Success Stories
I would like to thank the staff at Physical Fitness of Branford for their professional advice and support given to me, as I was preparing for my upcoming surgery.
In March of 2015, I approached the Physical Fitness of Branford and explained that I was going to have knee replacement surgery on June 4th and would like to physically prepare for the surgery and for the rehab that would follow it.
At this time I was introduced to Dan as my personal trainer. Under Dan's guidance and supervision I started my journey to prepare for my new knee. For the months of March, April and May, Dan and I developed and executed a vigorous training schedule to reach my personal goal.
On June 4th, I had my surgery and two weeks later, to the day, I walked into the Physical Fitness of Branford, to thank Michael and his staff, and Dan, for the great job they had done to help me prepare for the surgery and the rehab that followed.
I was fortunate to have come to Physical Fitness of Branford and would highly recommend this team of professionals for the advice and help that they offered me.
Joe Martin - member since 2015
In March of 2015, I approached the Physical Fitness of Branford and explained that I was going to have knee replacement surgery on June 4th and would like to physically prepare for the surgery and for the rehab that would follow it.
At this time I was introduced to Dan as my personal trainer. Under Dan's guidance and supervision I started my journey to prepare for my new knee. For the months of March, April and May, Dan and I developed and executed a vigorous training schedule to reach my personal goal.
On June 4th, I had my surgery and two weeks later, to the day, I walked into the Physical Fitness of Branford, to thank Michael and his staff, and Dan, for the great job they had done to help me prepare for the surgery and the rehab that followed.
I was fortunate to have come to Physical Fitness of Branford and would highly recommend this team of professionals for the advice and help that they offered me.
Joe Martin - member since 2015
I have been a member of the gym since it opened. Mike worked with me soon after I had back surgery. He was very helpful in my recovery and I have no back problems today. Now, at 66 and retired, I look forward to seeing the staff and other members every week. Everyone knows your name and is always pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable. I feel very much at home with my exercise family which is important to me. Recently Karen has worked with me to revise my program and she continues to keep an eye on me during workouts in an encouraging way. I appreciate her friendliness and support.
Also, let's not forget a special part of our workout session is a hug and a pat for Ginger, everyone's special dog.
Harold N. - member since 2003
Also, let's not forget a special part of our workout session is a hug and a pat for Ginger, everyone's special dog.
Harold N. - member since 2003
“After completing a cardiac rehab program at another facility, I came to Physical Fitness seeking to put into action, a long overdue, lifelong exercise routine. Immediately I found a dedicated staff relentless in igniting the spark that turns intention into reality. Their boundless enthusiasm continues to inspire and encourage me to make exercise a part of daily life. I feel particularly privileged to be associated with Mike... You do it right!”
Marie H. - an active participant of Physical Fitness since 2002!
Marie H. - an active participant of Physical Fitness since 2002!
"We were among the first customers when Mike opened Physical Fitness, having worked with him at St. Raphael's Rehab Center and have been attending ever since. We have a lot of confidence in Mike and his staff. They have helped us with our programs to maintain and improve our health. We are thankful that they were there to help us strengthen and prepare for three knee surgeries and a rotator cuff surgery which led to quicker rehab and successful outcomes.
We appreciate the fact that Mike and his staff are always willing to advise us with temporary back and knee issues, advising exercises to avoid or modify until the condition improved. Also, if you are doing an exercise incorrectly when working out on your own, someone on the staff will show you the correct method. This kind of personal attention is always available at this gym. It is not just a great gym, especially for individuals with medical issues, but excellent after physical therapy because they know the physiology and can design an individual program for strength and improvement.
We are very fortunate to have the Physical Fitness Gym, with its knowledgeable staff, personal attention and friendly atmosphere. Your health and condition is important to them.
John and Terry M. - active members since 2002!
We appreciate the fact that Mike and his staff are always willing to advise us with temporary back and knee issues, advising exercises to avoid or modify until the condition improved. Also, if you are doing an exercise incorrectly when working out on your own, someone on the staff will show you the correct method. This kind of personal attention is always available at this gym. It is not just a great gym, especially for individuals with medical issues, but excellent after physical therapy because they know the physiology and can design an individual program for strength and improvement.
We are very fortunate to have the Physical Fitness Gym, with its knowledgeable staff, personal attention and friendly atmosphere. Your health and condition is important to them.
John and Terry M. - active members since 2002!
