Testimonials

" When I met Robin Marion I was what some would call an experienced runner. However, I was not whole in my fitness journey. I was injury prone, I was eating unhealthy more than not. After connecting with Robin, she taught me how to train smart. She taught me that I didn't have to beat my body into the ground to be successful in a race or achieve my goals. She taught me about proper and realistic nutrition. After previous injuries, Robin successfully trained me for my 5th marathon, injury free. Velvet & Steel training helped me to successfully meet the swim time requirement in an Eagleman/Ironman Triathlon. The day before writing this message, I completed the NYC Triathlon. As I write this, I practically have to sit on my hands to remain still, because I feel well enough to go for a six mile run, right now. Average ain't enough, I've personally Witnessed The Fitness."

Crystal P

"Results! I love them and that's what keeps me coming back! I love VSF. I've had setbacks and had fallen off from attending the training sessions...but when I come back, I'm home again! The variety of exercises and challenging myself to push through is always worth it! I brag about Robin and tell people that think they're in great shape that they need to attend classes at VSF and see what she's offering! No muscle goes untouched! We are a family and work hard, but we have soooo much fun!!"

Priscilla

"Robin is an outstanding master of her craft; She is an incredible no nonsense trainer who is committed to genuinely helping her clients with their health and fitness goals. She is focused on making sure her clients achieve their personal goals and she truly believes "average in not enough". Every workout in the studio is different and challenging. It's never a dull moment in her classes. Robin has completely changed my mindset when it come to fitness. I have never felt stronger or healthier since attending classes about a year and a half ago. Robin is passionate about fitness and it shows through her energy and enthusiasm. She is a motivator to push you past your perceived limits to get results. Robin is the real deal and does not compromise on her values. If you are serous about fitness, Robin is your girl!"

Tatonya

"Robin Marion of Velvet & Steel Fitness, LLC has not only transformed my body but my view of myself. I have been running for 6 years now but one year ago I realized that I wouldn't achieve my running goals without adding strength and conditioning workouts. I did 4 marathons in 54 days and felt a bit wiped at the end of the season. In the last year, Robin has radically altered my muscle tone and strength level while enabling me to do 5 marathons in 39 days with no injuries and feeling perfectly fine the day and week after each marathon. My time for my last marathon was only 6 minutes slower than my first and I ran comfortable talking the entire way. Robin was beyond skilled in accessing exactly what I needed week to week as my mileage climbed and as I got stronger. Robin kept my workouts challenging but fun and each helped build my confidence in what I was doing. There is no one I respect or believe in more when it comes to helping others achieve their fitness goals. Now you need to listen and do your part but it if you do you will be amazed of what you will accomplish. This coming year I am pushing the envelope and going for 12 marathons and I know that Robin will get me there."

Lydia Shell

"Robin Marion of Velvet & Steel Fitness, LLC has been been my secret weapon for all things athletic. I have been overweight since childhood. I then began running less than 3 years ago. At that time, I continued to get great informal advice from Robin concerning running technique and nutrition, which was a great support to me during my first year of running.

But then -- I decided to set higher goals. I wanted to become a triathlete and I had a full marathon on my list of goals. There was only one hitch -- I found out I was pregnant with my second son. About two months after giving birth, Robin was waiting to take me to a new level by crafting my strength training -- I call it "The Velvet & Steel Special". As a result of being one of her clients, I've now run countless 5Ks, five 10-Milers, seven half marathons, and most recently my first full marathon just two weeks ago - 8 months post-partum. I also finished three triathlons over the last year. More importantly than the finishes -- Robin ensured that I ran less, strength trained more, and maintained proper rest days so that I could meet all of my goals injury free. I know without a doubt that I couldn't have done it without Robin's expertise and support. I was more than thrilled to see her face at the finish line of my first 26.2.

Velvet & Steel has helped me to maintain a 72 lb weight loss. I am sure that Robin will get me to my next big goal -- Ironman 70.3. Keep watching Robin's awesome work."

Shaunna Payne Gold, Ed.D.

"What I appreciate and admire most about Robin Marion, owner of Velvet & Steel Fitness, LLC, is her comprehensive lifestyle approach to fitness. Robin embraces the philosophy that physical fitness is about much more than cardio and strength training--she stresses the importance of an overall healthy lifestyle and provides me with tangible ways to achieve it. Robin maintains amazing currency in her field. Advancements in fitness happen every day. Robin makes it her business to stay on top of what's new or improved and then she uses it to complement tried and true approaches to helping me meet my goals. She's a walking database of information and knowledge! I dare you to try to stump her! Above all, Robin is an INCREDIBLE motivator. She told me that I could do a mud run, complete a duathlon (after not being on a bike for 25+ years) and run a marathon (26.2 miles!). I gave her the "side eye" each time.... but guess what? With hard work, a plan and tons of support and encouragement from Robin, I DID IT each time! Got some new goals on tap for 2014 and I know that with a trainer like Robin they are most definitely within reach! I'm with Velvet & Steel Fitness for life!"

Natasha

"It has been twelve years that I have struggled with my weight. I was diagnosed with Hypertension and taking medication. After about six months, I was taken off my medication, so I knew that I needed to keep on this track. What I truly admired is Robin understood what level I was at that time and explained the exercises while providing any of us with modified versions to help us meet our goals until we reached the next level. She gave us challenges that always pushed us outside of our comfort zone so that we could see that we could do more and that changed a lot of my negative views about exercises into positive words. She helped me build a stronger and healthier body. After working with Robin, I believe that everything is possible, if you are willing to put in the time and work. Thank you so much for all of your support, advice and knowing that you are a product of what you preach!!"

With much love, Yvonne Hawkins

"I am a former college football player that has been involved in some sort of exercising for sport since I was nine years old. I had always been driven to be the best I could be. I lost that drive and focus when I went to law school. Spending 20 hours a day, seven days a week, for three years either in class, studying in the library, or working to gain legal experience, left little time to work out. During that time, the vending machine became my friend. After law school I tried to regain that passion I once had for working out, but it always felt like a chore. That was until I met Robin and began working out at Velvet & Steel. Robin has inspired me to be a better, healthier husband and father to my two sons. She keeps my workouts fun, interesting and challenging. I get constant encouragement to test my limits and bust through any mental blocks I have. Since working with Robin I have seen a significant decrease in body fat and a significant increase in muscle definition. Her custom workouts and nutritional plans are just what I needed to get going again. I would recommend Robin and Velvet & Steel to anyone looking for a healthier lifestyle because she listens to her clients’ needs, wants and goals, and then architects a custom plan to help you reach them."

Charles Adam Gold II