Welcome to Athena Fit, your online personal trainer

WHAT'S CAROLYN UP TO?

EXERCISE DESCRIPTIONS

Featured Person JOANNA KOLODZIEJSKI
When I met Carolyn I was fat and unfit, disconnected from my body and my spirit, and afraid to try anything that would take me out of my comfort zone. I remember watching my daughter climbing outdoors and asking Carolyn, "Can I do that?" I shook with fear and excitement as she answered with her characteristic certainty, "YES!". Having a genuine fear of heights I never in my life envisioned myself doing something as crazy as leaving the ground to climb a cliff, but I knew at that moment that Carolyn was somebody I wanted to work with to get over that fear. What a journey it's been. Carolyn has pushed me to do what I've been sure I was incapable of. With her encouragement, patience, and undying sense of humor I have become a climber. By pushing myself to get outside and hike in the Sandias I have not only discovered a way to use my body as it is meant to be used but have also found a connection with Mother Earth that sustains me through difficult times. Carolyn has enabled me to learn that being fit goes way beyond slogging through mindless gym workouts; it is something that must tie together mind, body and spirit. The benefits have extended into other areas of my life. I have truly become "empowered", finding the courage within that has led me to end a lifeless relationship and take on a management position at work. I am better equipped to get through the downs by remembering the incredible gains I have made over the past several years. And, if I do forget, Carolyn is always there to put things into perspective for me!

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Joanna Kolodziejski high on a beautiful sand stone wall, Moab UT, during a "Climb like a Girl" clinic with Carolyn.

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WHAT THEY HAVE TO SAY:

I’m giving you the chance to look fate in those pretty eyes of hers and say; “Step off bitch. This is my party and you’re not invited.”

- Chris Shugart

Anything worth doing is worth doing well or not at all.

- Lord Chesterfield

Face your fears they are the single thing that holds you back.

