ISSA HONORS CHAMPIONS OF HEALTH AND FITNESS—AT THE OLYMPICS AND AT HOME

Posted At : August 7, 2008 12:34 PM | Posted By : ISSA
Related Categories: Press-Room

August 7, 2008 - Carpinteria, CA - As the world celebrates the athletic achievements of its citizens at the Olympics this month, the International Sports Sciences Association would like to honor all fitness professionals from every nation that have helped these athletes reach Beijing. Often, the services that personal trainers provide these athletes help get them to the games and, in many cases, the podium.

ISSA would like to encourage individuals who champion health and wellness in their own spheres of influence to further their commitment to fitness by turning their passion into a career as a personal trainer. From August 8 through 24, students can enroll in any ISSA fitness certification for $100 off each course enrollment--more than 15% off the normal cost.

As public outcry grows louder for the current U.S. healthcare system to shift its focus from treatment to prevention, Dr. Sal Arria, ISSA CEO and co-founder as well as a doctor for the US Track & Field team at the 1984 Olympic games, adamantly believes that health and fitness professionals will play a critical role in the healthcare system of tomorrow. As a result, ISSA has chosen to develop certifications that address the needs of special populations--including sports conditioning, youth fitness, senior fitness, fitness therapy, and nutrition. OTHER ISSA CHAMPIONS In addition to founders Dr. Sal Arria and Dr. Fred Hatfield, the ISSA is proud to include among their ranks several senior staff members and advisors who have had the opportunity to work with literally thousands of athletes worldwide – many of whom have gone on to impressive careers. Two notable standouts are ISSA professors Dr. Jack Barnathan and John Schaeffer. Dr. Barnathan serves as chiropractor to a host of pro and Olympic athletes including Dara Torres. John Schaeffer, MFS, MSS, MPN, serves as a trainer to several prominent Olympians, including Apolo Ohno, Allison Baver, Liam Ortega, Giddeon Massie and Mark Fretta.

About ISSA Since 1988, the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) has provided certification and continuing education to more than 100,000 wellness professionals in 85 countries around the globe. The ISSA offers a core personal training certification as well as eight additional specialized fitness certifications.

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Dara Torres has been my patient / training partner and most of all friend since 1999. We all can be proud that her training follows all the principles found in our ISSA Classes in cities around the country! Actually, in November during my NY City ISSA Certification class Dara was in NYC and tried to make it to our class, but couldn't because of scheduling difficulties. In that amazing class was former Olympian Dr. Manuel Sanguily, star of the 52' and 56' Olympics. Dara called to send her regards and send Dr. Mani an autographed photo and shared how she admired his work, along with the fact that he was now in his 70's, still competing in Masters Swimming competitions, and to top it all, becoming an ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer!

So cheer our friend Dara as she makes history at the age of 41 in her 5th Olympics!

"Citius, Altius, Fortius."
Swifter - higher - stronger,

Dr. Jack

# Posted By Dr. Jack Barnathan ISSA CFT since 1991 | 8/8/08 11:05 AM

Simply put Dr. Jack is one of the most inspirational and truly good guys I've met in over 40 years of sales (Merrill Lynch,Cushman and Wakefield)and recently as an ISSA CPT.I am priviledged and proud to call him friend.Richard Wheeler Capt.USMCR

# Posted By rich wheeler | 8/12/08 1:57 PM

Intriguing, motivating, inspiring, and intelligent; may I say no more? These words are only a few that describe and give justice to who Dr. Jack is and what he stands for. Likewise, every student of Dr. Jack's - through the ISSA as well as his own work - is left on the edge of his/her seat wanting more. Lastly, he is a true, honest man and an educator who has one goal, one mission in mind; to give his students the best and to make sure they all leave with the mindset of success.

# Posted By Sarah Naugler | 8/14/08 4:08 AM

The inspiration I receive from the ISSA is truly remarkable. However, having the privilege to know and watch Dara Torres in this year's olympics has given me a new and increased perspective on the meaning of inspiration, determination, and motivation. With Dara 9 years my junior, age is no longer an excuse nor a crutch for not striving to do my best. This is just magnified by the training and guidance I receive from a man I consider the best in his field; Dr. Jack Barnathan. If this isn't hitting the trifecta (ISSA, Dara Torres, Dr. Jack) then I don't know what is!! Thank you!!

