When Rosanne retired in 2013, she didn’t just stop working—she started transforming. “I needed to get more physical in my life,” she said. What began as a weight loss goal led to a 70-pound transformation, powered by personalized training and a commitment to health that hasn’t wavered.

But going it alone wasn’t sustainable. “I had a hard time figuring out what to do if a machine wasn’t available,” she shared. That’s when she discovered Prescription Fitness at the Gemini Center in Fairview Park, where her journey became more than fitness—it became family.

Finding Her Fit with Ben

Rosanne’s connection with her trainer, Ben, became the cornerstone of her consistency. They train twice a week at 8 AM—something she never imagined she’d stick to. “I’m not a morning person, but having the appointment makes me show up,” she laughed.

With Ben, her workouts are tailored to how she feels each day. “Today, I said, ‘Can we do upper body? I just did a 5K,’ and he adjusts. That flexibility means everything.”

From Falling to Finishing: A Comeback Story

Earlier this year, Rosanne fell during a solo walk. “I slid and fell hard,” she said. It shook her confidence. But instead of quitting, she pivoted. “Now I just focus on finishing and having fun.” That mindset shift became her new personal best.

She’s currently in what she calls a “rebuilding year.” Like a seasoned athlete, she’s giving herself grace while continuing to show up.

“I Live Alone, But I’m Never Alone Here”

For Rosanne, fitness is as much about connection as it is about strength. “I live alone, and this gives me somewhere to go to be with people. That’s huge.” She also walks twice a week with a multi-generational group of inspiring men and women—some over 70, one even 90—who’ve completed major marathons.

They walk at different paces but meet afterward for coffee. “It’s not just about the workout. It’s about knowing someone’s waiting for you.”

Strength Training for Real Life

Rosanne doesn’t train for aesthetics—she trains for life. “I’m having renovations done at home, and I can move boxes, lift things, and feel capable.” That daily strength carries into her races too. Even when walking workouts fall off, strength training keeps her endurance up.

Strength training also gives her the vigor for playing with her 4, 3, and 2 year old granddaughters that she watches 2 days a week, and well as keeping up with her 12 year old granddaughter.

She’s realistic about aging but optimistic about her future. “I’ve seen people my age who can barely move. I don’t want to be that. And if something happens, I believe I’ll heal faster because I’ve stayed active.”

The Joy of Movement—On Her Terms

Rosanne’s fitness journey is authentic. She’ll tell you she loves arm workouts. Burpees? Not so much. “Thankfully, Ben’s never made me do them,” she laughed. Mountain climbers and jumping rope are also on her no-thank-you list.

What she does love are the little touches—like hearing the “Rocky” theme at races, getting a popsicle after the Bay 5 Miler, and having volunteers cheer her on, even when she finishes near the back.

Celebrating Progress, Not Perfection

Rosanne has done a 10-mile Hermes race and is considering a big goal for her 70th birthday. “Maybe I’ll try a half marathon. Maybe not. We’ll see.” Right now, she’s meeting herself where she’s at—and that’s enough.

Why It Works: Community, Coaching, and Compassion

What keeps her going? “Accountability. Encouragement. And knowing someone’s there.” Her son, an inactive Marine now working law enforcement, is proud of her progress. “He told me, ‘You’re doing good, Mom.’ That meant a lot.”

She adds, “Prescription Fitness works for me. It’s helping me stay strong, stay connected, and stay moving.”

Inspired by Rosanne’s journey? Start yours today with personalized training that meets you where you are—and helps you go further than you ever thought possible.