“After having been diagnosed with severe osteoporosis in my fifties, I retired from my teaching career. After numerous spinal, hip and leg fractures, I became resigned to the prospect of a drastically limited life style. I used a walker or a cane depending on the pain, and was inundated by visits to physical therapists and worried about the danger of dependence on pain killers. One physical therapist recommended Physical Fitness and thereby changed my life.
After a few months at this gym, I began to regain my balance and became able to walk more normally and for a longer distance. I am now cane-free and pill-free and able to lead a very active life.
In addition to regaining my physical prowess, I have been enriched by the people I have met at the gym. Mike Leonard is a caring person whose professionalism and knowledge of exercise give me confidence that I will not be injured by the exercises. I work closely with Karen Smith who is an inspiration, and keeps me on task with her encouragement.
I have met countless other clients who are examples of quiet courage, and who provide continual support. I was never a “gym person”, but this is more of a community than a place to work out. In all honesty, it has changed my life for the better.”
Mary D.
After a few months at this gym, I began to regain my balance and became able to walk more normally and for a longer distance. I am now cane-free and pill-free and able to lead a very active life.
In addition to regaining my physical prowess, I have been enriched by the people I have met at the gym. Mike Leonard is a caring person whose professionalism and knowledge of exercise give me confidence that I will not be injured by the exercises. I work closely with Karen Smith who is an inspiration, and keeps me on task with her encouragement.
I have met countless other clients who are examples of quiet courage, and who provide continual support. I was never a “gym person”, but this is more of a community than a place to work out. In all honesty, it has changed my life for the better.”
Mary D.
"My name is Anne B. I am 58 years old. Approximately 18 years ago I was diagnosed with a herniated disc and opted to have a lower back fusion. Because of this fusion the discs above and below took on a lot more strain and 5 years ago I started having similar problems. I went back to my surgeon - I tried everything from spinal injections - 6 months of physical therapy - nothing helped. Finally he said another operation was my only option.
It was at this point that I by chance ran into Michael at Physical Fitness. He did an evaluation of me and said he could help. I started one on one sessions, three times a week. Almost immediately I could see improvement. I continued to progress doing things that before had seemed impossible. I am a very keen gardener – planting 100’s of bulbs – and beyond belief, running again. I have now been with Physical Fitness for 5 years…I feel fantastic and I think in the best shape of my entire life. Not only has it helped me physically but mentally, too.
I cannot say enough good things about Michael and his fabulous staff. (I work out with Jeff as well as Michael and they are both great). I look forward to going to the gym, I feel as if I have adopted a new family. I value the professional help that is always there. I can honestly say that in all the years of back pain I have never had anyone help me as much or as well as Physical Fitness.
I trust and admire Michael and his unique staff and can never thank them enough for making my life a much healthier and happier one."
Anne B. – member since 2006
It was at this point that I by chance ran into Michael at Physical Fitness. He did an evaluation of me and said he could help. I started one on one sessions, three times a week. Almost immediately I could see improvement. I continued to progress doing things that before had seemed impossible. I am a very keen gardener – planting 100’s of bulbs – and beyond belief, running again. I have now been with Physical Fitness for 5 years…I feel fantastic and I think in the best shape of my entire life. Not only has it helped me physically but mentally, too.
I cannot say enough good things about Michael and his fabulous staff. (I work out with Jeff as well as Michael and they are both great). I look forward to going to the gym, I feel as if I have adopted a new family. I value the professional help that is always there. I can honestly say that in all the years of back pain I have never had anyone help me as much or as well as Physical Fitness.
I trust and admire Michael and his unique staff and can never thank them enough for making my life a much healthier and happier one."
Anne B. – member since 2006
"To be honest, when I first entered Physical Fitness, I was unsure of the gym was well suited to my needs. It did not take long for my uncertainties and fears to be put to rest. After a few sessions with my personal trainer, Karen, I realized that Physical Fitness was perfect for me.
Its quaint atmosphere and personalized attention makes me feel like I am part of an extended family. I look forward to going to Physical Fitness every time. I not only feel better physically, I feel better about myself! As a retired wife, mother and grandmother, Physical Fitness is my refuge, my haven away from my home where I can feel comfortable and treat myself to a healthy alternative to watching TV!
Thank You, Physical Fitness!
Jo-Ann P. - member since 2009
Its quaint atmosphere and personalized attention makes me feel like I am part of an extended family. I look forward to going to Physical Fitness every time. I not only feel better physically, I feel better about myself! As a retired wife, mother and grandmother, Physical Fitness is my refuge, my haven away from my home where I can feel comfortable and treat myself to a healthy alternative to watching TV!
