Dusty Colyer-Worth
G1 Group Training Client
October 2014
I’m not an individual that gives their recommendation lightly and I’ll say this: if you’re not already a member at Gymnazo, you should be.
I’m not a gym rat.
I’m not a fitness nut.
I’m an everyday person that made a commitment to myself to be healthier.
I’ve been attending sessions at Gymnazo with my husband David four times a week for five weeks and we have achieved wonderful results. In that short amount of time I’ve lost 19lbs and he’s lost 12lbs, which is over 50% of our respective three month goals! This in no small way can be attributed to the atmosphere of Gymnazo and the care and attention each of the Coaches therein gives to members. When you come to Gymnazo you’re not coming to a gym, you’re coming to a gathering of friends that all want you to succeed. Maybe I am turning into a fitness nut after all, but I can’t stop smiling about it so I won’t worry about it.
John Secunda
G3 Group Training Client
September 2014
(Click here to watch the video testimonial).
Stephen Leonard
G3 Group Training Client
August 2014
Donna Withey
G1 Group Training Client & Soft Tissue Rehab Client
July 2014
Carolyn Elliot
G2 Group Training Client
June 2014
(To watch Carolyn's video testimonial, click here.)
I used to go to a normal gym and go into circuit training. It was the first time I ever experienced anything like that, because I was a triathlete. For the first time to be coached in a group setting, I just felt like I was getting an amazing workout. The community, the quality of training is what impresses me. I like quality not quantity. I saw my body completely transform; my body was completely in balance for the first time. After each workout, I walk out feeling like, "Wow, now that is the way to start a day!" Every day I walk out of Gymnazo with a smile on my face.
I used to go to a normal gym and go into circuit training. It was the first time I ever experienced anything like that, because I was a triathlete. For the first time to be coached in a group setting, I just felt like I was getting an amazing workout. The community, the quality of training is what impresses me. I like quality not quantity. I saw my body completely transform; my body was completely in balance for the first time. After each workout, I walk out feeling like, "Wow, now that is the way to start a day!" Every day I walk out of Gymnazo with a smile on my face.
Adam Pottmeyer
G3 Group Training Client
May 2014
(To watch the above video click on the image or click here. )
Alexandra Pullar
G2 Group Training Client
April 2014
I walked into Gymnazo on September 4, 2013. I came in all by myself and the first face I saw was Lucas's. He made me feel so at home and welcomed, as did everyone else that I met that day. I was out of shape and tired of being tired all the time! Since that first day I haven't missed a week yet. I wake up in the morning excited about pushing myself further and seeing how far I have come! I remember feeling like I was gonna lose my cookies after the first station in round one.
Today I wake up thinking I am gonna kick Fortis's butt! I am proud to say that I have lost 8 inches from the time I have started till today! This hasn't just been a physical transformation but an emotional one. I am so proud of myself and can't thank everyone who pushed me to this point enough! Lucas, Derek, Richard, Lou, Shannon, and Michael have been amazing coaches and they have all changed my outlook on life! Although this person is not a coach at Gymnazo she is a part of the Gymnazo family and I feel that I have to mention her as she has been a great support to me, thank you Kim!
I had given up on myself and it was embarrassing, so thank you Gymnazo for helping me find the real me!
I started Gymnazo in May of 2012 with the intent of only going for a month or two to get my body back into shape. I had started feeling like I was letting my health get away from me due to spending most of the year prior doing very little exercise after partially tearing my rotator cuff. Not to mention working a desk job for 40+ hours a week.
Growing up a track and cross country runner and getting into triathlons later in life, rarely did I ever workout in more than one plane of motion. As time went on, I developed some nagging knee injuries where I had difficultly running or playing sports on hard surfaces without my knees throbbing in pain during or after my workout. I came to terms that my knees just weren't the same as they were in my younger years and that I simply wouldn’t be able to do all the activities I used to.
However, after about a month at Gymnazo, I noticed that I was gaining flexibility and strength in my knees. Working out in all three planes of motion (a major aspect to the Gymnazo workouts that really makes it different than anything else) really helped strengthen my knees and the surrounding muscles that were weak through years of neglect. I now feel more active and my knees haven't felt this good in well over five years. I can actually play a few games of basketball without feeling like I need an ice bath afterwards.
Gymnazo has been a great experience so far. The progress I have made with my knees and shoulder in the last 4 months have been leaps and bounds more than I would have ever imagined. Not only am I getting in better shape, but my body also feels stronger as a whole. Gymnazo is a definite game changer and life changer; and now I don't think I can do without it!
