Testimonials
Why CrossFit 914?
When Mike and I met as co-workers at Gold’s Gym years ago, I immediately knew that I NEEDED to be training with him as much as possible. I was blown away by not only his knowledge, focus, and intensity, but more importantly his pure passion for fitness. In cooperatively doing 5×5 strength programs, circuit routines, and now CrossFit, Mike has not only pushed me to become an elite rugby player, but a better personal trainer myself. As a collegue in the fitness industry and a close friend, I wouldn’t recommend that a potential client (elite athlete or beginner) go anywhere else. Crossfit 914 will be a huge success, and you’d be missing out if you were not to be a part of it!
~Kevin Kustelski
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I met Mike in February 2007. Quickly I realized that he is no ordinary trainer. In addition to his extensive knowledge of theory and practice (as evidenced by his many certifications), Mike has a sincere interest in each clients needs and goals as an individual. Mike has designed and led me through programs enabling me to make steady progress for years in building strength and endurance. He even created training solutions for me when knee and shoulder injuries made me think I wouldnt be able to work out. Mikes own boxing experience has turned my heavy-bag work into real heavy-duty cardio workouts. Doing Kettlebell training with him has taught me perfect formeven other KB instructors compliment me. No matter what program he creates for you, training with Mike guarantees an experience with intensity that no one else can match. He is a talented teacher and his own athletic ability and dedication make him an inspiring coach. There is no one I would recommend as highly as Mike McKenna.
~Mike Bowman
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As a Personal Trainer myself I chose my PT extra very carefully. What made me choose Mike was his dedication to his clients, his knowledge and creativity, and his passion for fitness. Working with him has taken my fitness to a completely new level. When I first saw him doing CrossFit workouts I thought it was great but that I would never be able to do it. I was a Division 1 athlete but had surgery in both knees and was convinced I could never perform a squat. He showed me what a squat should look like and had me try one with no weight. It looked more like a terrible deadlift. Within 5 minutes he had my hips below my knees, my back straight and chest up without any pain. I knew this was it. I am a distance runner and although Mike never has me run more then 800m at a time, my distance runs are faster and my endurance has greatly improved. The speed and intensity at which we workout is what made the difference for me in every aspect of my fitness. He has made working out something I look forward to, and since starting my training with Mike just 5 months ago my back squat has gone from zero to 170lbs. I box jump, clean, snatch, swing kettlebells without knee pain and with Mike’s help, I’m now preparing for my first marathon in January 2010.
~Susan DeVito
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A few months ago I ran into someone I haven’t seen in a while. This person asked me if I were “expecting”. At that moment I knew I had gained more weight than I can comfortably live with. I jumped online and signed up for a membership at my local gym that same evening. When I went into the gym for my tour, the idea of a personal trainer was presented to me as a promotional item. Here is where the true testimonial begins.
I was incredibly fortunate to have been paired up with Mike McKenna. Let’s take one step back. I absolutely CAN NOT stand exercising and I dislike gyms even more. Having said that, the last few months have been the most rewarding in a long time. Mike is the reason. I needed a jump start to getting back into shape. The problem is I find most exercise routines boring and stale. I quickly lose interest. Mike has forever changed my opinion on working out. That’s because he makes it feel more like a game rather than a chore. Mike is a motivating person. Through his passion for his craft he motivates his clients by focusing on being positive. He is so very supportive every step of the way. His dedication to his clients, his techniques and style in the exercises he teaches, along with his knowledge in working out properly are his strongest attributes. He genuinely cares about your success in getting fit the right way.
Every workout session with Mike has been different, challenging, fun and I surprisingly find myself looking forward to the next crazy thing he’ll have me doing. These things combined have kept me motivated and focused on my goal. He exudes a perfect blend of discipline and kindness. In just a few short months I feel stronger and look healthier. I dropped weight and inches, but more importantly I feel as though I can achieve anything.
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~Pam
Carmel, NY
