One of the ways our studio grows and continues to inspire is by the testimonials our wonderful clients give us!  Inspired by Fitness puts a lot of faith and trust in the testimonials our existing and previous clients give us.
When I first joined, I was welcomed with open arms!  Fantastic place...the people really make the difference!  Couch To Confident program works!!!!  If you're needing a motivational boost...a change...get in there!!!

~ Elaine R., Stratford, ON
Hands down the best fitness studio I’ve ever been a part of!  I’ve never had better results than being a part of this team.  Every workout is modified to your personal needs.  While pregnant and post C-section, the trainers modified workouts for me so I could continue working out without worrying about injuring myself.  They’re not just great trainers, they’re great people who sincerely care about you, as a person.

~ Nicole M., Stratford, ON
I completed the Couch To Confident program as an online participant, and what a difference 12 weeks has made!  Sherry and her team are so enthusiastic and helpful.  The community of participants were super welcoming and inspiring.  The workouts always include modifications, and they grow and progress in intensity along with the program.  I also take part in the Mommy & Me workout program, and it is a lot of fun.  It is quite a scene trying to wrangle my little ones and involve them in the workout, and yet I can still feel the burn from a great workout the next day.

~ Nicole W., Lakeside ON
I love going to Inspired by Fitness.  Energetic instructors and the clients are fantastic!

~ Barb S., Stratford, ON
Linda participated in the Couch To Confident: 12-Week Total Body Transformation & Accountability Program in September-December 2020.  Below is a Q&A with her:

​Please list your original main health issue/concern.
My reason for joining the online CTC Program again (first time was in 2017) was to lose weight due to a significant weight gain from March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic arrived.  Since the pandemic, I gained 35 pounds and had to purchase new summer wear bottoms (jeans, shorts, skirts, etc.).  Another issue that came along with working from home was Plantar Fasciitis on my right foot mainly.  I was unable to walk comfortably.  My doctor’s reasoning for this 'injury' was weight gain due to inactivity and improper footwear.  I stood/walked on my hardwood floors while working from home at my kitchen island (rarely sat down) and the lack of support my feet had caused the injury.  I now wear supportive indoor shoes daily when home.

What relief in symptoms or resolution of your main health issue/concern have you experienced during this challenge/program?
There are many changes that happened since I started this program.  The weight loss (although only 13.5 pounds) and inches lost has allowed me to wear all my pre-COVID-19 clothing.  I am beyond happy about this!  I do not know if my Plantar Fasciitis is better or not, as I do wear indoor shoes routinely to prevent any pain when walking.

How do you feel now physically/mentally/emotionally in comparison to when you started this challenge/program?
I physically feel stronger and my cardio has benefited.  I do not like cardio, but at a pace that I was comfortable to include it in my workouts allowed me to do high or low impact cardio options.  There were days I felt drained both physically and mentally, but I ‘pushed through’ and ‘trusted the process’.  I agree ‘hard work pays off’ and I never let my end goal be out of my sight.  I feel more confident in myself as well with the progression in my workouts (longer stamina, heavier weights).

How do you feel about the difference?
The difference has made me more confident in myself in ways.  In making better choices daily, I hope to influence those around me as well.

Would you recommend this challenge/program to a friend or family member?
I would HIGHLY recommend this CTC program to friends and family.

Was the challenge/program protocol easy to follow, or did you have challenges with it?
The program is simple to follow, but it was my second time; I know how Sherry motivates and her method works for me 100%.  It may not be for everyone.  The videos Sherry has put together are AMAZING!  I literally feel like I am in her class like the olden days.  Hearing her voice has ALWAYS motivated me since I have known her despite NOT being a Inspired by Fitness member for quite some years.  When I do my own workouts, I HEAR HER!  The impact Sherry has had on me is almost unreal where at times I feel obsessed with her.  I wish I was 20 years younger to keep up with her love of fitness.  She will always be my biggest motivator!!!!  During her videos, it got to a point where I am able to finish her sentences and catch myself answering her questions, talking to her and swearing (at her) at times when I was being challenged physically to ‘go faster’ or when she adds more reps…LOL! 