I have to say a big thank you to the Gymnazo family. I started in December and have already been seeing results. The clothes I ordered on line were too big!! I had to get a smaller size-I can't remember the last time that happened. The coaches and friends I've made in this community keep me coming back. They are encouraging, consistent and hold you accountable to your goals. I wish I would have started Gymnazo earlier!
To me, Gymnazo means health, strength, commitment, discipline and friendship. All of these qualities are very important to me and have been a part of my life after playing many years of competitive soccer. In January 2008 I moved home from Hawaii after playing college soccer, I suffered from a head injury that ended my soccer career. What was I going to do without playing the sport I love? What was I going to do without my passion? Well, I took a year off and gained about 20lbs. Not the best decision. Let’s just say I missed my old lifestyle and I was not happy with who I became. I finally got my act in gear and started to work out with a trainer at the Arroyo Grande Kennedy Club Fitness. I was able to shed the 20lbs rather quickly, but then plateau, I needed more. That’s when my friend and co-worker Elaine Christensen introduced me to Michael! This March I will have been a Gymnazo member for 3 years, and counting of course. Gymnazo has grown, I have grown.
I am constantly reminded of how beneficial Gymnazo’s functional training is when my husband and I work on remodeling our house, or when we help clean out a friend’s barn. The ability to properly lift heavy items without the fear of injury is very rewarding. Training at Gymnazo also helped prepare me to hike Half Dome last year; I was always constantly reminded from the trainers to do that one last pull up!! I appreciated their reminders while climbing the cables.
At this gym you get personalized attention from the trainers every day. You don't get bored as the workouts are always different and challenging. When I say challenging I mean that you will get worked every single workout, but that's what yields results. There is no plateauing in the gym as you are always pushed to do more. I would recommend this gym to anyone. You will really see results if you diet and exercise here. I can’t play competitive soccer anymore but I have found my new passion!
Thank you to all past and present Gymnazo staff.
Last Thursday, I turned 40. I've been going to Gymnazo since March, and I'm happy to say that today at age 40, I'm now stronger and more fit than I was at 30! Thanks, Gymnazo! Originally I tried Gymnazo by accident. A friend at the gym had been telling me it was great, but I didn't go until I tweaked my ankle playing racquetball and was looking for something else to try while I healed up. Michael invited me into a class coincidentally starting right then, and I loved it!
Gymnazo has completely changed my idea of health, fitness, and well being. I have always been active and a self motivated person. I was a soccer player and a "cardio junkie". I had ZERO experience in strength training. It was easy for me to go for a run or play soccer. I tried Gymnazo in October 2008 and was hooked the first time I tried it.
I had given up on myself and it was embarrassing, so thank you Gymnazo for helping me find the real me!
Matt Nguyen
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
March 2014
I started Gymnazo in May of 2012 with the intent of only going for a month or two to get my body back into shape. I had started feeling like I was letting my health get away from me due to spending most of the year prior doing very little exercise after partially tearing my rotator cuff. Not to mention working a desk job for 40+ hours a week.
Growing up a track and cross country runner and getting into triathlons later in life, rarely did I ever workout in more than one plane of motion. As time went on, I developed some nagging knee injuries where I had difficultly running or playing sports on hard surfaces without my knees throbbing in pain during or after my workout. I came to terms that my knees just weren't the same as they were in my younger years and that I simply wouldn’t be able to do all the activities I used to.
However, after about a month at Gymnazo, I noticed that I was gaining flexibility and strength in my knees. Working out in all three planes of motion (a major aspect to the Gymnazo workouts that really makes it different than anything else) really helped strengthen my knees and the surrounding muscles that were weak through years of neglect. I now feel more active and my knees haven't felt this good in well over five years. I can actually play a few games of basketball without feeling like I need an ice bath afterwards.
Gymnazo has been a great experience so far. The progress I have made with my knees and shoulder in the last 4 months have been leaps and bounds more than I would have ever imagined. Not only am I getting in better shape, but my body also feels stronger as a whole. Gymnazo is a definite game changer and life changer; and now I don't think I can do without it!
