Testimonials | Testimonials From SHAPE Clients |
 WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY Hi Sender, I have been training with Adam now fairly regularly for the last few months. I wanted to share with you what a great experience it has been thus far. I have always had fantastic workouts at SHAPE, but I have to say, my workouts with Adam continually challenge me and the results I have seen have been beyond my expectation, in a very short period of time. I wanted to share this as I believe it important to give positive feedback when warranted. Jessica B. Sender, "I have not been able to give you this feedback in person as you no longer workout early in the morning but want you to know how great I think Shape is. It is coming up to three months since I started my journey to fitness and wellness at Shape. In the last twelve weeks I have lost 15 lbs (not sure yet how many inches) but more importantly I feel so much better. And people are noticing. I feel that the holistic approach that SHAPE staff use is what makes such a difference. Joel is working with me on posture and reducing the frequency and severity of my headaches, and Carly is teaching me to make healthy food choices . I am eating more than I was used to, so no more binging or eating junk food. For the first time in my life that I can remember, I am not dieting! But the most significant change is that I love coming to work out. I had been working with a trainer for three years elsewhere and went to the gym because I knew I should but not because I enjoyed it. At Shape, working with Khanh it is very different. I really look forward to my workouts. They are never quite the same so I don't get bored...they are hard work and although I wonder how I will ever make it through the hour, I feel a real sense of accomplishment when I am done. Khanh is a master in knowing how hard to push, he has made me do things I would never have tried on my own like boxing and he varies the type of workout and intensity so that I can really see the progress I am making....and he is ever so patient with me when I can't jump on the Bosu or retract my shoulders. or give him the "are you crazy I can't do that" look. He encourages me and gives me feedback and we both celebrate my accomplishments. When I came to Shape I could only do "girly" pushups (yes Joel...for your benefit these were modified pushups!!!) My goal was to be able to do one full pushup and I surprised myself two weeks ago by being able to do three full pushups. That's progress. I really appreciate the team philosophy and the genuine concern and support that I receive at SHAPE. Thank you." Sue K. "I would like to take this opportunity to share with you how much I appreciate your hard work, dedication, encouragement, and ongoing support. You have been absolutely phenomenal, and an integral part, in helping me achieve my fitness goals. Admittedly, when I came to SHAPE last September I was scared about the idea of training and I felt so frustrated with my inability to lose weight. After training with you, however, not only did my fear quickly fade but I also felt fantastic and trusted that my goals could be achieved. Your genuine interest, non-judgmental attitude and patience have done wonders in helping make that happen. Having trained with you for several months now, I have noticed several changes in my body. My overall strength and endurance has increased and the pain in my left knee and right shoulder no longer exists. I think that's incredible! It is a direct result of the fact that you always paid attention, tracked my fitness abilities and made our training sessions different, fun and challenging. Of course, this is in addition to the wealth of knowledge you have about this field (thanks for answering all questions!). Gregg, thank you so much for your commitment and belief in me. I do not remember a time in my life when I felt so motivated to live an overall healthy lifestyle. P.S. A big thanks also goes out to the SHAPE team for making my experience at this facility such a positive one!" Cheryl M. "The second I crossed the finish line at The 2008 Sarasota International Marathon, I felt like I had just conquered the world! Not only did I make it across the finish line, I placed 17th in my age group out of about 90 competitors. For my first race ever - I was more than happy with my results! I accomplished something that I had worked so hard for over the past 6 months – when about one week prior to the race, I had to put an instant halt to my training and was terrified that I was not going to be able to compete as a result of my knees suddenly telling me that enough was enough! I could barely manage to walk when waking in the morning, let alone attempt to make it through my long runs leading up to the race. My 18km run the week before the race turned into a 1km run because the pain was so excruciating! In a panic, I contacted SHAPE, and sure enough Shawn came to my rescue and introduced me to ART®! You were able to quickly dive in and get