Brothers Get Fanatical About Fitness at Springfield Studio

Three seems to be a magic number for the Zanetti brothers. The trio of former Ivy League wrestlers has developed a fitness program, 'Z-Fanatical,' that takes a three-dimensional approach to wellness.

The entrepreneurs focus on exercise, nutrition and mindset. Jeff Zanetti said it's that third component that eldest brother, Gene, with a master's degree in sports psychology, brings to the table that can make all the difference.

"Gene gives a short mindset lesson in each class," he explained. "He asks people to think about their goals, what foods they're going to avoid that week. He gets them to start thinking about the total package. It's a more holistic approach. There are a thousand diets out there and most of them don't work because they don't take the mindset into account."

The Zanettis started Z-Fanatical Fitness over two years ago, offering classes at area gyms. While they've been hosting their high-intensity workouts from 8:30 to 9 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at USA Karate & Fitness for over a year, the exercise gurus have recently started a corporate wellness program.

What makes Z-Fanatical unique, Jeff explained, is that the program requires no equipment or weights, making it perfect for busy workers on the go. Springfield's Mack Camera recently treated its employees to a series of post-work sessions and the feedback so far has been only positive.

Nikole Landavuru-Garcia, in her fourth week of the program, said she feels energized after each workout. "I like it; it's fun," she said, "and it's definitely getting easier each week."

Gene explained that what's nice about a group of employees exercising together is that they motivate one another outside of the class as well.

"They're encouraging each other," Gene said. "They eating better. They're not going out to McDonald's for lunch anymore. I've done some research and obese employees can cost an employer anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 more annually. They're out sick more often and they're less productive. That all affects the bottom line."

Gene said because Z-Fanatical takes a holistic approach, attendees leave the classes with their goals in mind. "They feel better and they start to have a better body image and they feel good about themselves and that spreads," he said.

Nick Estevez, who took the class for the first time Tuesday, said he had heard about it from his co-workers and wanted check it out for himself.

"I saw them getting ready and I thought I should try it," he said. "I'm definitely looking forward to getting in better shape."

In increments of 10 minutes or less, each set isolates one muscle or muscle group such as abs, legs, and arms. Classes can vary in duration, Jeff noted, from 30 minutes to 60 minutes. The cost to employers for a series of workout sessions is negotiable as well depending on class size and length. 

Z-Fanatical also offers five levels of varying intensity. Jeff explained that during their wrestling careers, he and his brothers were constantly striving to improve themselves and "jump levels." The goal of the program is for its members to burn fat, get stronger, and build endurance, which, in turn, increases their overall wellness. 

Throughout the class, Gene encourages attendees to believe in themselves and offers positive, motivational messages. 

"It feels good to be fanatical," he said.

For more information, visit Z-Fanatical's website, or email zfanatical@gmail.com.