- Introducing the Vibrant Vendors of Somerville’s Own -

At Somerville Local First, we not only believe in the importance of supporting locally owned businesses, but getting to know the faces behind counter as well. That is why we decided to create a blog series that profiles various SLF members, asking a set of 10 questions that connect readers to the featured business and to the Somerville community as well.

Meet Andrew Haynes. Andrew is a 6th degree (Did you even know rankings could go that high?!) black belt in Kenpo Karate. That probably means something like he could kick your butt sixfold. And then some. But he doesn’t do that. Instead of stealing your lunch money, Andrew uses his powers for good. That’s why after years of training and teaching, he created his own fitness program in 1998, Corpbasics. The philosophy behind this martial arts-meets-kickboxing-meets-cardio-meets-addictive workout is that you can’t get the most out of your workout routine if you don’t know the basics. Today, Corpbasics (CBC) Fitness & Training Club offers 50+ fun and innovative classes to strengthen both body and mind, led by the club’s team of highly qualified trainers. Learn from the master himself here in this week’s Shades of Somerville.

Andy's Jam'n Cardio Kix class, which made Boston.com's A-list for Best Kickboxing Class 2011

1. Why did you start your business?

We started the business because we want to show people that exercise can be fun. You don’t have to dread your workout to see the results. If we can help you adhere to an exercise program that works and you enjoy it, then we have done our job!

2. What brought you to Somerville?

We have roots here in Somerville. Andy has lived in Somerville all of his life. There is a great sense of community here among the residents, and we wanted to be a part of that.

3. What is your fondest memory of doing business in Somerville?

We would have to say putting on the Corpbasics’ Fashion Show to benefit the Somerville Council on Aging. We did this before we even existed as a business. Back then, we were small group of instructors/trainers who taught the Corpbasics’ Fitness System at a few local gyms. We (the instructors) hit the streets and got the local stores to donate outfits and raffle prizes. We modeled the outfits on the runway at Good Times in Assembly Square and donated our proceeds to the Council on Aging.

4.  What gets you really excited about your business?

Making people feel good about themselves!

5.  Thinking about your business, what keeps you up at night?

Thinking about how we can make things better for our clients. For instance, how we can improve our class schedule and make it work best for all of our clients.

6.  If you could have one wish come true for Somerville, what would it be?

That everyone would invest in their community and buy local.

7.  Favorite motto or quote?

It is all about quality, not quantity.

8.  What’s the most rewarding part of running a small business?

Having the opportunity to know all of our clients individually. We are one big family here at Corpbasics. We are the place where everyone feels like they belong. Knowing that we created that sense of community among our clients is the best reward we could ask for.

9.  What’s the most challenging part of running a small business?

Not having an unlimited amount of funds to do everything we want to do!

10. If your business was an animal, what animal would it be and why?

We would be a dragon because in the Martial Arts, a dragon represents the 5 leading principals of the Martial Arts.

If you would like your SLF member business or organization featured in Shades of Somerville, go here to submit your information.