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What our CLIENTS say about Active Bodies

After going way too long and not taking care of my personal health and deciding it was time for a change, I started to look into gyms and/or personal trainers. I found the perfect fit with Active Bodies. It allowed me to avoid crowds and having to wait to use the equipment. At Active Bodies, I have specific appointment times for my personal training sessions and support.

As I started my journey toward better health, I discovered many more benefits of training at Active Bodies. Owner, Erik James and his staff actually make working out enjoyable, while always providing constant supervision, support and challenges. The equipment and facilities at Active Bodies offer a wide variety for different workouts. The training sessions are varied and tailored to my specific needs and abilities. I have lost weight, gained strength, improved my eating habits, gained personal confidence and most important, feel better everyday. This has been a life changing experience for me since becoming a client!

-Doug D

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My name is Trisha and joining Active Bodies Boot Camp has been a life changing experience for me. For years I spent money on Health Clubs. I would work out but I never got the results I was looking for. Erik has been my personal trainer now for almost 2 months. After the first month of Boot Camp I lost 8lbs. Boy was I ecstatic. Erik is just what I needed. He knows how to push us to the best of our ability; he encourages us; he corrects us when we aren't doing the exercises right so we get the best results. He gives us tips on nutrition. Erik is extremely knowledgeable with fitness, he is funny, with a great sense of humor. He makes me laugh. Everyday of Boot Camp he has different exercises so the workouts don't get boring by doing the same thing over and over. I look forward to going to Boot Camp even though it's tough and every bone in my body hurts. I have a 90 day goal set for myself of losing 30 pounds. With Erik James I know I will achieve my goal. Thank you Erik James you are god sent.

-Trisha H

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I was referred to Active Bodies by my chiropractor. I suffered from chronic severe pain on the left side of my neck and in my shoulders. Erik took great care in helping me to safely stretch and strengthen my neck, shoulders and upper back. Eventually all pain was alleviated.

had just had my fifth baby when we really started to focus on posture, and overall strength training. I enjoyed the days I could step away from motherhood for an hour and be pushed to excel beyond what I thought was possible. On the days I didn't train with Erik, I had a clear plan for my work outs alone with the motivation to report back my progress. When I started working out I was wavering between 183 and 186 pounds. I'm nearly 5'11", so I often was able to hide some of that weight. But it was taking a toll on my posture, energy and health. Today I weigh 171 pounds. My goal is to lose six more.

When my husband and I planned a much needed vacation to Hawaii, Erik focused six weeks on my abs, so I felt confident in my swimsuit! Now I have the energy and strength to chase after my four boys and little girl. For the first time in five years I can tuck in my shirt, and I've learned I don't have to be a slave to my emotional eating. I can live without Ding Dongs and I feel much better when I do. Thanks Erik!

-Sherry L

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I started my personal training at Active Bodies with Erik about 2 years ago. I weighted 235lbs and my diabetes was out of control. Within 6 months I was below 200lbs and my glucose and A1c numbers were perfect. I'm about to turn 46 and I feel more like 26. Thanks to Erik I was able to reach my goals and change my life!

-Scott H

Working out at Active Bodies with Erik these past few years has made a tremendous difference of minimizing the frequency of my migraine headaches. Also, he has helped me have the consistency I need, variety of routines to avoid burn-out, and meal plans designed to keep my weight from yo-yoing up and down. My grandchildren love having a "fit" grandma!!

-Margie C

I have always wanted to get in better shape and become stronger, but good intentions and access to equipment weren't enough. Knowing how and how much to workout helps to avoid injury and produce desired results. For me, that is the best thing about working at Active Bodies with Erik. After one year of training I am stronger, more flexible, have less body fat and have fewer aches and pains than any time in the last twenty years. Because of Erik's good training and good humor, this is the longest I have ever stayed with a training program, and I am enthusiastic about continuing my program into the future.

Thank you my friend.

-Bruce W. B

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Erik has been my personal trainer for more than eight years. My personal goals have been to increase bone density, improve my strength, balance, flexibility and endurance. Erik has succeeded at meeting each of these goals. What I like about Erik is that he designs unique programs for each person. His expertise and encouragement enables me to achieve my goals.

