Fitness & Health Testimonials

At True North Fitness, we are grateful for those who have mentored us in our business as well as our wonderful clients and their fabulous results! There are many, and we would love to list them all, but here is what just a few of them have to say. The results vary from person to person based on how consistent they are following our recommendations. Most clients who follow our recommendations consistently for a minimum of 3 months lose 10 pounds of fat..

Kristine - Testimonial

I am really excited to fit into my jeans. I haven’t worn this size (8) since high school and was skeptical at first. My goal was to stick as closely to the program as possible and establish some different habits. The accountability meetings were really helpful but I’ve also learned to be accountable to myself. When I felt myself wanting to cheat, I tried to figure out why or what was causing me to want to cheat. This really helped me to not cheat. Mostly I’ve tried making lifestyle changes and am really happy with the results. While fitting into the jeans is great, I feel healthier; I have more energy and generally feel better about myself. I feel like I still have opportunities to improve on with planning and preparation and will continue working on these areas over the next weeks/months. Thank you for all your support!

- Kristine

Janet - Testimonial

Over the last 6 weeks during the New Year New You Challenge, I found I could do more that I felt capable of doing. With the help of my family and my True North Fitness Family I exercised harder and walked higher and harder than I ever thought I could or would. I learned to push myself that extra degree, whether in my eating, water intake or exercise. These weeks taught me that I can make my goal. It May take me a year or more, but I didn’t get this way in a year it took 63 years. I only know that I feel better, can do more and want to do more now. After facing cancer and the prolonged use of cancer drugs and the other problems associated with these drugs I feel like a victor. I am no longer taking high blood pressure meds, cancer meds, anti inflammatory med and multiple headache and arthritis pain relievers. I’m just beginning a new me and it’s great.

- Janet

Melissa - Testimonial

This journey is a long one, but far from finished. Being in the contest helps me to focus on keeping my food journal and making my workouts. Maintaining my nutrition is definitely the hardest thing for me to do. I will need to continue to discover my “triggers” and work to overcome them so that I can follow the proper nutrition plan.
I still have goals to strive towards, but I am close to get my blood work for my cholesterol and AIC down to where it is suppose to be and I no longer take any meds for insulin resistance. My overall strength and muscle development in my arms, legs, gluts, and back is great so now my abs need to get back in! Overcoming my triggers and getting my nutrition straight should help with this goal.

- Melissa

Valerie - Testimonial

When this 8 Week Jeans Challenge started I was ready to get back on track with the eating although I was just starting back to working out and was limited in what I could do. The 1st week was tough but I soon got into a routine and at the 3 week point my pants that had gotten quite snug had been feeling not as tight. That is a major motivation for me when I can see/feel the changes. Some weeks were better than others but overall I am back on track with my eating habits. My X meals most of the time are even better and I am not pigging out like I had in the past. I truly enjoy the support of the weekly meeting, being able to share struggles and help each other as we are all fighting the same battles with food. Staying on track for the long haul is a challenge all the time but I am feeling much better about it now. I have more tools in my tools box. Thanks for the support and the AWESOME personal training sessions.

- Valerie

Amy - Testimonial

I started out with much hesitation that results would be permanent and found over the last 6 weeks during the New Year New You Challenge how realistic my new eating and exercise habits could become. For the first time in my life I have accomplished eating and exercise goals without being perfect! What a relief that perfection is not the goal but overall health is. My biggest obstacles are eating enough meals in a day. Who would have thought trying to eat more food would be a challenge? I feel empowered and able at this moment and am ready for what I am calling phase 1. Phase 1 will be a 2 month period where I will need to stay motivated outside of a contest and team members. My mentality about eating and exercise are changing into healthier and age appropriate goals!

- Amy

Ariana- Testimonial

I had an awesome experience the last 6 weeks in the New Year New You Challenge. I really enjoyed taking classes at the studio and the positive attitudes of not just the coaches but the clients as well. I saw my body change in 6 weeks like I’ve never seen before. I learned many new nutritional tips that I will definitely carry on. The emails were also very informative. Overall this is an amazing studio that - Thanks for your motivation and support!!

- Ariana

Bill - Testimonial

I made a tremendous change in my diet for the good during the New Year New You Challenge. I’ve eaten more vegetables in the past 6 weeks that I did in the prior 3 months. The vegetables improved my digestive system and adding the vitamin supplement to my daily routine has improved my overall health. I’ve noticed I have fewer allergy-filled days, I also noticed I sleep sounder at night, although I do get up more frequently to urinate. I’ve admired the customer focus and attention Shannon and Rob give.

