Panting and sweating up a set of stairs, I thought, "You are just too young to be this incapable." At the time, I was on a vacation in Asia and thoroughly frustrated with my weight and lack of physical fitness. Several sights on the trip required stair climbing or hiking and I just couldn't hack it. That had to change. I didn’t want to miss opportunities to see wonderful attractions on future trips. There’s too much to see and no time to go back and do it again.

That was a year ago. Today, I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in my entire life. Not just my adult life. My ENTIRE life.

When I returned from Asia, I found an Empowered Fitness Boot Camp Fitness Class. At first, one day a week was all I could manage. The workouts were unlike anything I’d ever done before. Good thing for me! It kept me interested in showing up. At the end of class, I felt like I’d really done something to make my body get stronger.

Cheryl Cohen’s interest, enthusiasm, and supportive coaching style in class are 100 times above any trainer I’d seen at my local gym working with their clients. So, when I wanted to add some personal training sessions, I knew I couldn’t ask for anyone more invested in my progress, besides myself, than her.

It was a huge act for me, signing up for that Empowered Fitness Boot Camp class, and showing up for it on the first day, instead of backing out.  I’d done that so many times before when I wanted change, but didn’t feel able to make it happen. It was one of the best things I’d ever done for myself.

A year ago, every day seemed a burden, food was a respite and exercise was torture. Now, I’ve lost 35lbs and have actual muscles underneath my skin! While I’d never impress any bodybuilder, my friends and family are amazed at the changes. Most importantly, I feel strong, capable and able to handle anything life throws at me!

- Margaret Fuentes

Training with Cheryl has been a wonderful experience. As a relatively new runner she has improved my overall strength, balance and flexibility. I started training with her after a running injury left me sidelined for 4 months. I feel stronger overall and my running has greatly improved. Each session with Cheryl is challenging but the variety of workouts keeps things fun and I’m always guessing as to what is next. I just completed my 2nd half marathon and did so stronger and faster than the last; I credit Cheryl’s workouts with helping me get through a difficult race in one piece and feeling great at the end. I recommend Cheryl to anyone with an interest to improve their overall wellbeing whether you’re new to fitness or an athlete looking to take it to the next level.

- Jessica Caenepeel

It has been almost a year since joining Cheryl’s outdoor fitness class.  I have been attending three classes per week.  Along with the challenging and fun classes she has also advised us on diet, giving us ideas and encouragement. The workouts are never the same. She is creative and innovative with our exercises. She also constantly researches new ways to get the best results.  As a result, over the last year I have lost 20 pounds and gone down two sizes (almost three at this point).  My friend Jim says, ‘I’ve never looked better!’

- Erin Devine

I am always looking for new ways to keep my workouts both fresh and exciting. Cheryl's fitness classes have been the perfect fit for me. She changes the routine every time so that each class is unique. This full-body workout is intense but Cheryl makes it fun for everybody. It's always great to workout in the beautiful outdoors of San Diego. It's a fantastic, and healthy, way to start off my day.

- John Betlejewski

Being thin does not always mean you are fit or healthy. That is one of the things I have learned from Cheryl. In the back of my mind, I always knew that I would have to make a lifestyle change since I have a family history of weight and weight-related health issues. It was sixth months ago that I made a decision to get in charge of my health.

The last three months I have worked out with Cheryl and I LOVE IT! Not only do I feel in the best shape of my life, I feel more confident with my body and a boost in my emotional well-being. Prior to joining in Cheryl’s program I paid a personal trainer for two months and I saw no results. It was a waste of money and time. I am so glad I didn’t give up because since my first workout with Cheryl, I felt like I really exercised all of my muscles and I felt that I had pushed myself physically more than ever before. The classes are fun and every time different, which makes me anticipate each and every class.

 It is not easy to lose weight or get in shape because you need to work hard and have a goal but if you’re willing to persevere and be committed Cheryl can guide you to a better life. My personal experience has been fantastic and I would love to see every one who reads this testimonial try one of Cheryl’s classes. Cheryl not only makes me sweat and smell really bad she make my butt burn and when I see my self in the mirror I smile, something I never did before. My body is toned and lean and I have more energy and self-esteem than anytime prior in my life. Cheryl has changed my life. And I know that she can change yours too!

- Mimi Cortes

I am 67 years old and have gone to gyms, had personal trainers and worked out alone.  Before I knew it, stressful things happened in my life; once again, I found myself with the same pattern of struggling to exercise regularly and attempting to eat more healthily.
 
One day, I read an article about Cheryl in The San Diego Union Tribune.  Having lived in New York City most of my life, the concept of exercising outdoors attracted my attention.  The freshness of outdoor exercising helps to place myself in sync with my mental and physical well-being.
 
Cheryl provides enjoyable, effective, interesting and challenging workouts for each session with a variety of exercises for our group.  She is a motivator.  I’ve increased my energy level, lost weight, decreased stress, strengthened my core and improved my level of fitness, flexibility and balance.  I was able to do only two pushups a year and a half ago.  Thanks to Cheryl, now I can do at least 15.
 
