September Spotlight on Martha Sharp!

SPOTLIGHT ON.....MARTHA SHARP!!

For more than 12 years Pumps Fitness  has been a part of my life.  I have attended other facilities and programs but never found the right fit.  During this time of my life, my two boys had entered middle school and fifth grade.  I found myself with a little more time to re-focus some attention on myself and Pumps Fitness was a wonderful spot to land. 

I grew up on the edge of Valparaiso.  I lived in Center Township on one of the last remaining farms, a Dairy farm, in the township. I attended Purdue University and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education.  In 1985, the summer after graduation I began my Master’s Degree at Valpo University and was hired as a first grade teacher by Valpo schools.  I wound up teaching at Hayes Leonard Elementary where I attended Elementary school as a child.

David and I were married in June of 1985.  In 1987 we bought our first home in Morgan Township.  Together with my husband, we bought a small business, The Teacher Store, in 1989.  Our first son, Steven, was born in August of 1990.  Our business began to bloom and our second son Andrew was born in 1993.  That was plenty in a six year period, but life really gets even busier with kids, business and all the fun that comes with it!

Somewhere during PTO, Room Mom and athletic schedules I discovered Pumps Fitness. What began as exercise and a move to healthier lifestyle became fun and enjoyable, something I looked forward to each week.  Working out and exercise became a social gathering as well, due to the friendly and supportive atmosphere.  I’ve gained many friends and acquaintances.  We have shared joys and sorrows together.  These friendships and their support have been an added benefit to my membership.  In 2011, on Mother’s Day, I had unbearable pain in my right arm due to a bulging disc in my neck.  Again, the strength and stamina which Pumps Fitness had provided me made my recovery move along better than expected.  Again, support from my exercise friends and personal training allowed me to feel better quicker.

I am currently enjoying my experience at Pumps Fitness under the leadership of Ian and Michelle.  They have brought an added level of adrenaline to the business and still manage to keep the strong core values of their predecessor, Sandie Hendrix.   Workouts can be challenging and soothing.  There is enough variety of classes offered that I can always find one to fit my mood and energy level.  The programs are always rewarding.

My boys are now in their twenties and we are in the last year of paying college tuition.  David and I still must work hard in our business, but we are also enjoying our renewed time together.  Each week, as we make our plans, he knows that my visits to Pumps are always great for me! Thank you Pumps Fitness.