What's your symbol?

Apparently not smarter than a 2nd grader...

I found on the close outs one cash sale for $14.93.  I put $15 in with the closeouts.  This left me $5.85 short plus the 7 cents from the $15.  I have gone into my wallet and added the extra money to get the register to an even $50.There are only a few of us touching this register.  It should remain at $50.  Also, if either of you has some ones or fives, the register has 3 tens, a five and six ones currently.

Thanks,
Serena

Staff:  Not sure how I managed that one? I'll even it up when I get there. 

Staff:  I put 5.85 in there and now it says 55.85? I don't know what's wrong I'm just gonna leave the extra money in there I guess. Better to be over then under. 

So they can't count or read...  I have gone into my wallet and added the extra money to get the register to an even $50.

Hazel BUSTED

So the new manager started at the gym this week.  He is shaking things up! Tuesday night he met Hazel.  He described her as "dressed to go clubbing" and she came in with her daughters and flirted with Smiley for 30 minutes.  Hazel did not realize that the new manager was there and overheard her entire conversation with Smiley.  He finally approached her and introduced himself, walked her around the gym and asked her exactly what she was supposed to be doing because he was sure that flirting with the staff and standing at the front desk weren't what we were paying her for!  PRICELESS!  This sent her into a rage and flurry of texts and phone calls started.

Please call me when u have a min I have a question for u (8:53 pm)

Three phone calls from Hazel (8:54, 8:57, 9:03)

Hey Serena I called Sunshine because I was told not to do half the gym tonight and didn't want him calling. U because it not done please call me in am we need to talk (9:04pm)

Hey Serena I'm going to let y'all find someone else it's just to much for me anyone and the changes that are being made I can't work around so u just owe me for Monday and last night we did trash and bathrooms as we were told to leave floor alone I want to thank u for the time u let me work there and ill pick my check up Friday thanks and best wishes finding what y'all are looking for (8:33 am)

Ok

Could u just leave my money if ur there today or tomorrow and ill come by and get it (11:36am)

I'm not there again til Friday

Ok I'll pick it up Friday then and I'm sorry I just can't give 5 hrs a today there and that's the goal he has but it will be good for the gym it needs that's What's a good time to run by tomorrow u are going to pay me for the two days right ?  (8:46pm)

I was going to even though rumor is you didn't clean anything Tuesday night...

That is not true we didn't vac gym floor because I was told by the new manager not to and was told we were never to clean gym floor when members are on it that's crazy because there always people there I would tell u Serena I Tryed to call u about that to I worked for u for months and I would have kept working for u but I can't understand the things he wants without doing it after hrs

You didn't clean bathrooms which was really all that was left to clean.  I took your advice and opened my eyes. The new manager overheard your entire conversation with Smiley. Apparently you didn't have anything good to say about me and weren't exactly acting like you were married. Do not text/call me anymore. 

We did clean bathrooms and I changed Curtin in men's room and mats the others where good so I was holding off till they needed it yes Serena we sure did do bathrooms I never said anything to Smiley in front of the new manager about anything nor about u Serena what are u talking about So u have no plans to pay me what u owe me I did do my work and never said one thing about u to anyone nor acted anyway with Smiley my girls were by my side that is a lie

Real eyes and ears are better than security cameras.  I'll pay you for Monday. I'd prefer to mail a check to you. I do not want you anywhere near my building. 

With if it where true yeah but it's not the new manager walked me threw gym asking ? I didn't even talk with Smiley my girls did I said hello and then I was with the manager walking gym over

Send me your address and stay away from the gym. 

I can't believe u are acting this way to me I have done not one thing Wrong and I cleaned on Tuesday night to I mean I guess my gas and time mean nothing

That's fine I understand

Send me your address

 And the way y'all had done me is sorry u can ask Smiley I did clean Tuesday but its ok I don't treat people that way and really don't understand but it will all show in time thank u

Are You Smarter Than a 2nd Grader?

Serena!! There is money missing from the cash box!!

Coins are money too!! 

When I got home just to make sure I wasn't nuts, I asked my daughter how to make a dollar.

Here's To You MRS. ROBINSON

So Serena, what's going on with you & the young hottie?

He's a trainer and we were exercising.  I used to train with Tat but he's gone.

He's so hot!  Is he dating anyone?

EWWW... I'm old enough to be his mom!  I might actually be older than his mom.  How old are you??

Lost and Found or Free Coats!

Hey Serena!
I don't want to stir anything up but I left my jacket at the gym and it was hung up on the rack. I went to grab it and it wasn't there. I was told by someone that they saw a heavy Hispanic woman leave one day with her daughter and on her way out she pulled down 3 jackets (one being mine). I was told there have been issues with this woman and wondered if you knew who she was. Just wanted to let you know there is someone doing that. How sad.

