Brad Smith - Fitness Assistant

 

I graduated from Cornerstone University with a degree in Sports Management.  While at Cornerstone I ran for the track & field team and was a five-time national qualifier in the 4 x 400 meter relay.  Before I joined Snap Fitness, I coached the male and female sprinters at Cornerstone.

I love working at Snap Fitness and helping our members achieve their fitness goals.  In my free time I love to work out, play all types of sports, watch the Detroit Lions as well as spend time with my wife Annie and our dog Penny.

 

Kim Von Kaenel - General Manager / Personal Trainer

I moved to Grand Rapids in August 2007 from Denver, Colorado and joined Snap Fitness in January 2008 as Manager / Personal Trainer.  I love exercise (especially strength training) and helping people achieve their fitness goals.

My husband Bob and I have four wonderful children and two beautiful grandchildren.  When I am not working, I enjoy cooking, watching my favorite sports teams and relaxing with my family.

Kim has also been awarded with the SNAP Fitness "National Manager of the Year" award for 2010!

Mark Kornacki - Fitness Assistant/Marketing Director

My personal love of fitness led me to Snap Fitness.  I attended East Kentwood High School where I played both lacrosse and football.  After high school I went to Michigan State University. Outside of work I enjoy water sports, mountain biking, skiing and snowboarding.

Leighsa Brace - Manager/Personal Trainer

I have been playing team sports for as long as I can remember, and growing up near the beach in Grand Haven, I have always had a love for the water and outdoors.  I played volleyball and soccer through high school; some injuries gave me a new view on athletic training and rehab, and sparked my interest in the field of health and wellness.  I began working at Snap in May 2011 and since then it has become my second home. I graduated from Calvin College with my degree in exercise science and biology.  I am also an ACSM certified Health Fitness Specialist and work as a trainer in the wellness program at Calvin.

Dustin and Teya Cotter

We are the Cotters….Dustin and Teya.  We are both 34 years old (to the day), and have been coming to SNAP for close to a year and absolutely love it here.  I (Dustin) am an engineer and sit at a desk most of the day, and there’s nothing more satisfying than hitting the gym to burn off some stress after a long day.  I enjoy the friendly people, the 24 hour access, the reasonable monthly prices, and the overall atmosphere here at SNAP Fitness.

 

Hi.  I’m Teya and I am an elementary school principal here in the Grand Rapids area.  After chasing America’s future around the school every day, I enjoy coming to SNAP Fitness to wind down my day with some cardio, weight training, and to spend time with my husband doing something we both find very important, exercise.  Although I am a runner #1 (outside only) and you won’t catch me on the treadmill, I’ve found that keeping the rest of my body fit is just as important.  I’ve been to the other gyms around town, MAC, East Hills, and MVP, but for the price and convenience SNAP has them all beat.  We also enjoy going to the other locations once in a while when we’re off our beaten path.  Thanks SNAP for making exercise a much enjoyed part of our day.

Scott Moll

Hi.  My name is Scott Moll, I am 39 years old, a native of Grand Rapids and work along with my father as an Independent Field Sales Professional supplying steel forgings, castings, metal fabrication and precision machining services to manufactures and job shops located in Michigan.   I am married to my wife Gina of eight years and we have three children; Zachary our guardian angel who was still born, Nicholas 5 and Sam who is 2 . 

 

Possibly like many of you I spent my late teens and most of my twenties working out at one of the local box (large) gyms until I was married.  Once married my time commitments obviously changed, children came along and I no longer had two hours a day available to hang out at the gym.  My solution to this was to invest in home gym equipment and as you may guess my workouts were hardly intense and became more and more infrequent.  After spending a better part of my thirties gaining weight and with two little guy’s growing quickly,  I knew it was time for a change.  During a vacation to see my folks in Florida I joined my father to work out at the local Snap Fitness and was immediately impressed with the size, monthly price, cardio equipment and free weights. 

 

When we returned to GR from our vacation I immediately looked into  Snap Fitness locations near my house.  I was pleasantly surprised to find the location here at Knapp Corners, came in to meet Brad and joined the club.  I have been coming to Snap on a regular basis for a year and a half now and I have dropped 30lbs.   I am currently about 15 to 20lbs away from my goal weight which I intend to meet by my two year anniversary the 1sts of April.  I continue to enjoy coming to Snap, have met some of the members and most of the staff.  This club continues to meet all my needs and allows me to work out any time of the day or night and around the United States whether traveling on business or pleasure.  I hope you are enjoying the Snap experience as much as me, feel free to say hello if you see me in the clubJ 

 

Liz Waid

Hi! My name is Liz. My husband and I have two hilarious and awesome kids - a son who’s three and a daughter who’s 20 months - who really keep me on my toes. I sit at a desk all day at a job I enjoy (making radio programs for English language learners), and I love a good dessert (especially if it’s rich and chocolatey).