- Bil

Dena - Testimonial

I have learned quite a lot from True North Fitness. Most importantly was to make a lifelong change with good eating habits and exercise. My team, “Beautiful disasters” are just awesome because we motivate each other for better health and good eating habits. Going forward, I will remember 212 degrees where that one extra degree can make a difference. Even if our team doesn’t will the grand prize, overall, I’m still a winner because I’m making this a lifelong commitment to eat better, fell better and look better (for me)!!! Thank you True North Fitness for sharing your knowledge and guidance to better health! New goal: to continue this journey and hope to see excellent results by the end of the year.

- Dena

Francine Testimonial

This journey has helped me transition to living a healthier lifestyle. For me, this challenge is not just a 6 week challenge, it has been a journey in the right direction – to a place I know I need to be and want to be. I live a very busy life so the main obstacle for me was the meal planning especially on the weekends. Family events, birthdays, were a challenge. However, I worked on portion control and skipped the cake! I no longer crave fast food nor do I want it. I am more conscientious of what I eat and what I feed my family. We have all made changes in the way we eat and have become more active, working on improving our nutrition and activity. I hope to continue to stay focused and make this “challenge” a permanent lifestyle change.

- Francine

Robert Dos Remedios (Coach Dos) - Testimonial

"I had the pleasure of meeting Rob and Shannon Yontz along with their whole team of trainers while doing a staff training at True North Fitness & Health. They are quality trainers who are in the business of changing lives every single day. Their dedication to their craft goes beyond their work with their clients, what people don't see is their dedication to continuing education....to continually IMPROVE their already vast amount of training knowledge via staff trainings, coaching mentorships etc. This is a common trait that I see in all of the best trainers all around the world. If you are training with the True North team, you are in great hands."

- Robert dos Remedios, MA, CSCS, SCCC

2006 NSCA Collegiate Strength & Conditioning Professional of the year
Director of Speed, Strength and Conditioning
College of the Canyons, Valencia, CA

Tammy's - Testimonial

"After months of praying for help to resist temptations such as donuts and other sweets, I received an email from True North Fitness & Health regarding an upcoming challenge. I deleted it and kept praying. Then it dawned on me when the second email arrived inviting me to participate that this was the answer to my prayers and oh has it been! I'm not saying it's been easy, but it is becoming a way of life for me and I feel more confident than I have in a very long time. This journey for me is far from over it's really just a new beginning! The weight lost is just one part of the journey; the other piece is people I have met along the way. Mostly women of different backgrounds, education levels, etc, we have been brought together by our one common goal, improved fitness & health. So if you share this goal, stop by and talk to True North Fitness and give yourself a chance. You might discover an amazingly health & happier person, YOU!"

- Tammy

Sara - Testimonial

"The week after the first boot camp I went on a 6 mile run at the beach and it was as if I'd swallowed the Easter bunny I bounced along so much! It was a glorious run and felt so easy!! I think that it's in large part due to all the lower body work we do. My legs feel much stronger and I'm getting my hammies and quads back!! While traveling, I was disappointed to lose my glutes (before my trip I could squat 225lbs!) and that was something I tried to work on with my trainer with disappointing results (there was no squat rack at the gym so I couldn't go heavy). But I can tell you now, after my time in boot camp that the butt is back!!!! I (and my boyfriend!!) thank you for every squat, lunge and mountain climbers etc you make me do!

Lastly, abs. My core is definitely tightening up a lot, I can feel the muscle, but I'm missing the crunches. Perhaps we tackle this with different exercises but I'd love a few more.

I love your constantly positive, upbeat attitude. You are a great role model for living clean and looking and feeling great because of it. In fact, your attitude is one of the major reasons for me returning. I've also been really impressed with your total approach teaching us about living well. Most exercise classes end when we leave the gym, however your presentations, your nutritional advice and your constantly updated website are incredibly motivating and educational. It is obvious that you have a personal desire to see us improve and to learn to adapt every aspect of our life to maximize fitness and wellbeing. I definitely have some 'crabs' in my life but Rob's presentation spurred me on to do something about that!

I hope this doesn't all sound too gushy, but it is obvious that you put a lot of time, thought and passion into your approach and I think it's important for clients to tell you how well it's working and how much they appreciate it

With best wishes"

- Sara

Dr. John Spencer Ellis - Testimonial

"Rob and Shannon exemplify the title of "fitness professionals". Aside from their endless pursuit of education and emerging trends within the fitness industry, they possess excellent communication skills and dedication to their craft. Of the thousands of fitness trainers I have educated, Rob and Shannon stand head and shoulders above the rest!"

– Dr. John Spencer Ellis
CEO, National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association
CEO, Spencer Institute for Life Coach Training

Lucho Crisalle R.D. - Testimonial

"Rob is probably the TOP Certified Fitness Nutrition Specialist we have had the pleasure to certify since the beginning of our company. He and his wife Shannon both are amazing and extremely qualified to work not only with adult clients, but with their children as well. They both bring the whole family mentality into fitness, health, and well being."