I’m sure my son would state the same results of exercising with Cheryl.  I also have fun.
 
- Keyko Silverman

Knowing I should live a healthier life while continually convincing myself that the time was not right to begin exercising, I was a genuine couch potato.

I heard about Cheryl from family and neighbors. After much coaxing, I made an appointment for a workout. She is energetic, creative and encouraging. I truly look forward to my workouts. Cheryl has a wide variety of challenging exercises. I appreciate her tailored coaching.
I've been training with Cheryl for 4 months. I'm on the path for better fitness. Thanks to her, I am stronger, healthier, have more energy and have lost weight.

- Lucky Cambon

I have been training with Cheryl for the past 3 months.  I had a total knee reconstruction about 7 months before that; had gained about 25 lbs and was really out of shape.  In the past three months I have lost 16 lbs. and probably built up about 10 lbs. worth of muscle. My body, energy, and outlook on life are changing rapidly.  Cheryl's workouts are very challenging but fun.  Everyday she changes the routines so it is always different.  She also gives a lot of moral support and encouragement. Cheryl is very knowledgeable about sports injuries, nutrition and health and freely shares this knowledge with her clients.
My surgeon (Dr. Jan Fronek, also the Padres head surgeon) recently told me I had a complete recovery of my knee with 100% mobility and strength.  I could not have done this without Cheryl.  I would not have had the discipline or motivation without Cheryl's' boot camps and training.

- Lisa Adams

Cheryl's been my long-lost Drill Instructor for nearly a year.  Her tailored workouts have increased my overall core strength, improved my long-distance running, and allowed me to recover more quickly after a race!

- Major J. G. Payne, Jr. Executive Officer

After a year and a half of Weight Watchers, walking, and doing aerobic activities at the gym (elliptical trainer, treadmill) and occasionally picking up my 5 lb. weights (not doing anything with them, just picking them up), I decided in January 2007 that it was time to get serious about strength training.  I was at a plateau in my weight loss, and knew that I needed to mix things up a bit.  I had noticed Cheryl’s car parked in my alley, and liked the logo on the back.  “Empowered Fitness” appealed to my need to take control of my body.

When I first started working with Cheryl, each session ended with 2 Advils and a quart of water.  Although I often felt like the exercises were hard, at the end of each session, I felt victorious.  And that feeling stayed with me for the rest of the week, with confidence carrying over into other aspects of my life. 

Six months later, I find myself looking forward to my individual sessions and the classes.  I know that I will leave exhausted and yet energized at the same time.  Cheryl is always encouraging and supportive, and when I say, “I can’t”, I count on her laughing and saying, “Oh, yes, you can”…and deep down I know she’s right. 

So, what have I gained?  Balance, core strength, some definition in my arms, and confidence.  And I can do real push-ups.  And sit-ups.  And I hiked up to the Vernal Falls in Yosemite and back down again and felt like a million dollars.

I still take the Advil.  But it’s good pain.

- Nancy Lazerson

Training with Cheryl is incredibly rewarding and self motivating.  It gives you the power and strength to really want to push yourself.  The workout is tough yet fun, and certainly never boring - Cheryl has an amazing array of routines that will keep you on your toes.  I come away from each session with such a sense of accomplishment - it keeps you coming back for more!

- Sue Gordon

"This class is great! Cheryl mixes the program up each week so we are continually challenged and I love the fact we are outside. We work hard in that hour, but it flies by with the fun people!"

- Sarah Wilson

"Since working with Cheryl, my energy is up! She makes working out fun and I finally look forward to exercising. If you are committed to this, you will see results!"

- Kelly Karpiak

"I was completely in a rut. My work outs were always the same, I never pushed myself and I was getting completely out of shape. Because of your well directed, complete work outs, I am not only in better shape, my own works out have improved. I feel much better and I could not have done it without your help!"

- Katie Lara

Cheryl got me pregnant; and it only hurt a little bit!

No little blue line, no plus sign.  After ANOTHER disappointing visit with my doctor, and a discussion about fertility medicine and the possibility of a disorder called PCOS, my doctor recommended regular exercise and weight loss as the best chance to reach my goal of pregnancy.   And then I found Cheryl.

After spending some time assessing my diet and deciding on some problem areas to fix, I committed to a program of eating and exercise that I could live with and more importantly would get me to my goal.   After only 8 weeks, I was down more than 25 pounds and well on my way to more!  I worked out 3-4 times a week with Cheryl, both in private and in group sessions.  And my workout was fun! I looked forward to it. 

Cheryl always had a variety of activities planned that took my mind off of the fact that I was exercising.   And with my mind occupied, it wasn't very long before I was dripping with sweat and with no idea how I got to be that way.  You see, Cheryl made me sweat, but she also helped me to become a much healthier, and nearly 70 pound lighter, me. 