Melissa Potter
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
February 2014
Karen Agin
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
January 2014
To me, Gymnazo means health, strength, commitment, discipline and friendship. All of these qualities are very important to me and have been a part of my life after playing many years of competitive soccer. In January 2008 I moved home from Hawaii after playing college soccer, I suffered from a head injury that ended my soccer career. What was I going to do without playing the sport I love? What was I going to do without my passion? Well, I took a year off and gained about 20lbs. Not the best decision. Let’s just say I missed my old lifestyle and I was not happy with who I became. I finally got my act in gear and started to work out with a trainer at the Arroyo Grande Kennedy Club Fitness. I was able to shed the 20lbs rather quickly, but then plateau, I needed more. That’s when my friend and co-worker Elaine Christensen introduced me to Michael! This March I will have been a Gymnazo member for 3 years, and counting of course. Gymnazo has grown, I have grown.
I am constantly reminded of how beneficial Gymnazo’s functional training is when my husband and I work on remodeling our house, or when we help clean out a friend’s barn. The ability to properly lift heavy items without the fear of injury is very rewarding. Training at Gymnazo also helped prepare me to hike Half Dome last year; I was always constantly reminded from the trainers to do that one last pull up!! I appreciated their reminders while climbing the cables.
At this gym you get personalized attention from the trainers every day. You don't get bored as the workouts are always different and challenging. When I say challenging I mean that you will get worked every single workout, but that's what yields results. There is no plateauing in the gym as you are always pushed to do more. I would recommend this gym to anyone. You will really see results if you diet and exercise here. I can’t play competitive soccer anymore but I have found my new passion!
Thank you to all past and present Gymnazo staff.
Rick Castello
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
December 2013
Last Thursday, I turned 40. I've been going to Gymnazo since March, and I'm happy to say that today at age 40, I'm now stronger and more fit than I was at 30! Thanks, Gymnazo! Originally I tried Gymnazo by accident. A friend at the gym had been telling me it was great, but I didn't go until I tweaked my ankle playing racquetball and was looking for something else to try while I healed up. Michael invited me into a class coincidentally starting right then, and I loved it!
Kristen Jones
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
November 2013
I am a very busy mom of 3 young daughters and my husband and I each own our own businesses. Our time is limited and we want to be intentional about the time we have and maximize our time. Gymnazo allows us to get an incredible, functional workout with knowledgable, passionate coaches in a perfect coaching session of 1 hour. I know when I walk through those doors I am using my time wisely and getting a workout that you really can't put a price on. I should also mention in the course of almost 5 years of Gymnazo I have had two ACL replacement surgeries and a meniscus repair. On the same knee. This was due to two injuries; July 2009 and then again in January 2012, both playing soccer.
Honestly, had I not had the strength training and coaching from Michael Hughes I do not know where I would be today. The fact that I can run, exercise, hike, and surf without pain is amazing. Although I have given up soccer; I feel I get the "team sport" feeling with Gymnazo. Gymnazo's members are welcoming, kind, and encouraging. We always have fun, push ourselves, and keep coming back for more. I invite you to give Gymnazo a try. It might be just what you need to find joy in your life!
Today marks the once year since my crazy tree falling accident. I just wanted to say a special thanks to you and the team for helping me get back to a place of great physical shape. I will be the first to say that I took for granted the ability to move well and be active until I was totally laid out for a month and could barely move. It's crazy to me that I look back a year from then and can not only move, but am entirely stronger than I have ever been. In large part thanks to Gymnazo. Thanks so much, Michael for working with me individually to get the shoulder healed and back to normal and thanks to the whole team for pushing me beyond the limits that my mind thought I could go. Kuddos for creating an environment where limits are pushed whether they be as small as one more push-up or as big as coming back from a terrible accident. The encouragement along the way is much appreciated.
Over the last couple of years I have regained my strength and agility. I have been able to lose a
significant amount of weight with the help of diet as well as the comprehensive workouts.
What I love about Gymnazo is the way we train in a functional way. I have noticed the changes in not only my everyday life but especially when working in the winery tasting room. My range of motion and ability to lift case after case of wine even from over my head effortlessly has been wonderful.
I have achieved one of the physical goals on my bucket list a backpacking trip in Yosemite cumulating in the summit of Half Dome. I have been camping in Yosemite since I was very young and have always wanted to stand on the very top of one of my favorite Californian icons. I was ready for this trip with the help of my trainers past and present each having given encouragement and specific exercises that have helped me prepare. Ironically the cables which I thought would be the hardest part were actually the easiest for me. I can’t thank the Gymnazo team enough for all the hard work they put in with me helping me achieve my goals and continued success.