Thanks for telling us. There is probably confusion because that is the lost and found.

Ok. Someone saw her: she's Hispanic and a 2X. My jacket is an XS. Lol. She probably wasn't confused. Her daughter is my size, I'm told. :).

Good Riddance to Tat!

After I said no to Tat about a loan and a salary, he found someone who said yes.  I found out he quit when his former clients started getting these emails...

Dear Friends & Clients,


I apologize for this short notice. After weeks of negotiations and several interviews, I was contacted by the New Fitness Corporate Office last week. I was notified that I had been selected to take over the Personal Training responsibilities for 3 local New Fitness Gyms. I am returning to 10 hour days. I'm back on top of my game 110% & focused!!!

It will be exciting and challenging working in a growth-oriented organization which offers diverse job responsibility and with the potential for advancement. I'm starting out with the PT responsibilities of 3 fitness centers, with the potential to expand my regional territory over a period of time. There are over 1600 New Fitness Facilities across the United States, as well as around the globe.

These facilities are run like a fine tuned well oiled machines, using their EzFacility Training Software. There's 100% accountability. All facilities have state of the art equipment. The facilities are kept immaculately clean. The gym temperature is kept at a very cool 70*, with 10 ceiling fans. This makes for a very comfortable training environment. If you weren't training it would almost be to cold.

After lengthy negotiations we've reached an agreement:

All clients schedules will remain the same.

I'm being allowed a certain number of make up sessions, so it does not cause you any inconvenience. Please keep in mind this is a corporate facility with 100% accountability. It is very difficult to negotiate with a corporate company, because of their auditing system. I have done so to an extent. They're willing to accommodate my clients for their inconvenience with a cap (WITHIN REASON). Keep in mind that I do not own these gyms and my hands are tied.

Memberships are normally $39.95 per month with a minimum of a 1 year contract. An exception to the rule has been made. All my clients will be offered a discount membership of $24.95 on a month to month basis with NO CONTRACT! Once again this was not an easy task in a corporate environment. Remember by joining New Fitness you automatically become a member to all of their fitness facilities worldwide, with no extra cost. For those of you who's careers call for traveling and/or vacationing you will always have a gym nearby.

There's also a $20 key fob charge. You will need this key to access the gyms of your choice.

All memberships include: Certified Les Mills, Kickboxing, Bodyflow & Body Combat Classes.

I've also been given full access to the Mixed Martial Arts Studio located right next to the gym. (When no classes are scheduled)

Any Clients that decide to become members of New Fitness will be given a 10% discount at the Mixed Martial Arts Classes, which include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Cardio Kickboxing, MMA Striking, Yoga & Youth Programs and a one week free trial period for the class of your choice. These youth classes are held Monday and Wednesday from 4:45 to 5:30pm. Please see the website and look for the Juniors BJJ GI. Classes are for ages 7 yrs. & Up. This would be a great opportunity to introduce your children to an exciting and rewarding fitness environment.

Tanning will also be added at a discounted price for those interested.

Once again, We will work towards making this transition as smooth as possible.

New Fitness has agreed to give “ANYONE” with 3 months or more left on their membership contracts, 3 months free on their new 1 year membership to New Fitness. Of course, this does not affect those that are on a month to month at their current gym. This is being offered to those that may be locked into a current contract.

Several of you are up for renewal and/or have payments left on your current training contracts with me. Resume your schedule as always and bring your payment with you to New Fitness. Once again, We are working to make this transition as smooth as possible.

Several of you have asked me about children/family add ons, this also will be offered to my clients at a discounted rate. Children age 12 are allowed on the floor as long as they are accompanied by a parent and are well behaved.

I've been recently advised of the new higher PT rates, as seen in my last e-mail. Under the current economic status of the country, I don't not believe this is in the best interest of my clients. I will be keeping Personal Training Rates set by me over 3 years ago. This has also been approved by the Corporate Office. During a recession is not the time to raise rates. It may look good on paper, but it's not practical.


I look forward to working with you at this new location. I believe that you will be extremely satisfied with your new accommodations. I tested all of the equipment Saturday, it was a blast! I think that you will be impressed. I'm sorry for any inconvenience that this may have caused. After three years in a position that did not look promising & being pushed backwards, I could not pass on this wonderful new career opportunity, with room for advancement! Remember nothing has changed, except for the location. Please feel free to call me with any questions or concerns.  
I look forward to seeing you at our new training facility.  Please try to come in a few minutes early to take care of minor paperwork.  Personnel will be on hand to help expedite the whole process. 
 
Please understand that if your contract is well beyond the expiration date, I can not pick up and honor where we left off.  
Please see my attached new updated BIO.

In the Spirit of Fitness,

Tat
Master Trainer

Decanted? Wine? What?

