Success Stories

Jonathan and I both really enjoy the partner personal training sessions for many reasons: we know that we are doing something to improve our health; it gives us a chance to spend some time together doing something fun; we accomplish greater results working with a personal trainer than on our own; and the exercises focus on what we want to improve the most. We find the skills and dedication of the trainers at Refine Fitness very impressive and motivating!

Thank you

"Finding the right words to explain how Refine Fitness and the staff have helped me (a larger person on the verge of turning 30) is almost next to impossible. It took me 2 months to finally get over my own insecurities, set up an appointment to see what made this gym different from the rest, and how I could make a life change with their help. From the beginning there was never any pressure, instead I was greeted with opportunity. The opportunity to achieve whatever goals I set forth with the support I required.

After working hard for three months with a trainer (thanks Marco!), I have lost over 20lbs. My sessions are never boring, always challenging, and most importantly fun. Not only that, but the support that I have received from the other staff members has been wonderful. The group classes that are offered have also helped to keep me energized and enthusiastic as I continue to reach towards my goal. The smaller setting and the equipment provided make "going to work out" very comfortable, and the smoothies that are available definitely don’t hurt either.

Like I said earlier, to really explain what Refine Fitness means to me, I can’t, it’s something that just has to be experienced. I owe a thousand "Thank You’s" to Mike and the amazing staff he has provided. Refine Fitness will have me for a lifelong member.

Tasha

I was introduced to refine Studio by a friend in January, 2008. I am impressed by the number and variety of the exercise machines and equipment available, and even more impressed by the friendliness and competence of the staff. I am 75 and focus on exercises designed to enhance my balance and mobility. I am very pleased with the program and with the results. refine Studio provides many programs to fit the particular needs of its clients. The facility, staff and programs are excellent. As an old tv ad used to say: Try it. You’ll Like it.

Father Joe Quinn, csb

I like the club because of the friendly, courteous, knowledgeable staff and clean premises. Marco is developing a personalized training program for me rather than the one-size-fits-all programs I have had at other clubs. I am happy with the progress. I am not out to beat speed records and Marco has implemented this approach in my training program. I feel healthier. I do not have any suggestions to change Marco. I find him very patient, courteous and knowledgeable and he assesses each member he is doing a training program for and gives them their own personalized program rather than a packaged one for all. He is also very complimentary on any progress you make. Overall, I am very happy with Refine Fitness. Thanks.

Andy Simpson

What I like most about the club is the convenience of coming on my lunches and after work because of the proximity and most of all I like the atmosphere. It is non-judgmental and very personal. I always feel good coming and going!! What I like most about training with Betty Lou is that there is always something new and she is light- hearted and motivating!
I am very happy with my progress. I am used to doing the same thing all the time: yoga and running, so having the opportunity to work with her gave me new strength.
So far all my goals have been met.

I truly love the gym.
Natasha Zajmalowski

We chose Refine Fitness because Mike and his staff actually care that you meet your objectives, as opposed to just collecting your monthly fees. The atmosphere of the studio reflects the clientele: like-minded adults seriously interested in improving their fitness levels. It is not a requirement that you already look good, are all "shiny" with baby oil and can strike a pose in front of the nearest mirror! What we thought we were signing up for is exactly what we got. It is hard to be totally objective, but when comparing Refine to other clubs we feel like we moved our seats from the "cattle car" to "first class". Our results so far are smaller waists, better tone, less weight and way more energy!

Thanks Betty-Lou and Colin!

We get great support at Refine. My doctor diagnosed an injury and my personal trainer researched ways to address the injury and complete the workout without irritating it. (Brad) Colin is always encouraging and works hard to keep it interesting.

Wendi

The staff makes the Studio. We are always greeted by name, and are regularly greeted by staff that we don’t even work with directly. There is a perpetual sense of humor around the studio. Our personal trainers (Betty-Lou and Colin) are great to work with. The training is serious but it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while doing it. This has been a great experience for us. If you haven’t tried the studio out you should. Unless you don’t care if you are fit!

