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Brandon #001
What year did you join?
1997
What originally brought you here?
I was recommended by Mike. I stayed because he's a good trainer.
What has kept you here all these years?
Mike was willing to train me and gave me a say in training—says there's a big difference.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Deep, deep running football pass patterns on an October afternoon.
How has CF impacted your life?
CF has kept me healthy, energetic, and not bored, and since I'm 84, kept me alive.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Join!!! (You would be foolish if you didn't join).
Helen #002
What year did you join?
2011
What originally brought you here?
I followed a few friends from NYSC to give the gym a try. They were women I respected—not only for their knowledge of health and fitness, but also because they were truly amazing people. So their recommendation meant a lot to me.
What has kept you here all these years?
The top two reasons I've stayed are simple. First, CrossFit pushed me to do many things I never thought I could or would do. It challenged me well outside my comfort zone, but I saw results, felt stronger, and gained confidence, so I kept coming back. Second, it's the people. We've been fortunate to be part of this community for years, and I've met so many incredible members along the way. The friendships, support, and laughter we've shared have made the gym feel like a second home.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Completing my one and only Tough Mudder with the Carozza gang in 2012 is my absolute favorite memory. It was a fun, challenging, and exhausting day! I'm especially grateful to the coaches for preparing us and to my assigned team (which included Mike) for encouraging me mentally and physically every step of the way and helping me cross the finish line. It was a true team effort and an experience I'll never forget.
How has CF impacted your life?
I wake up at 4:00 a.m. every morning to make sure I don't miss a class, and my husband joins in too. Our girls grew up going to Mike's gym, and both went on to become college athletes. Throughout the years, Mike has always been generous in welcoming them, and now their spouses, back to train whenever they're home. We've been fortunate to be part of this community for so long, and we're grateful for everything Mike has done for our family.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Mike is committed to helping us succeed, so let's commit to him. His program builds both physical strength and mental resilience. Stay consistent, trust the process, and the results will follow.
Darcey #003
What year did you join?
2011
What originally brought you here?
I had just had my third child in September 2010. I started at another gym later that year, but after a few months, it ended up being a terrible experience. When I left that gym, another woman left with me, and she recommended Carozza Fitness. I was at the Carozza Fitness West Main Street gym just a few days later, and I've never looked back.
What has kept you here all these years?
Carozza Fitness became a second family to me. I've built lifelong friendships here, and I love the variety—not just in the workouts, but also the races, social events, nutrition guidance, and other resources. Everything I need is right here.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
After my father passed away three years ago, I disappeared from life for a while. The support from my Carozza Fitness family was incredible. Mike helped me ease back into the gym with small workouts, and everyone quietly stood by me. The gym played a huge role in my healing, and I'll never forget that.
How has CF impacted your life?
Carozza Fitness has taught me so much about fitness, but it's the people who make the biggest impact. Whether it's advice, encouragement, or friendly competition, everyone pushes each other to be better, and every accomplishment is celebrated.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Do it. Commit yourself. Carozza Fitness is so much more than CrossFit. The coaches meet you where you are and can modify any workout. Just show up—you won't regret it.
Michele #004
What year did you join?
2013
What originally brought you here?
I was overweight and out of shape, and several friends had worked out with Carozza Fitness and seen great results.
What has kept you here all these years?
Mike. He has the perfect balance of pushing you while also supporting you and knowing what you're capable of. I've never felt better than I do training at Carozza Fitness.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
The Thanksgiving Day partner workout in the old location. The room was packed with people working hard and loving every minute of it.
How has CF impacted your life?
I'm 110 pounds lighter than when I started, I'm in better shape than I was 15 years ago, and I genuinely love to exercise—something I never thought I'd say.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Don't worry about whether you can do it—you can. Just go for it!
John Sarrubo #005
What year did you join?
2015
What originally brought you here?
I was overweight and out of shape, and several friends had worked out with Carozza Fitness and seen great results.
What has kept you here all these years?
I wanted more than a traditional gym. I was looking for variety, a challenge, and a place that was always evolving while staying true to its values.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
The coaches, the programming, and the community. Everyone supports each other, which makes it easy to stay motivated.
How has CF impacted your life?
As a father of two young boys, Carozza Fitness has helped me stay healthy, accountable, and set a positive example for my kids.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Give it a try—you won't regret it. Mike and the coaching team make everyone feel welcome, meet you where you are, and help you grow no matter your fitness level.
Joanne #006
What year did you join?
1998-2019
What originally brought you here?
Carozza Fitness became so much more than a gym. The members and coaches became my second family, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
What has kept you here all these years?
The people and the atmosphere. It was a place where I always felt supported, encouraged, and like I truly belonged.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
One of my favorite memories was a personal training session with Mike while WWE was filming in the gym. We worked out with no music, and I even got to meet one of the wrestlers—we were wearing matching outfits!
How has CF impacted your life?
The community motivated me through some of my hardest times. I struggled with my weight, but I was never judged—I was always accepted for who I was. Even after moving to Pennsylvania, I haven't found another gym that compares. Mike believed in me when I needed it most, and that made all the difference.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Don't be afraid to invest in yourself. Trust the process—you'll gain so much more than just fitness.
Petr #007
What year did you join?
2020
What originally brought you here?
Looking in the mirror. I knew I needed to make a change, and Carozza Fitness gave me the push to finally do something about it.
What has kept you here all these years?
Let's just say... the fear of looking back in that same mirror. But beyond that, it's the workouts, the people, and always finding a reason to keep coming back.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
The boombox run through downtown Stamford in the pouring rain. It was one of those crazy, unforgettable workouts that perfectly captures the fun and energy of Carozza Fitness.
How has CF impacted your life?