Text from Sunshine:
Just want to apologize for this week.. Seems like I let some emotions get in the way and was not very perfesional.. It WILL NOT happen again.. Sorry I let you down, and I will show you that I am very Decanted to the success of this gym...   

 It seems I am also very decanted to the success of this gym based on my wine consumption...

I'm Too Old For This Shit

Swear Jar.

What? 

You said a bad word.  Serena, I heard you in the closet... you said the s word.  $1... swear jar.  What were doing in the closet anyway?

My closet thoughts: I can barely fit in this closet.  How did two people fit in this closet?  3 if you include Hazel. I'm going to kill someone... I really don't look good in orange.... I wonder if they allow "wellness" visits in place of congugal visits for my Botox treatments... Is it happy hour yet?

Maybe if you wouldn't have spent your $ on your ho...

Serena, I've been thinking and I really need a salary.

Tat, you are a personal trainer, specifically "your company" is paid on revenue that you produce.  It's not really the gym's fault that you lost all your clients.

But I'm back with my wife now and just need some help.  I'm not messing around with Triple D.  My family won't survive this month on my check that I just got.

You're a grown man, figure it out.  I'm not a bank. 

But my family!

Stop!  You weren't thinking about your family when you were blowing all your $ and having fun with Triple D. This falls into the category of NOT MY PROBLEM. 

So that's a no on a salary and a loan?

NOT Celebrity Junk

I've had several complaints about this exposure.  What do I say??

"Dude, nobody wants to see your junk, wear longer shorts" or something more casual like "Do you feel a breeze?" with a subtle glance downward. 

I'm going home.

The Sky Is Falling, The Sky Is Falling

My wakeup text from Sunshine aka Chicken Little:

Blond Goddess isn't leaving the gym is she?

No. She's on vacation, probably doing another 10k to prep for her marathon. 

Ok some ladies were asking to make sure.  Said she did not like the lady this morning... That 2 people got up and left class... I told her you had said she was training but would check just to make sure

After her marathon she actually wants to teach more classes
Ok good do you know how long she will be gone.  She said she may not come bake till she is back.   Guess she really didn't like this teacher Anything I need to do today? 

Probably all week, she just left today. 

Ok I'll let her know Anything I need to do around here today?

Have you finished LAST week's to do list?

Uh... No...

Karitie...

is the new Karate?

Fighters Return To Your Corners

Texts from Sunshine:

So that lady that worked out with Mandelbaum hasn't been in sense u kicked him out...

Call when u can have a question

Call when u can need to ask about a contract

I need to talk to u like ASAP please

Unless the bldg is burning down I do not care. I'll be there tomorrow.
 
I was just told Hazel made out that I have been saying u say a bunch of stuff which I haven't.. I just want to know what's going on and if I'm in Trouble

I really don't care what you do in your personal life. But I am getting a swear jar. 

I just want to make sure u know I'm not saying anything that u don't tell me

Just do what you do and let Hazel do what she does and things will be fine. There's no need to call her. 

I just asked her y she was saying that stuff.  I have never told her anything u didn't tell me to tell her... She said I was being a jerk to her lately but like I told u. I was tired of when I tell her a member had a complaint she would jump my ass... It's not me it's just me letting her know.... I just want to make sure I'm still ok there and you guys are happy with me...

Swear jar ;)

Lol I promis I have cleaned up my mouth a lot... There are members that I have to ask to tone it down sometimes... But I have been trying ever sence Jerry talked to me about things I can do to improve myself. Grow my hair, warch my mouth..

Texts from Hazel:

Have u talk to Sunshine yet or u waiting to just asking if they no I'm coming to clean tonight

I haven't talked to him. He's gone by that time so it's just Smiley.  And Smiley knows you're coming. 

Ok just wondering Smiley text me and asked if I was going to clean and said Sunshine is so mad because I've been to clean I told Smiley I'm dealing with u from now own lol crazy Yeah I told him I was he said ok Well Sunshine called me and he is pissed and told me I had no right throwing him under bus I didn't and I'm not going to fuss with him U tell me what u want me to do it don't matter to me I can clean for u or not but this is nuts and he is crazy pissed right now He said he was calling u o tell u how it is so heads up
He's been calling and texting me all day.  Just please clean and ignore him. He's not in charge and he will not be there when you go there.

Ok just making sure ill take care of it then He just called again and I pretty much told him how it was so and I will go threw u from now own He is demanded to no what I said to u I'm not going to pick up the phone for him again

You don't have to answer your phone.

I'm not hope he dont come there tonight he is mad

I just texted him and told him to not call you.

Ok

I guess I'll see if she shows up tonight.  I've posted an ad for a new cleaning person just in case and have already received about 40 applications.  I hope that I do not have to spend my day interviewing people tomorrow.