at the area that was bothering me - while at the same time informing me of why I was feeling the pain and what to do to avoid it in the future. I made it through the race, with hopefully many more to come! Without you and your outstanding ability to alleviate pain through ART®, I may not have even made it through my warm up on race day!!! You were genuinely concerned about my injury and determined to do whatever possible to make sure I was able to compete - you are my new HERO! The dedication, hard work and great knowledge from you and your entire team is greatly appreciated!" Jess H. Sender, Every time I ski down the hill & feel how strong my legs are and how great I feel, I am grateful for the day I met you. I am skiing better than I have ever skied. I feel like an athelete!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Judy D. Hi Sender, I wanted to give you an update and say a few words about Gregg. Since I began working with him, I have lost about 42lbs and many inches. Last night, I finally survived the plank for 90 seconds, which is incredible for me since at first I could barely do 30 seconds. I have worked really hard to reach this point, but my real thanks goes to Gregg and I just wanted to let you know he has been exceptionally supportive and encouraging, in person and with email. He pushes and challenges me, puts up with my moans and groans, but is always unbelievably kind. Most importantly, he made me believe I could do it - from day one, when I was so very overweight, unfit, embarrassed, having tremendous back problems and didn't believe I could do it at all. I did't think I would have achieved so much and lost the weight, grown stronger and finally actually want to exercise. Even though I'm not yet at my goal, thanks to Gregg, now I know I can do it. I will be forever grateful to Gregg, and you for setting me up with him that day, which was the first day of the rest of my new and improved healthy life!! Thanks again! Tracey F. Sender, I am saddened that our workouts have come to an end, at least for the time being (I am an optimist!). Where do I begin ... You have re-shaped my body (and mind). You have inspired me to think about exercise as something way more valuable than aesthetics. You have taken the time to better understand me. You challenge me. You don't let me get away with much. You are a great teacher. You are my role-model. Thanks for all of the fantastic workouts you created! Good luck with your new location! Paulette P. Working out at SHAPE the months leading up to my wedding was fantastic. Not only did it force me to hit the gym, the constant support and expert training allowed me to look my best on the big day. The most important benefit, however, was the increased body confidence that came along with the workouts. Throw in a few massage sessions, and SHAPE was a HUGE part of my preparation and sanity. I plan to take what I learned those months with me throughout my life. Thanks to everyone who was involved in getting me ready. Laura Z. Thanks Gregg, I felt great right after and took advantage of a long soak in epsom salts that night! My arms and chest were a bit sore on Sunday but better today. The one thing I did notice is that my knees were not – as they had been in the past even after all those little hurdles. Thanks again for all of the encouragement and the follow up !! Dawn M. Gregg, I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate all that you have done for me and helped me do for myself!! When I first met you, I had not exercised in years, had problems with my lower back and was overweight. I felt embarrassed at how unfit I was and was anxious about how I would manage. From the start you were great: You were encouraging, kind, made me feel comfortable, you were patient (put up with all of my moans), helped me exercise even though I had lower back problems and most importantly started me on an exercise program so that I lost 10 lbs and inches and improved on my fitness scores within the first month. For someone who had not exercised in years and was not a huge fan, I now look forward to my sessions with you; they are always fun and different (especially the boxing after a hard day at work!). I know that I still have quite a way to go, but cannot thank you enough for putting me on the right path, being on my side and encouraging me to keep going. I already feel so much better about myself, and can only thank you for that! See you soon! Tracey Hi Sender, Through many years of sports and competitive dance, I have had numerous injuries which in my 30’s and 40’s became chronic. For years I visited a range of physiotherapists, massage therapists and acupuncturists, but it wasn’t until I was treated at SHAPE that I recognized the remarkable difference. In fact, its almost unbelievable how accurately they can make a diagnosis, and then perform the right treatment for the right injury. Bottom line is they provide results quickly. I can’t tell you how thankful I am to be out of some of the pain I was experiencing