Client of Month - Howard Maziar, M.D. - Fitness Together North Buckhead (Atlanta)

Why do you like Fitness Together?

I had never previously been able to be consistent with an exercise program. I always knew what I needed to do but, despite my good intentions, never seemed to do it. The structure and accountability that FT provides has enabled me to sustain a program. The friendliness, encouragement and expertise of Dennis, Katie, and Kelly motivate me to achieve results that I never thought I would. While I “complain” to them about how “demanding” they are; in reality, I am very appreciative of their assistance. I enjoy the explanations of why certain exercises are useful and what muscle groups are involved.The amount of knowledge they have is phenomenal. It is a philosophical approach that makes sense.

Tell us some of the results you have achieved:

My physical well being has very much improved. I feel stronger and my endurance increased. I am standing up straighter ( I now hear voices saying “HEAD UP, SHOULDERS BACK, ABS IN.... STRONG AND PROUD”.  I am much more aware and respectful of my body. I am eating healthier....never thought that would happen! I have also found that not only am I more confident in my physical well being but also in other areas of my life as well. I approach my work with greater insight into the importance of physical health in regards to mental health and have been recommending exercise more often. That idea of “mind, body, and spirit” all being interconnected is true. Before FT, I just didn’t have the “body” part in order.

Tell us about any hobbies you may have:

Family, friends, and my work are my “hobbies”.  I have been actively involved in organized medicine for several years, and this year have been elected President of the Georgia Psychiatric Physicians Association. It is time consuming but very rewarding. It has to do with that idea of  “giving back” to my profession and community.

What city and state are you from?

I am actually a native Atlantan. I grew up in the Morningside area before it was a “fashionable in town neighborhood”.

Tell us about your children and/or pets:

I have two children both in Atlanta, a daughter Michelle who is 31 and works in an after school program for Hispanic children and a son, Michael who is 28 and works for a technology company. They both exercise regularly and have been instrumental (nagging) in my starting an exercise program. I kept telling them I just had to find the right situation.

Who is your significant other?

My wife Patty and I are celebrating our 40th anniversary this month. She too has been supportive of my efforts and exercises regularly. She likes to walk Chastain Park. She tells me that I’m “hot” now, and that she likes me for my body.

What is your favorite exercise?

I hate to admit it, but I like planks. How can an exercise that looks so easy be so difficult?

What is your favorite healthy food?

I like yogurt and almonds.

What is your favorite “bad” food?

I love anything fried and everything chocolate.

What is your profession?  How Long?

I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Atlanta for 33 years.

What is your favorite movie?

I liked the Matrix...made me think. The sequels, however, were terrible. Also liked Three Amigos and My Cousin Vinny (both silly and fun).

How did you discover Fitness Together?

I was “searching” and have a cousin who has been coming to FT. He recommended it...and, as it is said, “the rest is history”.