The gushier the better

Mike Bates is the goodwill ambassador and "god of fitness" in Windsor. His heaven, the Fitness Studio, is full of deities of all sorts. These gods and goddesses will tone you down and tune you up! After one trial workout you will beg Mike to let you into his heaven and willingly tithe your income to the Fitness Studio for the privilege. Seriously, great job Mike!

Wendi and Brad Eizenga

The best thing about Refine is the personal attention – there’s a genuine feeling from the staff that they’re glad to see me (and other members) at the club, as opposed to the big box gyms where customers are nothing more than a number or a paycheque. It takes "working out" away from the realm of being a chore to being something that’s actually enjoyable and something that I look forward to doing.

Training with Marco is great; he’s been able to include a wide variety of exercises into my sessions – so when I’m there on my own, I don’t end up bored with the same exercises over and over and over. I am more than happy with the progress I have made. I’m honestly floored by it!

The place is awesome – the staff is amazing. You’ve got a great team and great club that is most definitely worth the money.

Chris Pressey

Refine Fitness Studio is just that, refined: marvelous facilities, an open, resplendent space and, most importantly, truly knowledgeable, concerned, and engaging staff. I have never belonged to a finer facility, nor felt the sense of community that defines the Studio anywhere else in Windsor. Highly recommended.

Stephen Pender, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, English
Director, Humanities Research Group

I was first asked to visit Refine Fitness by a friend and colleague. I had expressed a desire in getting back into shape to him. He told me Refine was clean, bright, had state of the art equipment and (most of all) outstanding staff. He was 100% correct.

I had avoided working out for several years using a number of real (and imagined) excuses. After my first meeting with the owner Mike Bates, all of my concerns, fears and excuses were resolved.

My experience at Refine has been amazing. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and accommodating. The equipment and all facets of the facility have been kept immaculate and excellently maintained. Each staff member takes pride in their job and further takes care to make you feel important and special. The Personal Trainers are knowledgeable in the area of Personal Fitness and take pride in their clients successes as much as their own.

In most "clubs" or "gyms" you are made to feel like a "piece of meat" as opposed to a valued patron. That certainly is not the case at Refine Fitness. I would recommend Refine Fitness to anyone who is interested in working out and thoroughly enjoying the experience in a clean dynamic environment.

Jerry Udell

I began working out at Refine Fitness because my husband, who needed to return to a consistent fitness regime, said he would not go unless I joined as well. We made a "deal" that I would make a 2 month commitment to "Refine", after which I would return to my workout routine at another local facility where I had been quite content for many years.

I soon realized what I had been missing. Although Refine Fitness is a small gym, the size deficit is certainly compensated in other more important areas. At Refine, the staff is always pleasant and helpful. The atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed for people who are interested in a good workout in a mature environment. The equipment is first-class with treadmill, bikes and elliptical – all being equipped with individual television screens and fans. If something needs repair it is always done in a timely fashion. The facility is immaculately kept with bright, clean, well-appointed locker rooms with shower facilities.

Regarding Personal Training, Refine prides itself on staff who have been properly trained and are certified to work with each individual and tailor the exercises to personal needs, challenges and physical issues. Staff at Refine pays particular attention to their clients’ needs. For me personally, I have never yet had a training session that has been duplicated. And I am definitely seeing results in areas of my body that needed improvement. They will also assist with nutritional advice, if it is requested.

Three months have expired, and I am still at Refine Fitness – I highly recommend you to check it out – you will be glad that you did!

Brenda Udell

I have been a member of Refine Fitness since May 2008. I never anticipated joining a gym this year, as I prefer to work out on my own. However while attending a health fair in the community last February I signed up to receive Refine’s newsletter. I received my first edition in March 2008. Although I had yet to meet Mike I felt like that newsletter was written for me and about me…it was so inspiring! I look forward to reading the newsletters every month because there is always something in it that I can relate to or need to hear and it tells me what’s going on at the gym. And although it was the newsletter that got me in to the door, it is Mike and his staff at Refine that has kept me there.

