Client Testimonials
One day last year, as I bemoaned my latest cardio session on the treadmill, a profound and disturbing thought hit me. It sounded something like this, “Julie, you’ve been doing this exact workout forever; as in YEARS. And guess what, your fitness satisfaction hasn’t changed all that much! (and neither has the size of your….)” I had worked myself into a serious exercise rut, with a twist. I MADE it to the gym every day, no problem. But once there, my inspiration ended. I needed an exercise intervention in the worst kind of way. Enter Dennis Blair and Core Fitness and Nutrition. From our first meeting on, Dennis listened, asked great questions, helped me contemplate my actual fitness GOALS (oh wait, you mean I need those?) and then designed challenging (I’m one of the cussing clients mentioned in Dennis’ blog) workouts that changed up every 4-6 weeks. His individually designed personal training programs combined high intensity cardio (bye-bye one-hour walks on the treadmill), intervals and weight work. And not a one went over an hour. Combined with his no-nonsense knowledge, encouraging voice and patience—Dennis was exactly what I needed to jump start my outdated and ineffective fitness routine. I think it’s also important to note that Dennis designed my new workouts based on what I told him; my history as an athlete, my twisted need for a little pain, a fondness of demanding mentors and the desirability of intense workouts—all necessary to wake up my metabolism and bring my motivation back to life. Dennis DID NOT tell me what I needed based on his own ideas or the latest workout that he wanted to try on me. Instead, Dennis put his rare gift to work. He assesses everything you need, want and aspire to and then combines them with his overwhelming storehouse of training expertise. It’s a beautiful combination. Run to the computer or your phone and contact him. You won’t be sorry. Thanks Dennis! Julie Reed |
When I decided to work with a personal trainer in Fort Collins, my goal was to simply feel better physically and emotionally. I was hesitant to get involved with a personal trainer again as I have had some bad experiences in the past and developed bad habits due to unreasonable expectations for my body type. I was so tired of paying money to feel unnecessarily worn down and only seeing results through starvation and living at the gym. When I met with Dennis, I was pleasantly surprised. He was not the average personal trainer, in a good way! He did not start off measuring my body fat or weighing me. The expectations he had for our time together were much more reasonable than my own expectations. I was relieved at how much better I felt after just one meeting with him. I had never had a personal trainer stay with me for the full hour and guide me through my workout. This was a pleasant surprise. I did not feel pressured or like I had to make huge unreasonable changes in my life. I even had fun! Instead of dreading the gym, I began to look forward to my appointments! I trained with Dennis for a short period of time, but I saw the results that I wanted – I felt better physically and emotionally. As a result, without any added pressure or worrying, my clothes were looser as well, which was a nice surprise. I worked with Dennis up until I moved to South Korea. He has given me the basics to stay healthy while over here. I will definitely be working with him again when I return to the states! Thanks, Dennis! Brooke Biermann |
Finally, at age 60, I decided to get some professional advice from a personal trainer in Fort Collins I was fortunate to be paired up with Dennis Blair who, for over a year, has worked with me. The changes that have most impacted me include my having far greater stamina, increased muscle tone, energy, and a sense of well being. I have some distance to go to make up for years of neglect, but with Dennis coaching me, I am confident that my journey will result in continued health and weight reduction. Dennis impresses me with his expertise, concern for my well being, and interest in seeing that I reach my goals. He is a phenomenal adviser and personal trainer. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to work with him! Diane Williams With osteoporosis and a need to build my strength, I began working with Dennis a year and a half ago. I like the way he approaches his job. He is personable and encouraging while gently pushing me to do my best. I have confidence in his knowledge of fitness. Also, he has a great sense of humor. Having Dennis work with a friend of mine and me at the same time has been a positive and rewarding experience. Sheryl Haise |
 Dennis and I became acquainted in May of 2008 when a rare lapse in judgment led me to tell my doctor I was ready to start on the path to fitness. She conspired with, I mean, referred me to Dennis and we began our journey the Monday before Memorial Day weekend.