for years. If there’s such thing as miracle workers – these guys (Shawn and Sender) are it!. The fact that they follow up the next day with a phone call or an email asking how I am doing, speaks volumes to the service! Heather F. Hi Sender, I spoke with Daniela and she will be putting together a package for me. THANKS SOOOOO MUCH! I can't tell you how much fun it will be to share with the kids at Habitat. I am coming in tomorrow for a massage for me & my Mom for pre-Mother's day. You guys are the greatest! Thanks again! Delia W. Hi Sender, Just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying my workouts with Khan. He is focused, attentive, patient and fun. It never ceases to amaze me how fast my body responds - I see improvements already and I am feeling really good. Callan is also really enjoying his workouts with Mike and those he did with Khan - his sister was very impressed with the size of his arms. Thanks to you all! Lari-Ann C. P.S. And just so ya know...I think you have a great facility and a wonderful group of people working with you but it is the kindness you showed me after my brother's death that keeps me coming back. I really appreciated it. I went airborne down a flight of stairs, badly bruising my left thigh and tailbone! It was quite sore and very uncomfortable. Dr. Thistle listened attentively, assessed my injuries and helped loosen and relax my tense glute and lower back muscles. I went in feeling as though I'd been hit by an SUV and walked out feeling limber and hopeful. I seldom entrust my body to chiropractors as I'm usually cautious of having more damage than good done unto me. This is certainly not the case with Dr. Thistle. To ensure that I was feeling better after my first treatment, he sent a quick note to check up on me. Hats off to the Dr. Thistles of the world, who put their heart into their work. Rosa L. My wife just left your place, she had a massage with Shelby. SHE LOVED IT, one of the best massages she has ever had and she gets a lot of them. She wants to know when she can go back! Daniel Z. Sender, I just wanted to extend my thanks to you and everyone at SHAPE. Your business platform is unparalleled to any other clinic of its kind as it is supported with fun, professional and enthusiastic people who truly take pride in helping each and every client. Your attention to detail makes the world of difference as it captivates clients from the onset by creating unique experiences for each and every individual. I have had tremendous success under the treatments and guidance from both you and your trainers. Your conceptual integration of health and wellness are well executed and are strongly positioned to benefit those looking for the total solution in an otherwise fragmented health-care system. All the best and thanks again. Megan O. I'm not sure what to attribute it to... the adjustment, the acupuncture, or Michael's massage, or a combination of the three... but wanted to let you know that something really nailed my problem on Sat. As the afternoon went on, I realized that my headache was going away bit by bit. The best analogy I can make is to a fist slowly unclenching if that makes any sense. The good feeling continued Sunday and Monday despite my overnight flight to Europe. It's Wed. now and the ol' reliable headache is starting to creep back in, but I am so relieved (no pun intended) and encouraged to have spent a few days seeing what other people feel like! Robert D. Good Morning Carly, Thank you for your concern and encouragement. I really enjoyed my first session with you. I have never exercised like this before in my life, but I can appreciate and understand that this is the way to go. I am just so glad that I found your organization and I look forward to the weeks ahead. I called my daughter in Florida last night to let her know how it went and she was totally pleased when I explained how you train me. Kind Regards Eric G. I believe in your commitment to your clients so it makes me feel like I've come to the right place. Jennifer T. At 37 years of age, I'm in the best shape of my life. I started training with Gregg in January in anticipation of this summer's Firefighter Combat Challenge season. I lowered my personal best time in each successive event around the country, until finally recording a 1:48 time right here in Toronto in late August - down 15 seconds from last year! I never thought I would get that low. This qualified me for the World Championships in Las Vegas in November, and got me an invitation to Dubai for a Combat demonstration there. In May a friend said to me, "Wow, you're ripped." I had never heard that one before. Not directed toward me anyway. Got me feeling so good, I went and volunteered to compete for a spot in the 2007 Toronto Firefighter Calendar (available at www.torontoffc.ca). With Gregg's fine tuning, I won the chance to support cancer research at the Princess Margaret Hospital by posing as Mr. September. I also play fire department hockey and am happy to report that my