I have never belonged to a gym where I feel so comfortable. Since the gym is smaller and caters to adults and professionals, the staff really gets to know the members. It’s so nice to hear staff welcome me by name. What I also love is the fact that it’s a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

I also decided to try personal training to help kick start my fitness routine. I have had the pleasure of working with an amazing trainer by the name of Marco. Marco has been such a great motivator. He knows that I like a challenge and he gives me so much encouragement that he has helped me realize one of my goals. All my life I have wanted to be able to do a chin up….don’t ask me why I just think it represents strength so I told Marco one of my goals was to do a chin up. Well after a lot of hard work building up my upper body strength and after about 3 months I met my goal. I can do a chin up…now I want to be able to do 10!!! And I know with Marco’s help I will get there!!

Some of the other benefits that I have enjoyed since joining Refine is having more energy and feeling less stressed. As a social worker dealing with people all day, working out has helped me to unwind. I have also noticed that I simply feel better about me! What is most ironic to me is who would have thought that someone who before joining Refine could only do a "girlie" push up on her knees would come to love pushups!! Thanks to Marco I know more ways to do pushups than I ever dreamed possible. And he keeps my workout routines changing so I am never bored and there is always another challenge, which I love!

Refine Fitness is impeccably clean and the women’s change room provides some of the small amenities from home (q-tips, blow dryer) that you would never find in one of those bigger gyms. I often work out before I go to work and if I have forgotten to pack something (like deodorant) there is some available!! To me that little touch means a lot! If you have been thinking about getting into shape, lose weight, or just become more active I would definitely recommend giving Refine Fitness a call. Better yet come in and see for yourself!

Michelle Timmins

My husband and I are moving to LaSalle. We are building a new house and are excited about the move, although I am quite sad to be leaving Refine Fitness. I doubt that any other gym could compare in terms of the friendliness and professionalism of your staff, the quality of your equipment, the airy, trendy, and warm feel and look of the gym, the great classes and seminars, and most of all, your personal involvement with members and your willingness to accommodate odd schedules like mine. Thanks for everything – I will miss it all!

Best wishes,
Stephanie

Hi Mike!
I want to start off by thanking you and your staff in your efforts to get me back to the gym. I did not feel you were too forward, but that you really did care to find out how you could accommodate me, and for that personal touch I am grateful. However due to personal reasons I chose not to make the time. My husband and I are trying to expand our family at the time, so I thought it would be foolish to return to the gym now. This month my 1 year membership expires, so I am assuming the monthly automatic withdrawals from my account also will stop??? I hope to return to the gym next September if all goes well with our family. I wish you much continued success. I have on small request, could I continue to receive your newsletters (via e-mail), because I do enjoy reading them? If not, no worries. Mike take care. I hope all goes well.

Sincerely,
Dianne

Hi Mike;
Donna and I performed our closing fit test today. My martial arts training aside, I’ve never really done any fitness training in a studio. I’m a runner (solitary) and, up until now, have done my weight training in the garage. This month has therefore been a very interesting and rewarding change for me – a great learning experience.

I just wanted to drop a note to give you and your team a quick thank you for your professionalism, focus and dedication.

As an HR professional, I must also salute you on your hiring practices. Your team all seem well aligned with a Refine Fitness strategy of providing a suite of fitness options and support for adults and business professionals. Please pass on my praise and thanks to Andree and all the other RF team members.

Best,
Art Williams

Our "workouts" with a qualified trainer have become a welcomed part of our weekly routine. Thanks to Mike and his trained staff, we have made a renewed commitment to a healthy lifestyle, balancing nutrition, exercise and fun. It’s never too late to start. And it really works for us!

Denise and Peter Hrastovec

All I can say is that the Refine Fitness Team has literally saved my life. Kristy, Colin and Mike are fantastic. These guys really care for my well being. The variety of workouts and the motivation they provide have turned me into a fitness enthusiast. I can honestly say I never thought that was possible. Hiring a personal trainer was the single most important decision I have made in the last 10 years. Without them, I would never be where I am today. Thanks Guys!