Now, as I near 70 years of age, I can toss football, shoot baskets and play kick-ball with my grandkids. Much of the credit goes to Erik and his fitness program. Also, Erik's charm, encouragement and professional knowledge make 'working out' fun and enjoyable!

-Susan W.

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I originally enrolled in fitness classes through Active Bodies approximately a year ago. I wanted to lose weight, tone up, work on lower back issues and build muscle to achieve a more balanced well being. Erik trained me for 6 months, modifying exercises because of my lower back pain. Also, I attend the group fitness classes at Active Bodies, and am enrolled in his boot camp program. I found all facets of these programs very challenging and rewarding.

My overall experience with Erik and Active Bodies has created an overwhelming sense of accomplishment within myself. I was so impressed with his knowledge, experience and positive attitude, I enrolled my daughter in his personal training program, as well. I have enjoyed, and gained knowledge through, the individual training programs, group classes and the nutrition classes.

Erik has a tremendous knowledge of nutrition, personal training and is resolute in giving his clients the necessary tools for success in these areas. He is a professional and dedicated physical fitness trainer and consultant, and is an extraordinary physical trainer of tremendous versatility, intelligence and discipline. He is capable of determining the individual abilities of his clients. His pleasant and positive attitude is a great asset, along with, his willingness to work with his clients at their own levels. He instills confidence and encouragement to make you want to work further and apply yourself. He keeps his workouts fun and innovative.

I currently recommend Erik and Active Bodies to all my friends and associates. I credit Erik with giving me better overall conditioning and stamina. I’ve endured incredible back pain issues and without Erik and his programs, I would not be as physically active as I am now. I highly recommend Erik and Active Bodies wholeheartedly to anyone who wants to improve their life through fitness and exercise.

Sincerely,

-Karen J.

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When I first went to Active Bodies, I explained to Erik that I needed to lose some weight before my knee surgery total knee replacement). He took my age into consideration (nearly 80 years young) and explained to me what his plan was and informed me what I needed to do to make sure that the program was successful. Well, I have to say my doctor was impressed that I lost nearly 30 pounds in about four months – just in time for my total knee replacement surgery.

Thanks to the specific exercises Erik had me do my knee recovered much quicker than my doctor expected. In fact, my doctor said my progress was ONE YEAR ahead of what he anticipated. Before my surgery, I suffered from constant knee pain. Now, I have the confidence to walk through the mall with stability and no more knee pain. Thank you to Erik and the Active Bodies staff for all they’ve done for me!

-Annette Rokas

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My wife and I began working out with Erik almost two years ago. We remember asking if he would push us beyond our limits and he said ‘definitely.’ He is very careful as to make sure we are not injured but definitely pushed us beyond what we ever thought possible in our mid 40’s. We are both in the best shape we have been in since college – maybe better.

In addition to the physical side, Erik works with us on our diet and provides useful information and monitoring that you would not get in most places. He also provides regular updates to all of his clients in regard to diet and physical activity.

We are now able to do things that we thought not possible a few years ago. The emotional side is also a benefit of the improved physical condition.

Lastly, a huge advantage of being a member at Active Bodies is the camaraderie that Erik fosters among all of his clients. We get to know each other as friends and are encouraged to network and support each others businesses.

-James C.

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I have been working with Erik since January 2010. When I began working with Erik I weighed almost 300 lbs. I was apprehensive and nervous to begin working with a personal trainer toward what has become a life changing event.

Not only is Erik very knowledgeable and educated in his field, but he is very friendly, too. He possesses a confidence that he can help me. This has made me feel at ease and has given me confidence, as well.

When I first began working out it was overwhelming, tiring and I didn’t know if I could do it. I could barely do the step machine for one minute at a time. Prior to his workouts, I would become tired and my ankles would hurt walking from my car to the grocery store.

Now it is July and I am proud to say I have lost 100 lbs!! I feel great. I am living a healthier lifestyle. I attend the Active Bodies boot-camp three times a week, as well as, private workouts with Erik three times a week. I now look forward to it.

On of my biggest emotional experiences was when my son went to hug me and was able to put his arms around me! Wow it was a great feeling for me as well as him, and that I owe to Erik. He has encouraged me every step of the way and never let me quit believing that I could accomplish this.

Thank you Erik!!