Thank You, Physical Fitness!
Jo-Ann P. - member since 2009
“I have been attending Physical Fitness since it opened. The environment is warm and friendly which is one reason I enjoy going there.
I am a person with Cerebral Palsy and because of my disability several gyms refused to let me join stating that I was a liability. I was told that the extra attention I needed had to be given by a personal trainer and this was an expense I could not afford. Mike’s Special Attention Package has allowed me access to a customized workout administered by knowledgeable staff. I have become stronger, more flexible and lost weight.
Everyone at Physical Fitness seems to enjoy the challenge of working with Special Needs people (one of my trainers uses a wheelchair). They are also interested in helping me maintain independence and improve daily function. Before I worked out regularly I could not get into a car easily but now because my abdominal muscles are better developed, I can do it with ease. I owe everyone working in this facility my sincere gratitude.”
Dana C. – active member since our facility opened in 2002!
I am a person with Cerebral Palsy and because of my disability several gyms refused to let me join stating that I was a liability. I was told that the extra attention I needed had to be given by a personal trainer and this was an expense I could not afford. Mike’s Special Attention Package has allowed me access to a customized workout administered by knowledgeable staff. I have become stronger, more flexible and lost weight.
Everyone at Physical Fitness seems to enjoy the challenge of working with Special Needs people (one of my trainers uses a wheelchair). They are also interested in helping me maintain independence and improve daily function. Before I worked out regularly I could not get into a car easily but now because my abdominal muscles are better developed, I can do it with ease. I owe everyone working in this facility my sincere gratitude.”
Dana C. – active member since our facility opened in 2002!
"Our four month experience at Physical Fitness was special. We transferred from a fitness program in West Hartford, CT to Branford, to our summer residence. This certainly was a positive!
Michael and Karen…were always available to advise us – kind, caring, capable!!! The warm “Hellos” of staff and fellow members made us feel immediately comfortable. The flexible scheduling fit into our life style.
Thank you all – happy days in your new facility. We will return in May…appreciatively!”
John and Gerry J. – summer members
Michael and Karen…were always available to advise us – kind, caring, capable!!! The warm “Hellos” of staff and fellow members made us feel immediately comfortable. The flexible scheduling fit into our life style.
Thank you all – happy days in your new facility. We will return in May…appreciatively!”
John and Gerry J. – summer members
“Greetings from an Old Lady"
"I have belonged to Physical Fitness since its opening. I joined Mike as soon as he opened his gym.
Mike and his staff offer a very comprehensive program for seniors. Each staff member is an expert in their area, very skillful and very thoughtful of the individuals’ needs and concerns. Everyone is made to feel at home at the gym. Over the years, friendships have developed. People work well together and help each other if a need arises. …Lots of advice is offered.
This gym is really a great place. Take my word for it. Try it. You will like it. I guarantee it.”
Marianne D. – member since 2003
"I have belonged to Physical Fitness since its opening. I joined Mike as soon as he opened his gym.
Mike and his staff offer a very comprehensive program for seniors. Each staff member is an expert in their area, very skillful and very thoughtful of the individuals’ needs and concerns. Everyone is made to feel at home at the gym. Over the years, friendships have developed. People work well together and help each other if a need arises. …Lots of advice is offered.
This gym is really a great place. Take my word for it. Try it. You will like it. I guarantee it.”
Marianne D. – member since 2003
“I have been using the facilities of Physical Fitness for probably 5-6 years. The facility is terrific, and the staff knowledgeable and always helpful. I joined initially to try and improve my overall strength, but primarily to address a problem with my neck and shoulders. My days are spent on a computer, and I had developed a significant problem. Thanks to Mike, who worked with me on my specific complaint, AND, told me about perhaps considering the use of a TENS muscle stim unit (which neither my primary doctor nor physical therapy person had mentioned), I managed to almost completely eliminate the issue. It flares up now and then, but I now know how to deal with it!
In May, I learned that a “lower back issue” which had been causing significant discomfort for some time was actually my left hip, and I needed to have a total hip replacement – soon. About 5 weeks prior to my scheduled surgery date, I met with Mike, and ultimately worked with a trainer, who set up a strengthening program for me so that I could strengthen the muscles I would need after the surgery, during recovery. As a result of this, I actually felt a bit better, both mentally and physically, both going into the surgery, as well as afterwards.