Enzo Mancuso

I have never felt better about myself!
Mike Bates and his staff have been extraordinary and have made me feel like part of their family. I’ve been pushed to limits that I have never before achieved. The encouragement and support I encounter at refine fitness is like nothing that I ever experienced at any other gym. The wide array of workout options provided to the members of Refine Fitness creates an ever changing workout experience.

At Refine Fitness you can go spinning in a team cycling situation, or take your workout on the road at boot camp and test yourself at Malden Hill. I have been a member of the Refine Fitness workout family since December of 2008 and it has changed my life.

Debbie Primeau

Before I started training with Colin, I had little to no knowledge at all about personal fitness. Truthfully, without proper instruction I felt foolish because I really didn’t know how to develop a work out plan myself, nor did I even know which exercises worked which muscle groups. Since I began training, I’ve gained the strength I wanted and am now more committed to improving my physical fitness. Not only are simple tasks considerably easier, (carrying groceries, climbing staircases, even something as simple as opening a door) but my friends, family and work colleagues have all noticed differences; not only in my physique but in my overall complacency – I feel more energetic and happy! Perhaps best of all is that I actually like working with Colin, since our shared interests and his good nature makes it feel more like working with a friend than a professional trainer.

Refine is such a unique experience compared to other gyms. It has a relatively small membership, so it’s never too busy when I want to work out; I have access to whatever machines or weights I need. The other members are friendly and polite, and group classes are a great way to meet new people and share experiences and goals. The staff is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Best of all, there is no pressure to perform a certain way or look a certain way – everyone is at their own level, and respects one another for it.

Colin Tucker-Steele

Working with Colin at Refine has literally changed my life.
An accident several years ago left me with an inoperable injury and I had pretty much given up on ever being able to regain the fitness level I’d previously enjoyed. I tried a couple of other gyms and trainers and although encouraged by early results, each time ended up hurting myself and, fearful of taking things further, stopped.

With Colin’s encouragement and professional approach I’ve been able to gradually build flexibility and strength beyond what I believed possible and along with it, the energy and mental acuity to better tolerate pain and the frustration imposed by it. Especially impressive has been Colin’s willingness to research of his own volition my particular problems and to devise strategies to address issues as they arise. His patience and constancy are inspiring. As impregnable as they may have seemed, I’ve learned through working out at Refine that my limitations are flexible. The sincerity of the entire ‘family’ makes a visit to the gym a warm and positive experience and I now can’t imagine my life without it. Thank you Colin, and to the entire team. You’ve truly broadened my horizons!

Wayne Rollinson

I have been physically active all my life and a vegetarian for over 20 years. All my health indicators (BP, heart rate, cholesterol, etc) have been fabulous. Nevertheless I have always struggled with my weight. I joined Refine when my gym relocated and in the first meetings with Marco and Kristy, they were confident that they could change all that. I told them I would be their Waterloo. Actually, I confess to being very nervous because I had tried every other possible solution to the weight issue and had not succeeded. I can tell the Weight Watchers points of a food from 200 yards. I know the Glycemic Index and the difference between trans fats, saturated fats, animal fats and every other kind of fat. I was afraid that if I spent a lot of money and energy and failed again, I might finally just give up in despair.

5 months later, I have lost over 20 pounds, am wearing clothes that have been in the closet long enough to be out of style, I sleep better, feel better and even (ahem) digest food better. In fact, I sleep so well that I wake up with my arms asleep because I haven’t had to get up to go the bathroom half a dozen times. I even like the food plan. It helps that being a vegetarian I was already eating lots of legumes, but I love the fact that the food is about nutrients, not calories or points or some other fad. Given the choice, my habits directed me to bread.

Now I know that my body prefers me to err on the side of protein. Simple and successful. On the downside, Sunday morning workouts have become my drug of choice. If I don’t work out hard (and I mean Kristy Franklin hard) on the weekend, I am an absolute bear on Monday. The workout is like a kind of tranquillizer that I now crave like a fix.

