My name is Nico Montanari for those that don't know me. It’s an honor to be the member of the month as such a kind and welcoming location like 212. I grew up in MA playing soccer, and football. As the years went on, I moved to RI and started to encounter some health issues.

My wife Erin, who I work out with often, found 212 for us after I had some intense stomach issues that lasted over a year and after several procedures, my life needed to take a turn in a different direction. Kerry was very kind in welcoming us, and we have loved it here every moment since. I am a Summer Challenge graduate from last year, which was the most intense two months of workout I had ever accomplished. Sean has been an amazing personal trainer, helping me grow stronger and feel better about myself in a multitude of ways.

Working out always improves my mindset and helps the stress of everyday life melt away… it also helps to punch those problems away in boxing with Heather! As an avid gamer, it's really nice to “level up” in real life as well. This past week, I hit an all time high for deadlift of 265 lbs. In a little over a year, I went from never going to the gym, to going 2-3 times a week, and I feel like that's in no small part to the quality and excellence of 212.

Challenge yourself to go to more classes, try different classes, and push yourself just that little bit more than last time. Growth doesn't happen overnight, it's a long and arduous process, but it’s fantastic to see what happens on the journey, and to make some friends along the way.