Testimonials

What clients are saying about Keep It Tight Fitness:

Client: Ann Kroger
KITF Member Since: April 2010

I joined Keep It Tight Fitness in April of 2010.  I had my third child in July of 2009, and being that I was creeping up on 40 figured that I was going to have a tough time losing the weight.  It actually wasn’t any harder – or easier – than with the first two children, but as with the first two I got to a plateau where I wasn’t losing any more weight doing what I was doing – walking the treadmill 3x a week for 30 min. at a time.  I wanted to firm up and lose about 14 lbs.

My journey began on my way home from work each day -  I’d pass Keep It Tight Fitness as I went to pick up my little ones from the babysitter.  It wasn’t open yet at that time, and as a matter of fact I wasn’t even sure what it was going to be because the sign wasn’t up yet.  I had just seen that something was moving into that space and it was being remodeled.  I checked it out every day wondering what it was going to be.  Then I saw the sign go up and thought “Keep It Tight – what a perfect name, and it’s EXACTLY what I need!”

I went to the open house for Bikini Boot Camp (another perfect name) and could seriously barely walk, especially going up and down stairs for a week after that class. Ever since, I have dreaded seeing those chairs!  But, I came back to Bikini Boot Camp 2-3 times a week.  I have worked out pretty regularly since my early 20’s, but have NEVER have I worked out and sweat like I do at KITF’s Bikini Boot Camp!

I’ve have also tried the TRX classes and always feel SO strong after that class. In addition to the intense workouts, there are some other factors that make it a great experience. First of all, even though these are group classes I have always felt like it’s a lot like personal training because of the support, encouragement and individual attention we all receive from the trainers during and after class.

Another plus – variety!  I can come to the same class 2-3 times a week and the routine is different or there is some new equipment to try out.

Finally, they play GREAT music, and I can not get motivated to exercise without great music.  It’s a necessity for me!  In addition to the classes, I met with Melissa for the nutritional counseling and got measured. I needed to get measured to make me accountable. Knowing that I was going to get re-measured a month later gave me the determination to get to class, eat  healthier and keep track of my calorie intake. When I got re-measured about a month later I had lost 12 lbs. and 23 inches! With Keep It Tight Fitness and determination it really wasn’t hard to do!  The trainers give you the encouragement, expertise, and training  you need to get in shape, and if you’re determined,  you can do it!

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Client: Sarah Chapman
KITF Member Since: September 2010

As one of the Q102 “If I Felt Skinny” Contest Winners, I’ve had twelve Weeks to push myself as hard as I was willing to go.  Twelve weeks of unlimited classes and access to experts in fitness. Twelve weeks to see if I really could “feel skinny”.

I walked into Keep It Tight Fitness for my first class and had no idea what I was getting into – and honestly I’m almost glad I didn’t. Over these twelve weeks I have worked muscles I didn’t even know I had and hurt in ways I didn’t know was possible. I have puked, cried, complained and threatened to kill my trainers and I feel so blessed for the opportunity.

You see, weight has always been an issue for me.  At 35 years old, I found myself weighing 360 pounds. In my head I heard the old joke “I’m in shape, ROUND is a shape.” I decided right then I would start changing my life.  I had been eating healthier for a few months but not really doing any exercise to speak of.  Then I joined Keep It Tight.

Three months of hard, hard work.  As I look at the scale, at the new clothes, at the extra space in chairs, at my too-loose wedding ring and all the other signs of my success, I think of some of things I’ve learned during these last 3 months.
•    Exercise HURTS - Not like this was new information or anything . . .
•    I’m tougher than I thought - I always would stop too soon or give up when exercise (heck even sometimes on life) started to get too hard.  I’ve discovered that it’s going to hurt but it won’t kill me.  I may puke, not be able to sneeze without pain or have to crawl upstairs but I will be survive.
•    It’s so worth it - Now that I have survived some of the pain and really started to see results I can tell you that it is worth it. Hardcore, push-your-limits exercise, combined with a sensible diet (that contains the occasional indulgence) really can change your life.

Doesn’t seem like a huge revelation does it?  But I can tell you that it is for me.  The biggest difference though, has not come on the scale or on the measuring tape – it’s come in my heart.  The trainers at Keep It Tight Fitness have taught me that I really CAN do this, that it is possible to re-shape your body.  I can now hold a plank for a full minute, I can do a full sit-up, I’ve run on a treadmill and I completed a 2-hour, Turkey Day workout.  ME – former cream puff, Sarah Chapman!

