Meet Jim “THUNDER” Thomas
Enjoy our new segment in the Weekly Grind so you can meet and learn more about our fighters! This week, meet Jim “Thunder” Thomas.
- When were you diagnosed with Parkinson’s?
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s on August 26th, 2022.
- When did you start coming to 110 Fitness?
I heard about 110 Fitness from my mother-in-law who, at the time, was working with a physical therapist that recommended the program. I started at 110 Fitness in October of 2022.
- What’s your favorite class or activity at 110?
I enjoy all of the variations in our workouts that our instructor’s design. Whether it is station training, tabata workouts, or perhaps “AMRAPS” (As Many Repetitions as Possible within a certain amount of time) the workouts are thoughtfully designed and keep things fresh, interesting and challenging!
- What do(did) you do for work?
I have been an educator for the past 31 years. I have been an elementary, middle and high school band director. I was the district wide Director of Music for Marshfield Public Schools and the Assistant Principal at Marshfield High School for 6 years. Currently I am the Department Chair of Fine and Performing Arts PK-12 for the Scituate Public Schools. In addition, I am the Scituate High School Band/Jazz Band Director. I am in my ninth year in this role.
- What would you like us to know about you and your family?
I am blessed with an amazing family! My wife Kristin is my best friend and the love of my life. I could not imagine a better person to navigate life with! I have two beautiful daughters, Emily who is a music teacher for the Duxbury Public Schools and Julia who is completing her undergraduate degree in architecture at UMass, Amherst. My wife and daughters inspire me to be the best version of myself and because of their unwavering support and encouragement, I have been able to achieve goals that might have otherwise not been possible. Beyond my immediate family, my extended family is amazing and incredibly supportive! Parkinson’s has brought my family closer together. Life is precious and every day counts!
- Any fun hobbies you’d like to share?
I am a freelance saxophonist, led my own wedding band, play in a saxophone quartet, love to cook, enjoy walks with my wife, and thanks to my dad (who is a carpenter), I enjoy carpentry!
- How has 110 Fitness impacted your life outside of the gym?
Anyone who has Parkinson’s remembers the day that they were diagnosed. I was diagnosed at 53 years old on August 26th, 2022. As you can imagine, this news was like a 2×4 to the head and it has taken me a while to come to terms with my diagnosis. 110 Fitness has played a huge role in my life since joining in October of 2022. Brett, Anna and Jill are incredibly supportive and encouraging instructors and inspiring human beings. Brett and his team have created a community where everyone feels welcome and is encouraged to achieve their maximum potential! Having Parkinson’s could be very isolating. I have met incredible people at 110 who have shared their stories, advice and experiences with me! I am thankful to be part of this community and witness the grit, determination and positive attitudes from other gym members. They inspire and motivate me on any given day. 110 has played an integral role in shaping me post-diagnosis. I am more confident, proud of the progress that I have made and look forward to my Monday, Wednesday and Saturday classes!! Thank you 110 for everything!