Testimonials

Testimonials

 



"I've been attending training sessions with Nick for quite a while and, although my general fitness had been gradually increasing, I finally had to admit to myself last year that my one session every Monday morning just wasn't enough. 

So, I initially started going to a couple of the morning group sessions.  Then in October 2011, Nick announced that he was running a 12 week Biggest Loser Challenge so I said "Yeah, I'll be in that" and what a great experience that turned out to be.

It was just the incentive I needed to actually start making those lifestyle changes that I've been talking about for far too many years.

During the course of the 12 weeks, I increased the number of training sessions I did each week and began keeping a closer watch on my diet.

I have always enjoyed Nick's training sessions so doing a couple more each week really wasn't much of a problem and I found that the weekly motivational talks by Nick about healthy food choices helped keep me on track.

The other BIG benefit I got from doing the challenge, apart from losing lots of weight and increasing my fitness, was to meet a group of really nice people.  I found that everyone, whether they were participating in the challenge or not, was very friendly and supportive.

Over the 12 weeks, I increased my training sessions from one or two a week to six a week, plus I was regularly walking home from the station (about an hour).  I changed my diet to include more fruit and veg and much less of everything else and I tried to eliminate all alcohol and replace it with water.  Nick constantly reminded us to "drink more water - water is our friend".  I think I drank more water in those 12 weeks than I had in the previous 2 years.

So was it worth it?  Of course it was.  I’m now lighter, fitter and healthier then I’ve been in a long while.

But the real challenge is what I do for the next 12 weeks, and the 12 after that and so on.

But Nick has already been discussing this with me, making suggestions, providing encouragement to help me stay motivated and offering to let me continue to weigh-in each week so that "we" can keep an eye on my progress.

Thanks Nick!!!"

Peter, Arana Hills

 


 

"I first attended - and survived - a Northside Fitness group training session early in 2010.  Life had its challenges, namely four children under five (including 15 month old twins), and yet kid wrangling was a breeze compared to this first group fitness class.  I realised I owed it to myself, as well as my young family, to prioritise fitness and healthy living in general.

While the friend that initially invited me along to NF was unable to continue classes, I felt comfortable attending alone as everyone was so friendly - there are many shared stories and much laughter at each session.  Starting with two classes per week, I have slowly built this up to four or five weekly sessions...as I have felt ready to stretch my abilities.  The programs provided by the trainers are varied, well-structured and challenging.  

This year, I have taken part in both 12 week Biggest Loser challenges, and have found that the motivation, structure and accountability of this program - along with the encouragement and support of Nick, Andrew and Aaron - has enabled me to lose over 10kg throughout 2011 thus far.  This has taken a great deal of discipline and determination on my part as well, but as previously mentioned I have four little motivations who have spurred me on.

Recently, I have started jogging, entered the upcoming Bridge to Brisbane and have organised weekly deliveries of organic food...all of which I would not have even considered a couple of years ago.  I look forward to seeing where this continued journey of healthy living fostered by Nick and Northside Fitness will lead".

Fiona, Bunya Downs

 

 


1.  Why did you approach Northside Fitness?
“I've been talking about getting into some sort of fitness routine for some time now but wasn't sure what to do...gym membership...self imposed routine including purchasing expensive equipment ...swimming...cycling...work-based boot camp...the list goes on. But, it took my recent bout of ill health to get me into action. I needed to improve my fitness and health...full stop. On mother's day, I got a bicycle and at the end of the first ride, I saw a sign for Northside Fitness offering small group fitness training. So, I thought I'd give it a go to complement my bicycling”

 

2.   When did you make the decision and how?
“I attended a free trial session and, although I felt really out of shape then, I enjoyed the class. I decided then to continue at least 2 sessions a week. I just told Nick that's what I wanted to do and after minimal paperwork (just had to sign, really) it all became reality”


3.What is your weekly/ monthly health budget?
“I really didn't have a 'health budget'...however,$30.00 a week with Northside doesn't seem a bad investment. I've been purchasing equipment lately to continue the workouts at home but feel confident now that what I'm buying I will use”


4.How do you feel now?
“I've been going for about six weeks now and I feel a whole lot better than I did when I started. My breathing is better, my strength is better and my endurance is better...plus, I'm pretty sure my waistline is better. My daughter must think so too 'cause she's joined Northside Fitness as well. My husband has also commented on my improved fitness because he doesn't have to 'wait' for me to catch my breath any more on our weekly walk up the markets on Sunday mornings. I can make it there and back keeping a steady pace, which makes me feel good about myself as well”


5.Any final words of advice?
“I joined at the first session and never looked back. I had a gym membership ages ago but didn't like it very much...it was pretty mundane. I like the sessions with Northside Fitness. Nick keeps us guessing; we never do the same routine twice, which is great for those who get bored easily. Also, when Nick goes through the routine at the start of the session, he always gives us options at each station so that everyone in the group is working to their own goals and capabilities on the day. The small groups are great for those who don't want to get lost in the fitness hype but want a more non-competitive, relaxed environment.  Still unsure...what have you got to lose with a free trial".

