Testimonials
"Since my days at Florida and in the NFL I have become accustomed to having the most knowledgeable strength coaches by my side to structure my workouts and to push me through my training sessions. Following my retirement from the NFL, I found that I struggled to get the most out of every workout and ended up doing the same grouping of exercises day in and day out. When I began training at Sweat Life Fitness I immediately found what I was missing. The trainers take their time to hear what your fitness goals are, and structure an individual plan for getting you to those goals. I enjoy the relaxed but competitive environment they create for me. My workouts are varied every time I come in and the trainers take the time to explain why we are doing each exercise, and how that fits into the overall plan. I look forward to every workout and I know that I have found the next best thing to training with NFL trainers."
-Chris Doering, SEC record holder, 8 year NFL veteran
I've been at Sweat Life for a long time. I work full time, have 3 kids and a husband who works hard - but at Sweat Life I can focus on my own health. For me, it's my "me time". Art is so motivating and helps me reach my goals by pushing me to go further than I ever thought I could. In fact, because of his encouragement I ran my first half marathon in February and am running my second this week with two others scheduled for January. Thanks, Sweat Life!
- Dr. Shelley Collins, MD
I am writing this letter to express my appreciation to Art Waters, my trainer at Sweatlife Fitness.
Over the past few months, I had been experiencing pain in both shoulders and knees and was concerned about my overall lack of fitness. After receiving several recommendations from friends, I visited Sweatflife Fitness in August. I met with Art Waters and Dan Griffin who helped me develop personal fitness goals and a program to achieve those goals.
I have worked with Art for three months and can honestly say, Art is an amazing trainer! He is constantly working to make the training routine interesting ( boxing? oh yeah!! ) and challenging for me, while encouraging me to always strive for higher goals. Art has a unique ability to motivate and inspire ( not an easy task working with me!) enabling me to accomplish goals beyond what I ever believed I could achieve. Art emphasizes proper nutrition as a key component in personal fitness and helped me to understand how to eat healthier for maximum success. I sincerely appreciate Art's support, patience and encouragement! I would highly recommend Art Waters as a personal trainer.
Art has developed a fitness program for me that is challenging and fun!! I feel stronger and more confident than I ever have and am looking forward to achieving my personal fitness goals!
- Darlene Skidmore
Over the last few years, as work became busier and life became more hectic, my clothes became tighter and tighter. Eventually, I had to decide between making my health a priority and buying a whole new wardrobe. I started training with Rebekah 12 weeks ago with the hopes that I could look a little better and feel a little healthier. Instead, she has helped me completely change my lifestyle. Through a progam that is tailored to me and my crazy work schedule, I have rediscovered what it feels like to be in shape. Rebekah’s constant encouragement and positive motivation makes training addictive. Our training sessions, in addition to her recommendations on nutrition, have given more energy and strength than I have had in years. I’m hooked on how wonderful I feel, not to mention how great my clothes fit!
- Lindsay Malloch, MD
It's simple really. I am in the best shape of my life because of Art Waters and Sweat Life Fitness. 6 months ago after some health issues arose I decided that I needed to get my act together and get in shape. I had a few ideas for what I wanted to accomplish and Art helped me create a plan and keep me honest and on track with my fitness and nutrition. Every time I enter the studio I know that Art and the team are going to push to get the very best out of me. My experience with Art and Sweat Life has been amazing and I've found that the whole group jumps in and supports you in your fitness and nutrition goals, inside and outside of the studio.
- Aaron Dixon
Iʼve had several stints with Sweat Life over the past two years, with my most recent being the past five months. In this time, I have gained five pounds of muscle, and went from bench pressing 95 pounds, three times, to benching 165 pounds, six times. The trainers at Sweat Life push you further, both mentally and physically, than you ever thought possible. I can honestly say that Iʼm without a doubt in the best shape of my life; my power, muscularity, cardiovascular strength, and flexibility have all improved dramatically. If you are looking to pack on muscle, lose some unwanted weight, or just feel better than you ever have before, all in a friendly environment where the trainers truly care about your success in achieving your fitness goals, there is no better place than Sweat Life Fitness.