-Tisha

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I started training with Erik in the Fall of 2006. I have enjoyed going to his gym from the very start. Erik is friendly and very easy to talk with. Not only is he an excellent trainer but his nutrition expertise is very helpful. From the summer of 2007 thru December 2009, I had health issues that made my weight skyrocket. During those months that I was not at my optimum weight (or even close to it) Erik never belittled or judged me. He was always encouraging. He would suggest different diets and workout routines for me to try. Recently I hit upon the right combination of eating and working out. I know I would not have been able to accomplish my 40 pound plus weight loss without his constant encouragement.

-Laurie Hancock

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As a member of the U.S. Air Force, I take pride in being in top physical shape working in a military aeromedical evacuation unit. Having a custom workout designed for me by Erik that fit my schedule helped me to achieve results quicker. In a short period of three months I was able to increase my endurance, strength and, most of all, my conditioning. It was a great accomplishment going from only being able to do five pull ups in two sets to ten pull ups in three sets. When it came time to Thank you Erik for all the unique and intense workouts, your hard work and for making me sweat. I believe now I have joined the esteemed ranks of the Active Bodies community.

-Staff Sgt. Barrios "RAZOR" Ramon
Live to Fly, Fly to Live
452 AES

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One year after I underwent two major hip surgeries, the second being a complete hip revision, my surgeon told me I was completely healed and gave me permission to attend physical therapy to strengthen my leg. I had a friend who had been a client of Erik’s for several years, and who convinced me I should talk with Erik about working with him. I felt my schedule was too full to commit two nights/week to exercise. However, my friend stated I should just consider it an essential appointment, just like a hair or nail appointment. I met with Erik, discussed my recent surgeries and concerns for further injury and my goals for physical improvement. When I learned of Erik’s background in surgical assistance, college degree in nutrition and training and experience as a personal trainer I decided to sign on. I worked with Erik for two years. During that time not only did the strength in my leg increase, but also my overall body strength increased. I had more energy than previously and no longer had a sluggish feeling. Simple household chores such as lifting heavy items into high cupboards and removing items from low cupboards became quite easy. I am not a person who enjoys exercising. However, my sessions with Erik were fun and productive. I felt I was doing something worthwhile with my time and beneficial for my body. I got to know several of Erik’s other clients who worked out around my appointment time. I am grateful to Erik for the help he has given me. Thank you, Erik

-Kay G.

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I've had many trainers at a well-known gym, but have had no success. I was going to give up on trainers, but Erik was recommended to me by a friend. Erik was the first trainer to help me meet my weight loss goals and give me my confidence back. He customized my work outs and provided me with guidance on proper nutrition. Erik truly cares about his clients and I would highly recommend him.

-Bibiana A.

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I have belonged to Erik's boot camp since it first began. During this time my strength and endurance have improved markedly. The spring prior to boot camp, while training on my own, I completed a 15.3 relay and half marathon in one weekend. After attending boot camp for 4 months I was able to do the same 15.3 relay but, do the FULL marathon the next day. Although Erik’s boot camp is not specifically designed to train participants for distance events, the program does improve endurance and overall conditioning. Erik ensures that each week's boot camp works all muscle groups and has plenty of cardio. Because of boot camp I am stronger and healthier.

-Sandy F.

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I have been going to Active Bodies Boot Camp since March, and I am hooked! While I am not naturally an early-morning person, I can’t think of a better way to start the day. You leave the workout feeling energized, and knowing you’ve done something great for yourself.

Erik is the perfect blend of motivating and encouraging, making you challenge yourself without ever being over-bearing or demoralizing. He makes you want to do your best.

The camaraderie is awesome. The group of people we workout with are so much fun, even though we may all be huffing and puffing. No one is judging anyone because there is such a diverse range of age and fitness levels. We are all just trying to do our best and cheering each other on.

I have seen such amazing results since starting Boot Camp, not only in myself but in others as well. I have so much more definition in my arms and legs, and have lost 81/2 lbs so far - even after going on a cruise. I can now do full-on push ups, (a few anyway) and have much more strength and endurance than I thought possible. People are actually commenting that I look better.

Thanks Active Bodies, and thanks to you Erik, for helping me be fit, and feel better than I have in years.

-Jude Buttes

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