Testimonials | Strive | Brookfield and Riverside, IL

WHAT OTHERS HAVE TO SAY

“In 2018 I developed a bacterial pneumonia that landed me in the hospital for many long days. I was told I was going to be on oxygen for the rest of my life. I was sick. I was out of shape. I was only 40 years old and I was laying in a hospital bed next to a 86 year old and I realized I didn’t want this life at all. I needed to find a way to get healthy and take care of myself. I always liked jogging and I didn’t really mind cardio workouts but didn’t really know where to start. One of my nurses in the hospital introduced me to the sport of Boxing and I fell in love instantly. I knew I needed to find a gym and start “fighting for my life” January of 2019 my fight began. I started working out at a corporate gym and I got really into sweating out my feelings. I was doing two a days quite often. I lost 25 pounds but I hit a plateau. My friend Sondra kept telling me I was wasting my time and money at this gym and that I really needed to check out Strive.”

She told me they have so much more to offer than just kickboxing classes. I was hesitant because I didn’t have enough confidence in myself to try something new. I stayed at my gym and grew bored and stuck at that plateau. During Covid I found new ways to workout at home buying myself medicine balls and weights and a bag to box in my basement. I was able to bust out of that plateau using at home workouts. Those workouts were convenient but so easy to walk away from if the doorbell rang or the dog barked. I needed structure. I needed accountability. January 2021 I saw Shawn’s post about a challenge and I remembered Sondi’s comments about how amazing the gym was so I joined the challenge. I took my first class with Beidy a Saturday morning Bootcamp and it was intense. I left the gym dripping in sweat and totally in love with the gym. I decided to become a member after my first class! I have now lost over 50 pounds and gained over 50 new friends. I have reached so many new personal records it brings tears to my eyes. I have done a 205 pound deadlift and a 24 inch box jump and ran a whole entire 5K without ever stopping these are amazing things to accomplish for a woman who was supposed to be on oxygen for the rest of her life… I love Strive I took my fitness experience to the next level becoming a member and I won’t ever regret this decision.

– Colleen Ryan

“My journey started back in June of 2020 and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself. I was so scared to join and started off with PT with Victoria and she was the perfect person to start with she didn’t make me feel bad when I first did my assessment she understood where I was starting and how to go forward. I had every reason to give up in the beginning I had two different surgeries after the first few months of starting but I got messages from the owners telling me they would help me get back into working out with modifications added just for me.”

I went to my first class workout and I was the slowest one last to finish and with all that weighing me down some amazing members asked me where I was at on the board workout and finished it with me and I knew then this gym was the best thing for me. I’ve had two different PT trainers who helped me in many ways I have taken over 100 classes with all different instructors each one teaching me how to better myself and push myself. I’ve done so many awesome events that I never thought I could ever finish but did. Everyday I meet some amazing people and always get an amazing workout I lost over 60 plus pounds and achieved almost all the goals I had for myself in the beginning of my journey and made new goals for myself that I would never have thought was possible. At Strive members and instructors remember you and remember how you started that is why I love Strive I’ve seen so many people push themselves giving it everything they’ve got even when they want to give up but they never do and that is what motivates me to show up everyday.

-Chasity Carmona

“Before joining Strive, I was depressed ALL the time, I had very low self-esteem, zero motivation and was uncomfortable in my own skin. I was letting doubt, fear and uncertainty control my life. I knew I needed to make a change, so in May of 2019, I walked through the door at Strive Brookfield – it was the best decision I ever made. It was the first (and hardest) step towards my fitness journey… and I haven’t looked back since!”

Fast forward to now, I am happier, healthier and just an all-around better version of myself.

NOW I believe in myself.

NOW I look forward to classes and PT each day.

NOW I am driven and eager to learn more.

