"You make us feel like rock stars." As 2018 was coming to a close I found myself, exhausted, no routines in place and terrible eating habits. Jennifer Ricupero and I started doing some workouts together to work on getting me back in a workout routine and we discussed eating habits. I was wondering how I was going to maintain a fitness routine as I am constantly moving between two locations. She explained her RAW Challenge program to me. Filled with excitement I wondered if it would be a fit. How was I going to get it all done. Well it was fantastic! I was able to do 90 percent of the workout schedule and started to food prep Sunday for the coming week. This allowed time to get walks, treadmill and the video's into my schedule. The program help to keep me accountable and motivated. Now I am preparing to do it monthly with her and know that great things are in store this month. Thank you Jennifer Ricupero for all you do. I appreciate the can do attitude you give to each and every aspect of the challenge. You make us feel like rock stars. In joy -Linda B
Erica & Brad on Pico Mountain during a RAW Fitness Hiking Adventure Photo Credit: Jen Ricupero
Erica - "It was after Christmas 2016, I was down to only two pairs of pants that fit, and I had two choices, buy a new wardrobe, or deal with my anxiety of the unknown and being totally out of shape, and walk in the door of RAW Fitness....I walked through the door and never looked back.
Jen is that rare person that is truly awesome at her job. She is kind, motivating, greets everyone by name, makes you feel comfortable, and comes up with some seriously kick ass workouts. There is something for everyone, from step to boxing to yoga, whatever your fitness level is you can attend any class. The hardest thing you will do though is walk through the door on your first day, after that you will find a community of support and encouragement to help you meet any goal you set your mind to."
A few months after I joined, my husband decided to give RAW a shot as well...
Brad - "Before coming to RAW fitness, I struggled with finding a fitness routine with variety that I could stick with consistently to reach my goals. I would make progress for a few months then fall out of the routine and slide back into bad habits. RAW provides a huge variety of classes and class times that work with my hectic schedule. With classes 7 days a week that run all day I can always find a class that works so I can stay in a routine and prevent the lapses that I’ve struggled with in the past. The great thing about each class is that Jen has the expertise and knowledge to identify what you need to vary the intensity to fit your fitness level and reach your goals. RAW has a positive encouraging atmosphere that makes it fun and enjoyable which makes coming back something to look forward to. RAW runs specials on pricing consistently which I take advantage of through the couples pricing option which makes membership costs less of a barrier. I honestly didn’t expect to find classes that could offer the level of intensity and challenge I was looking for when I walked through the door, but after making the commitment and with Jen’s help, I’ve been able to surpass my goals, keep challenging myself everyday and making fitness part of my daily routine."
"Every time I take a Raw class I always get an amazing workout and I leave feeling mentally and physically refreshed..."
"I joined Raw Fitness a two years ago when I wanted to become more physically active, feel more confident, and hoping to change my perspective on dreading to workout. I joined by myself, and right away Jen was super helpful on correcting my movements and made me feel comfortable even when I had no idea what I was doing. Jen’s Boxilates class was the perfect stress reliever, and I always left feeling strong and tranquil. Life gets busy as it does and I stopped going to Raw for a few months and always regretted it as I knew what a positive impact Raw Fitness had on my life both mentally and physically.
Then about six months ago my sister was telling me how she wanted to try out Raw Fitness because I talked so highly of it when I went, so we decided to do a month of unlimited classes. Right away I fell right back into working out and loving the results. Every time I take a Raw class I always get an amazing workout and I leave feeling mentally and physically refreshed. I feel stronger every day and I actually really enjoy working out now. Although mostly women attend this gym, that by no means makes it an easy workout. I’ve since gotten my boyfriend to take classes with me and we both leave with our butts whooped. Jen makes it easy to modify any movements to adjust to injuries or activity level so newcomers can fit right in. If you try a class you’ll be hooked! Jen is an amazing coach and trainer and I consider her a great friend! Thanks Jen!" - Kaitlyn G.
"You make fitness fun and exciting..."
"Hey, Jennifer! I wanted to thank you for the amazing fitness community that you have created at Raw Fitness that I have been able to be a part of. I highly value your ability to motivate and inspire me to achieve goals that I struggle to achieve on my own. You make fitness fun and exciting, always changing the workouts, but also you make them difficult and exhausting, which helps me feel really good about accomplishing even a single class! You are doing a fantastic job with establishing a wonderful fitness business in Saratoga and I will continue to spread the word about you and Raw Fitness. Thank you for all that you do to inspire health in our community!"
- Jenn P
"This non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere is the reason I have stuck with my commitment and not given up as I have so many times before."
"This is the beginning of my third week training with RAW Fitness. Prior to this I had not entered a gym or done really any form of vigorous exercise in over six years. I love how Jen always makes it fun and encourages the participants to “show some love” to each other.
This non-judge mental and supportive atmosphere is the reason I have stuck with my commitment and not given up as I have so many times before. I can already feel my body changing as well as a noticeable difference in my stress level. I’m looking forward to pushing myself even further and have already accomplished things I never thought my body could do.
Boxing is my favorite class and I love my one on one sessions with Jen. I’m so grateful to be a part of RAW Fitness and also to watch it grow as new classes and spaces are added. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I thought I was a lost cause, always in pain, always sad, always struggling. I feel like I finally got a chance to take a breath and can see the light at the end of the tunnel. You have no idea how much you have already helped me. I am forever grateful." -Kelsey
"Great experience with a very motivating instructor..."
"My first time was today and I didn't know what to expect! Great experience with a very motivating instructor. Thought I was in ok shape and found myself digging deep to get through especially at the end. Highly recommend, a great weekend jumpstart to your day!"
-Joshua Y via Facebook
"Never thought I'd enjoy group fitness...5 weeks in and loving it..."
"Never thought I'd enjoy group fitness classes but 5 weeks in and loving it so far. The workouts are never the same and they are effective (muscles are always achy somewhere!). The staff is incredibly supportive and encouraging while kickiing you into better shape. The atmosphere is absolutely positive and energetic. :)Highly recommend giving this place a try!"
-Eva L. via Facebook
"The environment is perfect for me - small classes...and encouraging instructors..."
"I joined Raw Fitness about 9 months ago, a few months after my previous fitness studio closed. I tried to work out in a more traditional gym, but found myself feeling lost in the crowds and completely unconnected to the people around me. And then I found Jen, Cathy, and the wonderful crew (both staff and clients) at Raw! The environment is perfect for me- small classes that can be tailored to meet you where you are and encouraging instructors who will push you to do your very best. In the past 9 months I have lost 10 pounds (after well over a year of being unable to move past a plateau) and inches all around and I feel stronger and faster all the time! I'll see you at Boxilates! :D"
-Rachel F. Via Facebook
"I have never stuck with any exercise routine until I met Jen."
"I have been a member of Raw since last summer. Jen is incredibly motivating and inspirational. During her small group classes you receive personal instruction and that little "push" we all need. I have never stuck with any exercise routine until I met Jen. Her ability to mix things up and accommodate everyone's needs is rare. Jen is incredibly dedicated to the woman and men she instructs and it is obvious that the well being of her members are her priority. Her positive energy and sincerity is contagious. I would highly recommend trying a class at Raw Fitness!!! I love You Jen!!"