The XPO Trainer from a Coach's Perspective- Marc Z Fitness and Nutrition
We're excited for anther installment of our Coach's Perspective series! This time we interviewed Marc Zalmanoff, B.S. of Marc Z Fitness and Nutrition in Carrollton, TX.
Tell us a little about yourself, Marc!
I've been a fitness professional since 2003, and an independent trainer/business owner since 2007. I specialize in helping business professionals lead happier, healthier lives through improved fitness and nutrition. I currently operate out of CrossFit Templum in Carrollton, TX. My goal is to always be the best part of my client's day, and to make sure everyone leaves with a smile on their face! Fitness can certainly be challenging, but it doesn't have to be miserable. Regardless of age, gender, natural ability, or anything else, I have a great belief in all of my clients that they can achieve extraordinary things if they truly put forth the effort. Over the years, obstacle course racing has become a regular occurrence for myself (Tough Mudder, Spartan, Savage, Warrior Dash), and I have managed to have a large portion of my peeps participate with me. It's always a great group effort and really helps to push people outside of their comfort zones.
What benefits do you see when you or clients add sled training to a workout routine?
I've worked with the XPO trainer for several years now, as it provides a very versatile and unique element to training. When it comes to "cardio" equipment, variety is great for the people I work with. Because of the resistance given when more exertion is applied to the sled, it truly allows the individual to push themselves appropriately, and back off a little if necessary, all without ever changing the weight. When coaching in groups, this really comes in handy because I can partner people together and I don't have to worry about how much weight someone can do compared to the next person, since the motor is the great equalizer.
What makes the XPO Trainer different from other sleds you’ve used?
First of all, having great tires allows the XPO trainer to be used almost anywhere, something that's not always the case with traditional sleds. As much fun as it is to hear a metal sled dragging along pavement, not everyone is super appreciative of that! Obviously the aforementioned resistance of the motor makes the XPO a different challenge than most. My clients will say "Shouldn't I be rewarded for moving faster?!", to which I kindly let them know they ARE being rewarded...with a more difficult task that will make them better. I usually get a few "looks" after that comment. The XPO seems to be one of those things people dread seeing pulled out, but usually have fun with it once they get going.
What is one of your most memorable WODs using the XPO Trainer?
My gym is close to a local nature preserve, which has a 2.2 mile paved loop, complete with some lovely hills. Once a year my girlfriend and I take the XPO sled and head out from the gym, around the nature preserve, and back. We put two 45lb plates on the sled, a portable speaker, and off we go! We switch on the minute every minute until we're back to the gym. Total distance is around 3.5 miles, and it usually takes around an hour (so yes, that's about 30 minutes of pushing each). We get all kinds of awesome looks from passerby who either wonder why we look like we're dying since the sled has wheels on it, or others who simply look at us like we're crazy and give us that "better y'all than me" look. GOOD TIMES!!
Marc- thanks for sharing your thoughtful answers! That sled push around the nature preserve sounds like a tough one. We're so glad you enjoy incorporating the XPO Trainer in your clients' workouts!
Follow Marc on Social Media --
Instagram: @thefitnessninja | Faceboook: MarcZFitness