Healthy Balance Fitness Client Testimonials   (Shared with permission)

Changing attitudes

“Thank you (and your excellent team) so much for helping me become fit for the first time in my life, and for helping me lose weight, tone up and totally change my attitude towards exercise.  I have lost 9-10kgs over the past two years and feel confident to try out all sorts of new activities that once I would never have considered doing - such as fun runs and lap swimming!  I'm also a 'born again' convert to the simple idea of moving more and eating less...!”     - Emily Porter, Fitzroy boot camp

“I'm loving running way more than I ever expected to, and am really looking forward to completing an event. Thanks for running such an open and welcoming program where even complete novices feel part of the team! I think you've earned a long-term convert to the running cause.” –Kylie Shanahan, Running group & Caulfield boot camp

Improving health

"I gave up smoking at the end of the first 6 weeks (of boot camp) as I was shocked at how sluggish my energy levels were, especially my lung capacity and I knew I had to give up if I wanted to become truly fit – Boot Camp encouraged me to give up.  Already I feel better and I feel I am getting stronger and faster this time around.  I forgot to tell our trainer this morning that since Boot Camp I am able to touch my toes for the first time EVER – Wow…..thanks guys."   -  Robin Saunders, Fitzroy boot camp

Encouraging long term commitment to physical activity

“Jodie, Please reserve me a place for the next boxing boot camp at Richmond.  I have scheduled Tuesday & Thursday mornings in my schedule for the next twelve months.  So you are stuck with me whether you like it or not !!!!!  Am loving the training and reaping the benefits.  Thank you.” -  Darren Binstock, Richmond boxing boot camp

“It’s amazing to actually see (and feel) the efforts of the hard work paying off. Who would have thought that when I first started taking the classes I would end up being this fit... My week now consists of Boot Camp Mondays, Tennis competition Tuesdays, Boxing Class Wednesdays, Tennis lessons Thursdays (and my coach really makes me work hard) and going for a run on Fridays after work. So I have to give my thanks to you for all your work as well!!!”  - Robyn O’Donnell

“Jodie – just wanted to thank you and your team for getting me fit and back on track again!  As I enjoyed the boxing classes I was doing with you earlier this year, I signed up for the 6 week Boot Camp and loved it so much, I have re-signed for another 6 weeks!  I love the fact that we are pushed to stretch ourselves, but within a safe and supportive environment.  I’ve gone from being someone who put off exercising because I thought I didn’t have enough time, to making it a priority in my life because I enjoy working out at the Boot Camp.  As well as seeing an amazing improvement in my fitness over the past 2 months, I’ve got more energy and have also lost weight too!  Thanks again!”   - Julia MacDonald, Richmond boxing boot camp

Improving back health

“ Since starting boot camp my osteopath said she has noticed a real improvement in my back (even after just 4 weeks at the end of last year). It has been much looser, and she attributes it to the boot camp sessions.” – Tony Robinson, Fitzroy boot camp

Producing  fitness results

"The Boot Camp sessions have been great and I have improved in all aspects of fitness, weight and have toned up really well, everything I wanted from the sessions.  I have worked out with a number of your trainers Emma, Michael and Susan and they are all great and push 'just the right amount'.  Keep up the good work."   -- Debbie Howe, Caulfield Boot Camp

“Last weekend I went for a walk with my wife, two daughters and our dog Minnie.  My wife was holding the dogs leash and I was supervising the girls on their scooters.  My eldest daughter yelled out the dreaded challenge, “You can’t catch me Dad”  And off she went on her scooter in full turbo mode.  I started running after her, knowing quite well that about the 50 meter mark,  as per usual I will be huffing and puffing and needing to stop. Then needing 15 minutes to recover and allow my heart rate to return to its normal resting rate.

NOT THIS TIME!!!!!!