The hospital staff as well as the rehab center staff were amazed at my progress after surgery, and I was home a week after the surgery. I graduated quickly from a walker to a cane, and by 6 weeks, was walking without a cane. To say that the orthopedic surgeon was pleased with my progress, at my 6 week appointment, was an understatement. His comment was “Didn’t I just replace your hip??!!”
I have now returned to Physical Fitness a few times a week, to… continue to improve my fitness level.”
Susan B. - member since 2003
In May, I learned that a “lower back issue” which had been causing significant discomfort for some time was actually my left hip, and I needed to have a total hip replacement – soon. About 5 weeks prior to my scheduled surgery date, I met with Mike, and ultimately worked with a trainer, who set up a strengthening program for me so that I could strengthen the muscles I would need after the surgery, during recovery. As a result of this, I actually felt a bit better, both mentally and physically, both going into the surgery, as well as afterwards.
The hospital staff as well as the rehab center staff were amazed at my progress after surgery, and I was home a week after the surgery. I graduated quickly from a walker to a cane, and by 6 weeks, was walking without a cane. To say that the orthopedic surgeon was pleased with my progress, at my 6 week appointment, was an understatement. His comment was “Didn’t I just replace your hip??!!”
I have now returned to Physical Fitness a few times a week, to… continue to improve my fitness level.”
Susan B. - member since 2003
“I was referred to Michael Leonard by my internist and also by a close friend who had back problems that were resolved by the program designed for her. When I started, I wanted an alternative to physical therapy which I had already tried twice for neck and back pain. I have to say I saw quick results and after 1 year of consistent exercise, my back pain is reduced by 90% though the underlying physical reason will remain.
The entire staff at Physical Fitness is very supportive and positive which is just the right atmosphere for anyone struggling with pain. I have also experienced the unexpected benefit of a 12 pound weight loss and have personally found why exercise reduces stress.
Mike continually adjusts my routine to my current needs so I’m always making progress without ever hurting myself as I have at other gyms. The staff is trained to correct errors you might make during exercise thus avoiding unnecessary injury. I can only recommend Physical Fitness for anyone who wants to really enjoy going to the gym.”
Beth R. - member since 2007
The entire staff at Physical Fitness is very supportive and positive which is just the right atmosphere for anyone struggling with pain. I have also experienced the unexpected benefit of a 12 pound weight loss and have personally found why exercise reduces stress.
Mike continually adjusts my routine to my current needs so I’m always making progress without ever hurting myself as I have at other gyms. The staff is trained to correct errors you might make during exercise thus avoiding unnecessary injury. I can only recommend Physical Fitness for anyone who wants to really enjoy going to the gym.”
Beth R. - member since 2007
“A Real Success Story"
"My name is Sally C. Two years ago …I had two knees replaced. Yes, both at the same time. I knew Mike Leonard had opened a gym but I was so crippled with bone on bone knees I was afraid to join. Something inspired me to talk to him and he encouraged me to join. He introduced me to Karen Smith.
I joined and both Michael and Karen prepared me for four months for surgery. I worked through a lot of pain, but I tell you, it was all worth it. I was in the hospital 3 days – then to rehab. I was released from rehab in 5 days. For double knee replacement, that was unheard of.
I have a new lease on life. I returned to Mike’s gym in 2 months and Karen Smith has worked with me ever since. I have absolutely no knee pain at all! After my surgery I drove in one month. The doctors and nurses at the rehab center could not believe my fast recovery. I encourage anyone who is suffering from knee pain to come and get prepared for your surgery, you won’t be sorry.
I look forward each day to go to the gym to workout, socialize and leave feeling great.”
Sally C. – active client since 2006
"My name is Sally C. Two years ago …I had two knees replaced. Yes, both at the same time. I knew Mike Leonard had opened a gym but I was so crippled with bone on bone knees I was afraid to join. Something inspired me to talk to him and he encouraged me to join. He introduced me to Karen Smith.
I joined and both Michael and Karen prepared me for four months for surgery. I worked through a lot of pain, but I tell you, it was all worth it. I was in the hospital 3 days – then to rehab. I was released from rehab in 5 days. For double knee replacement, that was unheard of.
I have a new lease on life. I returned to Mike’s gym in 2 months and Karen Smith has worked with me ever since. I have absolutely no knee pain at all! After my surgery I drove in one month. The doctors and nurses at the rehab center could not believe my fast recovery. I encourage anyone who is suffering from knee pain to come and get prepared for your surgery, you won’t be sorry.
I look forward each day to go to the gym to workout, socialize and leave feeling great.”
Sally C. – active client since 2006