Marci Harp
Haslett, MI (California transplant)
46
Mom to Emily (18) and Cami (16), wife to Mike, Accountant
Besides working out, I enjoy traveling, reading, watching sports and hanging out with family and friends.
I have always been a very competitive person. I grew up playing many sports including soccer, softball, field hockey and tennis. I played soccer for Sonoma State University in California. A fun fact is that I played against both Brandi Chastain and Julie Foudy, pioneers of women’s soccer!
For me, fitness was always being in condition for playing sports. When my competitive days were over (after two torn ACLs), I just kind of went through the motions of staying in shape. Running, or getting on a bike or elliptical machine. Definitely focusing on more the cardio aspect of being in shape. But as I was getting older, those former injuries were causing a lot of residual damage in my knees and I needed to have several surgeries to “clean them up”. It was time to try something different.
I had a couple of friends that were coming to SOF. They talked about how the trainers really focused on form and function and used something called kettlebells (what?!?). I decided to 
give it a try back in the Spring of 2012. Right away I was hooked!!
Whether it is the smaller semi-private classes or the larger group environment, I love the variety of the workouts at SOF. Using all of the different equipment such as ropes, balls, rowers, TRX straps, etc. makes working out a lot more interesting. My favorite movement is the kettlebell swing (and to think I didn’t even know what a kettlebell was)! I also like doing ladder drills and using the rower. Any kind of lunge is probably my least favorite exercise.
My fitness and health is a constant work in progress. To me, being fit and healthy comes in all shapes and sizes. I know I am strong and I push myself pretty hard when I am at the gym. I know I am healthy because I rarely even catch a cold and I feel really good. My weakness is food and drink. I enjoy both, especially in a social aspect. I struggle with this, but I do not make excuses for it. I know I need to become better at limiting both.
I am far from perfect, but I know I am making a good decision by walking through the doors of SOF 4-5 days a week.
If you are thinking about joining a gym or switching gyms, I would definitely give SOF a try! State of Fitness has become a lifestyle for me. I always look forward to coming to the gym. The trainers are all awesome, professional and friendly and I have made personal connections with many of the members. It is my happy place!! 🙂
