Meet Myke Murry of HBO’s Corporate Fitness Center

May 6, 2009

As part of this blog, I want to introduce people from various aspects of the health and wellness industry. It will range from industry insiders to vendors and even members. Our first interview is with Myke Murray from HBO, the premier cable channel.

Corporate wellness is one of the fastest growing segments of our industry and one of the least examined. Companies often implement fitness centers within their facilities as a executive/employee perk. In reality, a well run fitness facility, like the one Myke runs at HBO, can be much, much more.

I’ve known Myke for a couple of years, and for those who have had an opportunity to meet him, you will know his enthusiasm is truly contagious.

Myke Murray
BS Physical Education, emphasis in Exercise Science, Delaware State University; (21) year experience

” Sixty minutes at the gym should be more than just work. It should be something you look forward to because all work and no play makes for a very long day.”

As a fitness professional, my objective is to give you the knowledge and necessary tools to live a healthy yet functional lifestyle. It is important to me to help you understand how exercise and proper nutrition can greatly improve your overall quality of life. I believe that along with realistic goal setting, motivation, consistency and a positive attitude will directly affect change. I like to introduce fun and play into fitness routines which will work miracles whether your goal is fat loss, muscle gain, rehabilitation or sport specific training.

Tell us about your facility?
We are located in mid-town Manhattan, The facility is about 5500 sqft. There are roughly 600+ members. This is a full service facility just for full time employees. We provide members with commercial club amenities and services; Group ex classes, Personal Training, Nutritional counseling, Massage, Acupuncture, Reformer Training, Yoga, Pilates and intramural sports.

What is the difference between a commercial club and corporate fitness?
At most commercial club you’re only as good as you latest EFT and PT Package. In corporate fitness our job is to keep the employees happy and healthy through personal interaction and follow up.

In one line tell us your philosophy for exercise?
Make it fun and worth your effort!

What are some challenges that you face on a daily basis?
Managing the new member waiting list. The request for new membership is awesome!

What’s one piece of equipment that you can’t live without?
Members

What is your next major purchase?
Treadmills, Espresso bikes, elliptical, functional strength equipment.

How do you market to the employees?
Internal intranet and word of mouth.

What is the biggest mistake people make when working out?
Wanting every thing to happen today, making changes takes time, persistence and discipline.