If you are like me, you have tried everything before.  If there was a pill, a plan or a method for weight loss, I'd tried it, but here's the difference:  With Cheryl, I modified my behaviors and eating habits.   I learned how to be not only physically fit, but behaviorally fit.  And on the day before I was scheduled to start my fertility medications, I reached my ultimate goal; a little plus sign.   And a second pink line and another plus sign and even a smiley face.  You see, Cheryl got me pregnant and it took me four home pregnancy tests to believe it.

I continued to work out with Cheryl until I hit the middle of my seventh month.  With her extensive knowledge of fitness, she was able to modify exercises and workouts so that I could continue up until the time where pushups were pointless because my belly dragged on the ground.

One last important thing...my delivery was a cinch.  My doctor was amazed.  As a first time mother I was expected to be in labor for 24 hours and push for at least 2 of those...but strong abs, strong legs and the determination I learned in my workouts got me through labor in less then 11 hours and I pushed for three rounds, a total of 20 minutes. 

My son Nathaniel is a dream come true.  He was born on July 3rd a perfect 8 1/2 pound healthy boy.    You see, I mean it when I say that Cheryl got me pregnant, And gave me the biggest blessing in my life.

- Gabrielle Lieberg

"I am a competitive person and others would say I am an overachiever, but in one area: exercise! I hate exercising. The closest thing to exercising I ever did was running after the kids. When people asked me about exercising...well, you already know my answer. But that line lasted for so long, as my kids are teenagers and refuse for me to run after them...other than to give them money. Sounds familiar? That's when a dear friend and co-worker invited me, and later dare me, to join her in her exercise routine. And, for the first time in my life, I am liking this exercise routine! In six weeks, I can say, see and feel I have more endurance (psychological and physical), better self-esteem (fit in my pants with less of a wiggle), have energy (not necessarily due to caffeine) and reduced stress level (even with two teenagers!). Cheryl has been outstanding, patient (and she needs a lot of it when I start to act out in class) and inspiring. She is your best cheerleader! So, if you are thinking about adding one more thing into your already tumultuous life...please DO! What are you waiting for? I am seeing results...and love them!"

- Vilmarie Rodriguez

"I have been working out with Cheryl at her lunchtime boot camp twice a week for about four weeks and I love it! I love it so much that I have joined her Saturday AM class at Mission Bay.
At first it was pretty difficult but within a couple of sessions I found it easier and got into the swing of things. She really gives us a fun workout that targets all areas of the body especially core strength. I have lost weight and inches!"

- Jackie O'Donald

"In December, 2005, I returned home from a trip with my husband. I stepped on the scale the next morning and saw a number I’d never seen before. The trip was a real eye-opener for me. I had trouble walking and keeping up with my husband and our friends. I was really scared. I’m diabetic and know that puts me at a higher risk for a heart attack or stroke. I am only 63 years old and want to live many more years. So I decided to do something about it. I have diabetic neuropathy in my feet and a knee that needs to be replaced. Going to the gym was out of the question. I needed a trainer that would come to my house.

Through a friend and her trainer, I met Cheryl Cohen. She came to my house for a consultation. I was very impressed and we started a few days later. I told Cheryl my first goal for her was to keep me alive. The second goal was to lose weight and gain stamina. Cheryl comes once a week and we workout here at the house. She has designed exercises that will help me and not hurt my knee. I am losing inches and gaining stamina. I could hardly walk around to shop for my family at Christmas. Now I am able to shop for hours.

Nutrition is a big part of Cheryl’s program. I’m never hungry now, but eating my differently. I’ve lost 26 pounds and feeling so much better. I do my exercises 4 days a week and ride my exercise bike the other three.

If you need a trainer, I would highly recommend Cheryl. She is very knowledgeable and experienced. Best of all, she’s very caring and supportive!! I’m so grateful for all the help Cheryl is giving me. I couldn’t be doing this without her!"

- Charlotte Odom

"I started exercising with my dear friend Charlotte, mainly to keep her company and encourage her to stay on the regiment that Cheryl had designed for her. But then I realized I was getting just as much benefit from our workout sessions as Charlotte was. I lost inches, gained strength and endurance and just had a great feeling of well-being. I’m hitting the golf ball a lot further! Cheryl has done a great job of introducing new exercises for Char, so we never get bored. And our absolute favorite exercise is boxing! A great way to alleviate stress and get rid of any feelings of aggression in a healthy way. Cheryl’s program has been life-altering for Char (perhaps life-saving) and I have been the lucky beneficiary of her expertise."

- Kathy Cates

"After one session with Cheryl I realized what I was missing in my workouts at the gym. I usually exercise using the latest static gym equipment and thought I was getting a good workout but I have learned that those machines work out the same large muscle groups each time. In Cheryl's sessions, we work out muscles I never knew existed. The exercises are simple in nature. In only 4 weeks, I feel stronger than I have in 4 months at the gym. I workout 3 times a week now in Cheryl's boot camp classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and I can feel the improvement with each session. I recommend these classes to anyone looking to strengthen and tighten their bodies, you will not be disappointed."

- Jennifer Roan