I've had a few personal trainers in my lifetime, and this is the best, most qualified fitness…read moreinstitute, I have ever worked out at. You don't just walk in and have someone guide you through the exercises and cheer you on. It starts way before that. First of all THERE IS PARKING..FREE. Secondly, YOU are the focus. Its not your regular gym, full of others clamoring to get on the equipment. No line ups, no crowds, rather one on one focus and attention. Thirdly, the atmosphere is cheery, open, bright, professional and calming. More importantly, Alex (owner & trainer), really dissects everything about you before getting started on your first routine. He asks what your goals are, and also watchs how you carry yourself when you walk and initially perform the exercises. He understands body mechanics, and knows exactly how far to push you. He pointed out that when I walked, I leaned forward, and was not using my buttocks, putting undo pressure on my knees. Needless to say, I now have buns of steel, and my knees are thanking me. All my 61 years of life, I've been walking this way, and none of my past trainers pointed any of this out. Oh, and don't let me forget, Alex does not let you get away with wimping out or complaining. You always know where you stand with Alex. He has this honest, direct, open minded, educated, and has very motivating approach. Another important aspect that I like, is that Alex works with other professionals in the neighbourhood, and will recommend and work together with them, to provide total overall health assessments. The way I look at it, you have only one body...don't you think it deserves the best?

From the owner: We focus on private personal training and nutrition services. Customized to the individual based…read moreon their needs and goals. With 4 trainers to choose from we match you to a trainer that is best suited in personality and expertise to help you achieve your goal. Starting with an assessment session or a consultation. Whether you are a general exerciser or a have a sport specific focus we coach you through the process.

Thrive Fit is the best place that I have ever gone to for group personalized training. Each…read moreindividualized program is designed and well thought out to help you become a better you, physically, mentally, emotionally while being able to give you the support from fellow kettlebell lovers. One thing that I appreciate about Thrive Fit is the sense of community that comes along with the membership. We have various kettlebell challenges that we're all welcome to participate in, we participate in runs and other fitness events (CN Tower Climb, Scotiabank 5K run, etc.), have gym socials every so often as well, among others. Before Thrive Fit, I was a bit of a procrastinator in the fitness world, I always felt sluggish and never really had any motivation for going to the gym so I would fall off of the fitness band wagon more often than not. With the help and guidance of Brian (the owner), his amazing team and myself, I was able to push through whatever mental barriers I had and gained a true appreciation for getting fit and having fun as I did it! In the last year or so, I have become much stronger than I ever thought possible. I actually feel and see muscles forming! To the ladies reading this, you're not going to get big and bulky. It's pretty darn difficult for that to happen, if anything, you're going to start to lean out and look the best that you have ever been before! I'm incredibly grateful for the chance to have been able and continue to workout at Thrive Fit, it's actually the highlight of my week most times haha. No matter how rough my day might have been, after I workout with the kettelbells, I feel unbelievable - like I can take on the world.

From the owner: A different type of training facility. A different attitude. A different approach. And different…read moreresults. Lasting results. Without injury, without overdoing it, without getting stuck. It is training with intent. With smart goals like mobility, stability and strength that lead to those other goals like muscle mass, weight loss and positive self-image. We're about serious members who are committed to learning and changing the way they think about working out. Who realize flash doesn't make you fit. And that their best is the best there is. And when you've achieved your best- and you will - you're there.

I had the pleasure of belonging to Fitness Works while living in The Beach a few years ago! Ariella…read moreinspired me to learn to run and with her enthusiasm and encouragement I actually did my first 5 km race! The ladies at this gym are a warm inspiring group under Ariella's guidance.

Having the most shocking experience with Fitness Works for Women. My daughter signed up for a…read moremembership, was told that it was 'no problem to cancel' if she needed to and she could just 'let us know'. So, she sent an email to them to cancel and was continually harassed for payments. When this was addressed by myself that they were taking advantage of her and reporting to the BBB was assured, I received the following note. Am I crazy, or is this insanely unprofessional? Dear Trish, No one in our organization took advantage of your daughter. We are in the business of empowering women through healthy living and creating community. We work tirelessly supporting women of all ages to be strong. The terms of the membership were made clear to her when she decided to make fitness a priority in October 2017. What you are teaching your daughter by your threats does not make her stronger or healthier, nor does it help her understand her role in this transaction. Moreover, encouraging her to take the stance of victim is a weak and disempowering position for any person. Help her instead own up to her responsibilities of the agreement she signed and become a responsible member of the community. Maybe then you both could share a glass of champagne and enjoy the feeling of empowerment. In fitness and in health, Ariella Tsafatinos Certified Personal Trainer, PRO TRAINER canfitpro | CANADIAN FITNESS PROFESSIONALS Certified Fitness and Pilates Instructor, Resist-A-Ball Core Trainer II Pre & Post Natal Fitness Specialist Older Adult Fitness Specialist Weight Management Consultant and President, FitnessWorks For Women Creating Community Changing Lives 2171 Queen St. E., Second Floor www.fitnessworksforwomen.ca bfit@fitnessworksforwomen.ca (416) 691- BFIT (2348)

