For Staten Island residents looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle in 2025, the Staten Island slim Down offers a fantastic opportunity to get started. The program kicks off on January 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Zion church, located at 505 Watchogue Road in westerleigh.This initiative is more than just a fitness program—it’s a community-driven effort to help individuals achieve their wellness goals while building lasting connections.
Launched in 2010 by Tony “Books” Avilez, a renowned fitness expert and recipient of the Staten Island Economic Advancement Corporation Health Hero award, the Slim Down has been transforming lives for over a decade.Avilez highlights the importance of participation and enjoyment, saying, “The most critically crucial thing is to show up and have fun. This is an astonishing opportunity to join a wonderfully supportive community. Over the years, we’ve seen many incredible transformations, and I’m immensely proud to reach 15 years of service.”
The program encourages participants to adopt healthier habits,such as regular exercise and balanced nutrition. Weekly “Fitness Surprises” are held at various locations across Staten Island, offering a mix of in-person and online resources to support your wellness journey. Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned enthusiast, the Slim Down provides a welcoming environment for everyone.
What makes this initiative stand out is its community-driven approach. Over the years, the Slim Down has grown into a close-knit family, bringing together individuals of all fitness levels with a shared goal: to make Staten Island a healthier, happier place to live. The program’s success lies in its ability to inspire and motivate participants through camaraderie and encouragement.
Joining the program is simple and free. Just visit StatenIslandSlimDown.com to register and complete the necessary waiver forms. From there, you can attend as many events as you like. Bring a friend or two and experience the excitement firsthand. Remember,the journey to better health is meant to be enjoyable!
The kick-off event takes place on Thursday,January 16,at 7:30 p.m.at Zion Church. While participation is free,you’ll need to sign a waiver in person before joining the activities. This marks the beginning of a series of engaging fitness events designed to keep you motivated throughout the year.
Tony Books Avilez: Transforming Lives Through Fitness and Wellness
Table of Contents
- 1.Tony Books Avilez: Transforming Lives Through Fitness and Wellness
- 2. A Leader in Fitness and Wellness
- 3. Author and National Recognition
- 4. The Staten Island Slim Down
- 5. Inspiring Change, One Step at a Time
- 6. Tony Books Avilez: Staten Island’s fitness Pioneer Transforming Lives for Over 30 Years
- 7. What Certifications Has Tony Books Avilez Earned?
A Leader in Fitness and Wellness
For over three decades, Tony Books Avilez has been a driving force in the fitness and wellness industry. Known for his unwavering dedication to helping others achieve their health goals, avilez has become a trusted name in staten Island and beyond. His approach combines personalized training, nutritional guidance, and a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face on their wellness journeys.
Author and National Recognition
Beyond his work as a fitness trainer, Avilez is also a published author. His book, the Staten island Slim Down, has garnered national attention for its practical and accessible approach to weight loss and healthy living.The book reflects his ideology that lasting change comes from small, consistent steps rather than drastic measures.
“It’s not about rapid fixes; it’s about creating habits that last a lifetime,” Avilez emphasizes.
the Staten Island Slim Down
the Staten Island Slim Down is more than just a book—it’s a movement. Avilez’s program has inspired countless individuals to take control of their health,offering a roadmap to weight loss that is both realistic and achievable. The program emphasizes balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and mental well-being, making it a holistic approach to fitness.
Inspiring Change, One Step at a Time
Avilez’s impact extends far beyond the gym. Through workshops, seminars, and community events, he has become a beacon of hope for those struggling with weight loss and lifestyle changes. His ability to connect with people on a personal level has made him a beloved figure in the community.
“Tony doesn’t just train you; he motivates you to believe in yourself,” says one of his clients. “He’s changed my life in ways I never thought possible.”
Tony Books Avilez: Staten Island’s Fitness Pioneer Transforming Lives for Over 30 Years
With a career spanning more than 30 years, Avilez has cemented his legacy as a pioneer in the fitness industry. His commitment to helping others has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from national fitness organizations. Yet, for Avilez, the greatest reward is seeing his clients achieve their goals and transform their lives.
What Certifications Has Tony Books Avilez Earned?
Avilez’s expertise is backed by a range of certifications, including credentials from the National Academy of Sports medicine (NASM) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE). These qualifications underscore his dedication to staying at the forefront of fitness and wellness trends, ensuring that his clients receive the highest standard of care.
Tony Books Avilez: A Visionary in Health, Fitness, and Community Wellness
Tony Books Avilez, founder of the Staten Island Slim Down, is a leading figure in health and fitness. (Staten Island Advance)
Tony Books Avilez is more than a fitness expert; he’s a catalyst for change. With a career spanning decades,Avilez has become a trusted voice in the wellness industry,helping countless individuals transform their lives through exercise,nutrition,and sustainable habits. His unique ability to connect with people and inspire action has made him a standout figure in the world of health and fitness.
A Pioneer in Fitness and Nutrition
Avilez’s credentials speak volumes about his expertise.He is a certified medical exercise specialist, corrective exercise specialist, and personal trainer accredited by the American council on Exercise. Additionally, he holds certifications as a nutritional consultant from the American Fitness Professionals & Associates and as a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. These qualifications underscore his deep understanding of the science behind fitness and wellness.