It's been a complete game-changer. I'm healthier, stronger, and in a much better place physically and mentally than when I first walked through the door.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Come on in! If I can still be below average after 1,500+ classes and keep showing up with a smile, you'll fit right in. Don't overthink it—just start. You'll surprise yourself with what you're capable of.
Fran #008
What year did you join?
2018
What originally brought you here?
After retiring as a detective in New York City, I moved to Stamford and started looking for a gym. The typical gyms weren't for me. Then I saw Mike flipping tires at Carozza Fitness, and I told myself, "I want to do that." It became my first goal, and eventually I accomplished it.
What has kept you here all these years?
Mike keeps me coming back. He pushes me to be my best, even when I need it most. I've had my share of health challenges, but my goal has always been to keep getting stronger and make it to the gym five days a week.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Finally flipping the tire for the first time—and, of course, Mike yelling encouragement along the way.
How has CF impacted your life?
It's taught me the importance of showing up, staying accountable, and getting a little stronger every single day.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Just give it a chance. Carozza Fitness is more than a gym—it's a place where you'll be challenged, supported, and encouraged to become the strongest version of yourself.
RJ #009
What year did you join?
2013
What originally brought you here?
It all started when Mike began playing catch with my son during Little League. That connection introduced our family to Carozza Fitness, and we've been part of the community ever since.
What has kept you here all these years?
The positive environment. Even after taking a break during college years and the pandemic, coming back felt like we had never left. Mike's energy and the welcoming atmosphere have never changed.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Mike's infamous 9-minute challenge—1,000 steps on the StairMaster in just nine minutes. It was brutal, but every member of our family gave it a shot, and we all shared the challenge.
How has CF impacted your life?
I feel stronger, more energized, and better prepared for everyday life. Working out has become part of my routine, and I notice the difference both inside and outside the gym.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Bring a friend or family member if you can. Having someone to work out with makes the experience even more enjoyable, and you'll quickly become part of the Carozza Fitness community.
Terran #010
What year did you join?
2006
What originally brought you here?
I joined Carozza Fitness to manage my weight, get back in shape, and improve my overall health.
What has kept you here all these years?
The constantly changing workouts, the knowledgeable and supportive coaches, and the incredible community. Every day brings a new challenge, and I've always felt encouraged to keep improving.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Setting a personal best on the sled push with a weight I never thought I'd be able to move. It reminded me that I'm capable of more than I think.
How has CF impacted your life?
Carozza Fitness has helped me stay healthy and active, allowing me to fully enjoy retirement and continue doing the things I love, especially hiking.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Expect to be challenged and pushed outside your comfort zone. There will be days you question yourself, but you'll come out stronger, healthier, and more confident than when you started.
Chad #011
What year did you join?
2016
What originally brought you here?
I was looking for challenging CrossFit workouts. Regular gyms had become repetitive, and the group classes and programming at Carozza Fitness really stood out to me.
What has kept you here all these years?
The camaraderie and genuine personalities of the members, along with the balanced programming and constant encouragement to reach my fitness goals.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
The Domus Niner in 2019. It was incredibly challenging, a lot of fun, and such a unique experience to work out on the beach.
How has CF impacted your life?
Carozza Fitness gives me a place to stay at my best physically and mentally. Working out is cathartic, and it helps me feel stronger, healthier, and more balanced in everyday life.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Go for it. Carozza Fitness has welcoming people, supportive coaches, great programming, and workouts that will challenge you while keeping you coming back for more.
Zinovy #012
What year did you join?
2018
What originally brought you here?
I was overweight and wanted to get back in shape and improve my overall health.
What has kept you here all these years?
Staying committed to my health and fitness. There's always another goal to work toward, and Carozza Fitness keeps me motivated to keep improving.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Finishing a tough workout. There's no better feeling than ending a hard class knowing you gave it everything you had.
How has CF impacted your life?
It has helped me stay focused on fitness and living a healthier lifestyle.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Don't wait—just do it. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll see what you're capable of.
Barbara #013
What year did you join?
2012
What originally brought you here?
I started coming while my youngest daughter trained with a swim strength coach. After watching everyone work out, she encouraged me to give it a try. With my husband's support, I made an appointment with Mike—and the rest is history.
What has kept you here all these years?
Working out has become part of my life. I can't imagine not staying active, and Carozza Fitness has become an important part of my routine.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Doing my first unassisted pull-up. It had been a longtime goal of mine, and finally achieving it was an unforgettable moment.
How has CF impacted your life?
Carozza Fitness has made me stronger, healthier, and more confident. I have more energy, fewer aches and pains, and can keep up with my daughters and sons-in-law. It's simple—show up consistently, work hard, and the results will follow.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
It's one of the best investments you can make in your health. You'll become stronger, more confident, and capable of things you never thought possible. Mike and the coaches meet you where you are, encourage you every step of the way, and help you reach your goals.
Frank #014
What year did you join?
2004
What originally brought you here?
My wife tricked me! After I retired, she asked me to find her a trainer who would come to the house. Through a friend, I found Mike. When it came time for her first session, she was too busy, so I filled in for her—and I've been working out with Mike ever since.
What has kept you here all these years?
Mike and I are both former football players, so coming to the gym feels like going to football practice. It may not always be easy, but it keeps me ready for whatever life throws my way.
One memory at CF you’ll never forget:
Doing bear crawls before I realized I had pulmonary embolisms. I was so out of breath I joked that I could hear the angels singing. Looking back, it's a memory I'll never forget.
How has CF impacted your life?
Carozza Fitness has helped me stay strong and active throughout my senior years. When I see friends I grew up with, I'm grateful for the health and strength I've maintained.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
You won't find a better trainer than Mike. His enthusiasm is contagious, and he genuinely celebrates every member's success. Coaching isn't just his job—it's his calling.