I couldn't disagree more Ali F. We all have our "unpleasant" days, but in the 5 plus years I have known D'Mario, I have never seen him being unpleasant toward any client-even when he was dealing behind the scenes with business or personal struggles of his own. In fact, he is especially good at putting things aside and focusing on the needs of his clients. It seems oversimplified and juvenile to suggest that since moving from Blue Back D'Mario has changed in some way. And it is just your speculation to suggest that fighting for his rights after being robbed by an employee has jaded his business interactions. It was simply the right thing to do. He has handled it and moved on. I don't think that has anything to do with the situation you are describing. It sounds like your friend tried to rework an agreement to her advantage (and D'Mario's expense) and when it didn't work out she interpreted it as D'Mario trying to cheat her. From the days of building his business in Blue Back Square to the present, D'Mario has consistently gone above and beyond to accommodate his clients, sometimes at his own expense. I've seen him sacrifice his time and services and he always demonstrates personalized, genuine caring toward his clients. This guys works really hard and has a huge heart! No small business owner should be expected to allow himself to be taken advantage of, regardless of whether it is the holiday season or not. He would not have achieved the success he has by doing so. We all need to play fair. Its extremely tough to be a successful small business owner and I for one would support a local business over a chain every time. D'Mario has provided many people with employment opportunities and continues to do so as he builds his business. He certainly didn't achieve this level of success by being "a Grinch"! I know many, many clients at Akua Ba and can easily say that you are in the minority in your opinion. Even if there is some truth to what you claim, does this really qualify you to write a nasty review and potentially hurt a hardworking (and nice!) small business owner? He doesn't have the same opportunity to defend himself or discredit you, does he? And as far as the expense, if you'd done your homework, you'd know that personal training rates at Akua Ba are the lowest in town for their kind. Even if they weren't D'Mario and his trainers offer much more than fitness training. You are entitled to your opinion but fortunately the number of very satisfied clients far outweighs this one. Clients will continue to find that Akua Ba Fitness delivers the highest quality personal training, group classes, rehab training and personal attention. I say TRY IT! You'll be hooked. read more

If you want to start the new year off right by finding a new gym, then this is the place. I've been coming to AF for over a year and I love it. I first started going If when it was in Blue Back Square. A friend gave me a certificate to try 2 free personal training sessions and at first I was hesitant because I never worked with a trainer. I would just go to the $10/month gym down the road and do my own routine. I figured why not, I clearly wasn't getting results doing it MY way. I had an assessment done and woah I didn't realized how out of shape I had let myself go. I was at my heaviest weight and wash shocked to hear how much bosy fat % I had. After my 2 sessions I was hooked. This place isn't just about "working out" but it is also about lifestyle changes. I continue to train 2 to 3 times a week and participate in the awesome classed they offer. I love it because nobody judges you and everyone is so friendly. D'Mario is a great owner and had made me feel so comfortable from day 1. He really cares about his clients and wants to see everyone meet their goals and succeed. He has a great eye for all the trainers he hires. I've worked with 4 different trainers and each one is so diverse that you don't get bored doing the same work outs. There's also a wall challenge that they have and when I first tried it I couldn't even get my body off the ground. After months of trying to accomplish it, I finally did! It was one of my fitness goals I had and crushed! Everyone is so supportive and I've made some great friends along the way. Yeah, this place could be on the pricier size compared to other gyms, but I def think it's worth every penny. You can't put a price on changing your life/lifestyle habits and accomplishing your goals (in and outside of the gym). Try it out and you won't be disappointed! read more

I joined Akua Ba Fitness about five months ago. At the time I was researching different gyms to join and visited a few. I didn't feel comfortable at any of them until I walked into Akua Ba. I loved the welcoming atmosphere from all of the employees and I didn't feel like I was rushed with all of my questions I had. In the beginning I was also just looking for group classes (which Akua Ba offers), however, after my free assessment with a personal trainer, I decided to try it a few times even though I was nervous. Now, I don't think I could go back to working out without a trainer. They are so dedicated at Akua Ba to your needs and abilities. I have learned so much from them and have pushed myself harder than if I were to exercise on my own. It is different from the chain gyms, smaller, but it feels like a family with the people I have met there! read more

I disagree Ali F. This has got to be one of the best gyms I have ever been to. I have never met a gym owner who goes above and beyond to make his clients feel special. I have been going to this gym for over a year now and I have always been greeted by D'mario and his staff with a smile and a pleasant welcoming optomism to help me reach my fitness goal. It also has a family orientated feeling. Yes, the prices are competitive to the area but I dont mind paying for quality service and training. I have been going to differet gyms all my life but Aku ba fitness has been the only gym that has helped me exceed my fitness goal. The physical changes is one thing but the feeling of confidence is priceless. I highly recommend this gym to anyone that is serious about changing there life and not looking to nickel and dime a local small business. read more