 

Reluctantly, I joined Snap almost exactly a year ago this month - a few weeks before my 30th birthday. I had been trying to lose some weight through dieting, but it wasn’t going as well as I’d hoped. My co-workers had been going to Snap for a few months already, and gradually wore me down with their persistent invites to join them. At first I had terrible anxiety about even setting foot in the gym, as I had never (never!) gone voluntarily into a gym before - much less joined one! But I did want to drop the last bit of baby weight so I stuck with it.

 

I started with just doing cardio, but wanted something more as I think cardio is the most boring of all the exercises! At my free fitness assessment when I joined I could barely eke out 25 sit-ups. So, that was the first thing I wanted to work on. I also started adding weights by using the machines. Over the past year I’ve also benefited from hiring one of the gyms’ personal trainers to teach me weight-lifting routines and proper form, and started using more free weights. I’ve seen an enormous difference in my body.

 

Today I can do WAY more than 25 sit-ups at a time, and I am only just starting to really get into strength training and organizing my workouts. I feel like I am just at the beginning of my journey. I really enjoy the community at Snap and feel comfortable here. I actually look forward to my time here now!

 

Lu Snell

I joined Snap in May of 2011.  I knew I needed some kind of exercise and am not good on doing it at home.  I learned of Snap Fitness through my health insurance.  After looking into the program and talking with Brad, I decided to try it.  It was probably one of the smartest things I have ever done.

I love the fact that you can go whenever and have access to the machines you want to use.  I appreciate the cleanliness of Snap, the staff go out of their way to talk to you and help with whatever you need and I love the members I have met and been able to get you know.  I personally want to thank Snap and the people who use their facilities for wiping the machines off after using them. 

I have three children – two grown sons and a daughter – 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren who I enjoy very much!  I feel much better, have lost some weight, and am in far better shape than when I joined.

Thank you Snap and all the people who actually make it a joy to be there!

Lynn Holck

 

I joined SNAP in February as a 55th birthday gift to myself.  I was an outdoor runner for many years, but doctors said I need two new hips, so running was out.  I had never worked out in a gym until I joined SNAP.  I didn't think I could find something to replace running, but I am enjoying the elliptical and weight machines.   The staff has been wonderful in helping me find what works for me without causing more hip problems.  SNAP is close to home and I enjoy the solitude of early morning workouts.  I have a pretty busy life, so coming to the gym is relaxing for me.  I haven't lost much weight, but I have definitely lost inches and feel better.  I work for the Federal Courts and am married with two children; ages 27 and 21.

Tammy Engel

I joined Snap in February 2010 as it is conveniently located between work and home. The many things I like about Snap are the cleanliness, the friendly staff, the variety of equipment and the availability of personal trainers. Six weeks after joining Snap, I started working with Aaron to kick my weight training up a notch and to make sure I was using proper form. As an occupational therapist working in a hospital, I see on a daily basis the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, keeping good cardiovascular health, and participating in bone-building activities like weight training. I've lived in Michigan for 13 years, thanks to my husband's job, and am originally from WV. I also have a son, a cat, and a rabbit.

Mark Twichel

I was always active as a young adult.  In high school, I was on the cross country and track teams.  When I went to college at the University of Michigan in the early 80’s, I joined the Crew Team.  I loved rowing and everything about it.  I was even named “Most Valuable Oarsmen” by my teammates.  It was around that time that I got interested in triathlons and I fancied myself a rather formidable triathlete, although I never earned any awards worth mentioning.

But, like many people, by my mid-30’s the demands of work and family life took over.  My domestic partner and I adopted biological brothers (aged 2 and 3 ½ at the time) from foster care.  And, I was struggling to build my law practice as a civil rights lawyer.  Needless to say, my level of physical activity fell off to practically nothing.  And, to make matters worse, I developed a serious drinking problem and my fitness and health fell into serious jeopardy.

All that changed in 2007, when I decided to seek treatment and started attending A.A. regularly.  As I began to recover, I made a commitment to myself to treat my body with the reverence and respect it deserves.   Whenever I get to the gym, I see it as a way of saying “thanks” to my body, mind, and spirit for seeing me through some of my darker days.  That’s why you will almost always see me with a big smile on my face whenever I am working out.  I am so grateful to have a second chance at a healthy and meaningful life!