# Posted By Ernie Razzano | 8/14/08 6:52 AM

As a former competitive gymnast and coach for over 16 years, it was only natural for me to become ISSA certified. I meet Dr. Jack 5 years ago in Chicago as I came prepared to take "the test".
I had no idea the impact this man would have on my life that day! His enthusiam, positive atittude and motivation has helped guide me into the development and start of my own fit club, COMMIT 2 FIT Inc.
The passion that pours out while talking about former Olypians he has trained, particular the amazing Dara Torres, you can't help but get excited. As a competitve, athletic 40 year old women,
Dara inspires and motivates me to climb higher and higher in my own workouts. I speak of her often in class to my fabulous ladies letting them no age is only a number look what she's accomplishing!

Be present in your thoughts & desires.

Mary Abel
President of COMMIT 2 FIT Inc.
xtremefitclub.com
mary_abel@msn.com

# Posted By Mary Abel | 8/14/08 1:25 PM

I have been in the fitness industry for 20 years but the day I met Dr. Jack 7 1/2 years ago is the day I realized why. He has been instrumental in my path to success and has fuled my motivation and drive
to fullfill my own dreams! I have had numerous amounts of media opportunites and opened doors that I accredite to my experiences with this amazing mentor! I have recently been signed to write a
self help motivational book and have also been brave enough to focused on my passion as a motivational speaker and start my own personal training, fitness education enterprise!
You can see the people that stem from his wisdom and philosophy...they are of great stuff! You can see it when you meet them, you can see the light in their eyes. Much like Dara, full of character and
drive. Strong will, great work ethic, determined, but well rounded and still focused on priorities, like family. The ISSA is the umbrella that houses this group of champions I am proud to represent them in
Chicago! Lets bring the Olympics and our team here in 2016 and make history yet again!

# Posted By Staci Lynn Boyer | 8/14/08 3:16 PM

Dr. Jack has done a wonderful job of motivating us all. I'm so proud to tell everyone that I received training as well as inspiration from him. And now, more so, during the Olympics. I don't miss a chance to watch Dara Torres. Reaching 100 never looked so good. "Thank you, Dara, for your inspiration! We're there with you!!!" I am 10 years older than Dara but feel better now than when I was 20. I turned my life around with Dr. Jack's

# Posted By Johanna Nikkels DiFranchesco | 8/14/08 5:39 PM

Dara,
Dr. Jack is the best ! With his knowledge and training as well as all
the suppor t from all of us (ISSA members) the Giold metal is yours.
Think positive, envision your goal, and enjoy the rewards, we are all behind youand will give you the extra wind beneath your wings to achieve GOLD!!!!!!

# Posted By marie baron | 8/14/08 5:56 PM

Hi Dara,

You are truly an inspiration to us all. Your groundbreaking Olympic quest is proof positive that we all have a choice in life. You have shown us that we all have the opportunity train both our bodies and our minds to continually improve as we travel on our journey through life. During your events, may you swim as you have never swum before.

# Posted By Jim McNerney | 8/14/08 5:57 PM

Through ISSA I learned the fundamental lessons that have helped me provide clients the best scientifically based fitness practices available today. I had the pleasure of learning from their best, Dr. Jack Barnathan throughout my career. Dr. Jack's continuing education courses provide the best in fitness instruction, but more importantly inspire us to take action in whatever ways possible to improve lives through sound fitness and wellness practices. Dr. Jack is on top of his game, its' no surprise Dara Torres continues to be on top of her game. Continued success to Dara throughout the Olympics, she has earned it!

# Posted By Edwin Torres | 8/14/08 6:22 PM

To both Dr. Jack and Dara,

You are what the world is in desperate need of...people we can truly look up to and be proud of. I'm proud to be a member of both ISSA and NY Strength and couldn't find a better mentor, friend, and older brother inluence than Dr. Jack. And having two daughters now, I am so happy there is a role model like Dara out there. My oldest is only three, but I make sure she knows she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to, and I site Dara as one of the reasons why. It's an honor to hail from the town where your historic road to the Olympics began to unfold, and a TRUE honor to be connected to you. From all of us at DragonFire Strength and Fitness, good luck!