The twice-weekly workouts are also like a fix. Kristy (and sometimes Colin) seem to incorporate my natural competitive spirit into workouts that challenge (and sometimes frustrate) me. And when I look back to where I started, I am amazed at my strength, balance, even grace. I can even jump onto the bench.

Melinda Munro

I joined Refine Fitness on the basis of some good reports I had heard from my partner where I work, mostly about the quality of the trainers and their attention to detail and discipline. I had never joined a gym before, so I really wasn’t sure what to expect.

My initial goal was to increase my overall muscle tone, in particular in my abdominal area as a result of my surgery last year. I have lately begun to feel that I am starting to exceed what I had expected for myself. I sense an increase in my energy and generally feel stronger, better conditioned, with improved muscle tone.

Given my inexperience with workouts in the past, I would definitely recommend that someone commit to having a personal trainer as part of their program. The accountability factor is huge. I have said on a couple of occasions to my personal trainer, "I don’t want to be here this morning". Knowing that you have an appointment is what has kept me going sometimes; especially in those early months. So stick to it, you’ll eventually feel like you’re getting over the hump and start to build momentum in the program.

My personal trainers have been consistent with their approach and dogmatically supportive through my discouraging moments. They recognize the ups and downs you’re going to have, but have patience in helping you push through them to build your confidence.

There is a small sense of family at Refine Fitness, as opposed to what other people have described as an impersonal "banquet hall" approach. Thanks and keep up the good work!

Robert Lacey

My experience with fitness clubs started over 30 years ago. It initially began with lots of enthusiasm, lot of money down and no follow up. About fifteen years ago, I got a young, well intentioned personal trainer who conscientiously followed a program which did produce some positive results. However, a large, impersonal facility was not to my liking.

About two years ago, I joined another club close to home and faithfully did some treadmill work which did not seem to produce any positive results. Again a large facility with lots of machines but no real personal touch was not for me. Finally, after hearing some real success stories from friends and acquaintances, I decided to try Refine Fitness, signed on for personal training and was referred, sight unseen, to Marco. What a world of difference! The facility is warm and intimate, the trainer knowledgeable, personable and professional and the training program has produced very positive results!

My goals were to lose weight and get in better shape. By following the nutritional plan carefully, I noticeably lost weight almost immediately. Unfortunately, against the advice of my trainer, I stopped doing the daily journal and have had a setback. However, I will try again in 2011!

I am, however, in much better shape both in terms of improved stamina and strength. The exercise routines are varied, interesting and productive and the results are carefully tracked. I’m sure great stride have been made in the fitness industry over the years, but, I must say, I did not expect to benefit from the kind of in-depth knowledge I assumed was available only to elite athletes. As difficult as exercising is, it’s made a lot easier going to Refine Fitness. I am looking forward to a positive, long term relationship.

Pat

Having worked with Matt Golob [at Body Advantage] for almost 4 years I was hesitant to switch over to Refine Fitness Studio. However I knew that Matt was heading in a direction which would change his life forever, and I knew that stepping outside my comfort zone would also be good for me.

Refine Fitness Studio is quiet and intimate and has a great atmosphere which is conducive to focusing on the task at hand. The staff is more than willing to help with anything and the trainers are knowledgeable and motivating. One difference between Refine Fitness Studio and Body Advantage is that Refine Fitness offers a greater variety and flexibility of equipment. I also like the fact that included in my membership here is the ability to take yoga classes at the Walkerville Yoga Loft three times a week.

I have been training mostly with Colin and the mix of workouts is very good sessions to session; like Matt’s workouts they are different all the time. I can see marked improvement in strength and endurance since starting at Refine. I will also say that Mike Bates has gone out of his way to be accommodating in terms of setting up a program that would fit me and knew exactly how to make me feel comfortable. Matt endorsed Refine Fitness with confidence and it’s become evident to me why he felt assured with this transition.