Strive changed my life!! 💙💚

I’ve lost close to 50lbs, I’ve gained more muscle and confidence than I ever thought possible. I’ve conquered numerous goals: I ran my first 5k, 10k and 2 half marathons, I’ve maxed out on deadlifts and bench press, I received a lifestyle achievement award, completed 75Hard and most importantly… I gained the inner strength and knowledge to completely trust the process. Fitness is MY lifestyle and giving up is NOT an option.

I couldn’t be more thankful to Strive and all the instructors/members who have been so supportive from day one. Strive is my HAPPY place and I hope that my fitness journey inspires someone to reach their full potential and to never give up… the only way you see results is to stay consistent!

I feel like this is just the beginning and I cannot wait to see what the future holds. ❤💪😏

– Lisa Werchman

“I started Strive end of 2019 on a weight loss challenge. I was newly seperated, two boys, new house, job and just endless responsibilities that gave me an excuse to let myself go. I went through so many motions and attempts at working out at local fitness clubs and nothing could keep me motivated. I knew I needed more. Whether that meant more guidence, more training, or more people I could surround myself with that shared the same goals.”

I just needed more. After my first few classes, I noticed out of all the class options weight lifting was something I exceled at. Keep in mind, I come from a backround where weights are thought to be for men, weights make you bulky and not attractive. BOY WAS THAT WRONG! Strive has such a variety of classes you can pick and chose and my focus was weights and endurance (Kickboxing Hiit is amazing). Since I started, I have lost a total of about 36lbs. Please keep in mind I am naturally muscular so the change in my body is so much more noticable I do not focus on numbers. I went from not running at all to completing a 5k for my bday last year and again this coming year. Countless challenges have been completed and I am deadlifting 340lbs with the guidence of all of the amazing instructors and friends who push and believe in me! My circle of friends has changed, my priorities are different and my love for the gym is at an all time high. Just like a job, if you like what you do then it becomes a passion and enjoyable rather then dreaded. I am so appreciative for everyone at Strive. This is my second family and I am so excited to see what is in my future. I am a new me. Stronger, Confident and Motivate more than ever before. I wouldn’t be here without the Strive Fam!

– Meagan Zulik

“I joined Strive in November 2019 after spending several years at another fitness center. I immediately felt welcome and liked the family-like atmosphere of the instructors and the other members. I completed my first six week challenge that January and February losing 5 lbs and then Covid hit. I appreciated that Strive kept up online workouts multiple times per day and jumped into outdoor classes that spring. Every member I met was encouraging and every instructor brought his or her own unique knowledge and personality to each class. I loved that every class was different.”

I completed my first class marathon on July 4, 2020 in the extreme heat and was instantly attracted to challenging myself in ways I never had before. Over the next 6 months I continued with daily classes trying bootcamps, kickboxing, yoga, spin and strength. I became so hooked I got my husband, son and mom to join!

As 2021 began I jumped into another 6 week weight loss challenge where I lost 17 pounds and took second place earning $500! I grew to call the other members my friends and looked forward to not only seeing my body change but everyone else’s too. Hearing so many others’ journeys was so inspiring for me. Strive was different from any other gym I had ever belonged to. After completing that challenge I decided to try 75 Hard on my own as I had heard other members who had completed it. Shawn checked in on me weekly throughout those 75 days always encouraging me and helping me through it. That spring he also ran a 40 day nutrition challenge which was life changing for me. He taught us so much about not only what to eat but when to eat, how to maximize our nutrition and all of the supplements that would help each member to achieve optimal fitness. By the end of the challenge and 75 Hard I had lost another 11 pounds and for the first time in my life I had actual muscles! I took second place in that challenge winning a free month of personal training with Shawn that I continued for 12 weeks afterwards. This was another life changing experience for me. Shawn tailored my workouts each week where some accomplishments included completing a murph and flipping a 400 lb tire!