– Lucho Crisalle R.D.
CEO Exercise and Nutrition Works, Inc.

Jana P. - Testimonial

"I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am to have found your company. You have helped me change my life and I am very grateful! I know I did the work but knowing that you really care how well each of us does makes all the difference.. at least for me it did. I reached my goal of 30lbs. and have been keeping it up.. it feels GREAT!! I went from a size 12 to a size 6 and my «skinny jeans» are way big.. NEVER thought that would happen. I honestly know I couldn't have gotten back here without you, all the training and guidance and the attitude you two bring every day. I love to tell people that .. if I can do it anybody can! Ive gone from «when are you due?» to..» how did you do it?»

Anyway.. Keep it up and know you're doing a great job!! I love you guys! THANK YOU !!!"

– Jana P.

Judy - Testimonial

E-mail note that came from a client about Jana: "I saw Jana yesterday at a bike store. I almost didn't recognize her! She had make-up on and her hair was done but the thing that stood out the most was how happy and healthy she looked. She looked absolutely amazing! "

– Judy

Kristina L. (client x 1yr; 4m pregnant) - Testimonial

"I just wanted to say thank you again for our talk this morning after class about simply staying positive and thinking good thoughts. Your advice really helped me to feel better about things, and I really do appreciate it. I also have to thank you and Shannon both, for getting me in the best shape of my life! I can only hope it allows my little cluster of cells to grow healthy and strong, too."

– Kristina L.

Wendy R. - Testimonial

"WOW, it’s only been a couple weeks and I have to say I am really feeling like my weight is going down, I went to the mall on Monday and believe it or not I fit into a size 6 (from size 8 or 10) yippee! "

– Wendy R.

Leslie D. - Testimonial

"I find that sticking to the special meal plan designed for me is really very easy. I always thought that a "diet" would starve me and make me hungry all of the time. Consequently, I have never in my life been on a diet. I've watched friends and family diet and they've always given up because the regimen just wasn't realistic, or was too restrictive. Since I have been following the True North Fitness meal plans, I have not felt hungry at all. I'm not eating less. I am eating more, and more often. And I particularly like that it is okay to have an "off meal" once a week. It's okay, and expected, that I relax and eat the things I love, not cut them out completely.

This week I turned 40. My husband wanted to have a family night with my folks and our kids one night, and take me out to dinner the following night. I thought, "uh-oh," 2 off meals...that's not in the program. I asked him to make something I could adapt into my meal plan for the family night, and I'd have my off meal when we went out. That worked out. We grilled chicken and asparagus; roasted some new potatoes and I got to have a slice of gorgeous, chocolate birthday cake. Yum. Then, the next night, I had my off meal of fillet mignon with sauce all over it, mashed potatoes and grilled veggies. I even had a couple bites of my husband's sundae. And guess what? I went to my nutrition meeting 2 days later and I'd lost fat and gained lean muscle.

Point proven? A supportive diet is one that supports not only your workout, but supports your mental health, too. I just could not follow a meal plan that would never let me eat some of the foods I love. I just wouldn't stick to it.

I am just so thankful that Rob & Shannon have created this program. I love being in my 27 jeans now (and they were 31 when we started). It is hard work, but is so easy to follow.

Thank you guys!"

– Leslie D.

Annette - Testimonial

"This program has been so positive for me and my daughter. Because I am more active, she benefits. This Boot Camp was exactly the motivation that I needed, we are now eating healthier, and we are not eating out like we used to. The great thing is that this is a lifestyle change for me, and with the help of Shannon and Rob I am well on my way!"

– Annette

Suzanne - Testimonial

"I really just love boot camp. This is the first time, in my life, that I have ever looked forward to exercise. My biggest hurdle at this point is nutrition - I can be really good about it and then not so well. I realize that exercise alone will not get me to my weight loss goals and that it's up to me to make the right nutritional choices. I am truly a better person now that I'm lucky enough to be part of boot camp. I'm happier, I feel better, and my outlook is much more positive. My husband and kids are so supportive of me and have definitely noticed a difference. I intend to participate as long as we can continue to pay for boot camp! Thank you, thank you Rob & Shannon...you two have definitely changed my life."

– Suzanne

Yvette - Testimonial

"I absolutely love Boot Camp and all that it has done for me. I have lost inches and fat. I have gained cardiovascular fitness, nicely shaped muscles, more confidence and many new friends. This is such a wonderful program! I’ll be back again and again! Thanks Shannon and Rob for all that you do!"

– Yvette

Tori - Testimonial

"As a life-style choice, Boot Camp is one of the best decisions I have ever made; it has improved my health, attitude, relationships and overall well-being. Thank you for the opportunity to be involved with such a quality program."

