For more than a year, Maluyo, a computer software trainer, has been a member of Try Fitness!,and takes pride in her accomplishments.

Try Fitness! was founded by KC Carlberg in 1996 and is tailored for women. It offers eight training programs that combine cycling, running, triathlon training and general fitness, and is conducted in group or one-to-one sessions.

Carlberg designs programs for beginners to advanced athletes, whose members' ages range from 14 to 75.

Carlberg, 40, is a personal trainer who has participated in triathlons for 15 years.

"My basic philosophy is that good health is at the center of an improved quality of life," Carlberg said. "Being stronger and (physically fit) gives us an increased awareness of our potential ... and increased self-esteem."

Muriel Fujii, 53, of Manoa, said she enjoys participating in Try Fitness! because of the camaraderie it offers, and it helps her get over her "fear and loathing of exercise."

Fujii also is a member of a gym, but prefers meeting with Try Fitness!.

"At a gym, mostly everyone is doing their own thing and sometimes in classes there can be a negative competitive vibe," said Fujii, an English professor at Honolulu Community College. "(However), at Try Fitness! ... there is a very supportive atmosphere."

Carlberg is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine and the American College of Exercise, and also is a USA Certified Triathlon coach, as well as a Spinning instructor.

"One of the most important factors is finding a coach who will motivate and challenge you ... all of which KC does so well," Fujii said.

Maluyo said she appreciates the welcoming atmosphere of Try Fitness!

"Carlberg believes that everyone is an athlete no matter what level of fitness a person is at ... you don't even have to be a size two," she said.

For Maluyo, joining Try Fitness! also added a bonus. "Since joining Try Fitness!, I have a new appreciation for the public parks and state trails that we hike. Sometimes when we do a trail, it's like rediscovering paradise."

Try Fitness! produces the Na Wahine Sprint Triathlon in September and the Off-Road 8K Challenge race, held in December.

Carlberg also is the race director for the 28th annual Straub/Kapi'olani Women's 10K race on March 6.

Reach Oscar Hernandez at oscar_photography@yahoo.com.

Training clubs: Finding one that fits your needs

Here we are at the start of 2005, and perhaps you like many others, are seeking to fulfill your New Year's resolution by lifting yourself off the couch that has molded to the shape of your body.

Perhaps you considered joining a gym, but don't want to be pressured to sign on a dotted line that will ensnare you like a cell phone plan.

But you lack one important factor that prevents you from tying on your fitness shoes: motivation.

Well, procrastinate no more. In the following weeks, you will be introduced to a few training clubs/groups that will cost you less than a gym membership, and the only contract you have to deal with is your own will to succeed with your New Year's resolution.

Tips

• A good way to find information on fitness clubs/groups is to check out fliers at your local sporting goods store. Most groups have informational fliers that provide a brief description of the types of fitness activities they offer.

• When considering a group or club, ask if it offers a free trial period (most clubs offer this) to see if the training group would be a perfect fit for your needs.

Upcoming

The Advertiser will be profiling the following fitness/running clubs on O'ahu. Schedule is tentative.