I have known & trained with D'Mario for about 8 years, following several years with other trainers and numerous physical therapists( knee replacement ; spinal injections, arthritis) D'Mario is at another level from any of the others I've worked with. His knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, & the musculoskeletal system is second to none. He is better than other physical therapists I've worked with and without question the very best trainer. I feel like I get the best of all worlds; strength and conditioning along with agility and flexibility to keep my aging body healthy & functioning. HE'S THE BEST. A bargain at any price. read more

D'Mario and his staff are highly trained. They understand your limitations and cater to YOUR needs. I have been going to Akua Ba Fitness for over 2 years, and the changes I have made are reflected in the healthy atmosphere I have created in my everyday life. I love my training with D'Mario. His workouts are challenging, and he is always encouraging me to strive for my best. This is the best training I have ever experienced. I drive over the river to train 2 times per week. I am very grateful for the fact that I have become strong and healthy, and I can continue to challenge myself to do things I never thought possible. read more

D'mario cannot be beat for his expertise and knowledge as a Master Trainer. He has worked in the fitness industry for over 20 years, and has made a name for himself by being able to assess each person individually and crafting a program that's works for them. He has evolved over the years by continually pursuing advanced fitness certifications such as performance enhancement and corrective movement, so he has the ability to work expertly with clients of all ages, levels and abilities. He is professional and personable and his skills as a trainer are superior to those you will find anywhere in the area. Highly recommended!! read more

Akua Ba Fitness is an amazing place. D'Mario the owner is very personable, professional and pleasant to work with. The program here is challenging, interesting and keeps the mind engaged. At Akua Ba, it's not only about physical fitness but challenging the mind to transform you into a better person and helping you feel more fulfilled. The environment is very positive and all trainers motivate you. The trainers have also accommodated my crazy schedule and very grateful for that. D'Mario keep doing an amazing job I am glad I joined this Fitness Club!!! read more

I've been working out with D'Mario Sowah of Akuba Strong for many years. He is a fantastic trainer and also a superb person - deeply committed to each of his clients and their individual needs, custom designing unique programs for each person he works with, and particularly attuned to working with people in my demographic -(I'm almost 75) - with sensitivity and special attention to issues of balance and flexibility so essential at my age. I'm so grateful for his support and expertise, and recommend him way above 5 stars! read more

I have been working with D'Mario Sowah at Akua Ba Strong for many years. Three years ago I lost 34 pounds and due to D'Mario at Akua Ba Strong, I have been able to maintain the weight loss and become healthier in body and mind. Also, recently, D'Mario prepared me for partial knee replacement. When I saw my doctor 3 weeks after surgery, he told me that I didn't need any more PT. He told me to continue my rehab with D'Mario at Akua Ba Strong and I would be fine I feel great and I am recovering with ease! read more

D'mario is the consummate personal trainer. I have never met a trainer who is more deliberate and mindful in his approach. He does more than make you tired And sore and sweat. He really personalizes and customizes fitness regimen to the client. I have run marathons, biked, lifted weights, gone to classes and worked with other trainers, but after this past year with D'mario, I feel like I am in the best shape of my life and he is fun to Work out with! Great personality and warm hearted man. read more

I started working out with D'Mario for month. Before I join Aka Ba Strong. I was in too much pain from my lower back and hips. He listen to me and work on strengthening my body to improve my posture. The pain started to disappear and have better night sleep instead of waking up in middle of the night from the pain. I really recommend D'Mario. He has a good personality and good motivator to push you to the limit you do not believe you can achieve. Thank you so much for helping me. read more

Working with D'Mario profoundly changed my life. He combines extraordinary skill, competence and expertise with an amazingly calm, comforting and supportive demeaner. He will push you to the full extent of your capabilities but in a non-judgmental way. The sessions are always well-planned and I perfectly designed for my individual needs. You will benefit from working with D'Mario regardless of your age or fitness level. Most importantly, he is a kind and generous person. read more

D'Mario is a certified Master Trainer and he lives up to that title. His knowledge of the body is amazing. He tailors every session to each individual's needs. Not only do I look better physically but I feel so much better about myself. My only regret is that I see him twice a week. I'd love to work out with him every day! read more

Akua Ba fitness is great. I have recommended a lot of my friends there. Master trainer and owner, D'mario Sowah is a great person with a program that really works. He is an excellent person and proud to call him my brother/friend. read more