He started me slowly, using only my body weight in exercises, and I thought I breezed through those first two workouts. Then Friday morning hit, along with the reality of my poor condition, as I couldn’t raise my arms to wash my hair and my legs hurt so much that the 600 mile car ride to Iowa was excruciating! He so deservedly earned the moniker of “PPI” (Personal Pain Inflicter) that very first week! But, I still open my door for him twice a week. Not because I particularly enjoy the new and innovative ways I have to find to walk up the stairs at work or reach up to scratch my nose two days after he introduces a new routine, but because I can feel myself getting stronger with each workout. I can do a few more reps in each set and the weight can be consistently increased. And, call me crazy, but I actually ask for more weight at times (ok…that’s certifiable!). There is also that pride I experienced when my massage therapist discovered that first ab and glute! Dennis has continuously challenged my confidence in my physical abilities and it’s gratifying to see the near immediate payoff in increased strength, endurance, balance and energy that grows with each session. He also makes the workouts fun…I workout while he has fun. I guess that’s the earmark of a great PPI!!! But, Dennis, PUSH UPS STILL SUCK!!!! Mary Dougal |
I was bored with my workouts. So bored that I wasn’t doing much. Add in the fact that I’m a small-business owner and single Mom of two busy kids, I could come up with great excuses for not working out. Things had to change. I was feeling yucky and stressed. So one day I met Dennis and what a difference he’s made for me! I’ve lost weight, stand taller (love my “new” back muscles”) and have a much better attitude. I truly appreciate how he mixes up the workouts using traditional weights one day, then cables, bands, medicine balls and regular ‘ol push-ups and sit ups the next. I HIGHLY recommend Dennis — he’s made a tremendous difference in my life. Thank you! Laura D. |
I joined a gym in September of 2006, three months after moving to Fort Collins. As I had never used a gym before, I had one of the personal trainers show me how to use some of the exercise machines and give me basic information on exercising. I worked on my own for 18 months. After a year, I realized I was simply treading water. I started varying my own routine by doing more reps and experimenting with other exercise machines. After 6 months, it was obvious to me that I needed a personal trainer. That is when Dennis entered the scene. He got me off the exercise machines. He had me start using weights, balancing balls, and medicine balls. We worked one on one for 6 weeks, and now I do a group workout with two other women. He keeps our workouts varied and challenging and fun. I have seen a huge difference in what I can do and how I feel. Thanks Dennis! Judy Miller |
In April 2008 I decided I needed to try something different in order to lose weight. I walked or biked every day and ate as well as I could but I kept gaining weight. I knew strength training was important for good health and weight management, but I didn’t really know what I was doing when I tried to use a book to guide me. I didn’t want to join a fitness center, so I’m glad I found Dennis Blair of Core Fitness and Nutrition. Through three different sets of strength-training routines done twice a week I have lost more than ten pounds and traded fat into muscle, as evidenced by my being able to wear clothes I had outgrown and lift much heavier weights than I could three months previously. I never knew what I was doing before; now Dennis demonstrates each exercise and tells me which adjustments to make while I do them. I don’t have to worry about whether I’m increasing the weight or changing the routine fast enough because it’s not my job. I would never lift weights on my own for fun, but with Dennis to advise and laugh with me as I work harder than I ever imagined I could I feel myself increasing in strength almost daily. I highly recommend Dennis’ style of personal training for anyone wanting to learn how to become strong, fit, and healthy. Thanks Dennis! Jo Fish |
 Since I was 8 years old, I have been an athlete. Workouts were always fun because I was doing something I loved. When I got to college, however, injuries prevented me from furthering my athletic career and workouts became not only tedious but also extremely painful.
