Vessell’s Fitness Complex
Success Story Of:
Robert Rogers

Vessell’s Fitness Complex annually hosts a cardio contest called Heart Smart, in which members are challenged to complete a goal within a month.  Their reward for accomplishing this task is a special Vessell’s T-shirt.  I have been told repeatedly, throughout the years, that the shirt is just the carrot to give you incentive.  Many members enjoy this challenge and we consistently have 100-150 finishers.  But what if the challenge took years to complete?  I wonder how many would still have the same incentive? 

Meet Robert Rogers a long-time member of Vessell’s Fitness and a life-long fitness enthusiast. Robert’s love for exercise goes back to grade school and except for brief lapses in his life, he has been committed to regular fitness. 

Robert got hooked on the Concept II Rower years ago here at Vessell’s.  He was originally a runner but due to deteriorating knees, he was looking for a new aerobic activity.  Robert loved rowing so much that he purchased his own unit for home exercise.  Concept II does a great job with regular newsletters and contests; some of the contests are competitive races against other age-similar participants.  Whereas, other contests are challenges to complete a set distance on your own.

Robert chose to participate in one of these challenges.  His particular contest was to complete 5,000,000 meters, (which equates to 3,125 miles).  Although it took 4 years to complete, Robert stayed steadfast with his goal.  He rowed and logged his efforts throughout this time and completed his efforts in the April 2006.   And his winnings.... a special long-sleeve shirt! 

Robert says that the accomplishment itself and the health attained makes it worth the efforts.  His encouragement to others is that regardless of age, keep active and keep going.  At 70 years old, I’d say he knows what he’s talking about. Robert’s weekly workouts include rowing 10k 3-4 times and weight lifting twice. 

On behalf of Vessell’s Fitness, we commend Robert for a job well done.  Make sure to note the shirt in this picture.  It represents one big carrot!