Do you feel the changes you were able to make were worth the investment in time, money and effort? 
The program price is very reasonable for the ‘personal’ and ‘group’ interaction.  Sherry’s daily posts and Zoom calls are some things I always enjoyed and were beneficial for accountability and educating.  Other group members' stories and posts were also encouraging and kept me motivated as well.  It’s always nice to know how others are doing with their journey to better nutrition and fitness.

Would you recommend friends/family who are struggling with similar health issues work with Inspired by Fitness and/or join a challenge/program offered by Inspired by Fitness?
I have always raved on about Inspired by Fitness and what this studio has to offer.  No matter what you are looking to achieve in your fitness journey (including a social atmosphere), Sherry and her team are there to support!  I have moved out of Stratford since July and have and plan to continue my journey with following Sherry and her studio on social media.  Her encouraging voice is always in my head!

~ Linda G., Stratford, ON
Kristie participated in the Couch To Confident: 12-Week Total Body Transformation & Accountability Program in January-April 2019.  Below is a Q&A with her:

How has this program influenced your life?
The CTC program influenced my life by making me more aware of what I was eating.  Before the program, I didn't think about how many calories I should eat in a day.  Now I pay more attention to my calorie intake, carbs, fats and proteins.  I feel better physically and have more energy.  I rarely get acid reflux now which is something I have dealt with regularly for years.  I now enjoy being physically active and love seeing the changes to my body.  I am more confident in myself with my clothing and self-image.

How has this program changed your eating habits?  Your family's eating habits?
My eating habits have definitely changed.  As I went through the program and continued to follow the meal plans, I started to feel better physically.  When I did eat something that wasn't good for me, I did not feel good physically and emotionally.  Now I think twice about eating certain foods and if it is really worth eating that brownie or have a protein shake instead.  Meal prep is something I am still working on doing more of, but I definitely see how beneficial it is, especially when life gets busy.

What did you like most about the program?
What I liked most about the program was all the support from the Inspired staff.  They all checked in to see how I was doing and they were always available to answer any questions and give suggestions.  Seeing all the other participants make suggestions or put a motivational post on the Facebook page was something I looked forward to seeing.  Not only did I better myself during the CTC program, but I also met some great people.

What did you learn from the program?
What I learned from the CTC program is that I am responsible for taking care of myself and how I can now successfully do that.  I feel more confident in myself and I see how the changes I made during the program will be life-long.

Would you recommend this program to a friend or family member?
I would absolutely recommend the CTC program because I was at a point in my life where I had given up on ever being in shape.  In my mind, I had decided that I was okay with being overweight and not very physically active.  Being part of the CTC program changed my thinking; I felt like I was given the tools and knowledge to be successful and change my thinking.  I always felt supported and that I was as important as everyone else in the CTC program.  Working out in front of other people has always made me feel self-conscious, but the staff and other CTC participants were always so encouraging and accepting of everyone.  The CTC program gave me the push I needed to take care of myself again!

~ Kristie M., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is is the perfect fit for my goals and lifestyle.  My trainer gears my personal training to my abilities while constantly challenging me to reach further inside myself, helping me actualize the person I’m becoming.

The classes at Inspired by Fitness are timed and geared to a working lifestyle.  How are we going to feel better throughout our days, our lives – not how much can I lift or push or how far I can go?!

In the six months I have been working with Sherry, I have become stronger, leaner, motivated and have learned to love my body again.  I see the changes; others see the changes.  I have been inspired, and in turn, can inspire those around me.

~ Colleen F., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is the best place to go for fitness classes.  All of the instructors are very friendly and knowledgeable.  Even in group classes, I receive personal support.  And Sherry has always been open to questions regarding adjusting exercises to suit individual needs.

Inspired by Fitness has everything you need from one-on-one fitness and nutrition programs to Boot Camp and Zumba.

I look forward to each and every one of my classes.

~ Jessica S., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is compatible for any age!  I am 70 years old, and I was only going to Zumba before Sherry Kresky inspired me to join Boot Camp, Low Impact Body Blast and Bounce with Kangoo Jumps.  Since I had been working out at the studio under Sherry’s guidance for a few years, she told me she knew I could handle it.  Sherry did not give up on me, and I did not want to disappoint her.