After two years out of the gym and working myself into the worst shape of my life, I figured my injuries would hold up long enough for me to start working out again. Only one problem, it was hard to motivate myself because it wasn’t something I considered fun. But, being a college girl I missed the athletic physique I built in high school and found that to be motivation enough. My workouts were nothing spectacular and I was not happy with the lack of results I was getting. I heard through the grapevine that Dennis was the personal trainer in Fort Collins to see so we started working out in August 2008. A few months went by and I built up my cardio well enough to start running again. Money got in the way and I had to take a hiatus for a little while but we picked right back up in February 2009. Now three months into my new workouts, I feel so much better about myself and I couldn’t be happier with the way I look. Dennis has also made working out somewhat fun Here is my thank you to Dennis for whipping my butt into shape, even if it is at the expense of those poor ducks! Ricki Dugdale |
Dennis and I have worked together since January 2007. And worked together is a good way of expressing our twice a week sessions. He works in planning the best use of our time together and I work to keep up with him! It is remarkable how much can be accomplished in one session and – when you add them together – the results can be dramatic. I have improved in so many areas – strength, balance, stamina, and just plain feeling good! My main goal was to just get into a routine of exercise again. But, after a few sessions, Dennis determined other goals for me and soon I had set additional goals as well. He is knowledgeable, supportive, understanding, fun to work with, but most of all, demanding of your best efforts. And when Dennis says “Good Job!” you really do feel good about yourself. I have watched other personal trainers working with clients. But because of his dedication and personal attention, Dennis is the one fitness trainer in Fort Collins I recommend to my friends and family. Linda Messersmith I was introduced to Dennis eight months ago when I joined a health club. I started working with him as a personal trainer on a one-on-one basis. Later, I switched to group training with Dennis to reduce the cost. In both situations, Dennis is meticulous in his planning and his record keeping. He tailors a workout program that meets your physical needs and respects your limitations while working towards improvement. He is insistent with pushing you to achieve your goals, however, it is done with consistent encouragement and understanding. He is constantly vigilant about your safety and that the exercises are being done correctly. Dennis is a very personable man with an easy going mentality. He has admirable qualities that I generally associate with people of a more mature age. He can comfortably discuss a wide variety of topics. He is interested in learning new things and sharing experiences. He is constantly working to improve his professional abilities and reads related topics. He sets goals for himself and takes them seriously. There is a genuineness and sincerity to what he does. Mary Klopfenstein |
In January of 2008, I decided to change my lifestyle in a big way-to lose a great deal of weight, and to become fit. I totally changed my diet, and in February,began walking four days a week. By June, I was ready to join a gym. And I knew that I needed someone more knowledgeable than me to design my fitness program.I looked for a personal trainer in Fort Collins who would support my three goals: lose weight, build muscle, and strengthen, tone, and firm my body. I also wanted someone who was committed to my strong commitment. I knew that I was highly motivated and did not feel a need to work out with a personal trainer every week. I would do my three weight training and four cardio sessions a week on my own without needing someone to prod me.But I did need expertise. I needed someone to design that first program, and then to change it up every month or so as I became stronger and more fit. That’s where Dennis came in. The workouts he designs are challenging, fun, and most important, deliver results. I’m stronger, more fit, have a higher energy level, and am even more focused than when we began working together a few months ago. With each program, he shows me the how to do the routine for one session and then off I go. Dennis is knowledgeable, fun and an expert as what he does. I am grateful I found him, and have him to guide me in my body transformation. And I’m getting great results-which for me, is really what it’s all about. Ava D. |
Previous to training with Dennis, I wasn’t on a consistent workout regimen. I knew I wanted to make fitness a priority in my life, but my motivation wasn’t there. At that time I decided I needed a personal trainer in Fort Collins and Dennis Blair with Core Fitness and Nutrition was recommended highly by a friend. I began working with him and noticed within the first month I had more energy, started feeling healthier and definitely found the motivation I was looking for. I have even dropped two sizes in my wardrobe! I feel that the motivation I have found is due to more than the workout he creates for my personal needs, but also Dennis and I have built a friendship while at the same time he is able to remain professional. This is a characteristic that I have observed that he has as well with his other clients. My great experience is due to his professionalism and knowledge of my individual goals. As a manager in my profession with customer service being a major component to our company, I feel that Dennis Blair has given outstanding service not only to me but to his other clients. His dedication to his clients has proven to me that he is a great asset to have in achieving your health and fitness goals. Sincerely, Viviana Nevarez |
