Meet Marie

When Marie Twiss opened her Christmas gift in 2023, she didn’t expect it to be life-changing. Inside the package was a membership to MVP Sports Clubs in Holland—courtesy of her four sons. At first, her reaction was less than enthusiastic.

“When they gave it to me, I’m not going to lie, I was a little resentful,” she said. “I felt judged, like my sons thought I was out of shape and needed help getting to the gym.”

But that single gift set Marie on a transformational fitness journey that would redefine her life, health and confidence.

Marie’s membership included 10 complimentary personal training sessions. She began working with Kortney, an MVP personal trainer who quickly became a cornerstone in her new routine.

“It was inspiring and motivational, because I knew somebody cared and was paying attention to what I was doing,” Marie said.

Personalized attention and consistent encouragement helped Marie overcome initial doubts. After completing her first 10 sessions, she signed up for 40 more—determined to stick with it.

During a brief break while Kortney was on vacation, Marie explored MVP’s group fitness classes. She started with the Well-Fit series, assuming it would be an easy introduction. Instead, she found herself unexpectedly challenged.

“I was shocked because everyone was kicking my butt!” she said, laughing.

With Kortney’s support, she kept going. Soon, Marie added Zone Training with Tim to her schedule. After borrowing a heart rate monitor for her first session, she was so motivated she bought one of her own.

Her passion didn’t stop there. Marie expanded her weekly schedule to include TORCH, Barre, and cycling classes. Each new workout pushed her a little further and helped her build lasting habits.

In May, Marie discovered Zumba with instructor Regina. It was a turning point.

“Regina is such an inspiration,” Marie said. “I have been a dancer since I was four, and this class brought back my love for it. I haven’t danced in so long.”

Inspired by her rekindled love for dance, Marie joined Regina’s Body Pump class and even began studying to become a certified Zumba instructor.

While fitness was the catalyst, the supportive MVP community played a vital role in Marie’s transformation.

“It makes it much more than a workout. It becomes a place for true social connection,” she said.

From fellow members to instructors like Kortney, Tim, and Regina, Marie found encouragement everywhere she turned.

“I have people come up to me and comment on how amazing I look and how incredible my journey has been,” she said, wiping away tears. “I could not have done it without Kortney.”

Marie now attends MVP Holland regularly and continues to challenge herself beyond the gym. She has completed multiple 5Ks and is currently training for her first half-marathon this fall.

Since receiving her membership, Marie has lost more than 158 pounds and regained the energy and vitality she thought she had lost.

“My whole life is changed. Before, I was a couch potato, and now I feel like I am 20 again,” she said, beaming. “It was the best gift I have ever received.”