It is amazing how much confidence I have gained and how much easier it is to deal with my stress.  I am so much stronger and have lost inches and pounds.  And the best part is that my husband, Gary (who is physically impaired and in a wheelchair), notices how much stronger I am – he says my body looks 20 years younger!

I am so grateful to the team at Inspired by Fitness for being so compassionate in helping me along my fitness journey, while making it so much fun.  I enjoy my time at the studio so much, and I have recruited many of my senior friends to join.  They are all having a great time as the programs offered can accommodate their individual aches and pains. 

Inspired by Fitness is the BEST STUDIO ever!  You are not just a number, you are a name!

~ Marie C., Stratford, ON
When I started my fitness journey, I wanted a place I could go to and feel comfortable.  Inspired by Fitness is a fabulous place for all fitness levels and a place where you feel accepted.  The instructors are all extremely positive and encouraging.  I highly recommend Inspired by Fitness.

~ Shelley L., Stratford, ON
I started going to Inspired by Fitness in September 2015.  I had been thinking about joining a gym for a while since I was done school and had a regular work schedule.  A couple of friends told me they were joining Boot Camp at Inspired by Fitness, so I decided to as well, and I couldn’t have been happier about my decision.

I was a little nervous about walking into Inspired by Fitness for the first time, but I had friends with me so that made it easier.  And once I was in there, I had nothing to worry about.  Everyone was so welcoming, and Sherry was great!  She puts you at ease right away and makes you feel comfortable.  After I was finished that first workout, I felt great.  I like being told what exercise to do and how long to do it for.  I always felt very overwhelmed at gyms because there are so many different machines, and it was difficult to know what you should be doing as a beginner.  I loved the Boot Camp classes so much I started going twice a week, and now I’m up to three times!

What I love most about Inspired by Fitness is definitely the instructors!  They offer so much encouragement not only during the class but outside of the class as well.  They inspire me to continue with my fitness journey and healthy lifestyle every day.

My Inspired by Fitness experience is what really kick-started my fitness journey.  I enjoy the workouts so much, and I am finally being consistent with a fitness program.  I look forward to every class and the accountability that Inspired by Fitness has given me.  I enjoy the Circuit and Boot Camp classes because even when I attend three classes a week, we do different things each time (or at least different combinations of exercises).  Currently I do three Boot Camp classes as well as one Yoga class per week at Inspired by Fitness.

I feel stronger now than when I first started.  Not just physically stronger, but mentally as well.  I’ve enjoyed seeing myself get stronger and challenging myself to try that heavier weight.  I’ve tried many different weight loss programs in the past – Weight Watchers, Body by Vi and 21 Day Fix, to name a few.  I think they didn’t work for me because there was no one really supporting me and keeping me accountable.  With 21 Day Fix you do have a “coach”, but it’s all online so you’re not seeing anyone in person, so it’s easier to lie and say you’re doing something but you’re really not.

I participated in the Inspired by Fitness Photo Shoot because I needed a goal.  It’s easy to get stuck in a rut if you’re not working towards anything.  The process was tough.  I’ll be the first to admit that I definitely was not as disciplined as I could/should have been.  I didn’t follow the meal plan as strictly as I should have, and that definitely showed in my results.  In the end, I did feel better, but I was disappointed in myself and know I could have done better.  What this experience has done though is inspire me to continue to reach my goals and continue with this journey.  Overall, I do feel happier, and I look forward to class every week!

~ Nicole S., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is the most positive, motivating place I have ever went to exercise!  After having my son, I called and signed up for their Mommy and Me exercise classes, and I’m so glad I did!  I have met so many new beautiful people who inspire me every day to become my best, healthiest self and have so much fun while doing it.  I am currently doing the Couch To Confident program and am seeing great results already.  Sherry and her Inspired team are such amazing, motivating and positive people.  Check out Inspired by Fitness; it will not disappoint!