As a nursing student I know how important nutrition and exercise is. As a full time nursing student with two part time jobs, two dogs, and a husband, I know how easy it is not to care for yourself, eat right, or exercise. In January 2009 I decided to treat myself to a personal trainer. Like many people I thought I would train for a few sessions and then be good on my own. A year later I am still training with Dennis. Three good reasons to train with Dennis… 1. There is an accountability factor, not only because I am paying Dennis, but to the other ladies I work out with. Some of my crazy weeks my goal is to get to the gym or get outside one day that week. When I add in my twice a week training with Dennis, I’ve gotten three workouts in before I know it!! With a chaotic schedule that changes constantly I have appreciated the flexibility in scheduling workout times. 2. When I train with Dennis I not only get a physical work out but also walk away mentally happier and healthier. I am a verbal processor and as I vent and share events from my week I am better able to internalize what they have meant in my life. Health is only achieved when the whole person is addressed. Training with Dennis helps me achieve this. 3. The workouts are varied as new exercises are tried and as dreaded old favorites are reintroduced. I have worked out with Dennis in both the gym and at the park and am always amazed at how sore my muscles feel the day after!! In my nursing studies I am continually in awe at how the human body works. Our bodies fight so hard to stay healthy and compensate for the poor choices we make. It doesn’t take a lot to assist our bodies in staying healthy, but with our busy schedules little ways to stay healthy are easy to pass up. Personal training with Dennis helps keep me on track! Thanks, Dennis! Erin Sprain |
I feel so fortunate to have met Dennis this year. I had a baby 2 years ago and finally felt ready to get my body back. I have exercised off and on throughout the years but never did it consistently. I always made other things a priority. Since I have started training with Dennis I look forward to exercising! The workouts Dennis designs are challenging, creative and FUN! I have made major strides in a very short period of time and love the way I feel and look. Dennis is extremely knowledgeable, professional and personable. I highly recommend his personal training services to all my patients and anyone who is ready to make positive changes in their health and life! Thank you Dennis! Dr. Melissa L. Logue, D.C., FIAMA |
Over the past two years I’ve probably had at least 5 or 6 different personal trainers at different gyms, but Dennis has been the only one who’s been there for me. He understands my frustrations and this is the first time I have ever felt motivated to work out. He makes me feel like I can do it again and again. I have never seen my arms so defined! Dennis has pushed me so hard, yet has always asked how I felt and never over works me, knowing I have a lot of therapies. Even though I have had a brain injury, Dennis can look past this, making his workouts my favorite therapy. Connie Perkins |
Dennis is a fun personal trainer to work with. He makes me work hard, and I get refocused on my goals after I’ve been with him. I often feel the work we did the day after, and it makes me realize that I had a great workout. Sara Bergquist I have been training with Dennis (an awesome guy in his own special way! Misty Davis |
I used to be under the impression that the gym is a place where you sweat it out, following gruesome routines to be fit. Having Mr. Dennis Blair as my personal trainer changed my opinion! Not only did I lose 10 lbs, but I also had a lot of fun. He made working out fun and motivated me to try new techniques everytime. It makes me look forward to the time I spend exercising! Dennis can work with you to tailor a exercise program based on your goals and schedule to help you feel and look good. Dennis matched me up with a fitness partner to work out with me which saved me money and made it a fun experience too! Thank you! Omnia El-Hakim |
I like working out with Dennis at Core Fitness and Nutrition because I get an efficient total body workout in an hour, which is just want I need with my busy schedule. The workouts are motivating, interesting, and varied, and I get the results I’m looking for. Dennis is also very personable but professional and the hour flies by. I always look forward to my next workout with Dennis. Thanks Dennis! Lori |
Working out with Dennis has been fabulous! Not only am I getting in great shape, but I’m having fun as well! His workouts push me (which I love!) and his humor makes me comfortable and keeps me going. Thank you, Dennis! Laurie D. I’ve been working with Dennis as my personal trainer for over a year now and it’s been great! He continually motivates me with his seriousness about his profession and keeps me on track when I start to stray. He changes our routine regularly so it stays interesting and different; for each exercise that “kills me,” there will be one that I really love. I’m pleased with the results of my training and enjoy working with Dennis. I would highly recommend him and his business. Jenny Bacon |