# Posted By Jason Tivis | 8/14/08 6:47 PM

Passion, my favorite word. Dara, it must be your favorite word too! Dr. Jack, yours too! I am 50 years old and I am still convinced I will be able to make a career change and join all the fitness professionals of this planet. Dara, you are an inspiration to me! If you can still kick butt at 41, then I certainly can reach my goals! Dr. Jack’s passion comes through loud and clear at his seminars and I just purchased Dr. Jack's Nutrition CD and his passion comes right through and pumps me up! How awesome is that! I love the fitness world! Dara, I am so proud to be part of the same organization as you are. I “brag” to my friends I am part of yours and Dr. Jack’s circle of fitness friends. Best of luck to you, but even more, Enjoy the Moment! How sweet it must be for you. Lucky for the ISSA, we get to "share" in your wonderful accomplishments. GO USA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

# Posted By Colleen Janicik | 8/14/08 7:03 PM

Dara Torres is truely the most inspiring person I know of. You cannot just say "most inspring athlete." That would leave out the influence she has on so many as a dedicated mother to Tessa. Even with that said you are leaving out the fact she has shattered anyone's expectation of what a 41 year old athlete and mom could accomplish. She has it all (and model gorgeous on top of it all!)

ISSA and Dr. Jack Barnathan have given me the tools I now cherish. I never think of my position as an ISSA Trainer as a "job." This is a life! I am able to help people change their lives with fitness and nutrtion. I would be living my dream if it were not for the knowledge and guidance I have received from Dr. Jack and ISSA. Thank You!

Now Dara, with the world watching her, is providing so many women, men and children the finest example of what is possible with proper training and healthy living! Of course there's loads of talent there too.

Dara, Best of luck to you in the 50M! We are all behind you! My daughters Erica and Lauren will be watching with me. I may even remind them that I almost beat Dara Torres when I was 12. :D

# Posted By Heather Hagan | 8/14/08 7:03 PM

After several years of having the oppurtunity to get my ISSA certification (and didn't finish), I discovered a class course at Seneca Falls Chiropractic Clinic. Dr. Jack's "class" was the BEST!!
The knowledge and inspiration from him is awesome!!!! Dara is so supported and has all the strength and energy to do it (physically and mentally). She is and inspiration, I am certainly part of her cheering team.
Dara, YOU CAN DO It and I look forward to watching you, someday hope to meet you.

# Posted By Sherry Gilbert | 8/14/08 7:23 PM

Dara,
You are an inspiration to all of America and the world. I also know that the strength and wisdom you have will prevail. Bring home the gold and show the world again that a true champion always will aspire. I am truly honored to be an ISSA trainer and a student of Dr. Barnathan in this exciting, history breaking olympics. I share this enthusiastic event with all my clients. GO!!!!!!! DARA!!!!

# Posted By Paul Cesario | 8/14/08 7:26 PM

Dara - you are truly an inspiration to us all. You are a shining example of exactly what we are capable of when we make the connection between our mind and our bodies. This is your moment to shine and make history and I will definitely be watching and cheering from afar Dara. May God bless you on your journey to bring home the Gold!

# Posted By Brenda Rahe | 8/14/08 8:12 PM

Dara~You're an amazing woman! You're right, water doesn't know your age. You've shown all of us we can do anything as long as we keep believing we can.

You're daughter is so lucky to have you.
Best regards,
Julia LaTorre

# Posted By Julia LaTorre | 8/14/08 9:07 PM

YOU ROCK DARA!!!! I tell everyone one of my clients about YOU and Dr. JAck and because of Dr. Jack I know you so very well and the amazing WOMAN YOU ARE. yOU ARE JUST NOT A WONDERFUL SPORTS ICON BUT A TRUE INSPIRATION TO EVERYONE, I am 48 and just starting my career in fitness after many years of my own health issues and fear of success, BUT YOU DARA have set within my soul and passion a drive to be the best at whatever I set my mind too!!!!!!
Your drive, passion you give NO MATTER WHAT. YOU ARE AUTHENTIC AND TRUE AND YOU GO YOU BEAUTIFUL WOMAN!!
Dr, Jack knows my passion about Don Quixote and the Man From La Mancha. YOU ARE THAT GODDESS FEMALE WHO IS LIVING DREAMING THE IMPOSSIBLE AND YHOU STAY STRONG AND KNOW THAT YOU HAVE SO MANY PEOPLE CHEERING YOU ON.
Many Blessings and Prayers to you and the entire Champions you are with, that I mean EVERYONE!! My prayers and blessings don't know race, borders, color sex anything that is for EVERYONE!!!!!
Love & Light be around and within you ALL,
Marcelle Sherman Oaks, California....