Since the challenge I have completed another class marathon, two more 6 week fitness challenges and my very first Ruck where I spent 6 plus hours on a team with challenging tasks, heavy weights and continued bonding with members who have now become like family. I cannot thank Strive and their instructors for all of the ways they have positively impacted my family and me. I never knew that being a part of something like this could change my life in so many ways, but I am so glad it has.

– Kathleen Duncan

“As a mom, sometimes it is hard to put ourselves first and self care can feel like a chore. I neglected my health for the last few years and although I always loved working out, I used the excuse that I didn’t have time for it.

In October 2020, I joined Strive mainly for kickboxing classes and not long after, I upgraded to the unlimited class membership. It really became an addiction! In less than 1 year, I completed 200+ classes and lost over 45+ lbs! I have participated in a few challenges plus the St. Patties Day class marathon, and most recently the 75 Hard Program, which has honestly changed my life!”

Strive has been a great outlet to let go of stressors, make new friends, and enjoy some bomb workouts! The members + trainers were welcoming from day 1 and it truly feels like we have known each other forever! I absolutely love my Strive family. Everyone is extremely encouraging, uplifting and super positive in and outside of the gym.

For the first time in years, I have prioritized my health, and working out no longer feels like a chore. I feel physically and mentally stronger and most importantly happy with how much progress I have made. I am looking forward to seeing where my fitness goals take me in 2022!

– Kelsey Mohn

“I was introduced to Strive’s Midway location soon after it opened. I began with the punch card series taking classes once a week just to relieve some stress. Once a week turned into twice a week. With encouragement, I participated in a class marathon that peaked my interest in joining Strive’s challenges. The 35-day nutrition challenge changed everything for me. I discovered I was coping with stress with poor food habits and needed to commit to making a change for my overall well-being.”

I learned from Strive how to properly fuel my body and maximize my workouts. I upgraded to a membership and participate in weekly personal training, which has been a game changer. I appreciate the Strive family and amazing coaches for helping me on my radical self-care journey. Strive’s coaches are dedicated and I enjoy the camaraderie. 💙💚

– Jennifer Duran

“My dad was becoming very sick due to a host of health problems. One night he fell. It took 3 of us to lift him as he was dead weight due to Parkinson’s disease. It was then I decided I needed to do something. As I needed to be stronger because God forbid anything happens to my wife I need to be there to help.
2. When I was born I had water on the brain. Doctors told my parents to walk away. I’d be deaf and blind. I didn’t walk till I was 3. Now I am blind in one eye but I lead a good life.”

– Danny Kendrick

“Full time job, mother of three, and no time for myself. I was in need of change. At 42, I was the heaviest I had ever been, I was not sleeping, and I definitely was not feeling my best. I told myself there was not enough time to get in a workout. I didn’t want to infringe on anyone else’s schedule. There was no way I could get up early and I was too tired at the end of the day. No time! In June of 2019, I decided to make the change.”

Strive ran a special promotion for teachers, I joined, and the changes started happening! Walking into the doors at the Riverside location for the very first time, I was greeted with welcoming smiles and hellos from other members. The friendly and patient instructor, Mike, stayed close to me during the workout to help me with my form for each exercise. I walked into the class a ball full of nerves and anxious and walked out of class feeling a sense of relief and accomplishment. As I continued working out at Strive, I started mixing up the classes I signed up for each week. I started to look and feel different, for the better. Once the Teacher Special ended, I signed up for the Unlimited 12 Month Plan to continue on in my fitness journey. That was almost two and a half years ago, and I have never experienced the same workout twice. I have taken part in many challenges that Strive offers in which I have learned a great deal of information about nutrition and fitness. Strive encourages everyone to set goals for themselves, follow through to accomplish them, and then set new goals. Since I joined Strive, I have lost pounds, inches, and body fat. But, I have gained far more. I have gained knowledge, knowing that making time for myself should be a priority, and most importantly a community of people who want to cheer me on and continue to see me succeed. I look forward to entering Strive’s doors everyday and continuing to grow my mental and phyisical strength. I still have a full time job and am a full time mom, but Strive helped me carve time back for myself.