nagging injuries no longer get in the way of my workouts, and I feel fit and strong even after a tough game against FDNY or the Montreal Police (two of our biggest rivals). Shoulders, hips, and hamstrings are all solid thanks to Gregg, and Shape physiotherapist Danielle Russill. They work together to heal me and keep me in working order for my sometimes very physical job. Shape is a wonderful wellness centre. The people there always make me feel welcome. I enjoy my workouts with Gregg. They are fun and varied - never feeling like a chore or even much like 'work'. They are something I look forward to. I don't give up on a set when Gregg is around. I don't let myself off the hook, nor do I give myself long rests between exercises. I work hard - because he pushes me - because I don't want to let him down. I never skip a workout with Gregg as he has become my secondary conscience, and because it would cost me money if I did. Somebody call me a tailor, 'cause (with Gregg's help) I've ripped my abs! Warren M. Firefighter - Toronto Fire Services Sender, Thank you and your team for the great session yesterday. I ran 16K this morning and felt great -- in large part due to your help yesterday. Congratulations on your successful operation. You have a great team and a unique approach to integrated fitness and health. Regards, Adam D. Hi Sender, I heard about SHAPE by watching you on CP24. It took me about 3 months to muster up enough courage to make the call and schedule myself for an assessment. But I did it. I joined about a month ago and have seen you around but have been a bit shy about introducing myself. So now that I've done that, I can give you a handshake next time I see you. Originally, I came in to see you but instead got stuck with Shawn. Just kidding, he is absolutely wonderful. His sense of humour may be a bit warped, but I get a kick out of that. Danielle is the greatest. Her ability to tailor the workouts and treatments according to my needs is fantastic. Ari - what magical hands and a great sense of humour. Gregg is a sweetie. Although I was embarrassed when I couldn't do a single push-up during my initial assessment. (let me show you now). I can't forget the two ladies that welcome me when first arriving; Carly and Daniela. Their smiles remind me to leave my troubles at the door and come in for a refreshing experience. Have I mentioned yet how much I dislike exercise? (grumble, grumble). I truly believe that you have a fantastic concept going here with SHAPE and am so thrilled that I heard about it. I believe that in order to be successful, you need to surround yourself with hardworking and dedicated people and your team epitomizes just that. See you around! Helia T. Hey Carly, I had the opportunity of visiting SHAPE last week and met up with Gregg and Shawn for my initial assessment. I must say that I was quite impressed with their professionalism and thoroughness. This program sounds exactly like what I have been looking for. Must also make mention as to how beautiful the facilities are. I have been looking through the SHAPE website and would like to provide some feedback. (Although I thought the previous website was already pretty spiffy). The website is professional looking and very nicely put together. The verbiage is concise and provides answers to what ShHAPE is all about and the services it offers. Navigating through the site is quite easy and intuitive. The images are sharp and tastefully done. I see careful consideration has been put into how many graphics are used, thereby optimizing its speed. I applaud the web designers & developers for a job well done. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the testimonials and case studies and hope to share in the success stories as I attempt to undergo my own transformation. I think its great that you introduce the entire staff, thus allowing us members to get to know everyone. It truly sounds like a friendly and supportive group of people and I am looking forward to working with you all. See you on Tuesday! Helia T. Hello, I am sure you already know this but your staff is great. Julie and I had a wonderful time. It was honestly exactly what I had in mind for the day. Truly perfect! So thanks again to your staff for making our day great! Yours Truly, Leah S. Danielle, Thanks so much. I've never had a back treatment of that quality. I had the ankle sciatic sensation on the way home and a few times at dinner - nothing yet - maybe a super mild sciatic feeling in my right calf on the way to work - but feel way better! Thanks for taking such great care of me. I was holding my abs so much last night, my stomach was sore when I woke up this morning! Catherine K. Everything's working well. Thank you very much. Was I glad I learned about SHAPE on TV! Susan T. Dear Shawn We are tournament champs! We were ranked #1 out of 40 teams and held our ground - undefeated 7:0. Despite the rain, it was awesome. I played a fair amount of points and felt 100%! Jumping, cutting, diving, and bending low were