- Carolyn

MORE GREAT PEOPLE ...
MELLA SKOW See her also at Accents by Mella! Born into a family of Southern women I was raised to believe that ladies don’t sweat. Needless to say I grew up to be a statuesque 6’2” klutz who knew how to “glow” without breaking a sweat. Although this fact made my family very proud, when I met Carolyn I became the black sheep of the family and I LOVE IT!! Carolyn has an amazing way of helping me push my the fitness envelope and exposing me to new and exciting goals that I never dreamed were within my reach. I have a new level of confidence and look forward to every workout with Carolyn – I can hardly wait to see what I can accomplish next!!! I tease Carolyn that she doesn’t have to worry about retirement because as one of her dedicated clients she will never be able to retire because I will always want to have her as my fitness guru. I owe Carolyn soooooo much not just for elevating my physical fitness but my mental fitness as well. back to top	Not only does Mella love to climb these days but she prefers the Ice. Here she's swinging like a pro in Ouray CO.
DAWN CROCETTI owner and creator of Black Cat Baubles! QUESTION: Why do I keep coming back and paying you to inflict your own unique brand of sadism on my body? THE EASY ANSWER : Total, unadulterated 'girl crush' THE LONG ANSWER: You are an inspiration. In this culture of big boobs, artificially acquired washboard abs and needle-plumped lips, you are the breath of fresh womanhood that I needed. You prove that it is totally possible to be awesome on the wall and still be beautiful, both physically, mentally and philosophically. I always look forward to working with you and hearing of your exploits has encouraged me to try things I never would have before meeting you. I consider it an honor and truly a privilege to train with you and get all proud inside when I can answer someone by saying "Carolyn Parker is my climbing coach (insert goosebumps here)". Thanks for the inspiration. back to top	Dawn Crocetti sending!
ANNA BAUDINO "The supreme accomplishment is to blur the line between work and play" - Arnold J. Toynbee Carolyn's ability to motivate me beyond what I am capable of is something I admire, as well as appreciate greatly. I started joining Carolyn twice a week during her personal workouts. On days where everything felt hard or I just wasn't into it, Carolyn pushed me to do that extra bit, which also enabled me do things I had never done: 1) A pull up (now I can do five in a row!) 2) A hand stand (they're not pretty, but fun none the less) 3) run uphill for 7.2 miles (so hard!) Five years later I am able to channel Carolyn's motivation on days when working out is the last thing I want to do, and have a smile on my face while doing it. back to top	Anna on a backcountry ski tour with Carolyn, Mt. Taylor, NM.
CAROL CRAIG I use to think that I was a disciplined athlete until I met Carolyn. I started training with Carolyn in 2002 and she has helped transform not only my running but also my mind set as an athlete. My running performances were not what I wanted them to be and I had no idea how to change that. I knew from my first session that I was very fortunate to have an elite athlete developing my training plan with me. Carolyn understands female athletes and their specific needs for specific sports. She was able to diagnose my areas of weakness and create an effective training plan. I feel like I am a more complete runner now because I understand the nutrition, strength training, and recovery pieces to running. My natural pace has improved. I no longer plod along on my runs. I have learned the value of doing every exercise with correct form. I have expanded my physical activities to other sports. Carolyn has pushed me to limits that I did not think I was capable of reaching. She continues to guide me through my personal development as well. I have achieved my goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. I just ran 9 miles with a group of women runners who are 16 years younger than me and they all commented on my speed. I wasn't tired. I have been well trained. There is obviously a lot more I could say. Personally, I think you have changed my life. You are compassionate and honest and an inspiration to woman athletes. back to top	Nine marathons to date, and doesn't plan on stopping!
MICHAEL PENDLETON I egotistically thought I had plenty of knowledge when it came to working out. I had competed in bodybuilding since I was 19 years old, played scholarship rugby, competed on the American Gladiators and had a long history of Chiropractic practice dealing with sports injuries and rehabilitation. Well . . . Carolyn Parker changed all of that for me in an instant. She has helped me rehabilitate both shoulders (torn Supraspinatus tendons) with Russian Kettle Bells. She has shown me proper lifting technique that I have passed on to my patients. Needless to say, at 41 yoa, she has helped me stay in shape for those things I truly love; skiing, mountain and road biking, teaching spin class, hiking and an occasional rugby game. Her knowledge of so many different training techniques is the best. I never, ever get bored and look forward to our weekly workouts, and I actually miss our workouts when she is off traveling the world! I also refer many of my patients to Carolyn for the simplest of things as stabilizing their cores or for my world class athletes who are looking for something and for someone committed to what she is doing. I hate her during the workouts, but love her after words! back to top	Big Daddy P, feeling the pain! What repetition is that? 100 did you say?