- Kirk Tappley
After competing in my first (and only) Ironman, I wanted to continue working out, but was looking for something that my husband and I could do together. Sweat Life Fitness (with my trainer, Art Waters) was the answer! We were able to share customized workouts that focused on our own personal fitness level, while pushing us in the areas we needed the most work. We not only got in better shape, we had fun while doing it!"
- Tonya Walsh
I now have been doing personal training with Chris since February 2011. When I first came to Sweat Life, I just had suffered a deep personal loss. This was the catalyst that pushed me to begin physical training to cope with the effects of high stress and a sedentary job. My daily lifestyle had contributed to me putting on weight and losing strength, two things which concern me as I get older. My objectives for personal training were to lose weight, regain strength, and to build up my resilience to stress. Knowing all this, you chose Chris to be my trainer. Well, Chris’s combination of charm, intelligence, and sensitivity has proved to be the perfect fit for me and my needs. His creativeness in developing a program has kept me interested and motivated. He is encouraging and pushes me to do more when he recognizes that the limitation is mental, not physical. As a service provider, Chris is always, without fail, professional, courteous, and accommodating. I am very pleased with my experience at Sweat Life and with my trainer, Chris Pregony.
-Jillian Jensen
"I found it hard to transition from being an athlete in high school to working and going to school. My priorities changed from training to studying and working. Eating healthy and going to the gym just wasn’t at the top of my list. Time was always short and it was always easier to skip the gym and eat out instead of cooking at home. Before I knew it my weight ballooned upwards and I no longer recognized the person that I became. I was unhealthy and unfit. A couple months back a family member was diagnosed with pre-diabetes. After he turned his life around and got the all clear I decided it was time for me to take that leap. I decided to try a personal trainer to help me on my journey from fat to fit. I started training with Megan, but after my first 12 sessions she graduated and Rebekah came swooping to my rescue and was able to take the foundation that Megan built and take me even further. She has pushed me to points where I never thought I could be. I go home from our sessions feeling great and look forward to the next. I know I have a long journey ahead of me, but with Rebekah’s help I know I will achieve all of my goals."
-Amy Clough
When I started, I cautioned Chris that I could only work out 1/2 hr with weights and had to be ‘walked’, like a dog, through Haile. I have walked Haile for 20 yrs and knew that would be good for me. He dutifully strapped a vest on me, added weights and we sweated through July on the paths of Haile. In and out of the ‘hoods and through the forests…At 64 yrs of age, I didn’t want to strain anything… Through my training, Chris has cautiously, carefully listened to what I want then crafted exercises to fit my crazy life. He has ‘listened’ while I yearned to jump on the 2.5 ft tall black boxes. That ain’t happening in my lifetime. So, thoughtful, creative, ever-kind Chris took steps and risers to create a ‘Senior’ Black Box and allows me to jump like the young kids. It makes my old heart soar with pride. As I creep nearer to 66 yrs of age, I am in better shape than when I was 45. I am taller, stronger, happier, looking good for a very old Gator who was in school with Spurrier. Thank you Dan, for having such a wonderful, inspirational, happy place to sweat. Thank you for keeping it immaculate. Your leadership has gathered a great group of trainers who inspire us both while working with us and others with their positive attitudes, knowledge and spirits. We don’t always tell you but it is a great place to be. With great admiration for each of you, mostly Chris,
- Barby Rainwater
"I totally "forgot" everything I knew about nutrition and exercise when I got pregnant and packed on more than 45 pounds. The first bit went quickly, as it was mostly "baby stuff", but I didn't even know where to begin or how to get myself motivated to lose the second 30 pounds. I can't say it was easy because losing weight isn't easy, but Sweat Life made it possible and enjoyable. The circuit-style, small group workouts really worked my body, and the fat melt off. The positive, motivational attitude of the trainers really help me through the workouts and kept me excited and energized to change my lifestyle to incorporate healthy eating at home and workouts on my "off" days. In just 16 short weeks, I was able to lose 30 pounds of body fat, maintain my muscle, and reshape my body."