a breeze - nothing compared to Eric and Gregg's workouts! Tonight I have a game and the legs are feeling excellent. Good job Dr. Thistle - I think I was fixed after the first week! Thanks for making me bionic again! Mica W Danielle is top-notch. I'm quite impressed. She has an unending bag of tricks / exercises. They change every week. In comparison, I was just wasting time at my previous physiotherapist. She is professional and puts in a full effort every time. Noam R. My experience with SHAPE has been fantastic, mostly thanks to my trainer, Gregg Parris. Gregg listened to my needs, designed and built a series of dynamic and variable workout plans geared to achieving my goals of weight loss, increased strength and power and improved flexibility. Gregg mixes up a variety of great exercises including boxing, power work, balance exercises and most importantly - a major focus on building my core strength. Gregg is a great motivator - he knows when to challenge you and when to back off. He is knowledgeable about exercise, diet, and many areas of human physical performance and function. After a 20 year absence from downhill ski racing, I am placing in the top 15 out of 120 racers every weekend and I know that a big part of my success is my improving health and fitness - all a result of Gregg's expert guidance and support! Gregg gives you a complete package of health and wellness expertise. Dave K. Hi Carly, I made the soup and it was SO DELICIOUS!! Thank you for the recipe! It was easy and fast and so tasty. I’m adding this one to my growing list of favorites. Thanks again for keeping in touch and for all of your expert advice and helpful tips. You are really going above and beyond and I am very grateful. Have a great day! Carla E. Carly, I just wanted you to let Amanda know that her massage was super. I had just gotten off the train from a long trip and was feeling tired and stressed from work etc.. The 30 minutes I spent with her were the best 30 minutes I ever spent. I felt completely relaxed and, believe it or not, I was on medicine for pain in my upper back and shoulders (800 mg. daily) which I now realize I have not taken since my massage treatment on Thursday. I sure wish we had a SHAPE where I live, with Amanda. Please say a big thank you to her for me. With kindest regards, Rhoda C. My support of SHAPE is due to the commitment of the great people at SHAPE. You have all become like family to me and I will shout from the roof tops how wonderful not only the facility is but how great you all are. I believe in the programs and how you all work together for your clients. Thank you guys. Jodi C. Dear Sender, Thank you for making me feel 100% better. I have not stopped talking about you and how great you are. I look forward to working with you when I come to Canada for good. Thank you again for what you have done. Take care, Donna H. Hi Carly, The feed back for SHAPE was terrific. One girl I know said that she received the best acupuncture treatment she had ever received. Ever! Also, I am so impressed with your energy and professionalism that I would like to sit down and talk about a proposition for you for future Crave parties. Lisa L. Hi Carly & Danielle, It was a fantastic event! You, Danielle and the entire SHAPE Team (Daniela, Denis, Shawn, Gregg, Chloe, Amy, Michael, Amanda, Lisa and of course Lindsay) contributed greatly in making GLOBAL'S Health & Wellness Expo such a huge success...and we really appreciate that. SHAPE and the SHAPE Team (in terms of professionalism, level of service & knowledge, and overall 'presence') were exactly what we were looking and hoping for.... and you delivered on all counts. Its been a definite pleasure & I hope to stay in touch, Natalie C. Information About SHAPE's Corporate Wellness Services As someone who has had a lifelong aversion to exercise of any type, I can honestly say that the overall concern and course of action has been both outstanding and bearable. Unlike most facilities, the whole you is treated by a complete team. My case is continually reviewed by Sender together with my MeDCAN Physician, Physiotherapist and Kinesiologist. It is most assuring to know you are in the hands of such an involved team committed to providing excellence. Joan M. Having struggled with plantar fasciitis since 1999, I was resigned to receiving at best some minor relief from the symptoms. Instead, I was delighted to receive education about the condition and a sensible proposed method of treatment including chiropractic / acupuncture intervention, deep massage, and specialized exercise. Not only has the condition been conquered, but I am in much better condition overall and will be subscribing to an ongoing program to maintain and improve my overall physical fitness and sense of well being. Robert B. I wanted to thank you all for the top notch personal training, support and tips during my time spent at SHAPE. Thanks again. Regards, Suzana R. I wanted to thank all of you for the amazing support I’ve received over the past few