~ Alisha S., Stratford, ON
I was never one to really enjoy working out, but I wanted to be out and meet other new moms since having my third child, so Inspired's Mommy and Me class was a great intro to the studio and all that is has to offer.  Since then I am attending classes 2-3 times per week and participating in the Couch To Confident program which is amazing!!!!  The support and encouragement that you receive from all of the people who attend along with all of the amazing staff truly is life changing and really helps to keep you motivated and to strive for your best!!!

~ Jen K., Stratford, ON
I fully believe in the value of a personal trainer to get me back into exercise and to being comfortable around others.  Not only the great workouts I received but the positive, mental benefits as well. Thank you for positively impacting my life!  Thank you for all your support, encouragement and butt kicking.  Today I will love myself enough to exercise.  I love this place and all the beautiful faces.

~ Lori P., Stratford, ON
April participated in the Summer Slimdown Fitness Challenge in May/June 2018.  Below is a Q&A with her:

How has this challenge influenced your life?
It really put an emphasis on the fact I’m responsible for my fitness journey.  How hard I push myself is on me.  I’m responsible for how much I want to be.

Has this challenge changed your eating habits?  Your family’s eating habits?
Already being on a restricted diet, it challenged me to look for healthier meal ideas.  One food I wanted to incorporate was avocadoes.  I found healthy dessert recipes.

What did you like most about the challenge?
The support and motivation from the trainers at Inspired by Fitness.  Also, the fact I was responsible for the outcome and pushed myself harder than ever.

Would you recommend this challenge to a friend or family member?
Yes, it teaches you self-motivation and self-discipline.

~ April H., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is amazing!!!  After stepping away from fitness for a couple years and seeing my weight soar and my strength and energy levels decrease drastically, I was looking for a comfortable, positive and motivational place to kickstart my fitness journey!  Inspired by Fitness was the perfect place for me!!  The instructors are fantastic, supportive, knowledgable, encouraging, positive and make you feel so welcome!  Inspired by Fitness is such a bright and positive atmosphere from the staff to the other participants; it's just one big family supporting and encouraging each other each and everyday!

~ Alicia H., Stratford, ON
Such an amazing environment.  I absolutely love going to Zumba on Mondays.  Amazing instructors.  Both so very friendly.

~ LeeAnn K., Stratford, ON
I decided to start going to Inspired by Fitness when I was ready to make a change.  I wanted to lose some weight and get in shape.

Sherry Kresky helped me reach my goals by sharing her extensive knowledge on healthy eating and teaching me to push myself beyond my limits.

The results for me have been significant with losing 37 pounds in just over a year and seeing muscle definition I didn’t ever think I would see!

The thing I like best about Inspired by Fitness is the small, intimate setting of the studio and Sherry’s “don’t quit” attitude.  She makes you feel like you can do anything!

I would recommend Inspired by Fitness to anyone looking to learn a healthier lifestyle, lose weight, get in shape and have tons of fun while doing so.

~ Ashley G., St. Pauls, ON
I never thought I would enjoy working out, but the energy at Inspired by Fitness is contagious.  It's a wonderful community of welcoming and friendly people.  Everyone is encouraging of those of all fitness levels.  The instructors are amazing and take a personal interest in the members.  They take the time to get to know you and push you when you need it.  Stop being intimidated and come workout here!  I highly recommend the Boot Camp classes.

~ Kristy S., Stratford, ON
An amazing place filled with so much encouragement and motivation!  Did the Couch To Confident program and my results were awesome.  Hard work pays off.  Sherry is a great leader!

~ Kelly B., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is a wonderful place to work out and to attend group classes like Boot Camp, Circuit and Zumba!  The instructors are very knowledgeable, energetic and friendly.  They will inspire you to always try new exercises, activities and to join community events!

~ Lisa V., Stratford, ON
I LOVE Inspired by Fitness!  It is honestly the best fitness studio in Stratford and a great way to get started - friendly, amazing instructors and adjusted for every fitness level.  Lots of classes that vary just enough day-to-day and week-to-week to keep things interesting.  Do yourself a favour and give it a try by starting with a 3 class pass.

