Michael’s Body Scenes is a unique gym. That’s one of the reasons many of us are members of the “200” club—people who joined when the doors first opened and are still around 15 years later. Our membership numbers are in the triple digits, and we’re proud of that!

“It’s friendly, cozy, well maintained and well managed,” says Stephen Barnett, 62, a business consultant who has been a member since 1993. That pretty well sums up why MBS has been the diamond in the rough when it comes to the big boys in the neighborhood. Chain fitness centers just can’t do what Michael’s does for its members.

“It’s always been my home away from home,” says Alyne Cole, one of the bright spots at MBS since 1989. “When my mother died, the staff was very supportive. I wasn’t afraid to cry openly because the club is family to me.

“And when my son, Seth, was overseas in Iraq, everyone checked in on me to see how he was doing,” the attractive kindergarten teacher recalls. “I was a basket case, but when I went to the gym it took me away from my worries.”

“The teachers are phenomenal and caring,” Cole continues. “I watch them approach members working out and give them tips and compliments. Steve Heyer, Jason Morss and Bryan Sussman go out of their way to make you feel special.

“When my mother was ill, I began what Oprah calls a ‘grateful journal’ and one of the entrees emphasized how grateful I was to have the people at MBS to support me both emotionally and physically.”

Cole says she’s thrilled to have Fotis Papamichael back at the gym.

“He’s got such an open personality,” she says.

Gloria and Logan Pierson are also long time members. The dynamic duo have two teenage sons who frequently join them at the gym.

“Michael becomes a friend,” says Logan, 50. “When the owner is on hand and personally oversees the operations, you know there’s going to be a difference. He’s very caring and helps you achieve your goals. For years I concentrated on just keeping fit and watching my weight. But last year I set new goals.. I wanted more muscle and Michael worked out a program that changed my body—at age 50!”

Gloria works out on her own to develop strength and stamina.

“We have a home in Wyoming where the boys and I go hiking and fly fishing,” she explains. “It’s pretty grueling and I need to be in shape.”

Her boys have a punch card that allows them to work out when they want.

“It’s perfect for teenagers,” says Gloria. “We think that Michael’s is one in a million.”

Howard Greenberg, that tall handsome fellow who does yoga and Steve’s step class, is a 47-year-old who holds number 149!

“I’ve been with Michael since the first days when we did high impact aerobics,” Greenberg, a computer software expert says. “I feel that the caliber of teachers and classes is far superior at MBS than anywhere else, from weight training to yoga.”

Jan Savarick is another bright light at MBS. The 53-year-old bundle of energy once belonged to four gyms at the same time.

“There is no question that Michael’s has the best classes in the area,” she says. “The instructors generate energy, enthusiasm and excitement.”

Jan loves the spinning program so much, she recently became certified to teach.

“Michael’s feels like home,” she says.

Brigitte Kumpf’s diminutive and toned body belies her 61-years. She’s been a member since 1990 and says that she’d never go anywhere else.

“Besides the fact that I love the gym and I adore my trainer Michael Frank, I am impressed t the charitable work Michael’s does for the community,” she says. “That loving feeling shows the moment you walk into the gym. Everyone smiles at you.”

Rona Siegal is another member who has been on board since the beginning. She’s had rough time physically for the past few years, but she says that the staff has been wonderful, despite her inability to take classes.

“Leslie always greets me when I can make it to a yoga class,” the pert and pretty 53-year-old says. “The gym has been my sanity.”

And Shellee Berman, a 58-year-old crossing guard who has been in the “front row” for many years says that it’s the only gym she’s found where the instructors are so hands on.

“I do a variety of classes, from kick boxing to step and all the teachers are great,” she says. Shellee and her oldest son, Daniel, often work out together.

“You get the feeling that the staff really cares about you, and that’s an important factor in the business where most gyms are so impersonal,” she says. “I’ve made fast friends at the gym, too. As a fitness instructor myself, I can truthfully say there’s no place like MBS.”