From Jail to Jump Squats, One Man's Journey from Prison to a Boutique Fitness Studio

Inside the Studio: ConBody

ConBody's classes are equipment-free, high intensity, and no frills, inspired by founder Coss Marte's own time behind bars.  

​In preparation for our Prison & Pints fitness event on 3/12, we sat down with Coss to find out more about more about his inspiration for ConBody, what his favorite class is, and some sage advice to health-seekers.

Coss Marte began his fitness journey while serving time.  He lost more than 70lbs in 6 months by doing simple, effective workouts in his 9'x6' prison cell.  When he got out, he wanted to find a way to give back to the community, and the idea for ConBody was born.

Ketanga: What is the idea behind ConBody?

Coss: I wanted to give back to my community in a healthy, positive way; to really create a whole social movement.  I started by hiring people who had been affected by our correctional system and who are America's untapped talent. 

Ketanga: What is your favorite thing about ConBody? And why?

Coss: My favorite thing about ConBody is that it's real, it's not your bougie classes that you have to wear the fanciest clothes and powder up for. It's a place where there's truly no judgements.  But best of all, we are smashing stereotypes about formerly incarcerated individuals, showing the NYC fitness scene and beyond that these people deserve second chances (and will kick your ass in class while they prove it).

Ketanga: Overcoming everything you've been through must have been tough, what kept you motivated to keep going?

Coss: Survival is a natural instinct, but I'm motivated every day by my son, who deserves a better life than what he had when he was little. 

Ketanga: Out of all the classes you teach, what's your favorite class, and why?

Coss: I love to teach my HardCore Thursday classes because I usually have a sit up competition. No one has beaten me yet. I love to compete and especially win!

Ketanga: What are your 3 secrets/suggestions for healthy, happy living?

Coss:
1) Sugar is the enemy
2) Mind over matter, if you don't mind, it won't matter
3) When people ask you "How are you?" I say Great! instead of the usual reply "good."  It helps add a positivity to the day and to those around me.

Think you can beat Coss at his own sit up challenge?  Join us Saturday 3/12 where we'll do two back to back workouts, followed by a group cool down and a trip to a local bar for some hooch and grub.
Sign up here: Prison & Pints.

By,
Ros