I ran, and I ran, and I ran, where I would normally put the brakes on, there was no desire to do so.  I chased her for over 200 meters at a vigorous rate, and when I caught her, after we finished laughing,  I realised that I was not out of breath, my heart was not racing madly.  Thanks to Healthy Balance Fitness – I am getting FIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”  - Darren Binstock, Richmond boxing boot camp

Supporting and encouraging beginners

“I have now completed 4 boxing boot camp sessions and to my surprise have enjoy them!  I am total beginner and very new to fitness training so Steve has been really good not to push me too hard and very supportive – so I thought I would pass on the good feedback.  Although I struggle to get through all the exercise routines- I figure it’s ok to try my best and one day I might be able to do all the sets with the intensity I see in other people at the training.  Thanks for providing such a great organisation, staff and culture that welcomes new and inexperienced people.  Now i have the weekend to recover and mend my sore muscles – I’m off for a ‘easy’ swim tonight as per your newsletter advice”  –Lisa Reed, Richmond boxing boot camp

"We are really enjoying the sessions.  It is a great environment and Susan is lovely.  It is great that everyone can go at their own pace and still be pushed.  We both found muscles we hadn't used for a while!"  - Tori Paterson, Elwood boot camp

"Many thanks for the three sessions I have been to already; I am loving them.  The exercises have been pitched to just the right level and I will enjoy them even more when the spare tyre starts to reduce in size! These sessions are exactly what I was looking for to get me back into some sort of exercise regime. Many thanks"  -- Jim, Fitzroy boot camp

 “Steve and Michelle are both great and I love that the class pushes me but provides options if some of the exercises are too much.  There are a couple (of exercises) that I just cannot do but can't wait to work up to them!  I woke up a little bit tender this morning, particularly across my back and shoulders, and have a feeling that it'll be even worse tomorrow and Sunday.  That's alright though - just means my hard work is paying off!  I'm really enjoying it so thanks very much for providing such a fun and challenging method of exercise - I'm already looking forward to Monday!”  - Nicole Benton, Richmond Boxing boot camp

 “Just wanted to say that I have just done week 1 of boxing at McKinnon and am loving it!  Rob is fantastic and very encouraging and remembered my name after only 1 session!  I am impressed with that, as he no doubt has a lot of names to remember!  My body ACHED the day after my very 1st session and I could hardly lift my arms but it was that 'good pain' that I know I am benefitting from.....anyway, I just wanted to say THANKS and to let you know that I have survived the first week and that I will be back for more next week.”  - Lilian Byrne, McKinnon boxing boot camp

"Thought I would take this opportunity to say thank you.  In January this year I decided that I was going to start my “slightly bigger than I want to be loser”. I started exercising (often with hilarious outcomes) and I realised that I actually really enjoyed it. Things started to progress for me but being someone who had never really been into running and jumping nor ever been to a gym I started to get a little dis-illusioned as my results that started to happen pretty quickly reached a plateau.

And then I received a flyer in my mailbox about your boot camp.  

Since this time I have started to see some great results, not only in my body, but my energy levels and my outlook on things in my life – basically all those things that you hear fitness freaks go on about all the time. Since making the decision to start boot camp I have received a promotion at work, I have reached a level at work with my yearly performance review that very few people get at (This company), almost as high as you can go, I obviously can’t credit everything to boot camp but I am always a firm believer that if you follow the path you are meant to take then good things start to fall into place.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for making this step in my life an easy transition – I have always been really nervous about doing something like this (joining a gym or exercise class) but you have shown me that it can be a very warm and welcoming place. I know I have started doing something that will benefit me for a long time to come, I had in the back of my mind that boot camp would get me to a point with my goals for my health and my physical look that when it ended I would be crazy to stop, I am even considering joining the next class when this one ends – at the very least joining a gym to continue what I have started.

A big, very heartfelt thank you for all your assistance and guidance so far!! (Oh and by the way Wednesday’s class was awesome!!!)” – Shannon Morrison, Fitzroy boot camp

"I confess I was a little apprehensive before I started 3 weeks ago, but it’s probably the best thing I’ve done for myself for ages, so a HUGE thank you"  -  Neil Smith, Boxing Boot Camp

Quality programs & outstanding trainers

“I just wanted to let you know that this morning we had Emma take us for our Boot Camp session in Hawthorn East.  And she was fantastic.  (We) really felt that we had a challenging workout this morning.  And she definitely met my expectation of what boot camp is all about.  She pushed us all, kept us moving throughout, corrected people's posture, and she was bright and bubbly.  It's a shame that the boot camp ends next week.”  - Danielle Puleo, Caulfield boot camp