Doris Hellenbart

When I found out Matt Golob [Body Advantage] was leaving, I thought he was abandoning me. I’d had experiences at other gyms, and I didn’t think Refine could help me the way Matt did. I soon found out differently. At my first meeting with Marco I realized these people knew what they were doing. They knew me by first name, and got to know me better by looking at me in the eye and by talking to me. They told me I had to do my part, and if I did, they promised I would see results. The gym is clean here and the equipment is awesome, with every kind of gear guaranteed to make me sweat.

I can honestly say I have never worked as hard as I have since I joined Refine Fitness Studio. I’m 62 and all I wish for is a healthy life. I really feel that the staff here are interested in me, and that with their help I can be healthy and fit. All in all, I love it!

Linda Hyatt

For my 40th birthday my wife bought me something truly special, couples training at Refine Fitness. We have both had highs and lows with our weight and fitness levels. I will not get into the myriad of excuses that we have both used to justify weight gains and fatigue induced by lack of exercise. Suffice to say, we were not at our best. Despite the trepidation we felt at starting a training regimen with a personal trainer, we nevertheless showed up.

After 6 months, we can honestly say that this was the best gift ever. Our energy levels are at an all time high with new strength and balance felt throughout the day. For the first time in our 20 year relationship we are both physically fit at the same time. We started all this with specific goals in mind, but that has morphed into something neither one of us expected, a lifestyle change. Because we are training partners, missed workouts are not an option. We have adopted a healthier lifestyle while having fun. There is nothing better than the euphoric feeling we have after an intense workout with the Refine Fitness trainers. In the 6 months of sessions so far, they have demonstrated an uncanny ability to gauge just how far to push us past our comfort zone so that we can realize our potential. At the same time, they seem to realize when we both are in need of a slightly less intense workout.

We are proud of what we have accomplished, thankful for having such an incredible trainer and look forward to continuing our relationship with our extended family at Refine.

Brent & Tonya Gale

I wanted to take a moment to tell you how remarkable your fitness studio is. I have never encountered anything so peaceful and serene in a workout atmosphere. I am a long time runner who enjoys being in the gym for strength training but usually dread the idea of a run inside, I felt so comfortable and so relaxed and couldn’t believe the experience I was having indoors with it being so lovely outdoors. It is unfortunate that geography plays such a big part in my ability to work out in your facility but I will most definitely make as many referrals to as many of my running community friends and those not part of it who are looking for an experience in excellence.

Many thanks!
Jenn Fox

I’ve lost 33lbs and 13.5 inches! I love Refine! I have been welcomed and supported by the staff from the moment I walked in. The variety of programs (pilates, core, spinning, and yoga) have introduced me to a variety of ways to get fit. As my trainer, Colin has instinctively known when to push me just a little further and when to take it easy. The variety in his workouts are always fresh (as well as exhausting). Most importantly, when I hit that 20lb plateau and nothing I seemed to do (or not eat) made a difference, Colin’s advice, though sounding a bit strange, kick-started my weight loss again. He’s a true professional that has tailored a program to fit MY needs. I am very grateful.

Thank you Refine!
Debbie Monette

Walking into Refine Fitness 2 months ago was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have worked out at other gyms in the past, but never really knew what I was missing until I joined Refine. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel at ease and important. The club Is small so you really get to know everyone and feel like part of a community. When you first sign up, a baseline assessment of your fitness is completed and you are provided with a simple workout routine. I thought this was amazing and really helped me become comfortable with the equipment and made me feel a bit more accountable.

For me, the best things so far has been the personal training. I am not particularly out of shape and initially was not sure if personal training would be worth the extra money – I could not have been more wrong. I t has only been a few months since I have been working with Colin McAuslan and I have already noticed some significant changes with respect to my strength and physical appearance. Colin is an extremely skilled trainer who designs workouts specifically tailored to my strengths and weakness, while taking into account previous sports injuries. He encourages me and pushes me and I feel like he genuinely cares about my progress. I constantly surprise myself with how much I can accomplish during those sessions and I honestly do not think I would have come so far if it was not for Colin’s support and belief in me.

