We all know exercising is essential to staying healthy, fighting off diseases, obesity, depression…. the list goes on. These are all things you probably know already anyway! That being said, sometimes life gets hectic and the last thing you want to do is hit the gym. Even myself, a borderline obsessive exerciser who also happens to be a little self absorbed (hello, I have a blog!!) I sometimes want to say f-it and stay in bed for that extra hour.

So what makes me pop out of bed at 520am 3 days a week ? Krank Systems JC.

The Birth of Krank JC

The Coaches

Rob and Pete are the founders of Krank. Pete was my personal trainer when he was still working at a local gym here in Jersey City. Pete whipped me into shape for my Miami Bachelorette party (I basically lived in a bikini for a week) and my wedding. Pete went on to open Krank in Nutley and he was recently one of the 8 finalists for Men’s Health magazine as Next Top Trainer. I couldn’t be more excited for him!

When you first see Rob, you might think he is a little intimidating, he is huge! but in all honesty Rob is a big teddy bear, he is so sweet and truly cares about each and every member. He has a heart of gold, I’ve never met anyone like him. Rob has now opened another Krank in Hoboken and the JC people miss him so f-ing much!

Coach O

And then there is Coach Omar. I can’t say enough good things about this guy, I call him “coach” because he challenges me, gives me shit when I deserve it and also kudos for my accomplishment. It helps that he is really f-ing funny, and he is like that friend you do not want to disappoint, that is why I always bring my “A” game because I want him to be proud of me!  A few weeks ago I had to take time off because of a small injury, and Omar would constantly check in, see how I am doing and give me rehab tips. Now where else do you get that kind of love??!?

Only at Krank.

Omar, What do you love about Krank? “From a coaches view , I love the wide spectrum of people that come to KRANK, not just Jersey City but in all 5 locations. The friendships I’ve made and the laughs we have during the sessions are priceless. The hard work people put into that 1 hour is unmeasurable. To find that 1 hour out of their busy day and dedicate it to themselves is the true definition of “commitment”. Watching the transformation of the people that stick to it, going from fearful and weak, to confident and strong, that’s what I love most about KRANK”

J.P is the new kid on the block; he started out as an intern and recently became a full fledged coach, he is also such a sweetheart! Point is, in my 15 years of being a gym rat, I have never met such incredible , knowledgeable and caring trainers. What is really amazing is that its genuine…. Can you tell I f-ing love these people?!

The Vibe

Krank is a judgement free zone,  there are many different levels of people who come to exercise and we all support each other. Going to a gym can be intimidating, people checking each other out etc. At Krank there is really none of that. You feel at ease here.

Rob, why do you think Krank feels like home? “A lot of big box gyms are cold and very mechanical, we want people to feel comfortable and to want to be there. We want people to have fun and come and hang out . A home away from home… people come in for different reasons, its the only place where no one can stop you to be the best you can be…. you can only limit yourself , sky is the limits”

The Workout

I’ve been an avid exerciser for many years, I used to even work in the field as a personal trainer and fitness instructor. I was a legit gym rat! Now the thing is, I only started to really push and challenge myself when I joined Krank. The coaches truly believe in you and try to challenge and push you to succeed and excel. I am a 30 year old woman with a 20 month old child and I am in better shape than when I was a personal trainer at the age of 23.

After having Mia, I eased back into Krank to lose the baby weight and regain my pre-baby body.  While not easy, after a few months of dedication,  and getting my ass kicked by Rob and Omar I started to see great results.

Coach O, Can you describe the workouts? “All sessions begin with myofascial release (foam rolling) then a total body warm up. we have 3 main programs for the week, the programs can be designed to focus on more lower body or upper body but in all it becomes a total body experience (that’s what she said) we don’t do isolated movements, ex: biceps, triceps, calves…. No machines, no mirrors, no towels, no selfies, no juice bar. Just you and your desire to get the job done. We do strength and conditioning revolving around functional training, or real world movements. We incorporate different tools: Olympic lifts, kettle bells, odd lifts and bodyweight exercises”

Rob, can you guess my favorite workout? “Burpees… haha I don’t know how you love that shit. you are sick!”

The Members

Here is the thing, the word “members” might not be appropriate for Krank.  As mentioned, we are a family… maybe a little bit dysfunctional but we are all very close. If you go onto the Krank JC Facebook page you will see we all celebrate each others triumphs. It is amazing to see a group of strangers be genuinely happy for each others! Whether it’s someone completing their first Tough Mudder, reaching their deadlift goals, or even just surviving a sick workout.

I asked a few members what they loved about Krank and this is what they said:

“Krank is the equalizer… no matter what you do outside of those 4 walls or how important you are at work (or unimportant), the second you walk through those doors, all of that jazz means nothing. Everyone is on the same playing field. There is no hierarchy or status or egos. Just hardcore training where everyone has the same goal… To be better versions of themselves. Those coaches do everything they can to make sure you exceed your goals. Also love the family environment and the competitive edge the coaches and members bring” Ashish Patel

“Krank=family nuff said” Karen Cleever

There is so much I love about Krank!!! I love the family environment, dedication, competitiveness, the pain, the transformation of my body, and last but not least, I love the hot coach” Yvette DeSoto

Rob, why Krank? why not just go to Crossfit? “Its preference, I feel you need to be comfortable in the place you’re in, happy where you are. If you are not happy you’re not going to excel or get the results you are looking for …. I obviously would love everyone to train at Krank, to me its about where you are happy. Its an individual choice”

A Typical 6am Class

It takes a certain type of person to want to wake up at the crack of ass to squat, do burpees , run etc. That is why I have a special place in my heart for my 6am crew. When I walk in the door I always see Sylvie rolling out on the foam roller…. She is a bad ass! I am always following her around and asking her how much weight she is doing, we have a good time!

Warm up time….. J.P an intern and just turned coach belts out “30 Jumping jacks” and so it begins….

The heat is on…. barbell work, push presses, squats, chin ups you name it we do it.

The workouts are challenging but also extremely fun. Krank is my safe place, my escape from daily stresses and most importantly my home away from home.

Rollout!!