I chose Gymnazo to get ready for my wedding. My friend had done it forever, and I came to a couple sessions but I always had other things going on. I've never really been into fitness but I do enjoy running. I feel like its tough to find workouts that I both enjoy doing and are good for me. Sadie Rogers
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
October 2013
Jennifer McClure
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
September 2013
A bit over two years ago I was invited by a friend to try the amazing workouts she’d been doing Gymnazo. It didn’t take long for me to be completely hooked on not only the workouts, but the trainers and community that make up this exceptional group. I am no stranger to exercise in many forms.
Over the last couple of years I have regained my strength and agility. I have been able to lose a
significant amount of weight with the help of diet as well as the comprehensive workouts.
What I love about Gymnazo is the way we train in a functional way. I have noticed the changes in not only my everyday life but especially when working in the winery tasting room. My range of motion and ability to lift case after case of wine even from over my head effortlessly has been wonderful.
I have achieved one of the physical goals on my bucket list a backpacking trip in Yosemite cumulating in the summit of Half Dome. I have been camping in Yosemite since I was very young and have always wanted to stand on the very top of one of my favorite Californian icons. I was ready for this trip with the help of my trainers past and present each having given encouragement and specific exercises that have helped me prepare. Ironically the cables which I thought would be the hardest part were actually the easiest for me. I can’t thank the Gymnazo team enough for all the hard work they put in with me helping me achieve my goals and continued success.
Linda H. Halisky
Airo Group Training Client
August 2013
I have been a "regular" with Gymnazo for nearly a year now, and it's been a pretty amazing journey thus far. For more than two years, and before beginning the Airo program last fall, I suffered increasingly debilitating back and hip pain, the result of many hours of sitting each day at my desk or in front of a computer; the accumulated stresses of a very meaningful but challenging job; stenosis, and some developing arthritis; and, well, just aging.
The year before my retirement last summer, I began taking yoga classes and working with a physical therapist, both of which were helpful, but the on-going pain made nearly all of that work extremely difficult, and I was getting a bit discouraged.
When Michael added Airo to the Ethos and Fortis programs already underway with Gymnazo, he invited me to look into it. The program's philosophy appealed to me and its goals made good sense; the workouts looked doable, even for someone in my"condition"; and I trusted Michael.
The attention the coaches paid to each of us and our individual situations, their comfort with providing appropriate and helpful modifications, their encouragement and support soon began paying off. After the first of the year, I added a third session per week, and things have steadily improved: I no longer meet pain as my first challenger; I meet my natural edges of strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility.
On any given day, I tell people who ask me, my sense is that I am 60% - 80% better than I was a year ago. . . . . . which means, among other things, that I can travel more easily, schlep pretty heavy bags without hurting myself, walk and climb without (much) pain, run to catch "the tube," if necessary-and lift my young granddaughters again.
So thank you, Michael and Trevor and now Derek-and all the staff at Gymnazo- for putting a welcome spring back into my step! I think I'll be stickin' around for a while.
Katrina Henninger
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
July 2013
I really like Gymnazo because it has unique moves, a great atmosphere, and helps move me faster towards my fitness goals. Being here in such a friendly and positive atmosphere has helped me work a lot harder. I really like that it's not just the coaches, but it's also the other members encouraging you and being so friendly about it.
In 3 weeks of joining and I could already see changes. Just last week was my first time first time doing box squats without any support. Seeing progress like that helps me realize Gymnazo is helping me get to my goals faster than I would have on my own. One of my big future goals is trying to do a pullup on my own. I'm looking forward to seeing my strength develop. There are only 2 months before my wedding and I'm so excited to see where Gymnazo takes me!
John Purvis
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
May 2013
At first I was pretty nervous about coming to the training sessions. My brain kept telling me "your body can't move like that" and " that is just too hard." But after a few sessions I found myself starting to pick up the movements. What really surprised me is the exercises I thought I'd enjoy the least have turned out to be my favorites. Who would have guessed!
Since starting my 3 session a week schedule, I've lost over 40lbs! Basically what I weighed in college. Even more exciting is my energy level has gone through the roof and my stress level has dropped significantly. This has made a tremendous impact in my life as much outside of the gym as during the training sessions.
I really appreciate Michael and all the trainers pushing me for those extra reps; It has truly made all the difference!!