Sonya, Ferny Hills

 

 

“I started attending Nick's group circuit classes mid last year after googling for group training on the northside.  I have found Nick's classes to be as challenging as you want dependent on the effort you put in. Each weeks exercises are  different which is great as you don't get bored with the same ole' routine! My main reason for exercising is to keep a background level of fitness and reduce stress and the group classes help me achieve this. For anybody who is looking to get active, I recommend trying the group class format as it gives you motivation to exercise in a friendly environment with a great bunch of people to share the pain with!”       Lis, Samford

 

“My training sessions with Northside Fitness have been fun, hard, sweaty, educational and very rewarding!  I feel my overall fitness level has increased substantially.  I definitely have more strength, stamina and self confidence.

Just when you think you’ve found your comfort zone, Nick finds ways to push you that little bit more each time.

Anyone looking to make a positive change in their life would do well to give Northside Fitness a call.Thank you Nick for all your training, support and advice”     

John, Gaythorne

 

"I started attending Northide Fitness group classes in September 2009 and it has been a really positive influence and experience for me.  I had a long-held fear of group exercise classes and gyms; NF has helped me conquer this - and feel much happier, healthier and fitter along the way.

I really enjoy the positive, friendly and fun atmosphere of the classes, they're also hard work and there's lots of sweat and energy expended, but I feel a great sense of achievement at the end of each class and it's completely worth the effort!

Nick is really encouraging and helpful and his holistic approach to enjoying a healthy lifestyle and getting the most out of life is really inspiring.  I would recommend to anyone to come along and try the classes out - a great sense of well-being awaits."   

AJ, Arana Hills

 

"Nick's key strength as a trainer is his ability to push me beyond what I would achieve on my own in a programme specifically designed for me.  Nick is excellent at balancing the need to drive me hard in my training without losing his naturally affable nature.  The programme and timings are flexible such that Nick fits in my schedule which in turn allows me to fully commit to my training.  Importantly, my fitness and energy levels have increased significantly, and whilst I might not always convey it at the time (!), it is a pleasure training with Nick".  Kylie, Ashgrove


“I am a 30 something mother of 2 young girls. I realised my baby was going to be walking soon and my girls deserved a mum that could keep up with them. I needed to do something about getting in shape (preferably one that wasn't quite so round). My friend Kay told me about a group exercise class that she was going to that she said was really good. Exercise class= good? I was dubious at first but called Nick, dragged my sister-in-law and mother-inlaw along, and tried my first class in September 2009. I wasn't sure I was cut out for this fitness stuff but I stuck with it! And you know what...I ended up actually enjoying it ...dare I say looking forward to it. Nick is an amazing teacher. He does a fantastic job of pushing me to do just a little bit more than what I think I can do. He is also very positive and attentive - making sure that I am using the proper techniques to get the best results and not hurt myself.

Just recently, I had an epiphany...I realized that while my original motivation for attending class was my girls... I deserved to be healthier and fitter...for ME! Wow! I was actually doing something for ME! Oh my gosh...and I was enjoying it! I never thought that I would be one of those people who look forward to going to a fitness class!!! I know that no amount of exercise is going to turn me into a supermodel, but I CAN be the best ME that I can be.

I have already been able to see a big difference in my muscle tone and my stamina in keeping up with my girls. I think I walk with my back a bit straighter and y head a bit higher knowing that I am a work in progress...but at least I am working on it. Thanks Nick for assisting me in my journey to a healthier ME!”

Erin, Ferny Hills

 

“Being able to train with Nick, as a couple, was a distinct advantage for us. It's a great way to start our day, with fun exercise routines that suit both our needs while still offering a challenge”.     Susa and Anthony, Fig Tree Pocket

 

“Training sessions with Nick have been fun and taxing at the same time. He is pleasant, patient and understands the needs of his clients and is willing to work with them to achieve realistic goals. Thanks to our joint effort I am enjoying exercise again”.   

Ron, Ferny Hills

 

"Thank you for being my trainer each week for the past 14 months. During that time you have helped me not only focus on my health and fitness goals but how I can achieve them.  A particular example is the regular work you got me to do strengthening my lower back, I haven't had any of the problems I was experiencing before I started doing Personal Training. Your advice also helped me use my time between PT sessions more effectively. I appreciate your approach to the sessions for which you are always punctual and well prepared. Your style is both challenging and encouraging, rather than pushy or excessive which worked well for me".  Garry, Everton Park