– Jo Marietta

“I was thin for most of my life, but once I graduated from UIC, my weight began climb. In 2010, I became a mom. Over the next 10 years, with each pregnancy, I gained more and more weight. I could never consistently lose weight. I would gain everything back each time. I lacked motivation and reached a point that I was content with my weight. It wasn’t until Father’s Day 2020 that I stepped on a scale and weighed more than the day I gave birth to my youngest. Enough was enough and I had to do something about it. My sister reached out to me the very next day and told me about a special her gym Strive had. It was meant to be!”

I started with an unlimited 30 day pass. I was hooked after my first class and soon after I joined the unlimited plan. Best decision I could have made for myself. I’ve met so many people on similar journeys as mine. The instructors care about you and put so much detail & work into each class they provide. Each class is always different from the last and leaves you wanting more. Everyone here pushes and motivates you. We celebrate each other’s victories. Strive gave me everything I didn’t know I needed. Best of all, they got me to believe in myself and love myself. I’ve gained endurance and mental strength thanks to Strive. I’ve been in 4 weight loss challenges and came in 3rd place once and 1st place 3 times! Since June 25, 2020, I’ve lost 85lbs. For someone who would miss out on events to avoid wearing a dress, I wore a dress this past weekend and felt beautiful, which I hadn’t felt like that in very long time. My dress was 12 sizes smaller from the last time I wore a dress.

Where I see the biggest change in me, is my mental strength. I believe in myself 100 and never give up. I stay on focused on my goals and crush them. I can’t thank my Strive family enough. Grateful for all the support I’ve received from Strive and my family, especially my husband and kids. I couldn’t have done any of this without them cheering me on.

– Ana Arellano

Elite Strive Members

“Life is a journey not a destination! I am Aimee Saflover, 66 ½ years of age, and a person who has always struggled with my weight. In January of 2014 I realized I needed to make a change in my life and because I was retired, I now had the time to do something!

That something was to workout with a trainer. That Friday Jan 3rd at 12:00P.M. I met Shawn Groll, my trainer. That first day he had me do a few things to test my strength and ability. I wasn’t able to lift my body up to do a plank. My first two months were a struggle because my dad was dying of lung cancer, but Shawn helped me through that difficult time. He would adjust my workouts to use the punching bag, ropes, tire flipping or whatever it took to help get my frustrations out. As time went by I got stronger, more confident, lost 60lbs, and participated in two 5k’s. Shawn also helped me train after a shoulder and knee replacement, back injury and a second shoulder surgery.”

In the last 8 years I’ve followed Shawn from Charter Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Jen’s Grandma’s house, Strive 4 Fitness in Brookfield, Riverside, and now LaGrange Park. My journey isn’t over, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of Shawn and the Strive 4 Fitness family of trainers. Strive members are like my family who support me and encourage me to Never Stop!

-Aimee Saflover

“I had struggled with my weight off and on for most of my adult life. I had been somewhat successful in getting ready for bootcamp, the police academy and other short term fitness goals, but I never had anyone help me change my lifestyle. After a health scare and weight gain, I stopped in where Shawn was training and signed up for some personal training sessions. I had done so with other trainers in the past, but this time I felt that he was more than just a corporate man looking to amass clients and run up revenue. Shawn asked me what my health status was, what I wanted to get out of training and, more importantly, asked for my input to help make my journey a success.”

We set up realistic short, medium and long range goals to achieve weight loss, add muscle and, most importantly, set myself up for long term success. Shawn never made me feel as though I couldn’t accomplish something, and always provided positive feedback along with positive reinforcement.

When Shawn moved on and opened his own studio, I could tell he had taken a lot on, but you’d never guess that when working one-on-one with him. He always made my fitness journey seem like the most important thing in his life. My training sessions, as well as his classes felt more intense and I could really feel a change in me. Not just physically, but emotionally and mentally.