Poppins Will Have The Answers

The nap cleared my head and when I woke up I had the brilliant idea to call Poppins, the very sweet older lady that manages the kids' club. 

So Poppins, Hazel gave me an earful today.  Is there something going on between Sunshine & Venus?  I don't really care what grown ups do, I just don't want it in my gym.

Yeah, there was definitely something going on before Sunshine got married, but I haven't seen anything since then.  It was obvious at the time, with a little hug or touch here and there, but now he's married and Venus is dating someone.

I don't know what to think about Sunshine pursuing the 17 year old daughter...

(Laughter)  I really don't think that's true.  Sunshine and Hazel just do not get along at all.  Sunshine flirts with 80 year old women, it doesn't really mean anything.  It's just Sunshine.

Hazel had a lot to say about his bad language...

Yeah, well that's just Sunshine.  He means well, but he is rough around the edges.  I say "Hi Sunshine" and he says "Fuck you Poppins."  It's not mean, it's just him.  Gotta love everyone for what they are.

Yeah, I guess.  But I'm getting a swear jar!  I'll donate the money to charity.  Thanks Poppins!  See you tomorrow.

If That Closet Could Talk!

So I called Hazel this morning to listen to her story.  She thought it best to start at the beginning...

Sunshine was texting and calling my 17 year old daughter!  I thought that was bad enough but then I found out that he was engaged.  He kept telling my daughter that he was going to get married.  Then after he got married, he told her he backed out of the wedding and the wedding never happened.

Of course it happened, there are wedding pics all over Facebook.

I know.  So I told him to stop calling and texting my daughter, then he got mad at me and started making things difficult for me when I came to the gym to clean.  Last week he said that you said you were going to fire me if I didn't get my shit together and that I was doing a horrible job.  The worst part about it was he said it in front of a large group of members and the kids club lady.  That's when I decided I would finish the week and be done.  I need this job, but I don't want to work in a place where I am humiliated.

I understand.  I'm sorry that happened like that.  I think Sunshine just became your contact because he was the one that wanted me to hire you.  Now that I have your #, I think communication will be better.

For some reason, everyone thinks he is the manager of that place and people just don't like him.  The women who gave him my # for this job quit a couple of months ago because Sunshine told her husband that she was fat.

Oh my god!  Are you kidding?

It wasn't like "hey your wife is fat,"  it was trying to be funny because she used to train with Sunshine and hadn't worked out in awhile. 

What's up with Sunshine and Venus?

I walked in on them making out in the closet!
  Smiley is the only one works there.

That's funny to hear you say that.  Because for the job that I expect to be get done, he actually works the least.

Did Sunshine tell you that?

No, this is based on his actual work and some other things that have happened.

There's also been a lot of stories going around that you were going to hire a manager.  Sunshine is telling everyone that he's quitting if you hire a manager.

I've been thinking about it and I think I have found someone that I think would be great.  If Sunshine quits, he quits.

Oh.  Well I'd love to try the evening cleaning.

Great.  For now, let's see how that goes.  Smiley is there at night, so he is the only one that you will have to see.

I'm going home and going to bed.  Sunshine has called my phone four times this morning all ready.  I do not want to talk on the phone, I really want to see the expression on his and Venus' faces when I confront them both tomorrow about their closet activities. 

I really need security cameras!

It's Labor Day and I'm trying to enjoy a day of peace.  Everything seems to be going pretty well at the gym.  I'm renting some extra unused space to a karate studio, we signed a ton of new members in August and I just finished payroll and all bill paying for the entire month of September.  A wave of relaxation came over me and for the first time in three years, I was at peace.  Then my cell phone beeps...

