The A2F Journey: Building a Community Gym with Heart and Purpose

Can't Be Broken

Ever wonder how a devastating life change could become the catalyst for an extraordinary transformation? Meet Arlene and Mark Cherry, the inspiring husband-and-wife team behind A2F Gym in Rancho Cucamonga, whose personal journeys through heartbreak, depression, and physical injuries led them to create something truly special in the fitness world.
At 50, Arlene found herself in the depths of depression following the end of her 33-year marriage. It was her son who urged her to "forget the depression pills and get to the gym" – advice that would change everything. Meanwhile, Mark was navigating his own challenges, recovering from multiple surgeries that threatened to end his athletic pursuits. When these two wounded souls found each other, they didn't just heal together – they built an empire.
Their gym, A2F (Addicted to Fitness), isn't your typical fitness center. It's a 4,500-square-foot sanctuary where members become family, where personal transformation happens daily, and where judgment simply doesn't exist. "We turn ordinary housewives into bikini babes," Arlene shares with a smile, whether they compete or not. At 62, she leads by example as an IFBB Pro, while Mark brings decades of expertise as a master trainer who specializes in helping clients recover from injuries.
What makes their approach unique? It's their unwavering authenticity. They've weathered the storms that typically sink small fitness businesses – including the pandemic – by focusing on genuine connections rather than profit margins. Their community protects the special energy they've cultivated, and their members achieve remarkable results because Mark and Arlene see potential where others might not.
Whether you're battling your own personal challenges, considering a fitness journey, or dreaming of entrepreneurship, this conversation offers practical wisdom on overcoming fear, building resilience, and creating community. As Arlene powerfully reminds us, "Don't let fear hold you back from your goals and dreams. The acronym for fear is False Evidence Appearing Real."
Ready to transform your life? Take a page from the A2F playbook: show up, be consistent, and remember – it's never too late to become who you're meant to be.

Chapters

1. Meeting the Fitness Power Couple (00:00:00)

2. From Depression to Fitness: Arlene's Story (00:07:16)

3. Finding Love After Loss (00:17:21)

4. Building A2F Gym Together (00:28:53)

5. Training Philosophy and Client Success (00:40:11)

6. Overcoming Injuries and Life Challenges (00:53:00)

7. The Business Side of Fitness (01:02:35)

8. Training Tips and Advice for Competitors (01:12:34)

9. Nutrition, Supplements and Daily Routine (01:23:27)

10. Final Advice and Contact Information (01:41:50)