at the front of the class that night to demonstrate exercises when needed). It was (of course) a great class but that withstanding, every time I see him he always says "Hi Carol"...again, I only had interaction with him that one time, in a group setting, and am impressed that he remembers me.

When it was time to renew my membership, I decided to sign my son up as well for 3 months. I really felt this would be a second home to him, not a chore like other gyms are. As I was walking around with him we ran into Chuck. I couldn't have been more impressed when Chuck remembered that he was a HS hockey player! I knew that I had mentioned my son at some point to Chuck but I know I never went into great detail. Maybe he remembered what I said or maybe he heard me talking to friends in class but either way he remembered and told him that boxing and kettlebells would be the best things for him to be ready for hockey season.

Unfortunately my son didn't work out as much as I wanted him to but when he did box with Eddie, he loved it. The first intro class my son was the only one in it and he got the best one on one instruction and fundamental knowledge of boxing AND he was hooked. Whenever I was in class without my son, Eddie was always asking for him as well as saying how impressed he was when my son did come to these classes. It's really too bad my son didn't stick with it. I can't stress enough that it was not TPS or Eddie it was merely because XBox was more important!

After I renewed my membership on line I received an eMail a few days later with a "special offer" to returning members. A few days earlier I had already paid the online rate of $299 but this eMail offer was for a renewal rate for returning members of $249. During my next visit to TPS while filling out the required renewal paperwork, I mentioned the eMail and price differences to Erica. I honestly didn't think anything would be done but she said that my credit card could be credited the $50 difference. I was shocked. Any other gym would have said 'too bad'...

The list of of positive experiences go on and on. From those above to my first nutritional consultation with you to the Fit Camp that I started in October with Phil. It seems the longer I stay, the better it gets and even though the gym has tripled in size, the atmosphere, unpretentious attitudes and the way I'm treated have all stayed the same. This is the first gym that I've ever belonged to where I don't feel like it's all about the money.

Thank you to you and all of the TPS staff for all you do to make coming to TPS a great experience.

The atmosphere and attitudes are such that I NEVER dread going to workout and have often found myself there on Friday nights for boxing because I enjoy it THAT much. Thanks again!!

Carol

 

From Donna V.

I joined Total Performance Sports in April 2011. I belonged to another club for years and I was dedicated in doing a self-imposed weekly weight training/cardio routine. I was looking for a change and needed to spark my routine to get the physical changes I desired, but was not achieving.

I learned of Total Performance Sports via an internet search and made use of a free week pass. I knew I liked the place before the week ended. During the trial week, I participated in as many classes as possible. Their classes are not your usual gym classes. No zumba, spin or “air” cardio kickboxing. You get kettlebell and gutts & butts. I found these classes more effective than any gym class I had taken in the past. After 2 weeks of taking kettlebell and gutts & butts classes twice a week, I noticed a physical change in my arms and mid section. Muscle was showing!

In May 2011, I decided to do personal training with Kevin Delaney. I also met with Murph and I was put on a strict diet. My goal was to get leaner, especially my lower body. Initially I was concerned with the prospect of training with heavier weights and doing power exercises like the squat and deadlift. I did these on my own using dumb bells, but never with “The Big Bar”. I was afraid of getting hurt and of getting too big. Kevin allayed my fears and has been a great teacher. He explains things well, is attentive to form, and is cognizant of your abilities and knows when to push it in a safe manner. I was amazed with proper instruction on technique and form of the weight I could do, and I have not experience any usual discomfort or injury.

More importantly have been the results! I went from 26% body fat to 13.5% and I have gained lean muscle. The dreaded belly fat has dropped dramatically, my obliques are more defined, I am seeing arm definition, my legs are getting leaner and I have developed a higher and shapelier butt! My old pants and skirts are literally dropping off me! I am very happy with my results.

I just started the Total Transformation Boot Camp class for December and it is another great fitness program I am experiencing. Chuck and the other trainers are great coaches. They teach us routines that are effective in getting lean and at the same time gearing up the cardio. I learn something new each time.

Total Performance Sports is truly a results oriented gym. The entire staff is great and not just their knowledge but in friendliness too.