Hey Serena this is Hazel (my cleaning service) I dropped the gym today after months of put down by Sunshine (previously known as the personal trainer) that gym needs someone that noes how to to run it and Sunshine is not the one he is going to land y'all in court due to the way he treats and talks to people in that place I thank you for the time u had me but u really need to look that place over the best and only person working there is Smiley (the night front desk person) Sunshine lies to y'all and it's sad so many people have left there and y'all are loosing money due to him I have months of rude nasty text including  him saying u cut me down aswell and I just want u to no I busted butt there that place was a nightmare when I came there I clean homes full time and have even got homes from there due to good work I would be glad to work for u but I will not answer to Sunshine and will not work under him and if u want that gym to grow u need people that are good to people not rude and trying to sleep with everyone that walks in the door I just want u to no why I have left and why lots of people are leaving and planning to leave if u would like to talk to me feel free to call thanks 
So are you quitting?  I'm confused. He is the one who usually gets the complaints from members so instead of telling me, he just tells you. It's not meant to be mean. Do you have some examples of the behavior so I can address it with him?
Would u call me and we can talk about it I'll be glad to tell u 
I have family in town until tomorrow, but would love to talk tomorrow. Are you quitting?
Call me tomorrow and we will talk about all of it
Ok. I just want to know if you cleaned today so I know if I need to figure something out.
The reason I have not came to u before now is because of treats by him if I did I'd loose my job and Serena I have a family to look after but I'm coming to u now cause I don't care anymore just call me tomorrow and we will talk
No I didn't
Your $ was there, did you get it. I'm going to the airport in the morning. But need to know if you are going to clean tomorrow. Venus (the beautiful front desk morning girl) is there from 5 am until 2pm.
I did but there was money for two weeks I left it and got only 200 for last week I'm not trying to screw u over or leave u hanging please no that I just can't take the trash anymore when I'm giving all I have to y'all for 40 dollars a day I want to talk to u on phone or face to face and we can go from there just call me in morning when u have time and I needed to do it in afternoon and was told that was fine then I was made to look a fool girl I'm telling u u guys are getting ripped off before it own eyes trust me I have nothing to loose by telling u truth
Ok. I think everyone agrees that you do a good job. But if a member makes a comment, I have to address it. It's not mean and the intent is not to make you feel bad.
The point is he has said u and others have said stuff and members and there not I have talk to members myself and it's lies I was just told lat week u Serena was sick of our shit and going to find someone else and we had not done one thing and this was in front of people and when I told him well I'll call Serena myself he got very mad and told me I better not that gym is worth way more the 40 a day u no that aswell as I do and no one should have to put up with him and it's not just work he was texting and call my daughter all the time until I seen he was married and put a stop to it he has been a dick since and last he dont tell u half that goes on there nor that gyms members don't like to see him and Venus making out aswell I'm telling u u Better open ur eyes Sunshine is no good and is going to cost u a lot u ant run a place like that u only no what ur told cause ur not there there really is no reason u should have to pay to have that place cleaned ur work hands should help u do it and be thankful to jobs are hard to come by these day but instead they watch tv all day and text until ur there then they get up and act o be working its sad I don't roll that way I take pride I. My work and when someone I paying u I believe u should do right buy them and lord knows I have for y'all I'm just feld up whole thing makes me sick put cameras up hidden and u will see telling u the truth I don't mind doing it but I need to do it at night and I no u don't want that so if u change ur mind and need me I will be glad to do it but as I said I will not have one thing to do with him nor answer to him he try's to make everyone look bad and the problem is him Smiley (the night front desk person) and ur lady that does kids is the only people doing right by y'all and that's the truth thy both no about everything there but are scared to say a word but I'm not Last we where told last week y'all where just going to hire a cleaning person for five days a week that stays at gym that came right from Sunshine I'm sure I have blown ur mind and I'm sorry but if it where my company I would like to no so letting u no
Ok. We'll talk tomorrow. For the record all I said was "can you remind Hazel to pull out the small roles of TP and put them in the closet for the kids to use".  What time at night do you want to come?  It's pretty busy until about 7. 
I would like to come about 830 that is all that would work for me cause I got a part time job to so I had to with gas being so high and I think it's worth $250 a week myself I think it's worth more then that but I will do it for u if u can work with me and u promise I don't have to have one thing to do with Sunshine  And I was doing that with towels and was told to stop let them run all way out so I was  It should be done at night because it would be clean for morning crew Let me no what u want to do cause I have to plan my week I have three houses tomorrow and need to no what I need to do
Ok. I think 250 is too much for what will be 1-1/2 of work. (8:30-10) I've tried evening cleaning but it didn't work that great. I'd try it at night but I know you want more $. On Friday, we close at 9 so I don't know what we would do on Fridays. 
Fridays we could come at 730 yes I think 250 is fair I have three people cleaning for that and we make 75 on one house in 1 hr I don't feel that's to much that place was never cleaned the way we clean it so I understand if u think u can find someone else for 200 then ok but I promise u it will not be done right jut let me no but even if we don't stay doing it I would like to talk to u
U have to look at gas to its went up .50 a gallon in a month so I mean u have to see it cost to do it I've went up on houses to 25$ a house have to
I'll try $225 if you want this week. You can do Saturday to make up for today. I know all about gas as I drive 45 miles to get to the gym. Looks like I missed a lot while I was gone for the summer. I definitely want to talk. Just enjoying the last day with my family.
Ok we will try it this week have fun with ur family call me tomorrow please

Reality check!  So now what do I do? 

Yes, you definitely have a reputation!