"I just wanted to pass on my feedback about Susan, she is fantastic and a real asset to your company.  Her professionalism and enthusiasm is second to none and certainly makes getting out of bed easy."  - Sandra Mastromanno, Caulfield boot camp

“Can I just say that I can see myself getting hooked on this boxing boot camp!  It’s just fabulous and Steve is so energetic and fun – where on earth did you find him?!! If every office had a Steve around I’m sure there would be much less road rage in the world!”  -Abbie McBrien, Richmond Boxing boot camp

"Can I just say how great Michael is!  He worked us really hard today but managed to keep it lots of fun.  I have really been enjoying our sessions and can already notice my fitness level improving.  Michael is very conscience of any injuries we may have but ensures he still works us hard.  He is funny and tough which is a great combination."  -- Karin G., McKinnon Boxing Boot Camp

“Thank you for your professionalism, patience and good humour during the past six weeks.  I have thoroughly enjoyed coming long to the sessions” – Michael Shaw, Fitzroy boot camp

“I'd like to give some feedback about Emma's boxing classes on a Thursday morning. Just wanted to let you know that I have really enjoyed them. She gives us quite a challenging and varied workout, and for someone like me, who's fitness is quite good already, I find that I get a lot out of them” – Alison Hasell, Richmond boxing boot camp

“I am really impressed with your setup and sessions. I also love the fact that we start and finish on time. I also never feel like we rush any exercises to make up time etc or are running to a rigid timeline. Big congratulations on that.  It really helps me plan my work day knowing that I can consistently get in on time if I have a morning meeting rather than skip a session.  Keep up the great work. I think you just made a life member out of me.”  -  Dan, Richmond boxing boot camp

“I’ve been meaning to email you all week to let you know how much I LOVE boot camp.  It’s the best exercise format I’ve ever done compared to other boot camps/ personal trainers /gyms etc. I’m impressed by the professionalism of the trainers.  I’m also so impressed by the format of the sessions”  --Claire, Fitzroy boot camp

"Just wanted to let you know I really enjoyed the running session last night. He’s great!! I like his style – particularly the motivating stories about mentally preparing for training & racing.  And I really liked knowing what the workload was going to be for the session so I could manage it - in my head mainly! – but it made me really push myself – especially the last lap."  - Rebekah Hancock, Running Program

Trainers as role models

"I have never done something in my life that I feel so passionate about and am noticing results and am absolutely loving it. Think I am becoming a boot camp junkie ! ! .. And I would also like to add that Susan is a role model for me in many ways.  She is the perfect trainer."  - Kim Delves, Caulfield boot camp

Assisting in the achievement of goals

”Thanks Jodie, I am so excited about what I have achieved this year! I could not have done it without the support of Healthy Balance Fitness. I want to thank you Jodie, and also Susan, Emma, Reggie, Mark, Dana and Steve who are continually helping me to achieve my goals. I have made some amazing positive changes to my life this year and I am very proud of that. A year ago I would not have bothered to get up early on a Sunday morning to run 10km!!!! I'm looking forward to finishing off this year on a high and continuing to achieve new goals in 2009.”  -Fran James, Boot Camp & Running Program

Making exercise fun

“I enjoyed my first session immensely! It was fantastic, our instructor is great & yes I am feeling a little sore but its all worth it. I can’t wait for the next class” –Natalie Holmes, Elwood Boot camp

"Just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how much I enjoyed boot camp this morning.  The 4-a-side basketball game was a great way to finish off the session - so much fun!!  Great to have some laughs at that time of the morning, makes the early starts easier to bear."  - Carmen, Fitzroy boot camp

 "Just wanted to let you know how much fun I had at the boxing class this morning - it was ace! It put me in such a good mood and I'm really looking forward to the Monday classes.” - Rose Williams, Fitzroy Boot Camp

"I have been enjoying it and can’t believe how quickly the hour passes by!"  - Kate Bolt

