Couples that train together

When Gerri and James Lane retired, instead of slowing down, they chose the opposite, beginning a strength training program geared toward helping them move better, stand taller and check things off their bucket list.

As doctors—she a gastroenterologist, he a cardiologist—the couple understands the science behind aging well. However, as Gerri jokes, “Knowing something and doing it are two different things.”

Now in their 70s, the couple made a decision to stay active as a shared priority.

This led them to MaxStrength Fitness, where the highly personalized approach to training resonated with them.

“The professional staff is encouraging, friendly, enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable,” says James. “The twice-a- week, 20-minute sessions are built on precision and progression. Everything is tailored to us.”

Back in the Swim of Things

For Gerri, the results have been lifechanging. She has had bilateral knee replacement and spinal fusion following years of suffering from osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis.

“I had noticeably started to stoop, and my gait was tentative,” she says. “After training here, people started commenting on how I was walking more upright. And my knees feel strong. I used to avoid stairs and now I take them without huffing and puffing or feeling sore.”

James reports the training has also improved one of his bucket list items: swimming.

“We took it up after retiring and now swim faster and farther,” he says, noting they began swim laps in an 86-foot pool. “Strength and balance are important to me, and so is endurance.”

Together they’re making every step, and every stroke, count.

Meet the Trainers 

With diverse backgrounds in sports training and physical therapy, the group of trainers at MaxStrength Fitness brings motivation and energy to the studio. 

Studio Manager and trainer Marina Borden studied exercise physiology at Cleveland State University, where she played soccer. 

“Much of my knowledge comes from hands-on experience working in a physical therapy clinic, combined with years of training and applying those principles myself,” she says. “I’m passionate about continuing to spread the message behind what we do. I truly believe in our approach and in helping people feel stronger, move better, and gain confidence in their bodies as they age.” 

Here are the other members of her team:

Christian Lupia - “Over the past year, I’ve dedicated myself to studying and applying the super-slow training protocol, developing a deep understanding of its principles and how to use it to help clients build strength safely and effectively.” 

Giovanni Lupia - “I’ve always been drawn to health and fitness, and helping people has always been important to me. This training style is the safest and most effective way for me to support others while doing what I’m passionate about.”

Arielle Sweeney - “My fitness journey began when I trained myself to meet the demands of the police academy. That intense and rapid transformation showed me that fitness is just as mental and spiritual as it is physical. It inspired me to help others unlock their full potential through purposeful training.”

Austin Jurgens - “I have a lifelong passion for fitness and movement. Before becoming 

a trainer, I worked as a rock-climbing instructor, where I developed a strong foundation in functional strength and grip training using a variety of specialized tools.

MaxStrength Fitness

33705 Station Street, Solon

440-692-2345

MaxStrengthFitness.com