Hi! I thought we were clear on the behavior that I expected from you while you were in my gym. For months women have been complaining about you, now they are quitting. Your membership expired 3 months ago and you have not generated any personal training income. At this time, I think it's best that we part ways. I'll have someone take your pictures/flyers/etc down to the Jerry's office today so that you can pick them up.
Serena

Serena, well goodness you do notice post on Face Book, pitty you could not have mentioned any of my daily posts promoting the club. You really need to keep on top of your trainer, I know you think he is wonderful which is sad really as he is a liability his manners are bad and his training methods even worse. A personal trainer should be looking after his client NOT on his phone of chatting with others, Bad Showing for the club. Also someone needs to keep a handle on whoever is supposed to be cleaning the club and the machines. some have not been cleaned in weeks again not a very good indication for current or future members. I say this with a background of over 50 years in the industry, kinda passionate about peoples success in the activity. Some people will hurt themselves if their form is not corrected or as an older lady who did appreciate my advice mentioned that NO One had ever shown her how to use the machines. I could go on but it would seem that you know more about the gym industry than I and you are putting your trust and your club in the hands of people who are really not worthy.. Take Care

My trainer has a good group of clients and generates $4,000 a month in revenue, you have zero clients generating zero dollars. We have actually had several compliments on this trainer in the last couple of months since Jerry forced him to read "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. Perhaps you should pick it up. We are doing the best we can with a gym that we were forced to open and are doing surprisingly well. Your comments are duly noted, but you may want to take some of your own advice and see where you could improve. The one thing I do know is that when people start quitting I have an issue. I'm sorry it didn't work out.
Best of luck with your future endeavors,
Serena

Hi Serena, well at least I know who I am discussing things with, It would be much easier to sit and discuss in person rather than by message, but it seems that I have been dealing with the wrong person as my deal with Jerry was that I would promote the club at local networking events to generate awareness leading to membership sales from walk ins. That in return I would work ONLY with Serious folks re Personal Training and by appointment only, so as not to be spending many hours in the club as does your existing trainer. His $# of $4000 per month means that at around $50 per session he has approx 80 sessions. this would equate to 4 clients per day 20 days per month. ? what is his retention rate -showing clients like and see benefit from his teaching or is it all new folks signing up at the beginning whilst they are exited. Serena, I don't really know you but..... ? #1 Do you work out with weights. if so have you watched or worked with your trainer on the workout floor to see how your leaders are handling your clients. Either way I would love to spend a little time with you and perhaps discuss your aims for personal training in the club. ? #2 have you ever looked at my flyer or background - Which for some reason was placed in a back corner not real helpful in creating awareness to prospective clients. The information on the flyer gained me the coveted Green Card and the opportunity to come do what I do, here in the USA. Initially managing the then Gold's Gym. Now not knowing either your trainr real well I would be interested to learn more of his background as from watching their workout performances its a concern to the experience eye ( 50 years ) Serena its your club, as you say you guys got into the gym industry by kinda default, what Im offering is to help promote a neat club to make it even more successful than perhaps it already is. If you feel this might be of interest then message me back perhaps even a phone call.

Yes I have trained with him. While I appreciate your concern, you need to stop your witch hunt and look at yourself and consider the possibility that maybe things have changed in the last 50 years. Not one single person has ever come in saying you sent them, instead I have people coming to me and quitting because you have offended them. I've read your bio, you definitely have a reputation in the area. I don't want to discuss this, I want to move forward with my successful gym. Best of Luck to you!  (Notice I didn't say good reputation)

Mandelbaum causing trouble again

Gym Etiquette : ? Running in the weights area ..........
? If you saw someone Running in the weights area in your gym would you think this was #1 Dangerous.#2 An Accident waiting to happen cos of Weights, Bars and Machines. #3 Total lack of consideration for others working out. #4 Just Plain Dumb #5 Total Lack of Gym Etiquette ....Answers on a postcard ;-)

Comments from people who ARE NOT members
                Insane - howzabout skipping in the weights area with lunatic incompetent staff watching!!

                Hope they trip and and knock their teeth out on a sleeping member of staff.

Comments from Mandelbaum's wife also not a member

for what is worth....I don't think this post makes you seem like a jerk. Can't help it if other people don't share the same gym etiquette. Some people are just inconsiderate of others around them. Keep offering your advice to those who really want it. Don't waste your time on jerks. They ARE NOT worth it! 

And furthermore, only the guilty speak. Mandelbaum's statement did not say what gym.  

Comments from our actual members and the instructor who jogged through the area (which happens to be right outside the fitness room) to go outside and run laps around the bldg.

 If you have a problem, take it up with me instead of looking like a jerk and posting a passive aggressive comment like this.

Does streaking count? If so, I apologize....

I like watching you run! Motivating! :)

 

The thread:

Wife: I have one more thing to say then I am done! The above comment was a question NOT a statement. No names were mentioned. Read carefully....IT IS A QUESTION!!!!!!!

Member: I was chasing her with a knife.