DOROTHY KAMMERER Exercise is a way to feel the strength and control of your body, and to use your mind to overcome physical obstacles in the training process. The sense of accomplishment from small increases in strength, endurance and flexibility give confidence that carries over to interactions in daily life. The ability to climb a 5.11 or a 20,000 ft peak is the realization of long term goals and hard work as well as the knowledge that almost anything is possible with perseverance, and of course, an excellent trainer who works with a person on an individual basis to realize these aspirations. Standing on top of a peak or a rock formation gives a sense of inner peace, fulfillment, and energy. As John Muir said: “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will blow their freshness into you and the storms their energy, while care will drop off like autumn leaves.” Thanks for all of your help (Carolyn) in achieving these things—couldn’t have done it without you! ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 5.11a Yellow jacket plus 5.10d Skin walker in one day—on site 2ndOn site leading Epinephrine (5.9), Crimson Chrysalis (5.9), Prince of Darkness (5.10c) and SW Ridge of the Needle (5.8)Two back-to-back grade IV+ climbs in the Sierras (12+ hrs AND 3000-5000 elevation gain each day, plus a bear!) This is the biggest achievement, I think, in terms of physical endurance….And, many others: climbing and skiing in France, Peru, Ecuador, Switzerland, Yosemite, etc……maybe someday, Nepal! back to top	Dorothy a.k.a. "DKD", doin' it with Style. Her favorite motto "Climb High"!
TERRI REDMAN Quote: "ever since I started training with Carolyn I feel like a have a lot more GRRR!" My up coming goals I hope to achieve in 2008 and beyond with the assistance of my friend Carolyn and others I'm sure: 1. stay as injury free as possible 2. get strong enough to do an Ironman August 2008 in 12 hours or less 3. Have fun doing this :) Accomplishments: 1. survival 2. perseverance to overcome extreme fear of heights even though I'm still a bit of a screamer. Thanks for everything Carolyn! back to top	In 2007 Terri began conquering her fear of heights and improved her PR in the Half Ironman by 31 min!
AMY BECHTEL Amy's testimonial is merely this... the pictures say it all! back to top	Amy's "after" photo!
JOANNA KOLODZIEJSKI When I met Carolyn I was fat and unfit, disconnected from my body and my spirit, and afraid to try anything that would take me out of my comfort zone. I remember watching my daughter climbing outdoors and asking Carolyn, "Can I do that?" I shook with fear and excitement as she answered with her characteristic certainty, "YES!". Having a genuine fear of heights I never in my life envisioned myself doing something as crazy as leaving the ground to climb a cliff, but I knew at that moment that Carolyn was somebody I wanted to work with to get over that fear. What a journey it's been. Carolyn has pushed me to do what I've been sure I was incapable of. With her encouragement, patience, and undying sense of humor I have become a climber. By pushing myself to get outside and hike in the Sandias I have not only discovered a way to use my body as it is meant to be used but have also found a connection with Mother Earth that sustains me through difficult times. Carolyn has enabled me to learn that being fit goes way beyond slogging through mindless gym workouts; it is something that must tie together mind, body and spirit. The benefits have extended into other areas of my life. I have truly become "empowered", finding the courage within that has led me to end a lifeless relationship and take on a management position at work. I am better equipped to get through the downs by remembering the incredible gains I have made over the past several years. And, if I do forget, Carolyn is always there to put things into perspective for me! back to top	Joanna Kolodziejski high on a beautiful sand stone wall, Moab UT, during a "Climb like a Girl" clinic with Carolyn.
MARK MADRID Mark was bold enough to leave this up to me so... In all seriousness, I 've known and trained Mark for years now I will do my best to quantify all that I have seen him achieve. In percentages: he has increased is Cardiovascular endurance measurably, by at least 20%, dropped over 20 pounds, increased strength also by 15 - 20%. Maintains a regular training routine that includes weekly circuit training with Kettle bells with yours truly, Yoga, cross training in the Sandia Mountains outside Albuquerque, climbing, and regular running. He has adapted his nutrition to a whole food diet, and continues to improve his health through the guidance of a D.O.M, chiropractor and massage therapy regularly! And...well no matter how hard I beat on him he keeps coming back! back to top	"What did you just call me Mark? " "A CPB that's what I thought." 50 more for you.
SUSAN ROOT I've had persistent health problems, with multiple sclerosis and postural hypotension the ones that have caused me the greatest trouble. I've tried conventional medical therapies for both but found the side effects of treatment worse than the disease. On my sister's recommendation, I tried working with Carolyn. I'm now healthier than I've been in years, and actually have some strength in my arms! (which was unimaginable before I started). Carolyn not only works your body into shape, she helps re-mold your mind to help you believe that improvement is possible. I'm now looking forward to a healthy second half-century, and I attribute my current good health to Carolyn! back to top	Susan actually "likes" the rowing machine!
JANE MOODY I train with Carolyn for a lot of reasons. Primarily it is the professionalism. Carolyn takes her job seriously and expects you to take your health and fitness as seriously. I have learned that achieving the desired results are guaranteed if I am willing to work hard. Since I began working with Carolyn I have changed physically, I am stronger, I can do things I've never been able to do and as much as I'd like you to think I'm in my thirties I'm not, that makes it an even bigger deal. She has helped me see that I am strong and I am an athlete. The scope of her talents go beyond workouts, she has had good advice for healing from injuries, not accepting illness or weakness or negative physical change but opened the door to fixing and healing, not medicating. I truly appreciate her dedication and expertise, even if I hate her some days. back to top	Jane cranking out the 18" box step ups + 26lbs of Kettle Bells!.