What truly distinguishes Avilez is his ability to translate complex concepts into actionable steps. His approach isn’t just about physical change; it’s about fostering a mindset shift that empowers individuals to take charge of their health. By emphasizing balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and effective lifestyle management, he helps people create habits that last a lifetime.
Beyond his hands-on work, Avilez is a prolific author with five books on health and fitness to his name. His writings have been featured in prominent national publications, including Flex Magazine and Black Enterprises. These platforms have allowed him to share his insights with a broader audience, inspiring readers to prioritize their well-being.
Avilez’s contributions to the fitness industry have earned him widespread recognition.he has been named one of the top 100 fitness professionals in the United States,a testament to his dedication and the impact he has made in the field.
The Staten Island Slim Down
One of Avilez’s most impactful initiatives is the Staten Island Slim Down,a community-driven program designed to promote healthier lifestyles. This initiative encourages residents to embrace regular exercise and nutritious eating, helping them achieve their fitness goals while building a sense of community.
“the Staten Island Slim Down was founded by Tony Books Avilez,” as highlighted in the accompanying photo caption. This program reflects his unwavering commitment to making health and wellness accessible to everyone, irrespective of their starting point.
Inspiring Change, One Step at a Time
Tony Books Avilez’s work transcends physical fitness. His holistic approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of exercise, nutrition, and mental well-being, offering a thorough roadmap for sustainable change. Whether through his books, seminars, or personal coaching, Avilez continues to inspire individuals to take control of their lives and unlock their full potential.
His story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and determination, anyone can transform their health and achieve lasting success. Tony Books Avilez is not just a fitness professional; he’s a beacon of hope for those seeking a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Tony books Avilez: Staten Island’s Fitness Pioneer Transforming Lives for Over 30 Years
The free program features weekly “Fitness Surprises” held at various locations across Staten Island. Courtesy Tony Books Avilez
For over three decades, Tony Books Avilez has been a cornerstone of Staten island’s fitness community. With more than 40,000 client sessions under his belt, Avilez has earned a reputation as the borough’s go-to personal trainer, helping countless individuals achieve their health and wellness goals.
Avilez’s journey began in the early 1990s when he frist stepped into the fitness industry with a mission to inspire and empower others. his unique approach combines rigorous training with a deep understanding of individual needs, making him a trusted figure in the lives of his clients. “Fitness isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about mental resilience and building a lifestyle that lasts,” Avilez says.
One of his most notable contributions to the community is the free “Fitness Surprises” program. Held weekly at various locations across Staten Island, these sessions are designed to make fitness accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience level. “The goal is to bring people together and show them that fitness can be fun, inclusive, and transformative,” Avilez explains.
Avilez’s dedication to his craft and his community has made him a beloved figure on Staten Island. His ability to connect with people on a personal level, combined with his expertise, has helped countless individuals transform their lives. Whether through one-on-one training or community events, Avilez continues to inspire and motivate, proving that fitness is more than just a workout—it’s a way of life.
As he looks to the future, Avilez remains committed to his mission of making fitness accessible and enjoyable for all. His legacy is not just in the numbers—40,000 sessions and counting—but in the lives he has touched and the community he has built. For Tony Books Avilez,fitness is more than a career; it’s a calling.
Tony Books Avilez: A Fitness Pioneer Transforming Lives in Staten Island
For over three decades, Tony Books Avilez has been a beacon of inspiration in the fitness and wellness community of Staten Island. His unique approach to health and fitness goes beyond physical transformation—it’s about fostering personal growth, building connections, and empowering individuals to believe in themselves. “Health is a journey, not a destination,” Avilez frequently enough reminds his clients, encapsulating his philosophy in a single, powerful statement.
What truly sets Avilez apart is his ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level. His sessions are more than just workouts; they are transformative experiences filled with camaraderie, self-discovery, and growth. Whether he’s leading a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class or guiding a calming yoga session, Avilez tailors each experience to meet the unique needs of his diverse clientele.
Through his work,Avilez has witnessed the life-changing impact of fitness firsthand. From helping clients shed excess weight to boosting their confidence and self-esteem, his influence extends far beyond the walls of the gym. “Seeing someone achieve their goals—whether it’s running their first mile or mastering a challenging exercise—that’s what keeps me going,” he shares with a smile.
As Staten Island’s fitness landscape continues to evolve, Tony Books Avilez remains a steadfast force for good. His unwavering dedication to the community and his passion for health and wellness have cemented his legacy as a true pioneer in the field. For those looking to embark on their own fitness journey, Avilez offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: “Start small, stay consistent, and never underestimate the power of believing in yourself.”
What Certifications Has Tony Books Avilez Earned?
Tony Books Avilez’s expertise is backed by a wealth of certifications and decades of experience in the fitness industry. Over the course of his 30-year career, he has earned numerous credentials that reflect his commitment to excellence and his deep understanding of health and wellness.These certifications, combined with his hands-on experience, have enabled him to make significant contributions to the fitness community, including initiatives like the Staten Island Slim Down.
Avilez’s dedication to education and professional development ensures that he stays at the forefront of the industry, offering his clients the most effective and up-to-date fitness strategies. His certifications are a testament to his expertise and his passion for helping others achieve their health goals.