I still have a long way to go – but thanks to the Staff and patrons of Keep It Tight Fitness, I know I can get there.  To all of the staff I want to say THANK YOU, what you do changes lives.

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Client: Katie Heagen
KITF Member Since: July 2010

I am a working mother of two beautiful girls, five and two. I have spent the past five years giving all of my time to my children, husband and students.  I took very little time for myself and felt guilty when I did.  On my 38th birthday I received a phone call that a colleague, who wasn’t much older than me, had died of a heart attack. She left three young children behind.  Our school district had already been stricken with over a dozen people that were fighting against Cancer. I decided this was the best time to make a change. I needed to take more time for myself so that I am here for my daughter’s tomorrows.  I tried to workout at home, but I never seemed to get “my time.”  Someone or something was always interrupting my chance to exercise. In July, I heard about Keep It Tight Fitness on the radio and decided to drop by and check it out. After taking my first Bikini Boot Camp class, I realized that I had never really “worked out.” Jogging on the treadmill while watching Oprah doesn’t even begin to compare to what they do at KITF. “You gotta move it to lose it!”

I love the variety and challenges of each workout. I always feel like I am pushed and encouraged to do my best. I always look forward to my workouts each week.  This is not only “my time” for me but I feel my hard work and determination is giving me the results I am looking for.  I have lost two pant sizes and have arms that show more definition.  My muffin top is almost gone and I feel better about myself.  I owe these results to the encouragement of Melissa, Kerri, Amanda and especially Johnnie for always pushing me to the max! With your guidance and support, I am confident that I will meet my goals and continue to love KITF!  Even though I continue to struggle with the guilt of giving up time with my girls, I know it will pay off in the end…with the opportunity to share my girl’s tomorrows.

Thank you KITF!

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Client: Megan Lynch
KITF Member Since: August 2010

Though I am only 26, and still may have a high metabolic rate going for me, I have forever battled what I call “cheerleader or volleyball legs”, which is my biggest insecurity.  My legs and booty area have always been an issue for me and as I am getting older, my wonderful genes are starting to kick in on top of it all…GRRRR…and I have put on even more weight in that area, which I was already very subconscious about.  In the next few years my husband and I would like to have a ‘bun in the oven’ so I know now, more than ever, I need to get my workouts, as well as my eating, in check!

I have always worked out but have struggled to find something that I “enjoy” until I found Keep It Tight Fitness a few months ago through a friend.  I went in and took the Bikini Bootcamp class and was instantly hooked!  Holy smokes!! My muscles were screaming obscene things at me after that class — but now, I welcome, need and love it!  I am sore after every class I take because each class is always different, which keeps me from getting bored.  I see myself getting stronger; I no longer find my scrawny arms needing the lightest weights and squats are just a little bit easier, yet still challenging…VICTORY!!

I especially appreciate when the trainers point out when my form is incorrect on certain exercises, and then demonstrate alternative ways to do that exercise so that I am not straining my body or compromising the exercise.

The atmosphere has surprisingly never once intimidated me – they want you to succeed at KITF!  Everyone I have encountered thus far along the way has been amazing, especially Johnnie, who is always answering one of my million questions & has now introduced me to a yummy protein powder so I no longer have to choke down the stuff my husband was giving me.

Thank you KITF, I look forward to getting in the best shape of my life with your help.  I am ready to DO WORK!!
Megan Lynch

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Client: Marianne Henry
KITF Member Since: January 2010

I really thought my life as I knew it was over.  
I turned 50 and menopause hit me like a ton of bricks.
 I was creeping up on being 20lbs. overweight.  I had a muffin top. I was depressed. I had night sweats. I felt old.

At this point my options involved hormonal therapy of some sort or a miracle. HRT was not an option for me, but luckily I found my miracle with the ladies at Keep it Tight Fitness! From my first class I was hooked. By watching my diet and going to Bikini Boot Camp, I easily lost those 20lbs. and that alone is worth coming here, but there were other reasons too.  I have become more coordinated, stronger.  I can bend, move, lift…I feel flexible again. They keep the workouts interesting, challenging and fun. It has been a workout for my brain and a facelift for my soul. It truly is never to late to start.

Thank you all!
Marianne Henry

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Client: Kindra Walpole
KITF Member Since: January 2010

An “Ah-ha” moment, is a point in time in one’s life where an epiphany occurs regarding the world around you. For me, my “ah-ha” moment came after I gave birth to my second son in the fall of 2009.