Working out with Dennis is never boring because he is always changing the routine and teaching me new exercises. He pushes me HARD, but the results are worth it: I have much more energy in my day-to-day life, and my self-confidence is better than ever. Thank you Dennis! Mona Rideout
|
I am going to be honest… I detest working out! I have worked with numerous fitness trainers in Fort Collins over the years to help with my chronic knee problems and never really found a good fit until Dennis.He doesn’t let me use my weakness as a crutch and encourages me to challenge myself during each and every session. I am happy to say that since working with Dennis, my knees have not been giving me any trouble. Thanks Dennis! Lisa Hunter |
After watching an IMAX movie with kayaking in it, I immediately had to start kayaking myself, and within a year I was on the water as many seconds per day as possible. It wasn’t difficult to realize that the better the shape I was in, the more freestyle tricks I could pull off, and the time that I could paddle before exhaustion. Time for a personal trainer. I went into my local gym and found Dennis. We had an initial discussion where I told him my goals. He came up with a workout that targeted muscle groups that were important for kayaking, and also added in other exercises to form a balanced workout. He also almost convinced me that my joint pain was from over-training, which when looking back, I was. I’m a reserved type of person who isn’t all that into small talk with strangers. That wasn’t a problem with Dennis. Somehow he was able to keep the conversation going in a way that I felt comfortable until I got to know him. I love to read everything in existence about whatever my current passion is. Every time that we met I would bring in questions from things that I read since our last session. Dennis was almost always able to answer all of my random health and fitness questions. If not, he would have an answer for me by next time. He seems to know his stuff. One thing that I couldn’t get from my books was his personal touch in one-on-one training. He would help correct my form and let me know when I was trying to lift too much and letting my form get sloppy. Once Dennis helped me get all of my under used muscle groups up to speed with the others, he began creating several variations of workouts for me. It was those lists of exercises in my hand that got me through my solo workouts. All I had to do was show up and check off everything on the list. If I had been on my own I would have only done the few exercises that I found fun, and skipped the hard/important stuff. Thanks, Dennis! Brent Wilkins |
Hi everyone, Tod Huckaby here a local high school teacher and one of Dennis’ clients. Dennis to me is the personal fitness trainer in Fort Collins with an appreciation for the realities of life. He is patient with novices, responsive to whatever physical limitations you may have and provides you plenty of opportunity for your input about your goals and concerns with the nature of your workouts. Once Dennis has designed your workout, he teaches you how to do it, fine tunes it and monitors your progress in a professional and friendly manner. Dennis doesn’t just watch me workout, he engages me in friendly conversation, encourages me and continually refocuses me during my workout. Despite his fascination with new ways to make push ups challenging, Dennis has always kept a constant pressure on me to do more difficult exercises at a nice pace. I look forward (as much as one can) to the modification of the workout to see what he will do to me next. I mean what my new workout will entail. He is great to talk to and very flexible about calendar and workout times. He is really great. Please tell him you read this. He has me doing push ups off a weight bench! Tod Huckaby |
Although I’ve never had a personal fitness trainer before, I have been around them at various gyms and I have to say Dennis is the best. He’s personable, fun to workout with, energetic, and motivating. When we initially met, we determined my goals then set-out to accomplish them. I’m a mountain biker. But I haven’t ridden in quite a while. I was looking for a general fitness workout. After just a few months working with Dennis, I’m able to climb the hills in Horsetooth Mountain Park, Bobcat Ridge, and Devil’s Backbone like I never stopped biking. I also like the fact that Dennis provides me with exercises that mimic everyday activities. For example, exercises with the balance ball helps me with balance on my bike. It’s more of a total body workout. Thanks, Dennis! Cameron |
Dennis Blair was able to create a unique program for me that allowed for past injuries and my limitations. I felt strong progress in a short period of time, and realized that my conditioning and strength could be improved at much higher levels than I expected. He also, in the process, became a good friend. Thanks, Dennis. Dave Werner |
. In small groups it is easier to stay motivated and it’s fun to have more than one person bug Dennis for an hour while he kicks our butt. His arsenal of animal exercises (duck walks, bear crawls, crab walks, etc.) has become his trademark, in my opinion, and when he pulls out the zoo be prepared to not be walking the next couple of days.