months since I started coming to SHAPE. I came to Gregg Parris with specific fitness goals and he has managed to exceed my expectations on every level! I’ve never felt (and looked) better in my life, and of course – he manages to make every session fun which keeps motivating me to come back and stay fit. SHAPE is a wonderful environment in which to work out in and knowing that you have massage therapists, chiropractors and nutritionists on hand helps make the experience complete. Thanks again, Gillian S. Sender, I'm not sure precisely what you did to me during my chiro treatment this week, but frankly my body has never felt better. Thanks to you and your colleagues at SHAPE. Jeff D. I had a one hour massage with Amanda Sargent and she gave, by far, the best massage I have ever had. I have very stiff shoulders and neck and she spent the better part of the hour working in that area. Lori G. Thanks Sender - you're the best to work with! I will follow up with your team in the New Year. Have a great holiday season. Warmly, Jo A. I wanted to let you know I had a great time at SHAPE, the staff was more than wonderful and my massage was heavenly! But I think the Pilates was my favorite part. Beautiful place! Thank you, Leah C. Dear Carly and Daniela, Thank you so much for all you've done for me recently. So many small favours and courtesies make a big difference!!!! Lenny L. My shoulder and neck feel amazing - way less congested and stiff. Thanks for everything Sender. Lari-Ann C. I wanted to send a quick follow up email to say THANK YOU for fitting me in so quickly this morning to see Dr. Deutsch. I feel SO MUCH BETTER! I can finally concentrate on my work and not stress out about missing out on my training schedule. Wow...I had no idea when I walked in there that I would actually leave feeling better. Thanks again, Kelly P. There is a special relationship formed between the patients and the staff. Facilities are impeccably clean, calm and friendly. I like the private feeling of this centre. Joan M. SHAPE keeps building momentum. Wonderful people, you have truly GATHERED GREATNESS. All the best, Jeff M. You should be very proud - you've (with Jonathan) created an 'upscale' environment - great staff, great facilities, and great service. Never thought I would enjoy getting my butt kicked as much as I seem to at your shop. Kathy E. I would like to express my gratitude to you and your team at SHAPE for the tremendous support over the last several months. I came to SHAPE with a specific and demanding (fitness) goal. Not only did you manage to successfully custom design a program for me but your motivated, knowledgeable and accommodating staff continuously kept me on track and ultimately helped me to achieve my goal. The personal attention to your clients and unique VIP treatment is amazing in every way and better than anything I have ever experienced in the world of personal fitness. I feel like a million bucks! Many thanks again, Stefan V. Dr. Sender Deutsch performed a miracle by alleviating chronic pain, lived with for several years. His ability to pinpoint the exact location of the muscles creating the pain and then use acupuncture and ART treatments resulted in pain free living. What a joy!! Now, it's only 32 hours after treatment so a few more days will tell the tale. Thank you, Irene D. I've been doing Pilates with Lisa Beaulieu for almost two months now, and I'm working muscles that were inactive for a very long time. My core muscles are getting stronger every week - only that - my posture is much better and my back feels much stronger than it did before starting Pilates. On the whole I feel like a different person - Pilates has improved my stamina (I couldn't do the plank for more than five seconds at first!). Lisa has been really encouraging and supportive of my progress. Although it hasn't been easy (the first few weeks were really tough for me) Lisa has remained very patient and incredibly inspiring throughout. She really is helping me achieve my fitness goals. I enjoy all of Lisa's classes, especially when there is a mix of the mat, the band and the circles. I find the ball work-outs the most challenging. I can't thank SHAPE enough for ALL the inspiring and wonderful Pilates classes on offer there. I look forward to all the Pilates classes every week, I always feel taller, stronger, and leaner after every class! Best wishes, Susana S. My husband has MS. When he came out of the hospital after an illness he was unable to stand. After approximately 6 weeks of physical therapy and strengthening by Dr. Sender Deutsch, he is able to stand, transfer to another chair and walk a short distance with a walker. All the best, Rose C. Thanks for last week's treatment. Sunday's run (I did my own 25 km instead of the Half Marathon race) was smooth as butter. You were right, my legs felt like a million (US) dollars! Since this combo of Amanda's massage and your treatment worked so effectively, I booked both of you for the week of 13th-17th. See you then, Stefan V. |