Thanks Kevin, Murph and all at TPS.

Looking forward to another great fitness year in 2012!

Donna V.

 

From Lisa C.

 

 

 

 

Murph,

I wanted to extend this letter of praise and gratitude to you and Total Performance Sports (TPS) for a job well done in helping me with my fitness goals over the past year.

Coming to train at TPS after training with other fitness professionals is beyond compare. Many of them have a "one size fits all" approach to their training which awarded me minimal results. Your commitment and focus to personalized training has allowed me to achieve great strides in my over all health and fitness level. I have lost inches, gained muscle, and discovered strength.

Each workout is planned with ME in mind, and geared towards hitting a goal not a plateau. The experience and knowledge you bring to the gym floor, along with your willingness to share, speaks volumes. Your explanation of exercises, form, and muscles used, has spared me from injury. Your enthusiasm, love for weight training, and commitment to clients, is visible throughout each training session.

All this combined, makes working out at TPS an awarding experience. Thanks Murph for helping me achieve my fitness goals, build confidence in weight training, and most of all - be a better stronger ME.

A work in progress,

Lisa Cutulle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My name is Dave Tate, owner of Elite Fitness Systems. I am writing to give Total Performance my highest recommendations as a training company.

I have known Murph for several years, and they have shown themselves to be knowledgeable professionals in the fitness industry. Over the past 10 years I have traveled across the country to conduct training seminars for Universities, Training and Personal Training Centers, and hundreds of gyms. The methods and systems used by Total Performance are “The Best” I have seen! The job they are doing far exceeds 99% of the competition.

TPS have taken the best training methods from around the world and integrated them in such a way to make them specific to the individuals they work with. The results they have produced speak for themselves. Any client would do well to avail themselves of their services.

Thanks,

Dave Tate CSCS

www.eliteFTS.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 20, 2003

Dear Murph,

We would like to thank you for all the hard work, attention, caring and of course the incredible results that you were able to accomplish with our son Matthew, or "Foley" as you know him. As you know we were devastated after Matt's near fatal accident but never gave up hope that he would recover fully from his extremely serious injuries.

When Matthew was finally released from the hospital after four months the doctors were not very encouraging about his ability to fully recover from his injuries. When Matthew talked about calling you to take him on as a personal training client to help him regain his strength, coordination and overall conditioning we were skeptical but Matthew had all the confidence in the world in you and that was more important.

Over many months of slow but steady conditioning we were started noticing significant in1provements in Matt's condition. It was not only the improvements in his physical condition that truly amazed us but his confidence and attitude grew significantly. We know that you really cared about Matthew and getting him back in shape and we can never thank you enough for all you did for hin1. We know it must be a great personal satisfaction to see Matthew's condition today than when he went to you eighteen months ago even when all his doctors held out so little hope for such a great recovery!

Murph, thank you again for all you have done for Matt and being their when we needed you the most. We know Matt gets some of the credit for working hard and listening to you but this letter is a testin1onial to your accomplishments with Matt's recovery. We shall never forget what you did for Matt and will always be grateful.

Sincerely, Bob & Mary Forshay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is with great pleasure and unreserved passion that I highly recommend Total Performance Sports and the services of C.J. Murphy. What a great place to train! The level of knowledge and commitment to excellence by both of these fine gentlemen is exemplary.

I have worked mostly with Murph and welcome this opportunity to share my experience with others. I sincerely believe that Murph may be one of the best professional trainers in the world. Whether the goal is powerlifting, strongman competition, sports specific training or just getting in great shape Murph is eminently qualified to create a program and then provide the encouragement to spur one on to personal excellence.

In my case I came to TPS and Murph with the somewhat ambitious and dubious goal of competing in a strongman competition at the age of 52 with little prior strength training. Frankly, I had my doubts, but then in my first 3 months of training I lost 6 pounds of fat, gained 6 pounds of muscle, put ¼” on my upper arms, more than 1” on my thighs and lowered my overall bodyfat by 2% while maintaining the same body weight. I am in the best shape of my life and getting stronger every week. I am stronger and faster than I ever believed possible at my age and I absolutely credit Murph for the results. I now believe wholeheartedly that I will compete and that I will do well.