Kim King
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client & Personal Training Client
April 2013
Throughout this journey, I was dealing with a knee injury I have had for several years. Unfortunately, I pushed myself to the point that surgery was needed. The doctors told me I would be completely out of commission for at least eight weeks. I took the time off, allowed my knee to heal, and then I pursued one of the great trainers in Gymnazo, Amanda, to find out how to get myself back into the shape I was in prior to surgery. Amanda told me about personal training options that are available through Gymnazo, and she recommended I take time to personal train first before coming back to the group sessions in Gymnazo. We slowly got my knee back in great shape! I am so thankful for her helping me make full recovery from my surgery in November; her knowledge, attention to detail, and patience were the perfect combination to complete rehabilitation of my knee!
I am glad to be back in the Gymnazo sessions and able to work out with other athletes. I am so thankful for all of the help and training I have received from Amanda and all the Gymnazo trainers.
Andrew DeMille
Ethos/Fortis Group Training Client
March 2013
You guys rock! I want to express my sincere thanks and why my Gymnazo experience to date has been so profound... Growing up, my life was a myriad of sports from soccer, baseball, basketball, wrestling, track, cross-country and eventually golf [I knew I was going to play pro in all of them ;) ] After two awesome years competing for the Santa Barbara City College golf team, I shelved my aspirations in professional golf. Since then, I've shifted 100% of my time, energy, and focus toward helping coaches and athletes to become the best they can be. As a co-founder of www.edufii.com, a cloud-based skill development platform for athletes, their coaches and support teams, it's more difficult than ever to stay active, fit and healthy. Over the last 6 months, Gymnazo has been instrumental in helping me stay focused and productive as a VERY busy tech startup founder.
For starters, every trainer at Gymnazo is highly professional, attentive, motivating and fun! Gymnazo's focus on training purely functional movements in the three planes of motion has been a total game-changer for me in the gym, at the golf course and the office. I've never been so physically and mentally challenged in my entire life... and I absolutely love it!
Even though my busy schedule doesn't allow me to get to Gymnazo as much as I'd like, every session has taught me so much about the benefits of functional training in three planes of motion, I now easily incorporate Gymnazo fundamentals into every workout I do on my own, at the office, or on the road.
Gymnazo is truly a life-enhancing experience. Gymnazo makes you rethink what is possible. Gymnazo makes you re-consider pursuing your passion(s). For this I am forever grateful.
Mike Ritter
Airo Group Training Client
February 2013
I am a "senior" guy, well into the 70's, though I do not give that a thought -- my age is none of my business. What is my business is remaining active mentally, spiritually and physically. The "physical" part helps the other two and Gymnazo Airo has been the key to that for me!
I have been a regular Airo participant for the past 6 months. For many years I've had a hit & miss exercise program. Although it added some strength and aerobics, it was repetitive and boring. Keeping active is important as I love to sail, hike, waterski and, most of all, snowboard.
What I love about Gymnazo is how totally functional it is. It helps me do what I do more easily, enthusiastically and safely. Snowboarding is a great example. I've been doing it for 15 years. Before Gymnazo my snowboarding was very conservative and tentative. Crashes are not allowed since recovery is slower now! I've ridden several times in the last month. The difference is wonderful!! I move more freely and with confidence. I feel like "king of the mountain". I'm having even more fun and feel safer because I have more stamina and can react and move more quickly. What a joy that is!!
The other cool thing about Gymnazo is the ever-changing variety of exercises we do. And with the incredibly enthusiastic and helpful staff and the camaraderie of the other participants, it is never boring. I can go at my own intensity and rarely feel any later soreness.
Thank you Michael and the rest of the Gymnazo gang!
Donna Clark
Individual Training Client
January 2013
"I sought out the expertise of Michael because I was preparing for a grueling fitness test, which was part of an audition for a T.V show. Michael had only six weeks to overhaul my physical abilities so that I would not only breeze through the obstacle course, but look good doing it; that was one of my personal requirements. Michael did not disappoint.
Working out has always been a part of my life. I have competed internationally as an Equestrian, my lifestyle is very disciplined, I feel I'm a prime physical specimen and hey, I've got it all under control... and then I came to Gymnazo. Wow! Did I ever have an eye opening experience! Michael put me through such creative and challenging workouts that many times, while I was bent over sucking air, I would ask myself, "Where does he get this stuff from?" Despite being pushed to the limit-- or maybe because of it-- I loved every minute I spent at Gymnazo. I must say I am now a believer in three-dimensional training and I'm a total believer in Michael as a master motivator. By the way, the audition went great! Thank you Michael!"