Thank you Colin and thank you Refine Fitness!
Sarah Beech

I joined Refine to lose weight, improve my fitness and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime hiking trip in New Zealand. I have gone beyond my original objectives thanks to Mike and his team. My personal trainer, Marco, in particular, was great to work with. He listened to my specific objectives and took into account my past injury and physiotherapist’s advice to create a specific exercise program just for me.

I chose Refine because of its smaller size, personal attention and lack of typical "gym" culture and I haven’t been disappointed. I am greeted by name every time I come in, the whole team seems to genuinely care how I am doing and I never feel like just a membership number.

In just a few months I have lost almost 30lbs., have dramatically increased my fitness and, most importantly, had an amazing time hiking (up to 6 hours a day) in New Zealand. I even achieved a life-long dream of climbing a mountain! I could not have done that trip without Marco and Refine behind me. Thanks guys. Next stop… Nepal!

Rob Aitkens

Life beyond Spanx Ladies, yes there is life beyond spanx!! Have you ever noticed how many stores sell spanx, or spanx replicas? This foundation garment, or breathing restrictive garment, as I call it, is absolutely everywhere. The real savvy merchandising retailers place it right by the dressing room doors.

You go in the dressing room with the most marvelous outfit, and in your head you can imagine just how gorgeous you will look. You put it on and step out of the safety of the dressing room to view yourself in the big mirror and somehow the image in the mirror and your brain are not reconciling. You ask yourself, "When did I get fat"? Yes, the f-word ladies. And then, just when you are at your weakest point, vowing to never eat dessert again, you see it. That package, the wonder garment, Spanx. You convince yourself that with the wonder garment the outfit will indeed look fab. You shell out more cash and purchase made, you drive home.

I made this error myself not so long ago. I attended an event which required a lovely dress and a svelte figure. Well I had one but not the other. I went to go buy me the wonder garment. Wore the lovely dress with the wonder garment to the special event and came home after five long hours with lungs suffering from no air, because of the restrictive nature of the wonder garment and said to myself. "That’s it’s I will never wear spanx again never, never!!!! And so began my post spanx life.

Once I became serious about post-spanx living it became evident that I needed some assistance. I looked to the experts and after research decided to join Refine Fitness.

Refine Fitness and its super staff and excellent trainers have become part of my overall strategy to feel better and look healthy. Since I joined Refine approximately two months ago I have become stronger and more energetic. I can already notice the inches lost. While weight lose was never my main goal that has happened as well.

Walking into Refine the first time really was frightening for a non-gym person like me. My goal the first day was to not fall off the treadmill and survive the first session. Taking the before picture was not a memory I cherish….we all know how bad they are. My trainer Mike was showing me all the machines on the main floor and I figured that was the work-out!

Mike and Andree are my trainers and I appreciate their differences. Andree has educated me all about micro tears in my muscles. Never thought I’d be needing that information! Mike is determined to convince me doing lunges down Wyandotte would be fun! As trainers they affirm my efforts while challenging me as well. They definitely are part of my team for achieving fitness and health. I feel comfortable asking them questions while taking control of this journey for myself. I am thankful that both Mike and Andree respect my decision making.

Truthfully the first month was hard. I never knew how many muscles I had that could hurt at the same time. I was determined to push through and I did. And I am very proud of myself for doing so. I enjoy the variety of equipment found at Refine and moving from one floor to the next. I quickly noticed where the coolest place was to exercise, temperature wise that is. One of my favourite pieces of exercise equipment is the rowing machine. I like having goals which motivate me and trainers who encourage this. One goal of mine is to continue to improve on the rowing machine. I think it might be I like looking out a window!!!

During my short time at Refine Mike Bates has made it a point to get feedback from me. I can’t stress how valuable this was for me. Especially as a ‘rookie’ talking to Mike and engaging in conversation about training was helpful. I realize that in turn he shares this information with his trainers and if necessary adjustments are made. This customer service component is excellent.

So thanks to all at Refine Fitness..the friendly desk staff …Andree and Mike, and Mike Bates who continues to take his passion for health and wellness and encourage others on the journey.

Peace
Mary-Jo