-Laura Williams
"I've struggled with my weight since grade school, but the struggle reached it's climax after the birth of my daughter. I was almost 100 pounds overweight and at a total loss on where to start or how to get rid of all that extra fat. It seemed like an impossible task. Dan and his staff helped make losing weight, keeping it off, and staying healthy surprisingly easy in an upbeat, positive atmosphere."
-Betty Jo Brotherton
"After having 3 kids in 5 years, my body was at the bottom of my priority list. I knew I was overweight and needed to get the weight off. I needed the extra motivation to keep me working towards a goal. Dan sat down with me, helped me set a goal and we put together a plan to make me successful. The trainers that worked with me were fun and motivating and always kept me on my toes. It was fun to go and workout and they kept me on track. Thanks to the team at Sweat Life, I was able to shed those pounds and have fun while doing it."
-Elaine Almond
"The trainers are wonderful! They know how your body works best to achieve your most lofty goals. They keep you motivated and challenged so you don't give your mind or body a chance to become bored and discouraged. They push you harder then you would push yourself and still understand that life has challenges to take into account but don't let those hurdles stop you in your progress. They educate you on how to eat, how to shop, how to plan, and most importantly how to be accountable. Best group of personal motivators and physical trainers - if you are serious about changing YOUR LIFE they are the people who can help make that happen!"
-Danielle Coleman
"I consider myself extremely fortunate to be able to work out with Dan and have the opportunity to absorb his knowledge regarding fitness and nutrition. In just 16 weeks my overall health has improved tremendously. I'm still in the progress of reaching my fitness goals. It feels good just knowing what I have to do in order to lose body fat. There are all kinds of wacky ideas out there and I am just glad I know someone who has sorted through the garbage and knows what works. His motivation and support has helped me to build my confidence and strength. Thank you!"
-Elissa Banks
I just wanted to take the time and to say "Thank You" to the whole team at Sweat life! When I first started working out at SL I had no idea that 3 years later I would still be a part of the SL family. I really do feel like I am a part of an amazing group of trainers where each and every one of them have been a huge part of my success!
I truly do owe so much of my success to my personal trainer Rob Johnson. He has been with me since that 1st day in June 3 years ago. I had never ever worked out in a gym before and I was very nervous about starting out at the age of 50 and 15 pounds overweight! It didn't take Rob long to realize he was dealing with a very fragile client! During this time he worked with me in strength training, cardio, nutrition, and a great amount of confidence for me to continue to achieve my goal! Now 3 years older and 15 pounds lighter, with Rob's encouragement along the way, I have achieved far more than I ever thought possible! Thank You Rob!
I have also been incorporating my personal training in the studio with the outdoor classes at Kanapaha Park, which we all refer to as Boot Camp! Boot Camp has given me another outlet to working out, the classes are challenging, I love being outside, and many of the people I have met there I now consider friends!
I've had 3 great years at Sweatlife, and I'm looking forward to many more!!!
-Ann Gasser
"I gained 50 pounds during my first pregnancy. After having my first child, I was unable to drop the last 15 pounds of “baby weight” I gained while pregnant. While I knew how to exercise and what to eat to lose the weight, I was unable to do it alone and often could not find the time. Sweat Life and trainer Art Waters have helped me to lose more than my 15 pounds, tone-up overall, and strengthen my core. I have continued to work with Art throughout my second pregnancy and at 28 weeks have gained less than the last pregnancy this far in, ran my first 5-K, and feel great! Art has been instrumental in helping me to have a healthy and fit pregnancy. In fact, the whole Sweat Life team has been a cheerleader and supporter every time I step foot in the gym or see them around town! I truly look forward to my time at the gym, the intense workouts, and getting my body back after number two!"