# Posted By Marcelle Angelo | 8/14/08 9:41 PM

Dara as a trainer of NY Strength I have had the pleasure to hear of your many accomplishments and I really look up to you as an idle for women, especially moms, to show that age doesn't matter but it is the determination and the strive for success that matter. You have shown us how it is never to late to fulfill your dreams or to add to the accomplishments that you have already made. I wish you the best and hope to meet you and possibly work next to you one day as a trainer. Good luck!! You will do great!
Many Wishes,
Cat Capozzola

# Posted By Cat Capozzola | 8/14/08 11:24 PM

Dara -- Wishing you the best of luck from an ISSA trainer in Buenos Aires, Argentina! You are an inspiration to all people, in fitness, the Olympics, and beyond!

# Posted By Mersal Z | 8/15/08 4:36 AM

Dara - You are an inspiration to all of us masters-age athletes. To have the discipline and passion to train as you do - and to have the patience to rest and recover, per the teachings of ISSA and Dr. Jack - gives us a great example to follow and one to point to for our fitness clients. May you knock the socks off the competition!

# Posted By Andrea Lurie | 8/15/08 5:53 AM

The ISSA has just exceeded my expectations as a trainer. I first got into fitness and weight training about 16 years age. I also started training in the art
of okinawan karate about the same time. I became an instructor in the martial arts about 10 years ago and owned several schools. Just recently I changed
direction a little and became a certifed fitness instructor with the ISSA. I looked at many different programs and chose the ISSA. I was able to attend one of
DR Jack's classes with them and I was hooked with the ISSA and Dr Jack. He is one of the most motivational and giving people I have ever met. Anyone can
achieve their goals with him behind them. Hearing the stories about DARA TORRES from Dr Jack has also been motivational. I share them with my clients and
one of them has decided to enter her first marathon at the age of 45. These are the people that make ME want to be a trainer. DARA good luck this weekend.
Your the greatest.

# Posted By Dave Conklin | 8/15/08 7:29 AM

It has been and honor meeting and working with Dr. Jack; thank you to him and the ISSA for making the teachings of Health and Fitness so interesting and amazing.

Congratulations to Dara and good luck at the Olympics! It is truly an inspiration to watch an athlete compete and do so well knowing that she is doing it the right way; all natural. We wish her all the best and want her to know she makes us proud to be associated with the ISSA knowing she too follows the same beliefs.
Thanks Dara for being such a motivation; you have fans in WI!! GOOD LUCK!

# Posted By Amanda Ingwell | 8/15/08 8:27 AM

What is there to say that hasn't already been said about Dr. Jack? Not very much, so if I reiterate, bear with me. Having had the privilege of spending a weekend in Manhattan learning under Dr. Jack's tutelage, I can say that Dara Torres has been involved with the best. I had first heard the name Dara Torres the previous Fall, and here I am watching her in my living room, rooting her on. As a CPT and future exercise physiologist, I applaud your effort, Dara, and all of Dr. Jack's and the ISSA's work and expertise in the fitness arena.

# Posted By Josh Hubbard | 8/15/08 8:41 AM

JUST FOR DARA YOU ROCK... U R THE IT FACTOR!!! THE WORD "IT" says it all

# Posted By Marcelle Angelo | 8/15/08 9:28 AM

ok I can't STOP!! JUST LIKE U!!
U NEVER STOP... I reread my post wow mis spelled words of passion...lol I'm off to train the woman I am blessed with and will bring you name and spirit into my practice today. You are in my heart along with Dr. Jack's .... and it's about UUUUU DARA TODAY!! Not to take away Dr. Jack's or ISSA's part BUT IT'S ABOUT UUUUUUU!! and because of ISSA and the AMAZING MAN DR. JACK, YOU are in my heart. so credit is due to them both!!!
ISSA, DR. JACK THANK YOU FOR DARA T.
I HAVE A TIME MAG..WAITNING HER AUTOGRAPH....
D.Q.....DUL...LOL

# Posted By Marcelle Angelo | 8/15/08 9:37 AM

Dara,
There's something I tell everyone I meet....YOU CAN DO ANYTHING IN THIS WORLD YOU WANT TO DO...IF YOU WANT IT BAD ENOUGH!!!!! It is obvious that you are a WINNER.... Do not let anything get in your way!!!!We will all be watching and supporting you 100 percent!!!!!!!!!!!! You give us back 100 percent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GOOD LUCK DARA...from the MATRIX staff....Huntsville,Alabama!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

# Posted By Dawn Hendricks | 8/15/08 9:47 AM

Go Dara, GO! Awesome.
Watching today's events with great excitement and wish you the best..

