The fun factor is high with the Lunchtime Fitness guys.

By Chance Gusukuma

The Lunchtime Fitness guys swim, bike, and run. More recently, they’ve jumped into a challenging strength and conditioning regimen. And there’s always a high wisecrack-to-workout ratio.

It started when a co-worker convinced HMSA employees Ed Angala and Mark Villanueva to sign up for their first triathlon in late 2007. The trio started swimming at Ala Moana Beach during their lunch break and eventually got some co-workers to join them. Before long, it became a midday routine: running to Ala Moana and back with a 1,000-meter swim sandwiched in between. Some days, they pedal up and down Tantalus.

The regulars include Angala, Villanueva, Ivan Arakaki, Oscar Gonzalez, Chris Halsall, Michael Stimmler, and Dennis Tengan. The positive peer pressure provides good motivation. Besides, “training by yourself is boring,” says Tengan.

Stimmler, who had always been an avid cyclist, suffered a pulmonary embolism in 2007. "It was the scare of my life and made me want to live life to the fullest," he says. "With the help and support of the gang, I got back into shape and achieved multiple fitness goals."

Angala and Villanueva completed the Honolulu Triathlon in May 2008. By then, the entire group was hooked. The guys completed the Lanikai, Tinman, and TAG the World Celebrity triathlons, and the Great Aloha Run. Some of them participated in other events, including the Honolulu Century Ride and the muddy, mucky 5-mile Swamp Romp at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe. Even the Honolulu Marathon.

More recently, most of the guys tried out classes at a fitness center – yoga, Pilates, cardio-strength, and core muscle release classes, and a challenging total-body conditioning program. “We didn’t want to get involved in the classes at first, because you know how guys have the perception that classes are for women,” admits Angala.

Halsall, who had been participating in the classes for years, knew better. “The first time I went to a Pilates class, I’m thinking, ‘This is so stupid,’” he says. “And then I went home that first day and I’m like, ‘Aggggh! Everything hurts!’”

The guys rattle off the benefits of working out. Angala lost 35 pounds. Arakaki dropped 30 pounds and lowered his blood pressure. Tengan saw his cholesterol numbers drop and was able to cut his medication dosage in half. Villanueva lost more than 20 pounds and lowered his body mass index and blood pressure. “Also, I improved my tan,” he jokes.

“I also improved my tan, but lost my hair,” adds Angala. “I guess something has to give.”

But it’s more than weight loss and better tans that keep the guys training together. “It’s the camaraderie,” says Arakaki. “Training with friends is the best.”

“It’s more fun to be running, biking, and swimming with others,” agrees Gonzalez. The group even created their own Facebook page.

The guys think their workouts make them better workers. “We’re gonna be more productive as employees if we’re happier,” says Halsall.

“And healthier,” adds Villanueva.

But the bottom line? “We all do it because it’s fun,” says Angala.