Marc – Boxing, Martial Arts

• name: Marc
• age: 37
• occupation: Motor Truck Driver/Fitness Trainer
• sport: Boxing and Martial Arts
• currently live: Chicago, IL
• workout favorites: cotton t-shirts, biker shorts with gym shorts over

At 37, health and fitness are huge priorities in Marc’s life. “I love feeling good. I know that I’m getting older and I want to live a long, healthy life…I want to be around for my daughters,” says Marc.  His interest Marital Arts and boxing started when he was 14, but he has taken both sports most seriously in the past 10 years. He holds a black belt in both Hapkido and Tae Kwondo from Jang’s Martial Arts, Master Mijung Jang,  and is currently amateur boxer and a fitness trainer at Jabb Chicago boxing gym.

He’s got quite the workout regime as he hits the gym seven days a week! This includes strength training and speed/agility work 3 times a week, boxing 2 times a week, martial arts 2-3 times a week and getting into the ring at least once a week. He describes himself as an “endurance and cardio freak” and we couldn’t agree more!

Helping to train, coach and push Marc to the next level are Michael Garcia, former pro fight and current Jabb Trainer, and Alfredo Cruz, trainer at Export Fitness. These are two key people that really know how to motivate and encourage him to dig deep. Marc has his eyes and gloves set on the upcoming Jabb Chicago “Fight Club” boxing event on February 25, 2010. (Good luck Marc!)

Marc has a personality that is as impactful as his punch. Both his energy and positive attitude are truly contagious. At Jabb Chicago, he trains clients of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels.  He is an advocate for creating and building a healthy lifestyle. “I believe in getting your heart rate up every day…in being walking up a flight of stairs without being out of breath.” He teaches his clients the same nutrition he practices himself – a healthy breakfast, snacks, lunch, decent dinner (even cheat days). Something he is most proud of is being able to translate his talent and passion into teaching and training others. “I’ve learned how to make it not about me. I now share my knowledge with others.”

Outside of the gym, training and spending time with his daughters and wife, Marc loves to dance! His specialty is hip-hop, but he has also taken classes in everything from beginning dance to tap. This year will be his fourth year performing at the Christine Belpedio’s School of Dance recital in May. (Be sure to come out and show your support!)

New Year’s Resolutions? Marc is definitely a believer. This year he’d like be more organized and aggressive towards what he wants to accomplish. Long-term, it is his dream to own his own private boxing and training studio.

Marc was excited about the opportunity to participate in this photo shoot and the fact that Jockey was giving the spotlight to real athletes. Athletes who may not have ever competed in college or been giving the opportunity that others have. “People who work a 9-5 and need to sneak in a workout an hour before and after…Athletes all have different paths, but we’re all seeking similar goals. Jockey has taken that different path.”

Workout advice from Marc:
Eat a decent meal (not too heavy) about 90 minutes before your workout. Your body needs fuel! Plus, drink plenty of water before, during and after.