The fitness landscape in West Hartford is about to experience a seismic shift, thanks to the grand re-launch of Knockout Fitness. Founded by the dynamic duo, Anthony and Johnny Atallah, Knockout Fitness is not just a gym; it’s a revolution in holistic wellness.
After undergoing a comprehensive transformation, the gym now sports a sleek, modern look. Its black design is tastefully accented with warm wooden elements and vibrant, striking new lighting. This aesthetic overhaul is more than just skin deep, as the gym now boasts cutting-edge equipment and an expanded suite of services, including physical therapy and aesthetic options.
Photo Credit To: Jane Owen
The Grand Re-Opening on November 10th was a spectacle of fitness and festivity, DJ’d by DJ Roc and catered by the renowned Bricco Restaurant. The event, complete with a full open bar and a raffle supporting Connecticut Children’s, was a testament to the gym’s community-centric ethos.
Anthony Atallah, a lifelong athlete and nutrition expert, transitioned from a successful stint at New York Sports Clubs to founding Knockout Fitness. His unique blend of MMA and Muay Thai training is the cornerstone of the gym’s unique training approach, creating a welcoming space for all.
What sets Knockout Fitness apart is its commitment to total wellness. It seamlessly integrates various training styles, nutritional counseling, and recovery services, all personalized to fit the unique needs of its members. “Our Unique total wellness approach with various training styles, nutritional counseling, various recovery services, clientele flexibility programs and services, kickboxing and boxing for all and hands down staffing that absolutely loves what they do and cares for all of their clients which then creates an epic atmosphere and community.” Added Anthony
Photo Credit To: Jane Owen
Catering to diverse fitness levels and goals, Knockout Fitness offers an array of class sizes and training options, ensuring a tailored experience for every member. Anthony, one of the co-founders says, “I wanted to create a hybrid facility that incorporated Muay Thai, functional exercise, and strength and conditioning with a non-intimidation atmosphere for all. I also wanted to bring in the total wellness aspect which involves our massage therapy, stretching and infrared sauna services and much more. Lastly, I wanted our facility to have a more clientele-focused business approach, which provides flexibility and options for clients that most commercial gyms do not offer. As much as we preach accountability, we understand that there are real-life situations that we must be flexible for. Therefore, we offer many services and ways that the client can continue their fitness lifestyle as one with their lives and not as an additive.”
The gym’s core philosophy revolves around a holistic approach to fitness, emphasizing sustainability and consistency to integrate fitness into everyday lifestyles.
The impact of Knockout Fitness is embodied in stories like Katie Doyle’s, whose life-changing journey under the gym’s guidance has been nothing short of inspirational. “She was the definition of an impossible case. She suffered from a long list of health complications including and not limited to: bone cancer, neuropathy, stage 3 kidney failure, obesity, hypertension, poor vision, and much more. She was not given much time to live and not only that but the quality in which she could live was defined by the border of her yard. I met Katie through one of my clients Ronald Friedman, who saw her speedy decline and thought I can help. She was deathly afraid of entertaining the idea of bringing me into her life to help her make a change. I met her multiple times outside of the gym to even get her interested through calming conversations of mostly me listening. She allowed me to enter her life and she agreed to fully commit to our journey. She relentlessly fought through sessions and her own mind to continue constantly. The small improvements and the trust we shared allowed her to do so. There were tears, vomiting, exhaustion, frustration, constant adjustments, and many doctor visits. When we met there wasn’t much belief by her medical staff, family, and friends that she would live much longer. Not only did she live longer, but she lost over 100lbs and gained so much strength that she was walking and climbing stairs on her own, she was able to travel to her Rhode Island home consistently, go out with friends, live on her own, and enjoy life to the fullest. Katie fought very hard till the very end. We loved all 6-7 years together. Not only did I change her life, but she changed my family and mine. I learned so much from her as she did from me. We thanked each other every day until I had the pleasure of thanking all of her family and friends at her celebration of life. This is more than just a job for me. This is my life and my goal is to help as many people as I can and to learn from as many people as I can. We are in each other’s lives to better one another. The more we come together, the more impossible becomes possible.“ Commented Anthony about the experience.
The gym prides itself on its rigorous selection of coaches who embody dedication, accountability, and a passion for health and fitness.
Knockout Fitness is more than a gym; it’s a community. It fosters an inclusive and motivational atmosphere, offering tailored workout and nutritional plans, and engaging members through constant interaction and monthly events.
Responding proactively to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, Knockout Fitness has expanded its online offerings and enhanced its facilities, including a modernized gym space, a recovery room, and an upgraded nutritional bar. “Knockout is also underway of developing our own app which will be a huge addition to our online training. In this app coaches will be able to track and develop their clients programs, the client will be able to track their progress, client will have a library of workouts, client will have access to nutritional programs and much more. This will allow Knockout to help people across the World.” Added Anthony.
Recognizing the critical role of nutrition in fitness, the gym offers personalized dietary guidance to help members build sustainable and healthy eating habits.
In collaboration with organizations like the Jordan Porco Foundation, Knockout Fitness actively promotes mental health awareness, reinforcing its commitment to the total well-being of its members.
Despite facing challenges such as the pandemic, Knockout Fitness has emerged stronger, thanks to its innovative approach and robust community support. “We have a team of individuals in charge of team development which incorporates monthly team meetings discussing and applying changes/research in the fitness and health industry. We train our coaches in house as well as encourage all to develop their skills via other programs by offering stipends/increase in compensation” Said Anthony.
Knockout Fitness extends a warm invitation to anyone embarking on their fitness journey, promising a transformative experience filled with support and growth.
As Knockout Fitness embarks on this exciting new chapter, it stands as a beacon of health, wellness, and community spirit in West Hartford, inviting all to join in its vision for a healthier, happier life.