I am now working full-time at Spectrum Health, while I pursue a second career in nursing at Michigan State University.  Working and studying full-time is no easy feat, but my workouts keep me energized. I love Snap Fitness mostly because of the convenient 24/7/365 access.  I am often working out with Kim and a few others at 4:30 a.m.   The staff here is terrific, and I continue to meet new people all the time. Don’t hesitate to say hello next time you see me!

Larry Hansen

I’m 57 years old, and I’ve been a member of Snap Fitness since I retired two and a half years ago.  I started out at the Beltline location, but now I do cardio and weight training most mornings at Knapp’s Corner.  It’s only a mile from my condo.  Growing up on a farm, being in the military, and then a letter carrier for the postal service for over 30 years kept me pretty active.  I wanted to keep in shape so I thought I’d try the gym experience.  I’ve been married 39 years to my wife, Carolyn.  We have a 37 year old son and 36 year old daughter.  Our daughter has blessed us with a grandson Bennett (Benny) who we love spending as much time with as possible.  I also enjoy reading, movies, playing the guitar, making beer, playing basketball, and watching football.  I’m proud of the fact I don’t take any medication whatsoever which I attribute to staying active.  Since I joined Snap, I’ve found myself being much more flexible and stronger, and it sure has kept the midsection under control.  I’m very impressed with the friendly staff and members at Knapp’s Corner.  It’s clean, conveniently located, and has everything you could want in a gym.  I plan on being a member for along time.  Say hi if you see me!

The Turner Family

Joe, Barb, Ben, Gina, and Gabe have been members since August 2010.  Barb joined due to an injury suffered while running. The rest of her family followed just to try it out and quickly became consistent visitors. 

 

Joe is in commercial construction which requires him to stay fit and strong, so he enjoys using the weights and the variety that Snap offers.  When he isn’t working out he enjoys playing golf whenever possible.  Barb has been running for 30 years so loves the cardio equipment and ability to cross train.  When she isn’t working out she likes to stay active by playing tennis and volleyball. Ben just graduated from college and works for Farmer’s Insurance.  After playing sports through school, mainly basketball and tennis, he’s added working out here to his routine as a way to stay in shape while working full time. Gina is a nursing student at Davenport.  She has played basketball and volleyball throughout high school and played volleyball for  Aquinas and Davenport.  Currently, she works at Thousand Oaks Golf Club and comes to Snap to use the cardio equipment to alternate with outdoor running and playing beach volleyball.  Gabe is a junior and Forest Hills Eastern where he plays basketball and tennis.  He uses the weights to prepare for his sport’s season and to prevent injuries that he has experienced in the past.

 

All of the Turners enjoy Snap because of the flexibility, cleanliness, and really friendly staff.  They also love the diversity amongst the members—no matter their age, they all feel like they fit in at Snap!

Bob Velte

I am 54 years-old and am self employed. My wonderful wife and I have been married for 30 years, and have been blessed with two wonderful children and one grandchild. I became a member of Snap Fitness at Knapp Corner in March of this year.

Being active has always played a big part in my life. I grew up on a farm, where I spent my time bailing hay, climbing trees, swinging on vines like Tarzan, and rowing boats while fishing on our lake. My nearest friend lived over 5 miles away and we would ride our bicycles back and forth to each other's house often several times a day during the summer.

I turned to weightlifting as a teenager, after my family moved from the country to the "big city" of Grand Rapids.  My first piece of exercise equipment was a pillow case with bricks in it - which I used to curl one arm at a time until I thought my arms were going to bleed. Then I would burn out on pushups, chin-ups and sit-ups. I later got involved with Okinawan Karate, where I became an instructor and earned three black belts.

My father bought me my first weight set after I started weightlifting, and I now have a complete gym in my pole barn. Having a home gym was great at first, but it got very lonely - not to mention how difficult it was to exercise in the evening after working a full day. At Snap I can work out any time of the day that is convenient, and it's nice to share in the camaraderie with others.

In my 54 years I have been a member of many gyms, and have never enjoyed one as much as Snap of Knapp Corner. I want to thank the Snap staff and management team for all you do to keep Snap clean, maintained and a fun place to work out.