Reducing body fat

“Some good feedback for you! I am a very satisfied customer!! I had my measurements done a week ago and I have lost inches everywhere!! So I am very keen on continuing with the program.” – Cynthia Speed, Bentleigh Boxing Boot Camp

Value for money

“This is the best money I have ever spent on fitness!! I'm never going to a gym again!” –Sandra Tiepermann, Caulfield boot camp

Sparking enthusiasm for fitness

“I am still walking around telling everyone how much I enjoy my classes.  Both Steve and Michelle are absolutely fantastic, I JUST LOVE IT.  Thank you and I can't wait for next week.” – Glenyce Johnson, Richmond boxing boot camp

Impeccable customer service

“I really love the way you run things Jodie, you’ve got a great business and some awesome trainers who go above and beyond.  I like the variety of your programs and the tips you send each week, it shows you do care and I can’t say I’ve come across any other fitness groups that have shown the same commitment to their clients.”  -- Bryanna Nicholls, Richmond boxing boot camp & Running Program

“I have really loved the courses I have done through your company – especially the boxing which was something totally new for me. I think that the trainers are all terrific and the “extras” you provide like flexibility to do make up classes and the weekly newsletters are great. “  --Megan Walters, Fitzroy boot camp & Hawthorn East boxing

"Struth - your service is second to none, Jodie!"   -  Lyndal Simmons, Boxing Boot Camp

Improving confidence

“Over the last year my health, fitness and confidence have skyrocketed, and I'm writing now to say thank you.  Before I started at your boot-camp, I considered myself a fairly active, but not athletic person. I walk or cycle places by choice, but have never felt the need to push myself or create any real fitness challenges. So far this year, I've entered and completed 4 large scale public fitness events! Even when my friends dropped out, I still had the confidence and drive to go and run on my own.

This is a huge change in my life. When I started boot-camp I couldn't run the 2 blocks to the tram without hyperventilating, and now I've competed in two 10k races and on a recent road trip I got up early every morning to jog along the beach. I remember spending most of the first 6 week course spread-eagle on the ground unable to move from exhaustion, but now I've got the confidence in my strength and fitness to join athletic clubs and know I can represent myself well.

So thanks! Fitness will now hopefully remain an important part of my daily routine. I've made healthy friends and we go out riding and running together for fun... it really has been a complete lifestyle overhaul.”  -Miranda Hill, running group & Fitzroy boot camp

Creating a community

“Thank you for your email (of the Running Homework Schedule) and also for another great session last night!  I just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying being part of the Healthy Balance Fitness group - I absolutely love it!  It is so much better than going to a gym and I have met some really nice people also.  I’m off for a run tonight – sticking to the schedule!” –Elizabeth Knight, Running Program & Richmond boxing boot camp

"I can start by saying - wow I really enjoyed Wednesday night.  I have run with groups before and I was with them for 8 wks and they didn’t know my name.  I felt very welcomed on Wednesday and really enjoyed the time with the group.  Big credit to you - thank you so much." – Michaela Barron, Running Program

"Just wanted to say thanks! I have made it through my first two classes and am absolutely completely obsessed. Really enjoying myself - it's a great group of people and fantastic trainers." -Melanie Ward, Hawthorn East Boxing Boot Camp

The complete package

"I know it is only early in the piece, however I would like to provide some feedback on the running program.

Firstly, Emma is an excellent coach and facilitator.  I notice that she takes time to encourage each person and build a relationship with each participant.  She has excellent interpersonal skills - in that she can adapt and relate to others and work out how they best respond.

The next thing I notice is the level of inclusion, in that people of all levels can be catered for in the program.  I also love the way the program allows participants to ease into the training, rather than feeling as though we have been thrown in the deep end.  I have never had someone take me through the basic skills before!  It is a bit like the analogy of learning to walk before you can run.

Finally, the email notices, the recommended training program, the variety of locations, the variety of training skills that are integrated into the program - all of these serve to keep the connection going through the week until the next Sunday session.

Thank-you to you and Emma for putting this together.  I look forward to the rest of the course and to other programs after this one.” - Nadia Kocz, Running Program.