Before I had kids, I always told myself two things: One, that I would not be one of those moms that would allow her children to wear whatever they wanted to the grocery store. Well, that did not hold true. I recently allowed my four year old to wear his OSU football helmet, rain boots and soccer shorts to Kroger.  The second thing I told myself was, when I do become a mom, I want to be one of those moms that looks like they have it all together.  Whether I really do or not, I can at least look the part.

My “ah-ha” moment had finally arrived, and it was not when I allowed my son to express his unique style at the grocery store, but when I realized that I was a mother of two and I was not the “well put together mom” that I had envisioned. So, I decided to do something about it.

After I was cleared by the doctor from the birth of my second son, I began working out in January with Keep It Tight Fitness at the 6:00am bootcamp. I also asked for some guidance in my diet as I was still eating for two. With support from Keep It Tight Fitness, co-workers, friends and family, I was able to lose 36lbs and counting! I think the key to losing weight is to align yourself with a support network and that is what I did.

At Keep It Tight Fitness there are women of all ages, shapes and skill sets. When I first starting working out, I was afraid that I was going to feel intimidated by other women who were much more coordinated and in better shape than I. But, the best thing about KITF is that you are not made to feel that way, as the environment is very comfortable. Melissa and the fitness coaches truly do care about you as a person and in helping you achieve your goals. You are not just a number at a gym and I think that is what makes this experience different. Do not get me wrong, these workouts are some of the hardest that I have ever physically encountered, but it is a lot of fun at the same time. There is a sense of accomplishment when the hour of intense cardio, leg lifts, squats and ladder downs have been completed. Keep It Tight Fitness is one-of-a-kind and I am not sure I could have achieved my “ah-ha” moment without them!

~ Kindra Walpole

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Client: Jennifer Strull
KITF Member Since: May 2010

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Client: Sarah Colwell
KITF Member Since: May 2010

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Client: Marilin Oakley
KITF Member Since: June 2009

~Marilin Oakley

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Client: Jaqui Angles
KITF Member Since: April 2009

My journey started one year ago when I was trying to fit into a bikini for a vacation to Greece. I had 6 1⁄2 weeks before take-off and about 23 pounds to literally take-off. I attended as many bikini bootcamp classes at Keep It Tight Fitness as possible and about three weeks later, I started to panic because I weighed the same and looked the same — when trying on bikinis I seriously considered a mu-mu! I spoke with Melissa and Johnnie, they took my measurements, pushed me hard (really hard) and held me accountable for my eating, which I fought all the way.

The night prior to take-off, I was 3 pounds away from my goal and no longer hiding behind my “PINK” sweatpants (for those of you who remember them). Was it easy? No. It was hard work and many times during the six weeks I questioned what was so wrong with wearing a mu-mu; after all they do come in many lovely colors! But I stuck to it because of Melissa, Johnnie, and all the ladies at bootcamp who took the journey with me. We have held each other accountable since Day One and still do — we consistently challenge each other. We may all be at different points in our journey, but the beauty is, we are all on the same path and this, my friends, makes it all the more worthwhile. My success is yours, and yours has become mine. As for the mu-mu and the Pink sweatpants, I keep them as a reminder.

Thank you for the opportunity to give a testimonial.

~ Jacqui Angles

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Client: Stephanie Zarse
KITF Member Since: September 2009

Seven months ago I was to a point where I felt like my body needed a 100,000 mile overhaul: The Works. I am a stay-at-home mom with 2 little kids and after 5 years of not exercising very seriously, my body was saggy, flabby and one big marshmallow. I also needed an escape-a place to go for just me. I desperately wanted to be rebuilt, energized and to feel better about myself.

My husband found KITF by driving and seeing the exercise balls in the window. He said, “The ladies were really nice, it’s right down the street and the first class is free- you have nothing to lose.” Melissa told me working out even 2 times a week would make a difference. I was skeptical. Only 2 times a week would fix this body? Sounded too good to be true. The first class was painful-I didn’t think I’d walk again. But everyone was so supportive and excited to see me there. And, I didn’t want to put my body through all that pain for nothing. So, I thought I’ll try this for one month and if I don’t see any results, I’ll do something else.

Well, that was all it took. After 7 months I haven’t missed going 2 times a week yet. I’ve lost 15 pounds and three dress sizes. My body has been transformed. I’m still “in progress” but my stomach is flat and there are muscles in my butt and legs that even my husband has noticed! I can even get into my pre-pregnancy, size 8 “skinny jeans.” Yes! At home I tell my 3-year-old, “Mommy exercises so I can be ’super-mommy’”-I have so much more energy and I feel great about myself.