Katie Faucher

I have been a member of Snap Fitness for a year now and I have loved every minute of it. I love that it is close to my apartment and that it is open 24/7. Snap Fitness employees are always very welcoming and friendly, which makes coming to work out even better. I am from Howell, Mi but I'm up here in Grand Rapids studying at Aquinas College to become a Physical Education Teacher. At this time next year I will be doing my student teaching. I am a huge MSU fan and I love watching MLB. I also love being outdoors. Some of my favorite things to do are camping, snowmobiling, boating, swimming, and biking.

Mike Williams

I've been a member of Snap Fitness for about a year now and I really like the convenience, cleanliness and affordability that it offers.  All of the staff and members are really helpful and friendly, which makes it an enjoyable place to work out.  I'm originally from Grand Rapids and graduated from Kendall College of Art and Design in 2001.  I work at Baker Publishing Group as an interior book designer, and I also teach a class at Kendall two nights a week.  I've been married for over 9 years and have three children, a daughter 6, and two boys, one 4 and the other just turning one this November.  With our busy schedule, it's nice to be able to get in to workout whenever is convenient which is another great benefit with Snap. When I'm not working or teaching, I like to do digital painting and drawing in my spare time as well as play some Call of Duty when I get the opportunity. ;)

Ann Salata

Hi! I'm Ann Salata, the lady you will see in the wee hours of the morning, carrying her Diet Mountain Dew, working out mostly on cardiovascular equipment. My advice to each of you is find out what motivates you to come routinely to get a work out and make that become part of your daily habit. Mine is Guilt! Why guilt you ask? Because I do love to eat and I do want to continue to be agile enough to roll on the ground with grandchildren so...when I am cozy in bed and think of not working out, I know I will feel guilty the entire day for not doing so. Your motivation may be physical, emotional, weight loss, etc. Hold onto that thought at times when you may not want to come in to "Snap Fitness" and "sweat".

I have a wonderful husband, who also enjoys working out (but mostly with weights), 4 children (2 that are married) and 4 grandchildren (set of triplets who are almost 3 yrs old and one almost 2 yrs old). I work for VNA as a RN so realize the benefits of healthy habits for prevention of medical problems.

I would be self-centered if I thought I deserve to be "Member of the Month". Personally, I think each of you who are currently reading this deserve it as well, for merely being here and challenging yourself.

Good for you. Keep it up!

I enjoy my time here; I enjoy talking and sharing a common goal with each of you. A fitness center is one of the best places to meet people.

I thank each of you for the friendship:)

Bob Mitchell

I have had the good fortune of being a member of Snap Fitness since July of 2010.  I’ve been a member of both the MAC and MVP complex, but neither offers the flexibility or convenience that Snap Fitness offers.  With 5 kids and a hectic schedule, I never know when I’ll be able to sneak in a workout.  Whether mid-day or late at night, I’m able to get my workouts in without stressing out about meeting a deadline for when the gym will be open.  I’ve also been able to take advantage of the clubs in other cities in Detroit, Brighton and Minneapolis as my work schedule has me running in different directions.  But through the website, I can always look up where there will be a Snap Fitness matching my work locations and take advantage of the club.

 

Although it’s nice to know I can work out at these other clubs, none of them have matched the Knapp’s Corner Snap Fitness array of equipment, size, cleanliness and friendliness of staff….we are very lucky to have this location as our home base!!!!

 

Besides working out, my kids keep me very busy in my spare time.  I love to coach them in all the sports they participate in and watch them when I’m not coaching.  I love to play basketball to mix up my cardio workouts and have been doing triathlons for the past 5 years as well.

Jen Sipich

I’m 37 years old and joined Snap in January 2010.  After having my son, I definitely needed to do something to get rid of the extra baby weight.  I was thrilled to see Snap Fitness at Knapp’s Corner open up right around the corner from my office.  As a working Mom,  I spend all my evening hours with my son and have no time to workout, so being able to run over there at lunch time is awesome.  The machines are always clean and available, and I love that the staff is easily approachable and willing to answer any question that I have.  I can get in a decent workout each day in just an hour’s time.

 

My original plan was to train for the Fifth Third River Bank Run, but due to a foot injury, I’ve had to switch up my routine.  I started out exclusively on the Treadmills, but have since switched to the Arc Trainers (which I LOVE, btw).  I recently also started doing the Basic 8 Program.  I’ve never really done a strength training program before, but it hasn’t been long and I’m already noticing results.  I’m feeling stronger and stronger every day!  I can’t wait to see what will happen over the course of 6 months or so.

 

When I’m not at the office or working out at Snap, I enjoy reading and spending time with my husband and our 2 year old son.