# Posted By Gary H | 8/15/08 10:33 AM

Thanks to Dr Jack and Dara Torres. Dr jack always an inspiration to his students and Dara has been a great insperation to everyone to follow ISSA teachings.and to never give up your dreams of fitness. Good Luck Dara

# Posted By Don Doward | 8/15/08 11:03 AM

The inspiration I have received from watching Dara Torres, and in turn passed on to my clients, has been a pure joy. Go get 'em Dara we are all behind you!
I couldn't be more proud of my affiliation with ISSA and Dr. Jack then I am during this time of national focus on athleticism and personal achievement.
What a great time to be a trainer. What a great time to have such wonderful role models and mentors!

# Posted By Tom Shoffner | 8/15/08 11:22 AM

I have only been with the ISSA as a CFT for a couple of months. I had the honor and privilege of the meeting Dr. Jack at a seminar in Atlanta, Georgia. He was very inspiring as you are to the fitness com-
mmunity. I know in my heart and mind that if you can do what you've done at this stage of your life there is no reason why anyone should ever say that things are not possible. With hard work and dedication you have blown the minds of people around the world.Don't let anything anyone says get you down or make you feel less of a champion because in our eyes and in the eyes of millions you could never be anything less. The segment that was done on you on the new series E:60 was truly amazing to watch. YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!! You give hope to those who thought that there was any for them. All you have to do is truly belive in yourself and anything is ossible. GO TEAM USA AND GO DARA TORRES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

# Posted By shannon dunaway | 8/15/08 1:11 PM

Dara All America is rooting for you.Bring home the Gold and enjoy the celebration

# Posted By rich wheeler | 8/15/08 2:42 PM

Hi Dara & Dr. Jack;
As not only a member of New York Strength but as a USA citizen I am proud of both my teacher and his student. In reality you are both students of each other and teachers to each others Dr. Jack my ISSA instructor, my mentor, my inspiration, and my friend. Dara you are a perfect example for all future generations of atletes in your positive influance on your life and as an envoy for our great nation. You proved yourself over and over again and now you are raising to the occassion once again. As a fitness teacher myself you are the (poster child / women) of several generations and the world is very proud of you.
God Speed To You..... and all who you have influenced and influenced you!
Fred Lipsky

# Posted By Fred Lipsky | 8/15/08 3:40 PM

Dara,
You are an inspiration to us all. You represent everything that is great about sports. Wishing you the best of luck and may you know that we are all with you in spirit.

# Posted By Tom Kens | 8/15/08 8:48 PM

Dara, I am a 41-year-old ISSA trainer receiving encouragement by your achievements and courage. Your example of sportsmanship shows that you are not there to beat others but to improve yourself and to show what one can do with sound training and honest determination. That alone sets you way ahead of the pack and makes you the winner you already are. I look forward to seeing you represent us as you receive the gold metal. God bless you.

# Posted By Kirk O | 8/15/08 10:16 PM

Dara is inspiring us all, right Now as she shatters the lies of negative thinking and reveals the Truth: Anything Is Possible! Despite the challenges of asthma, motherhood, and age, Dara is gracefully capturing her passion, fascinating us with her determination, her Will to achieve her goals, and her ability to elevate herself to Greatness while remaining humble, generous, and authentic.
As a member of Team NYStrength and an ISSA trainer, I understand, from my own experience, the amazing influence Dr. Jack and his teachings have had on Dara. His deep respect and admiration of Dara shines brightly each time he speaks of her during his Outstanding and Life changing seminars. It is clear that Dara and he share an understanding of Life which propells them with the Strength to never give up, to occupy the space of possibility, and to invite others on their path to bliss. Following Dr. Jack's guidance as a friend, principles of training as a client, and counsel as a patient, Dara Torres is illuminating the world with the reality that You can Be whatever it is You Desire to Be. Her passion is intense, her abilities and skills as a swimmer are remarkable, but most of all I am inspired by her Clarity: she knows what she wants and understands that she Deserves It!!!!!! I am Sending You Light, Love, and Many Blessings Dara....Enjoy Your Swim Tonight!!!! You Rock Girl!!!!!!

# Posted By Deana Bonafiglia | 8/16/08 7:00 AM

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