~ Laura M., Stratford, ON
I am presently doing the online classes at Inspired by Fitness.  Sherry and her team are truly awesome.  If I am honest, I normally struggle to go downstairs and work out.  Team Inspired has motivated me to actually enjoy fitness with their online classes.  I am seeing results and feel better mentally and physically.  Let’s face it, we are having some rather tough days right now.  I am so happy to have this option especially in these trying times. You girls are my inspiration to a better me.

~ Tanya M., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is an amazing, supportive community!  Thanks so much for posting the online workouts!  I am not a fan of working out alone and prefer the group environment, but these workouts make it feel more like I am in class!  Way to go Inspired by Fitness for helping us keep up with our fitness goals during this unprecedented time!

~ Jen W., Stratford, ON
I have been joining in on the live virtual classes Inspired by Fitness is offering during COVID-19, and I am SO incredibly thankful for these workouts!!  They are fun, super motivating, adaptable (soup cans and baby demos!) and have me dripping sweat by the end - Sherry, you’re the best!!  My family is so grateful for your studio’s generosity and for your willingness to continue to motivate our community to move during these uncertain times!!  Thank you, thank you!!

~ Natalie G., Kitchener, ON
Awesome online workouts!  Keep them coming!  You are fabulous for doing this!

~ Jane M., Port Elgin, ON
Nothing can excuse a 30-minute workout at home!  Kids joined.  Did a class on our back deck.  Makes my day everyday!

~ Laura G., Stratford, ON
The online videos have been so important for me to follow along and keep my sanity.  Thank you!

~ Lucy S., Stratford, ON
Great staff and fun motivating classes.  Warm and welcoming to new people of all fitness levels.

~ Christine F., Stratford, ON
Amanda participated in the January/February 2017 Beginner Boot Camp.  Below is a Q&A with her:

How has this program influenced your life?
I began to incorporate exercise into my daily routine.  I have started planning for it, and I’ve noticed I have become stronger and more energetic since starting.  I learned to have fun with exercise.

Has this program changed your eating habits?  Your family’s eating habits?
Yes.  I have learned I need to eat more frequently but smaller amounts to keep my energy levels up.  My husband and I began meal prepping on Sundays for the week.

What did you like most about the program?
I loved the atmosphere and instructor – both very encouraging and comfortable.  Sherry was both encouraging and not afraid to help you push through to the next level.

Would you recommend this program to a friend or family member?
Definitely!  It was a great way to start out and learn how to exercise properly without any judgment in a very encouraging and comfortable atmosphere.

~ Amanda L., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness is absolutely awesome.  I was in the area visiting for a month and decided to check out some classes.  It’s been a long time since I’ve worked out, so I was a little hesitant.  From the moment I walked into the studio, I felt at ease.  Sherry and her team of instructors are fabulous, but what made it even better was that everyone made me feel at home, welcome and part of the family.  The ladies that take part in the Zumba and Circuit classes have become friends.  It was really hard to leave these great ladies.  If I could, I would move to Stratford just so I could get healthy and have fun getting there with Inspired by Fitness!

Check out a class or two, and open yourself up for having the time of your life.  I promise you won’t regret it!

~ Heather M., Britt, ON
Anyone who has Sherry as a personal coach or instructor will never be happy with anyone else.  She works comfortably with people of all ages and sizes, and encourages them (whether they’re an athlete or recovering from joint replacement surgery or other health issues) to try their best.  She anticipates individual needs and limitations and modifies exercises or programs to suit these individuals.  She is sensitive to feelings of awkwardness in gym settings, and without centering out, can quickly make a person comfortable in any group.  She is always glad to see you, to lead your class or work on your particular program.  Her enthusiasm meant that people looked forward to attending her classes.

For the last 3-4 years, I attended her “On The Move for Over 50” classes.  The class grew from 3-4 people to 40 in that time.  The Y itself tripled its membership in that time, and I would say it was largely due to Sherry and the team who were always welcoming and genuinely happy to show us how to improve/maintain our fitness level.

