Retired Couple Works Hard at SKC

Former Captain of the Seattle Fire Department Peter Aoki and his wife, Lanell, who used to work for the city of Seattle, first gave SKC a try around the holidays when they purchased memberships as a Christmas gift.

Peter was recovering from a hip replacement and his chiropractor recommended kettlebells. While they had bells at home, they didn’t really know what to do with them, but now the couple is swinging bells like pros multiple times a week!

“I honestly didn’t think we needed to spend any money on a gym,” Lanell said. “Because we can run, walk, climb up the stairs, but now I think it’s just wonderful. As you’re getting older, if you should spend your money on anything, it should be your health and fitness.”

When they took our intro class, their instructor was Hailey, and the couple agrees that her fun and positive personality made for an enjoyable first class, and it didn't take long for them to fall in love with the club.

Lanell notes that since joining SKC, she’s gained more muscle and feels stronger doing yard work and other chores at home. The couple also participates in the Base 2 Space, and they are optimistic SKC’s pro kettlebell training will help with their annual journey to the top of the Space Needle. Pretty impressive considering Peter just turned 60! 

“I want to go into the next decade being healthy, so that’s another thing that bring me here,” Peter said. “It seems so old in my mind, and I just want to stay in good shape.”

“Paul (SKC trainer) said exercise is a way extend your warranty on your body,” Lanell adds.

Peter and Lanell have made their visits to SKC a part of their physical and social routine. They commute all the way from Lake Forrest Part 3-4 times a week, get coffee, come to the noon KettlFIT class, and take a walk around Greenlake. Sounds like the perfect couple's Kettle Date!

“Some people will ask why we go all the way to South Seattle to work out? We tell them we’re a part of this super special club, and they should come too!” Lanell said. “You just feel good about yourself. And I’d also like to say I think the club is beautiful. I want everyone to do kettlebells here!”

Thank you making SKC a part of your lives, Peter and Lanell!

-Camille Borodey