Page 42 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2016

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PHYSICAL & FISCAL FITNESS life changing LIKEFATHERLIKESON
Astory by Susan Ruddiman photos by James Edward Bates
photo of him and his wife posted on a social media site made Justin Roland, 34, decide it was time to lose weight and get in shape.
“I joined Bayou View Fitness the next day after seeing that picture,” Roland said.
That was on Jan. 27, 2015. Within two days, he got his father, Ron Roland, 66, to join. Almost a year later, the two
men have collectively lost more than 160 pounds. Justin Roland says his 60-pound weight and 13-inch waist loss are the result of his consistency and stubbornness.
“I made being at the gym part of my schedule. It’s open 24 hours, so I can always get in. There’s room to move in there, and regardless of my fitness goals, they have the equipment I need,” Roland said. “In April, I’ll be in a body building competition at IP Casino.”
Joff Clarke, who co-owns Bayou View Fitness with his wife, Michele Clarke, said the Rolands are one of many success stories he has seen over the five years the facility has been opened. Those successes are a result of the “nice, safe, traditional fitness center that promotes being able to keep in shape throughout the year and throughout a lifetime,” Clarke said.
Bayou View Fitness has a limited membership, and Justin Roland likes being able to work out there and not fight a crowd. The equipment is kept clean, it’s up to date, and the facility is kept at 72 degrees for comfort. They cater to professionals in a non-intimidating environment with locked areas and security monitors. Couples and families are encouraged to join, and there are discounted rates for them as well as senior citizens, policemen, firemen, military and corporate members. Certified trainers are available to assist you in achieving your fitness goals.
“This fall, we took the initiative to change out our entire line of treadmills because we want to offer the best possible equipment for our members,” Clarke said.
Roland says he and his father wouldn’t go anywhere else. “I feel like a new person. Bayou View Fitness has been a key part of this, combined with my nutrition changes. Joff and Michele are outstanding people,” he said.
Justin and Ron Roland make working out a part of their every day life at Bayou View Fitness in Gulfport.
BAYOU
VIEW
FITNESS
1116 Cowan Rd., Ste. D, Gulfport 228.896.0888 www.bvfgulfport.com
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • January 2016
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