Community

MY Sports Club Story: Michael

Feb 19, 2025

February is Black History Month, and at NYSC we are celebrating by amplifying the voices of our Black members and team members. Throughout February, we will be highlighting various stories and talking about how Black History Month can be honored and celebrated through fitness.

Meet, Michael -- Front Desk Supervisor at our Murray Hill location! Michael has been part of the NYSC team for 6 years, and is no stranger to the benefits of fitness. He's made fitness a lifestyle -- using it to build both physical and mental strength for himself and in his community! Read more about how Michael motivates himself and others to take their fitness journey into their own hands.

Please tell us a little about your fitness journey.
I’ve been around fitness since I was a young kid. Being naturally competitive, lifting weights always appealed to me. It wasn’t until my 20s that I really started taking fitness seriously and making it a lifestyle. Initially, my focus was on getting those washboard abs you dream about as a kid and getting bigger, but over time I realized that health is wealth and my quality of life comes first. Now I’ve reached a point where I prioritize rest and recovery, pay attention to my diet, and understand the importance of getting optimal sleep. Fitness is so much more than just lifting weights – it's about overall well-being. As of now I’m in the gym 4-5 days a week, and fitness has become my lifestyle, my medicine, and everything in between.

What motivates you to stay active and committed to your fitness journey?
My motivation to stay active comes from constantly seeing results and understanding how important overall health is. It’s about feeling strong both physically and mentally. I’m also driven by helping others on their fitness journeys and supporting them in reaching their goals. Numerous members come in feeling tired from work, exhausted, or simply lacking the energy to push through a workout. When I hear someone say, “I’m just dragging myself here” or “I almost stayed home,” that’s my cue to step in and give them that extra motivation they sometimes need. Most of the time, it’s a mental barrier, they’re just in their own heads. Something as simple as a compliment or acknowledging their progress can give them the confidence and reassurance they need. It reminds them that we’re here for them and that they matter. A little encouragement goes a long way and it truly shows that we care.

What does Black History Month mean to you?
To me, Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans to culture, society, and history. It’s a month dedicated to recognizing the achievements and struggles of those who paved the way. This month is also a reminder to educate others about the history behind it, making sure the stories and struggles of the Black community are acknowledged and appreciated.

How do you think fitness and wellness contribute to empowerment in the Black community?
Fitness creates a sense of unity and support within the community, forcing us to uplift one another in our journeys and strengthen our bond as a whole.

How has being part of the NYSC community impacted you?
Being a part of the NYSC community has had such a positive impact on me. The atmosphere is inspiring. Everyone wants the best for each other and are constantly striving for more. It's uplifting to be in an environment where we can motivate and influence each other to reach our goals and become the best versions of ourselves. The energy within the community is contagious and it feels amazing to be part of something that encourages growth and success. I constantly find myself learning and adapting, not just from my team but from the members as well. Being in such a positive environment, surrounded by driven and supportive people, pushes me to go that much harder and continue to strive to and be the best version of myself.

Are there any challenges that fitness and being active have helped you overcome?
Fitness has played a huge role in helping me overcome a number of challenges, mostly stress. It provides me with an outlet to decompress and clear my head, offering a break from the pressures of daily life. The gym boosts my mood and gives me a healthy distraction from personal struggles during tough times. I see the gym as free therapy sessions – helping me feel better mentally and physically.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their fitness journey?
It'll be a little hard at first to get comfortable and results won't come overnight but keep at it and never be discouraged! Consistency is key, once you make the gym a consistent hobby fitness will become a habit. Also, rest and diet are just as important as your lifts.  Working out won't do much for you if you're eating McDonalds and Debbie Cakes after a workout, and your muscles won't grow if you aren't giving them any time to recover.