Instructor: Just to clarify-this was for a boot camp class. We were not running through the weight machines, we were jogging, or lunging AROUND the perimeter to get to the stairs. And to Wife-what annoys me about the post is that he tagged my friends and co-workers at the gym, but not me. So, obviously he was being passive aggressive about me knowing his opinion, because I heard about this post through one of them. If he has an issue, take it up directly with that person. You have to agree with that.

Another member: Instructor's AMAZING!!! I love the gym that hasn't been mentioned!

Mandelbaum:  Yup folk No Names No Pack Drill. Well until J opened it up for comments. It was not aimed at a person it was an open ? RE : ? Running in the weights area ..weight training folks Do Not go into the group room in the middle of a class, so if one wants to Lunge or other wise why not stay within said room or take the group outside where they will not be a danger of someone tripping /falling into weights or machines or taking into account other gym members. If this had been done there would have been no need for the initial post........ next

Instructor:  Then I am dying to know why you tagged my friends in co-workers in this post? Why not just come talk to me?

Instructor:  You obviously wanted it known, or for me to get in trouble...so, why not just come and ask me about it?  I'm done with this.  If you don't want to talk to me, take it up with Serena.

Mandelbaum:  If you notice Serena was not included

 

FYI... Serena knows everything.  I've put up with him for months because he is 76 and I felt bad for him. He's british and does not use any punctuation.  He has no clients and spends his time in the gym pointing and laughing at people.  That's his method of gaining new clients - you'd think since he has zero clients he would try a different tactic.   Funny thing is it could have only been one gym, because mine is the only gym in a 30 mile radius that he has not been kicked out of... until today!

If your boss is your FB friend and you are supposed to be at work...

you may NOT want to update your status to:

My landing gear is about to touch down in Atlanta. Ready to party!

That is how I accidentally found out that this employee closed the gym two hours early. 

Showers used as Toilets?

Someone took a dump in the men's shower! Who the heck would do that? The cleaning crew wants a raise, LOL

Have I mentioned how much I love owning a gym?

Hire Tat's Wife??

So today Tat's wife calls and starts telling me her woes about Tat and Triple D and she has no place to live, blah, blah, blah...  As the conversation wore on, I had to cut her off...

I'm real good at the computer, maybe I could do some secretary stuff (with a fake southern acccent, she's from MD)

I'm real good with kids, I can work in the kids' club (same fake southern accent and should I remind her that DFACS doesn't think she's capable of having custody of her own kids)

I'm a people person, how about I can be the receptionist (same fake southern accent and have I mentioned the weapons charges?)

Ok, so, you'll keep me in mind in case anything comes up (same fake southern accent and have I mentioned we have a restraining order on her and she can't come within 100 ft. of the facility?)

Dentist... STAT!

Has anyone noticed Tat's teeth? 

Serena, those are meth teeth!  He's been back with Triple D and the rumor is she's in business again.

Miss Serena, you look like a vampire!

Hmmm, perhaps I should rethink the red lipstick after 40 thing.

This is a FITNESS CENTER not a GENTLEMEN'S CLUB

Hi,

I came in on Monday with an intent to locate a personal trainer and sign up for membership.

Your female trainer has not called me and your staff was not helpful nor prepared to encourage my joining.

You could sign up a lot more members if you worked on how prospective customers are handled.

I won't join your gym now and I have no desire to work with that trainer. If you want to improve and can take honest feedback then feel free to call me.

Kind regards, 

(SuperObese, Sweating Profusely, Creepy Guy)

Since I make it a habitat to respond to everyone, I have included my response below. Above is the actual original email - without his actual name of course. 
(Note:  He has not taken me up on my offer for a free training session and fitness evaluation.  I did research that strip clubs in the area may cost more than a 30 minute session with a "hot"  female trainer.)


We strive to encourage potential members to join because they truly want to improve their level of health and fitness.  The best thing we can do is provide you with the best options to get you to your goal the quickest. Our female trainer has specialized in training females and she is not suited to train a male client. Men will typically lift heavier weights and as a business owner, I need trainers to be able to spot their clients without injury to the client or to themselves. So it seemed we were at a crossroads in proceeding because a male trainer is best suited for your training and goal accomplishment and you specifically requested a "hot" female trainer. We would like to have your business but not at the expense of potential injury to my staff. If you would like to reconsider, I'm quite sure any of our male trainers would be happy to provide you with a complimentary training session and fitness evaluation.

Thank you for your consideration.

Serena

TRANSLATION:  YOU ARE REALLY EFFING CREEPY... GO GAWK SOMEWHERE ELSE!

Locked In

Actual text from member:

I know you are on vacation but Tat's kids are locked in his truck and it's 90 degrees!  I wanted to let you know because another member is about to call 911.

I don't even know how to respond.  Oh look at that, I just lost my signal...

Monkey Joe's or Athletic Club?