~ Kerri, Nobel, ON
Sherry's skill and enthusiasm makes a 45-minute class fly by.  It’s fast, fast, fast and fun, fun, fun!  It is obvious that Sherry has fun doing her job, and within a non-judgmental environment, she inspires others to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Sherry is a fun, high-energy instructor who inspires her students to work their hardest.  She makes sure the weight lifting and exercise techniques we use are correct.  There is always such a great variety of exercises, so each class is a surprise.

Since I have been a participant at Inspired by Fitness, I have developed muscles that I didn’t know even existed.  I have strengthened my core muscles and improved my bone density.

You will see results at Inspired by Fitness!

~ Kim B., Stratford, ON
Inspired by Fitness has provided me with the inspiration and motivation to make fitness a part of my life that I truly enjoy.

Before joining Inspired by Fitness, I was a member of a large chain gym, and my workouts had become boring and monotonous.  After trying a Bounce with Kangoo Jumps class, I was hooked.  Not only on the class but also the welcoming environment.  That was a couple of years ago, and I continue to attend many days of the week.

What calls me there on a daily basis is the upbeat atmosphere and the friendly, supportive people I have now become friends with.  I look forward to the different classes at Inspired by Fitness.

Sherry Kresky is truly inspirational.  She is an amazing trainer – the perfect combination of tough and warm personality.  Her professionalism, extensive knowledge and enthusiastic commitment to her work (and ultimately her clients) provides the perfect scenario for success and sets foundations for a new, healthier lifestyle!

If you are looking for a great fitness club to either continue or begin on your fitness journey, then Inspired by Fitness is the place for you!

~ Kim T., Stratford, ON
Sherry was my personal trainer for several months.  I was nervous to start, but at the beginning of the first session, she put me at ease with her eagerness, motivation and encouragement.  She knew my body’s limits better than I did and was always able to push me to do better.  With her training, I not only saw results but also looked forward to our sessions together.

From my experience with Sherry, she knows a lot about exercise science and the body and was able to teach me so much that I could incorporate into my own workouts.  That knowledge, combined with her contagious and upbeat personality, made her an amazing trainer!

I truly believe that if I ever needed a personal trainer again, they would not be able to rival Sherry.

~ Laura, Parry Sound, ON
I first met Sherry in the late Fall of 2011 and was instantly drawn to her energetic and enthusiastic personality.  She knew her way around a gym, so I thought for sure she could help me be more successful to drop dress sizes.  I had no idea what I was walking into!

Immediately, I developed a trusting and honest relationship with Sherry – she makes it so easy!  I was honest about my goals, how I ate and how I handled stress.  Over the months, Sherry worked with me to help me understand, appreciate and listen to my body.  I had gruelling workouts, tried Bounce classes and flipped more tractor tires than I knew what to do with.

Sherry was committed to working with me and motivated me along the way.  She was able to accommodate my work schedule and my work stress.  The days when I didn’t have it in me to push through the wall, Sherry would remind me that I didn’t need to think but rather trust her and listen.  Those were some of my best workouts.  Sherry was always creative with workouts and taught me how to incorporate everyday objects into a workout.  I learned how to look at my current surroundings as a playground for fitness.  I rarely walk by a picnic table now without the urge to climb up and over or maybe just do a few tricep dips.

My cardio and strength have improved greatly, but also my confidence and dedication to overall health and well-being.  When I feel like cutting a run short or not finishing my last rep at the gym, I think of Sherry and can hear her saying, “You can do this – I gotcha!”

~ Pam, Humphrey, ON
I'm 77.  I started attending Sherry’s “On The Move for Over 50” classes with my wife three years ago after I had a heart attack and a knee replacement.  I had never been interested in joining a club and working out regularly and I don’t play any sports, so I was very apprehensive when I began and positive that I would again be a gym class drop-out.

Sherry’s enthusiasm and genuine interest in each one of us was the hook.  She was very sensitive to our different levels of ability, and she modified exercises to meet our limitations and encouraged us to work within our capabilities.  She had the ability to make each one of us feel like a valued member of her class, and this resulted in my regular attendance, improved confidence and appreciation of a fitness program in maintaining health.

Personally, I have developed a greater range of motion in this old arthritic body than I thought possible, and I notice a real improvement in my stamina and strength.  I have Sherry to thank.

~ Roy, Nobel, ON