-Tammy Forrester
"After changing personal trainers three times over the course of five months in Las Vegas, I was a bit leery of signing up to work with a trainer again after relocating to Gainesville. However, I knew that I needed someone to help me in my journey to meet my health and fitness goals. After researching and touring several fitness facilities in Gainesville—and being less than impressed—I contacted Dan at Sweat Life Fitness. From my first conversation with Dan, I knew that Sweat Life would be a great fit for my workout preferences and goals. After my initial consultation, Dan did an incredible job of matching me up with my trainer, Chris Pregony. I can say without hesitation that Chris is the best of the best, and I wouldn’t trade him for any other trainer. Chris has taken the time to read up on my medical condition and to get to know me as a person. He has a magnetic personality, and even on my worst days Chris innately knows exactly what to do and say to motivate me and help me make it through my workout with a smile on my face. I look forward to every training session, no matter how sore I still am from the previous one. And believe me; I’m usually pretty sore! He knows when to challenge me and when to support me—not only through the workouts he designs, but also in the way he communicates with me. I know that my goals is important to Chris, and when I’m frustrated he problem solves with me to find out where we need to make changes to keep progressing toward those goals. To date, I have made significant progress toward my goals, and I credit much of that success to Chris and his training techniques. Training is Chris’s natural gift, and I enjoy and am thankful for every session I have with him. In addition to working with Chris, I have found the entire staff at Sweat Life Fitness to be warm, welcoming, and supportive. Dan seems to remember every client’s name and he keeps up with their progress. He has commented on my evaluations, and he even sent me a card after my first big weight loss. I highly recommend Chris Pregony and the staff of Sweat Life Fitness to anyone who is looking for a great combination of individual attention and a physical challenge."
-Mandy Hambleton
"After only 6 weeks (12 sessions) of personal training with Art Waters at Sweat Life Fitness in Gainesville, FL I feel (and look) AMAZING!!!!! The personal training experience is something EVERYONE should experience! It is a complete life transformation! Before beginning working out with Art I was in what I considered "alright" physical shape but I wanted to be more toned and look really good (not just 'alright'). The personal training experience is the complete package in that it addresses your physical fitness habits as well as your eating habits. Art taught me so VERY MUCH about how to more properly fuel my body with the right types of food at the right intervals throughout the day. He also taught me how to better read nutrition labels to determine which foods are the 'good' foods. After just a few sessions of training combined with the good eating habits, I felt ten times more energized and focused through the day even on days when I didn't workout. By the end of the 12 session training period I was toned, feeling great, and hooked on a new way of life! I am writing this 3 weeks after my last official training session with Art, however, the results of the transformation are real. I am still working out approximately 3 times a week and eating multiple small healthy meals throughout the day. The results from the personal training experience are additive and once you see how you can positively effect your body with food and exercise you never want to go back to the old way of being. I would absolutely recommend the personal training experience to everyone! "
-Catherine Tonks
"My husband and I have participated in the Sweat Life Boot Camp for about 8 months now and absolutely love it!! Dan does an excellent job with making the class fun but challenging at the same time. The boot camp has been a great addition to my regular work out routine. Dan is very conscious of accommodating all levels from advanced to beginners that are just starting to exercise. Sweat Life boot camp has helped me shed my pregnancy weight and has also helped my husband lose 25 pounds. We plan to make Sweat Life boot camp a regular part of our exercise routine for years to come!!"
-Melissa Eberst
"Sweat Life is a very personalized gym that has really helped me focus on my athletic goals. My job as a horse trainer is quite physically demanding and for the past three years Rob Johnson has helped me stay fit and flexible. After bilateral hip replacement surgery this past fall he quickly got me back to a level of total body fitness that has helped me to do my job better than ever. I love the place!!"
-Celeste Ulrich
"Thanks for helping me get to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. Regular attendance at bootcamp was part of my training program that enabled me to build the necessary strength and endurance to make the climb possible. The variety of exercises and training with others keeps me motivated to continue to improve my fitness level. The physical challenges of bootcamp are more than enough to get to met ot the top. Thank you Melissa and Dan!"
-Marie Hemming
"I have made tremendous progress in reaching my fitness goals through the help of Sweat Life Fitness. My personal trainer, Rob Johnson, is supportive, encouraging, and has gone the extra mile to educate me in strength training and injury prevention. He makes my goals his goals and he commits himself to make sure that I reach my goals. The Studio offers everything you need and the trainers are never shy with encouraging comments to help keep you motivated. The outdoor fitness classes offer the perfect combination of fresh air, variety, knowledgeable instructors and camaraderie with people of all fitness levels who have the same goal in mind – to get fit and have fun. Having the Sweat Life Fitness team in my corner has truly made all the difference."