As a side benefit I will add that I am having more genuine fun then I have had in years. When I train at TPS the stress and grind of running a business melt away and I feel like a kid again.

I was concerned when I first joined TPS that I might not fit in, but since then I have realized that the TPS clientele are quite diverse and I have always felt very comfortable and welcome. Despite the raucous music and clanging of steel everyone I have met have been extremely friendly and helpful.

As I said above, what a great place to train!!! Oh yeah, my one minor criticism might be the music. They play this loud weird stuff that I have never heard before. It does seem to motivate me, but it could be just heart palpitations from the loud thumping beat. I am not sure.

 

Hey Murph, how about some Dion and the Belmonts or Gene Pitney?? (just kidding)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am a 40-year-old mother of two and have been training with Murph at Total Performance Sports for the last year. I've been weight training for the last nine years and have had many training sessions from 3 or 4 different trainers, but never saw the results that I've seen in the last year training with Murph. I've never looked or felt better.

For years, I had suffered with lower back and sciatic pain caused from a degenerated disc in my back, and was on prescription Naproxen constantly. My orthopedic surgeon told me that I would suffer with the pain until it would eventually get worse and I would need surgery.

Since training with Murph, I not only have been free of all pain, I no longer have to take any Naproxen. I would highly recommend Total Performance Sports for your personal training needs.

Their fitness knowledge and expertise is far superior to any other personal trainer I have ever worked with.

Sincerely,

Lisa Lyons

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am writing this letter to recommend to you Total Performance Sports Sports.

During my association with TPS  I have learned a great deal about weight training. As a. physical therapist, certified strength coach. business owner, lifter, and basketball player I have enjoyed a very rewarding relationship with TPS.

Their technical guidance and motivation have made my personal training sessions rnore productive. I was so intrigued by their training methods I made a lecture presentation on behalf of the NSCA regarding their strongman exercises. The information was well received by my industry peers. I highly recommend  TPS to any facility that is willing to expand their current business.

They are truly professional, knowledgeable, and refreshing in the arena of weight training.

Sincerely,

Nicholas Liatsos PT CSCS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a mother of four, I worried for years about returning to my pre-child bearing self.

I found my way into Total Performance Sports and was shown the way. Murph taught me things about training and nutrition that I have never heard anywhere else. I got back the body I remembered and I was able to renew my confidence.

I can even feel good about myself sharing some clothes with my teen-aged daughters. I owe him much.

TPS has helped me change my life.

~ Kathe T-G

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Murph,

Total Performance Sports is truly worthy of its votes as one of America’s top 20 gyms.

I would see these signs in the gym and wouldn’t think much of it, that it is until I moved. I quickly realized how lucky I was to be able to train at TPS. The trainers that you have grouped together are beyond a doubt professional, knowledgeable, friendly and helpful.

The facility is one of a kind. It has everything anyone would need to succeed in their personal goals; from breaking powerlifting or strongman records to newbies that have never stepped foot in a gym.

The Saturday events that are put on by you and the trainers are awesome. It’s like getting a personal training session for pennies on the dollar.

The only thing I regret was that I didn’t join TPS sooner. The year and half I trained there was way too quick. If Uncle Sam didn’t order me to relocate then I would have never left TPS.

People in the Boston area have no idea just how good they have it at TPS.

Thanks for all the knowledge TPS gave me,

Andrew S. Vetter

 

 

8/22/2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Murph,

TPS is without a doubt the best gym I've ever had the pleasure of being a member of, and training at TPS really has been a pleasure. I'm moving out of the Boston area at the beginning of September and so unfortunately my membership will soon end (I'm happy to say, though, that the friends I've referred to TPS will continue being members!).

I wish I could pack up your gym and take it with me. I'm dreading returning to a commercial gym filled with TVs, pop music, smith machines, jerks on cell phones, jerks curling in the squat racks, and more jerks who come to the gym to socialize rather than train. The training environment at TPS - the equipment, the gym rules, the people - has been really great and I just wanted to say how much I've appreciated it.

 

Best,

Justin D. Powers