48 hours later I'm 3,000 miles away and I start to receive emails and texts asking me why there are kids climbing all over the gym equipment and something about toilet paper in the womens locker room...

Hey, It's Serena.  What's going on there?
Staff:  What do you mean? I thought you were in Alaska?
I am, but I am receiving weird messages about there being kids climbing all over the gym equipment.

Staff:  Ohhh... Yeah... Tat has been bringing his kids with him since you left.  Besides being in the gym, all over the equipment, the daughter toilet papered the womens' locker room and pumped out all of the soap, shampoo & conditioner and smeared it all over the mirrors and the lockers.  I've also heard that someone saw her going to the bathroom on the carpeted floor of the locker room.

Is Tat there?  Put him on the phone. NOW!

Tat: Hi Serena!  How's your vacation?

Well, it would be better if your kids were in the kids' club and not destroying my gym.  Seriously Tat, GET IT TOGETHER!  If those kids cannot stay in the kids' club they cannot come to work with you.  I do not want to hear one more thing about this while I'm on vacation.  And you can either clean up the womens' locker room yourself or you can call the cleaning lady and have her come in today and pay her yourself to clean up your daughter's mess. 

Tat:  I asked my daughter about it and she said she didn't do it. 

Half a dozen people saw her doing it and then called me.  She's lying to you.  Clean it up and keep her and your son in the kids' club.

Where the *&#@ is Tat?

Does anyone know where Tat is?  He has missed his first two appointments and isn't answering my calls or texts.
Staff:  He said something yesterday about having to take his kids somewhere
Really?  You'd think he would have called his clients and rescheduled.
Staff:  Uhhh... He might be avoiding you because he knows you're going on vacation tomorrow...

"You think you know EVERYTHING!"

Me:  I know you leave everyday at 12:30 and I'm paying you to be here until 2. 

Mean Lady:  (long silence with a shocked expression on her face)

Me:  So what's it going to be?  Do you want to part ways and I'll still be a reference for you?  Do you want to stay and going forward try not to offend children and their parents?  I'd like you to be here the entire time that you are writing on your timesheets.

Mean Lady:  Maybe if you would talk to your employees, you would actually know what is going on.

Me:  That's what I thought we were doing right now.  My issue is that two people have cancelled their memberships because "Mean Lady does not get along with my kids" and "Mean Lady seemed very annoyed that I brought my child in and he was the only one there, almost like she was trying to get rid of us because she had somewhere to be."  I checked their log ins and they were both getting here around noon, so I'm guessing that their perception was dead on.  If they worked out for an hour when they got here at 12, you would not be able to sneak out at 12:30.

Mean Lady:  You think you know EVERYTHING!  I'm done.

The Mean Lady

Me:  What's with that kid?
Staff:  Oh... Yeah... Well... (long silence)
Me:  Well, spit it out!  What is going on?  That is the second kid in two days that has pitched a fit when his mom is dropping off at kids' club.

Staff:  We've been seeing this a lot lately and the kids have been calling the daycare lady "the mean lady"
Me:  What is she doing in there? 

I can't believe you fired...

Well. first off I didn't fire her. She's on probation for reasons that I'm quite sure she would not like me to share with members.

Member: She just walked into the gym crying hysterically, saying that you had fired her.

Me: I just told you that I did not fire her. But I'm considering changing my mind because after I put her on probation for one week, she ran to the first member that would listen and started gossiping.

Member (shouting): You don't know what you're doing, she's great!!! The men at the gym don't like her because they're all pumped up on steroids and their "roid rage" makes them hate her. Blah, Blah, Blah... More shouting...

Me: Do you have a couple of minutes? Sit down. I don't feel comfortable sharing everything but let me give you a "glimpse" into my world... Members quitting becasue of bar fights, empty liquor bottles in the trash, disappearing acts, smoky!!, ...

Member: Oh, yeah... I guess I didn't look at the big picture. I think I'll get back to my workout.

Affair or Serial Killer?

So every day at 11:20 am, a member scans in (fully dressed in a suit and tie) and sits on the leg extension machine (not using it, just sitting) for about 10 minutes. Then he disappears??

Before we start, I'd like to say...

Tis the season in the gym business, so today was our first sales meeting. Yes, I know, it's the 12th of January. Today was the first day that everyone could get together, mainly because one person took off 2 weeks that turned into 3 weeks and didn't return to work until 1/6/2012. So when she stood up at the beginning of the meeting, I thought she was going to finish with "Thank you all for covering for me while I was gone. It was really nice to spend time with my family over the holidays and I didn't plan on getting snowed in up north." Instead she said "tomorrow is my last day." I said "What happened? Did you get another job? Again?" (Last time she quit for a job that literally did not exist.) "I applied for a part time personal training position at the competitor and they liked me so much, they want me to start Monday." "Okay, well... then TODAY is your last day. "