– Laurie M.
"Sweat Life Boot Camp has energized my workouts. Dan makes every workout challenging and fun. My 13-year old son, Billy, and I go together to the Boot Camp three times a week. Sweat Life has provided a positive health and fitness addiction to our lives."
-Lori Cheronis
"Being a triathelete requires that I cross train. Strength training with Dan at Sweat Life has dramatically improved my core strength and overall endurance. I love to go to the gym and workout hard without thinking about my program. I promise that you'll feel stronger and love it too!"
-LaVonne Rembert
“I am a big believer in Sweat Life, not only is it a great workout, but it is also FUN!”
-Bryan Williams
"It is with great privilege that I write to you in reccomendation of Art Waters. I have been Art's client for several months and he has changed my life dramatically. Art designed a program for me that included a nutritional, cardio, and strength training plan, not just some one size fits all approach. Art uses many different exercises during our workout sessions and keeps challenging me and keeps me from getting bored with the same old routine. Art's nutrition plan and exercise program are very client friendly and very easy to manage and maintain. I highly reccomend Art as a personal trainer. He is vastly knowledgeable and pleasant to be around. He will take the time to get to know you and your fitness needs."
-Ryan Russo
"I started working out at Sweat Life Fitness after betting on a package at a silent auction. I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into, but I was not disappointed! The trainers are great, and you couldn't ask for a better atmosphere. No matter how I felt about myself upon entering, I felt so much better afterwards. I didn't realize how far positve reinforcement could go. I was able to lose those last 15 pounds that are so hard to get rid of, and I had more energy than ever before. I have a very busy lifestyle and it was so nice to be able to work around my schedule. Sweat Life Fitness gave me a new outlook on life and on myself and the determination to do ANYTHING I set my mind to. Thanks Art!"
- Becca Muir
"I have completed 24 sessions with Art Waters as of right now. I never thought I would pay for a personal trainer, but he has become the highlight of my week and gives me the workouts I have always wanted. I originally was only going to use him to get me back into an exercising routine, however I have realized that I truly enjoy our biweekly workouts and it has become much harder to phase him out. I appreciate the time he takes to customize a workout according to my needs. I prefer a high intensity workout that mixes cardio burn with weight training. He keeps me moving constantly and changes things up often. I have seen a significant difference in my body tone and muscle definition, and my cardio endurance has increased as well. I am looking forward to many more workouts and I would highly reccommend him as a personal trainer to anyone!
-Ashley Adams
"Thank you doesn’t seem like enough to say to my personal trainer, Rob Johnson! He has exceeded my expectations as a personal trainer. I have had personal trainers before in Gainesville and swore I would never pay for another one. When I started at Sweat Life, I weighed 146 lbs and wore size 13-15 pants. After only 3 months of a lot of hard work, dedication, and nutritional education, I am now down to 130 lbs and in size 6 pants. What impressed me the most at our very first meeting at Sweat Life was how important it was for Rob to find out about me, what my fitness goals were that I wanted to achieve, what I expected from him, and what he expected from me. He has helped me to achieve and surpass goals that I would never have done on my own or thought was possible for me to do. Rob has helped me to build my confidence, strength, agility, and endurance in every one of our sessions. The motivation and support from him makes it possible for me to try and complete the exercises that are tough. My overall health and well being as a person has improved tremendously. He takes the time to plan a safe and properly executed training program for me that is personalized. He challenges me every time he trains me and with a positive attitude never talking down to me or humiliating me. Rob provides a fun, inviting and knowledgeable environment to come to and I look forward to every time I go. Also many thanks to Dan, who makes me feel comfortable and welcome in his studio! Furthermore, Dan makes me feel like my fitness and health matter as a person and doesn’t make me feel like just another customer for his business. Thank you Sweat Life and Rob!"
- Dalice Kropp