John Calarco’s lifelong fitness journey began with his three years as a New Rochelle High School varsity basketball starter. “I was obsessed from that age with how I could run faster, jump higher, take my athletic performance to the highest possible level,” Calarco says. “My motivation stemmed from that obsession, that thirst to understand the body on that level.”
From there, it was a straight shot to a degree in exercise physiology, progressing to a focus on studying health. After a short period of time playing pro basketball in Italy and pursuing a career as a trainer, in August of 2016, Calarco transitioned to a health-and-performance professional full-time.
“I joke and say I was a point guard my whole life, a basketball leader,” explains the 6’1” Calarco. “So there was no doubt that I had to open my own business, do it my way, be a leader again.”
Power Health and Performance, which opened in March 2017, espouses a holistic philosophy of the body, beginning with the principle that the most important fitness factor is mindset. After an evaluation and counseling sessions, Calarco’s clients participate in customized training programs designed to fit their goals. On the business side, his goals include continued revenue growth this year — the business hit a 40 percent increase from 2017 to 2019 — and expanding his staff.
“Our purpose is to inspire and guide people, specifically in Lower Westchester, toward creating the life they desire,” Calarco says. “We’re always in an expansion mindset, just continuing to grow our reach and impact the community more and more.”
Read more: New Rochelle Basketball Star Opens Sleek Harrison Gym