When I thought a 5K race was tough, he introduced me to a 10K, then a 15K. Next thing you know I’m training for my first half marathon that I ran through Yosemite National Park. I thought that was a real accomplishment (and it was), but he almost immediately started gently nudging me to train for a full marathon. Even when I thought I’d never be able to complete the training, much the actual 26.2 miles, he was always right there letting me know I could do it. In 2019 I completed the Shawnee Marathon in Central Illinois. Not only a marathon, but in 53 degree weather with driving rain for the first 19 miles, a TOUGH one! It’s still the accomplishment that I’m most proud of.

When friends and family members compliment me on my weight loss and conditioning, I always have the same response: “I’m getting there!” That’s because I’ll never “get there”, it’ll always be a never ending journey. Shawn, his fellow instructors and the other members of Strive have become such an integral part of my everyday life I can’t imagine a time without them. There’s always room for improvement and my goals is to become the fittest I’ve ever been in my life. I’ve gone from severe sleep apnea to borderline sleep apnea and I can once again fit into my Navy uniform that I last wore in 1992, 30 years ago!

I’m working on strength training now and recently hit a PR deadlift of 355 pounds! Next up I’ll be focusing on bench presses, as well as my upcoming half marathon in Michigan in September, 2022. Thank you for creating such a tight-knit fitness family!

-Rob Frick

“My fitness journey is slightly different than most because sports and fitness have been part of my life since I could walk. I was sure I could keep up with my healthy lifestyle but that was challenging when I had my son and daughter and when I was taking care of my Mamaw and Mom. I started to lose focus on taking care of myself and used my energy to take care of others. It wasn’t too long before I realized I needed an extra push that I never needed before.”

I tried out the YMCA and Oasis, but their fitness classes weren’t too difficult. That’s when I met Shawn at Charter Fitness. It was 9 years ago and he saw me doing my own workout and asked me if I wanted to start doing classes with him and a few others in a small space at the gym. Those few others were Sondra and Mary. I saw in Shawn the drive and determination I was looking for and I was hooked!

Those first classes turned into Shawn’s first boot camps where he pushed us beyond our limits: shoveling snow, burpees across the field and climbing The Wall. We followed Shawn to “The House,” the garage in La Grange Park, that temporary office space and that “other” studio in Westchester. He was always coming up with events and challenges, inspiring others as his following grew. He and I ran to the first Strive location in Brookfield just to check it out before he opened, and I knew this was going to be the start of something AWESOME!

After years of knowing Shawn and seeing all that he, Victoria and the Strive family have accomplished, I’ve been inspired to focus my fitness journey on longevity. I turned 52 this year and my workouts are focused on muscle endurance. All the class marathons, 5K’s, 10K’s, half and full marathons (with or without a crowd) and 1200+ miles of running per year have kept me focused on my fitness journey. I look forward to what you have planned next Tough Buddy!

– Jen Giovingo

“I started at strive April of 2017 with personal training for the first 3 months and knew this was the change I needed to reach my fitness goals. I had lost 60lbs prior to strive and reached my 100lb weight loss in sept 2017 with personal training, classes, bootcamps and so much more. I then lost another 13lbs by May of 2018 reaching a total of 113lbs down. Strive is different from other gyms because it’s studio based making it more personal and focus driving to reach your goals.”

You create a second family that wants to see you succeed and crush all your goals. One thing my trainer, Shawn, and I came up with was the phrase “you have to want it” literally meaning until you mentally accept that phrase everything else standing in the way ie fear, negativity etc falls back and it’s only you that can change yourself. If you want better you’ll be better! Now since then Ive had a second child and suffered a severe back injury that took me through obstacles mentally and physically but it’s not stopping me. The comeback is always stronger than the setback. I look forward to bouncing back and getting stronger than ever!! Hardwork pays off and you deserve it!

-Nancy Andino