KITF is my escape. I love coming, not only for myself, but because everyone is so supportive, the trainers know my name, and I’m not just another someone in the crowd. It is a special place. Thank you Melissa, Johnnie and Kerri for pushing me and acknowledging my changes. And who knows Melissa, maybe I will get into that bikini someday!

~ Stephanie Zarse

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Client: Tami Stertmeyer
KITF Member Since: April 2009

I would like to thank the Boot Camp Trainers Melissa & especially Johnnie, for the wonderful support they have given me from the very start of my fitness program. When I walked into Keep it Tight Fitness for the first time, I was as intimidated as anyone might be to walk into a gym, step onto a scale and have your body fat measured! The trainers immediately made me feel comfortable and I was thrilled to get started. Every visit has been a pleasurable experience as the trainers remember me by name and have introduced me to other members who share the same enthusiasm. Instructors and clients alike seem to have a great deal of fun working toward common goals and I always hear words of encouragement being exchanged while I’m there. Being comfortable and having fun are both a part of my fitness equation!

I have been an avid work-out/diet person for most of my life. I’ve ran, biked and taken more fitness classes than I care to remember, but none of these avenues have ever gotten me the results I truly desired. I wanted more muscle, less fat and just wanted to feel good about how I look. NOW, in just one month of working with Johnnie I’m proud to say that I was able to go from 29% to 20.17% body fat and lost four pounds! I could not be more excited to continue this journey! Johnnie has worked with me about nutrition and customized a workout program gets results. With her continued guidance, I am 100% confident that I will reach my goal! Johnnie continues to exceed my expectations as a trainer!

P.S. Now, I look forward to stepping on the scale and having my body fat measured. I never thought that would happen!

~ Tami Stertmeyer

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Client: Audrey Keyes
KITF Member Since: April 2009

Losing weight is something that I have struggled with my whole life. I have tried nearly everything, but I just couldn’t figure out how to get the weight off and keep it off. Last Spring, I had hit my all time high and it was affecting every area of my life. My self-confidence was down and I felt a bit helpless. I knew I needed to do something, but again, just had no idea “what” to do. I saw an ad for Keep It Tight Fitness online and my friend and I decided to give it a try. “Bikini Boot Camp” sounded like fun and at least it was something different. My first class was tough – really tough. I had no idea how out of shape I actually was until that day. However, as tough as it was – it was super fun! I immediately felt like “that” was the place I was supposed to be. There was so much encouragement and genuine “care” for everyone, that I knew I had found the place for me. I started out coming to class 2x per week, and now I am up to 4 per week and loving every minute. It is still very tough – but that is what makes it work. I have lost nearly 20 pounds and around 25 inches from my body. I have gained new friends and my self-confidence is in a place it hasn’t been in so long. I am tremendously thankful to Keep It Tight Fitness for all their support they have given me. Going to that first class was one of the best decisions I have made in my life!

~ Audrey Keyes

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Client: Jen Casperson
KITF Member Since: April 2009

I’ve done other boot camps, I’ve dieted, I’ve done everything – if I didn’t get noticeable results within 3 months, I was so over it. That was until I started working out at Keep It Tight Fitness! I’ve been with KITF since their first Bikini Boot Camp class in April 2009. Since then, I’ve lost over 20 inches, I’m down 10% body fat and have gone from a size 10 to a 6(ish)! KITF has helped me make lifestyle changes that I’m actually sticking with! It is so fun that I barely realize I am getting my butt kicked! I love that I have found a forum where other women share such camaraderie and common goals. It’s like Girls Night Out – four times a week! Melissa, Johnnie & Kerri keep classes challenging & fun – all the while continually motivating us because they believe in us and they know we can do it.

I am in my, (ahem) 30’s and I’ve never had a defined waistline – I’ve always been shaped like a “trunk.” That was the first sign that KITF was working…I actually have a waist! After that MAJOR breakthrough, I wondered what my body would do next….it was a perky booty! My tush has always been a flat pancake that slid into the back of my legs – so NOT pretty. I didn’t know you could get a butt without surgery! I’m actually putting on muscle now….and that, is HOT!

The best part of getting fit at KITF? Is the confidence I carry with me daily. I no longer hear that inner voice berating me daily for not working out and eating right. I finally realize that working out/eating right is like a bank account: if I overeat, I have to replace the “funds” with exercise.

Am I at my goal yet? No! But with continued determination and the help of KITF – I have no doubt that I will get there soon! YAY ME!

~ Jen Casperson