– Tori

Kerri - Testimonial

"I can’t begin to tell you how much I love this program. My favorite thing about this program is that everyday is different from the next. I look forward to coming to class everyday. I feel and look better than I have in a long time. I’m so happy I decided to enroll in this program. Rob and Shannon are so energetic and knowledgeable. They keep me motivated and know how to push me to my full potential."

– Kerri

Anne - Testimonial

"Hi Coach Rob and Shannon- Many thanks and I1m having a FANTASTIC time doing the camp! It1s been an enjoyable challenge and you both have done a great job at creating a strenuous workout in a terrific environment. And I1m so GLAD that the rain waited for us to get that FABULOUS workout in this morning! That was a good one, loved it, but so glad to be done with it! Looking ahead to the next session, I1m signing up for the next one now. As always I’m thoroughly enjoying Boot Camp."

– Anne

Susan - Testimonial

"It always impresses me that you both know everyone's names - even in the dark! I have learned from playing sports for many years about the importance of warm up and cool down and stretching and like the fact that it is incorporated into the hour and we still get a great workout. I am also impressed with the variety of exercises - who knew that many kinds of pushups existed? I find myself wanting to impress you so you must be doing something right! It makes a huge difference to me that Shannon and Rob are there each morning - it demonstrates that you are serious about OUR workout, health and well-being, proper form etc. and making sure we are pushing ourselves to get results. Having worked with Rob for nutrition coaching,

I have been able to get to know both of you and can tell you love what you do and that you are concerned/care about each of the campers. I have paid lots of money for personal trainers at the gym who reschedule on me or just don't push or seem distracted when they should focus on me. You both focus on all of us throughout the hour and give it your full attention. I also love the bulletin board! Recopies, news, and health articles, oh yeah! "

– Susan

Cynthia - Testimonial

"WHAT an experience Boot camp has been! I had needed a greater physical challenge for myself, and this certainly fit the bill. It was a physical and mental challenge, all for the best. I feel I have gained strength that I certainly didn1t feel I had prior to Boot Camp (how many years had it been since I1d even attempted a push up?!!) flexibility, endurance, my clothes are fitting better, I feel I walk with more confidence in my step, o I could go on and on!! The running was particularly “fun”: I didn't realize how much I missed it and how much I enjoyed it. Shannon & Rob, I appreciate you both so much - for your devotion to sharing your knowledge, and the positive encouragement you continually provide. I plan to be back for more!! Your warmth and genuineness, and skills at building relationships with people are evidence of your commitment to sharing your passion. I have been/we are so blessed."

– Cynthia

Ellen Part 1 - Testimonial

"Shannon and Rob.....thank you soooo much for putting on the Boot Camp! I started out of shape and weak. At age 54 I knew I needed to do something. Because of your motivation and inspiration, I had a great day today! When I started boot camp I could NOT do even 1 modified push-up. Today I did 17!...The Nutrition class also helped so now I'm combining protein and carbs...never knew that before! And NO more big glasses of OJ! And I'm eating much better. I look forward to next week...May God Bless You Both!!..

Hugs, "

– Ellen

Ellen Part 2 - Testimonial

"Shannon and Rob....a few months before my 1st Boot Camp I had my blood work done. Of course I was out of shape, did not exercise and had gained a lot of belly fat as you saw when we first met. My cholesterol was a HIGH 273..should be below 200...it is now 198!!!! And that was from Boot Camp..NOT pills! My LDL (bad cholesterol) should be <130 and mine was a HIGH 198..it is now down to 133! Triglycerides should be <150, mine was ok at 108 but now it is lower at 61! So in my case, exercise and proper nutrition worked without me taking cholesterol lowering drugs! Yippeeee! See you both Monday :) "

– Ellen

Heather - Testimonial

"Dear Rob & Shannon - You guys rock! I just felt compelled to write to you guys and say Wow and Thank You! Great class this morning! I love waking up with you guys!!!!!! I never thought that when I signed up for this Boot Camp that I would embark on such an incredible journey. I have accomplished so much in such a short time and I thank you both from the bottom of my heart.

Four weeks ago I could barely walk around the park and you two never made feel awkward, in fact you kept cheering me on! Now I not only can walk but I want to walk and I like to walk! I love the way I feel, the way my body feels and most importantly the way I look at life again. I still have a long way to go but I no longer look at the light in the tunnel as a train but simply a light guiding my path on the beautiful journey of life.

I thank you so much for blessing my life with Boot Camp! With Gratitude "

– Heather

Tracy - Testimonial

"For the first time in years, I feel like I am in a program that produces results, of course according to what you put into it. I feel like I have taken control of my physical well being and that is huge. Being a holistically healthy person (emotionally, psychologically, and physically) is the best gift we can give ourselves and this was the last leg for me – which proved to be that hardest one to tackle for some reason. Finding the right program that works for you is what is important and VBC has really been a great fit for me personally. Thank you guys so much for providing such an awesome service to us!"

– Tracy