I started taking the Body Blast and Boxfit classes at this studio back in September and I'm super…read morehappy with the experience. I've even signed up for their 6 Week Fitness Challenge that starts tomorrow. I'm pretty active on my own, but find it's easy as we head into winter to opt for the couch over the run outside. So, signing up for classes provides a little extra incentive for me to keep active. From my first visit at Cornerstone I felt comfortable, a key feeling for me when I'm working out. The owner, Lauren Cook, took time to explain pricing, the best deals, and introductory offers. Although I don't have kids, I noticed that the schedule's built to accommodate kids classes at the same time adults are working out. Supporting local community businesses is important to me and Lauren took the time to explain why she opened and what impact she hopes it has on the community. All a positive for me. I take body blast with Nick Robinson on Thursdays. It's a mix of functional exercises to build cardio and some strength training. The classes are small, so it's more like a personalized workout with a trainer rather than a class at say Goodlife. The max we've had so far in class is 4 people, so there's no hiding. The upside, is that after I injured myself running, he was able to give me modified exercises during the class at no additional cost and it didn't prevent me from going. This was awesome! The Boxfit class on Sundays is the best workout I've ever had. If you're looking for a cardio workout this is it. It's an hour and divided amongst skipping, jogging, aerobics, box jumping, and punching the bag so you never get bored. You work on 3 minute rounds with 30 second breaks the whole time. Jared is funny and makes sure everyone is working hard throughout the class. As for costs, I pay per session and find it reasonably priced. It's more expensive than Goodlife, but I feel more accountable given the smaller class sizes. And you can't beat the individual attention you're getting from a certified instructors/trainers without paying for one-on-one sessions. I've not taken any of the adult dance classes they offer, but I've ventured into both Yoga and Pilates now and continue to be impressed by the staff they have.

My kids have been taking dance classes at Cornerstone since shortly after it opened and I always…read morerecommend it to anyone looking for breakdancing, hip hop and contemporary/modern dance style classes, and it's also a great place for really little kids to get into dance for the first time. My daughter in particular has learned so much and been able to really explore her creativity, plus has boosted her self esteem. Wonderful staff, very caring and thoughtful, and overall a great vibe in the studio. Delighted to see how the studio has evolved and grown over the years.

I loved training with Jess! She was very motivating, knowledgeable and I always looked forward to…read moreour sessions. I definitely did things I did not think I was capable of doing! I was looking for confidence in the gym and she certainly helped me out with that. I highly recommend her!

Jess is an awesome trainer! I started working out with her to get fit in time for my wedding and…read moreher workout plans and guidance made all the difference. I was able to shed over 30 pounds with her help. Not only that, but I felt stronger and stronger every time I worked with her. Her workouts are tough and so much fun. The workouts changed every time I saw her so I never knew what to expect and that kept things fresh. Sometimes we worked out outside without any equipment. Other times, we used equipment in ways I didn't know was possible. I've learned so much from her and my experience at the gym will never be like it used to thanks to Jess!

I've been a member of 9Round in the Beach now for a few months, and I love this place! Circuit…read moretraining with a kickboxing theme is not only a great workout, it's a hell of a lot of fun! I started out going a couple of times a week, now I go every chance I get. The location is great, the gym is nice and is always clean, and the staff are absolutely fantastic. If your looking for a great way to either lose weight of just have a good sweat, try this place.

From the owner: 9Round Fitness in the Beach offers a 30-minute full-body kickboxing workout. There is a new workout…read moreevery single day. Since we use a circuit format, there are no class times. You come when ready, and you are never more than 3 minutes away from getting started. And best of all, a trainer is always included to help with motivation, technique and ensure you reach your fitness goals.

I've been coming here for years and I absolutely love it! The studio has such a great energy and I…read morealways leave with a big smile on my face. I can honestly say that I've never been to a studio that offers so much variety - from Pilates to barre to spin, there's so much to choose from and you really get your money's worth! I definitely recommend!

This is my go to place! Don't let the name fool you: it's not just Pilates although there's plenty…read moreof that in the schedule. Spin class, Sauna Spin (yes, spinning in a dry sauna environment; guaranteed to get your sweat on in short order), TRX, Booty Barre and FST Stretch Therapy (there's nothing like it). Post Natal and Active Aging and Private lessons are available too. First timers or those just getting back into fitness should take advantage of the introductory package. And twice a year the studio holds the '30 Day Challenge'.....an opportunity to sample a variety of classes at one low price. Every class you attend provides you with a refund against your original challenge enrollment. Staff are amazing and will provide you with gentle correction to ensure you get the most out of each class. Special attention to exercise modification due to injuries or limitations is no problem. For those early risers there's enrollment classes for Jumpboard and Reformer...and a Bootcamp that kicks a55. I wouldn't consider going anywhere else.