JUDY TALCOTT "Nothing I say does you justice...but here goes". I've experienced many firsts with Carolyn: my first marathon, my first pull-up, my first time rock-climbing, my first awareness of my triceps…all over the age of 45! As a busy mom and business woman, my weekly work-outs with Carolyn help keep me sane and focused. To celebrate my 50th birthday, she guided me up the Knife Edge of the Shield, in the Sandia Wilderness; which challenged me mentally and physically. That's the great thing about Carolyn, after 5 years of work-outs she keeps pushing me to new and higher limits! back to top	Judy Beckes-Talcott climbing the Knife Edge of the Shield, 5th class, 4000 vertical feet, 9 miles. She did the Sandia Crossing the same year, 28 miles.
ERIKA RIMSON Testimonial - oh...I'm always so sore after working out with Carolyn :) People see me working out and often ask, "What are you training for? Are you doing another marathon?" My response is, "I'm training for life." Working out with Carolyn has improved my overall strength, balance, range of motion and confidence in my physical abilities. She always keeps it interesting and pushes me much farther than I'd ever push myself. I even encouraged my 69 year old basketball playing mom to start training with Carolyn. back to top	Erika working the Dynamax Medball, strong like bull, slender like panther! Don't mess with this one.
DAD I think it's probably more appropriate for a daughter to write a testimonial about a father. I am proud of my father who continues to work hard and grow through his life. In the last five years I have seen him do things many people half his age wouldn't attempt. Sailing in Greece, the Caribbean, the San Juan Islands, summiting two of Colorado's fourteeners, Wheeler peak summit 13,160ft the highest in NM, a climbing ascent of Cabezon Peak, NM; many solo hikes in the Sandia Wilderness including an 18 mile single push. I have no doubt he will continue to thrive and strive, I am still try to get him out Ice climbing though maybe for his 70th! Love you Dad! back to top	Dad on the summit of Santa Fe Baldy, 12,622ft.
TOBY FEDORAVICIUS I have not been an easy client. I am/was an out of shape, 65 yr. old, physically challenged (bad knees), complaining female who was not dedicated to exercise. In fact I did not like exercise at all. Carolyn has been patient, knowledgeable, understanding, fun and very encouraging. I am stronger and in better shape now than I have been in 15 yrs. Three years later, I still complain, but not as much and am thrilled with my progress. I actually miss going to the gym and workout frequently on my as well as with Carolyn. I am really grateful to her! back to top	Toby the ever smiling, even when working hard!
MARTE LIGHTSTONE As I approached mid-life, I decided to learn a new sport, climbing. Unsure of how to get started, I had not quite figured out what to do when two trusted friends and expert climbers from Vermont and New Jersey sent me an email recommending Carolyn as a guide and teacher. That was a moment that I will never forget. I knew of Carolyn’s reputation as a climber and athlete. I also knew that learning a brand new-sport required expert instruction and it would be less intimidating working with a female coach. Under Carolyn’s expert instruction, I have been learning a wonderful, complex and challenging new endeavor. Along the way I have grown in strength and overall fitness and am having fun. It is rare to find an expert who can also teach. Carolyn is a truly gifted athlete and an exceptional instructor. If you are interested in exploring a new level of fitness – I highly recommend Carolyn Parker. back to top	Marte checking the width of the crack she's about to climb, Moab area "Climb like a Girl" Trip 2007!
KYLIE HOSKEN QUESTION: Why do I keep coming back to AthenaFit? ANSWER: I keep coming back because of Carolyn. She is not just my teacher, she is one of my best friends. Every week she continues to motivate me to do my best, not just in rock climbing, but in everything I do physically, mentally and emotionally. She helps me with my problems on and off of the rock. Carolyn is so fun to be around; she makes everything enjoyable. Plus her great laugh will make you smile and laugh along with her, which is always a nice thing to do after a long, tiring day. I truly benefit every week from spending time with her and climbing, and who wouldn't want to go back after that?! back to top	Kylie and Toby, and brother Mike out cragging with Carolyn!
ROUSHON TALCOTT I've been rock-climbing with Carolyn for 5 years and I absolutely love it! I can lead, boulder, top rope, and belay, all thanks to her. She's a lot of fun and makes me work hard, too. She always challenges me to be the best I can be even when I "hate" it, like working abs and stretching my hamstrings, ugh! Most importantly, Carolyn has taught me no "sissy girls!"	Roushon bouldering with Carolyn at Stone Age Climbing Gym.
DAVID BERNSTEIN My testimonial: I keep coming back to the abuse that Carolyn is able to dish out because she always makes it fun, she challenges the whole body, and keeps telling me that a girl can do it (of course she means her, which infuriates me even more). I am in better overall condition, which allows me to pursue my athletic endeavors with greater success. back to top	David heading in for a weekend of backcountry skiing in Southern CO. Day two was a brillant day summiting Hayden Peak with incredible snow conditions for the "down"!
ARLENE RIMSON "Looking Ahead" I wanted to improve my basketball skills and reluctantly began working with Carolyn. I expected to be intimidated by her, but Carolyn's "tough" but caring demeanor motivates me beyond my expectations. At my age (almost 70) I may be limited in what I can do, but Carolyn's encouragement keeps me - "Looking Ahead!!". back to top	There is no stopping this one, getting and giving some with a shoulder strengthen med ball drill!
CLAIR WEBER Emails and quotes from Clair: Hmm 1 hour with Carolyn equals a 6 hour hard mtn bike ride… Should you charge by the amount of pain you inflict? This hurts at "1"! Yippie, had to do an ice massage on my legs last night… a good feeling? more to come... back to top	Carolyn just loves making me do the Farmer Carry!