Testimonials

I have been training with you for over 3 months and I wanted to let you know that it has been a great decision on my part to sign up and work with you.  In the past I had been going to the center on an irregular basis and was frustrated with my results.  Being in a training program has offered me a formal schedule to train eliminating the chance to cheat myself out of going to the gym. I have also learned how to train properly reducing my chance of injury and seeing results quicker. I feel better and have conditioned my body to need exercise, eat better, and crave improvement.  Nothing comes easily, but actually wanting to work hard is easier when you start seeing results.  I hope more people choose to train with you vs. on their own. Your workouts are hard, but once we are done I feel great.  Again, I would recommend working with a trainer to get the body conditioned in a proper way and to start seeing results on a faster pace.

Mike H., April 2008
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I am extremely satisfied with the results of these sessions as well as Kirk's training ability.  In the beginning I wasn't sure the kettle bells were for me but Kirk was always very patient and reassuring and now I feel it is the best workout I have ever participated in.  I have more strength and energy to complete any task my job may hold.  I only wish more people in my line of work took advantage of such a great trainer.

Bonnie M., December 2008
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Kirk has a good sense of humor, is focused, is prepared, and is ready to get you into shape...

I started working out because I wanted to lose 12 pounds and get my 44 year old, flabby body more firm. I figured [Kirk] had more experience.  I also assumed that he would not put my body in danger of getting hurt with some newfangled type of workout. I was right on both accounts. He listened when I told him what really did not feel good. 

When July came along, my core was much stronger that it had been in a long time! I signed up for a Sprint Triathlon even though I had not officially been in training for it. ...I finished the triathlon AND felt great. ...My point in telling you this story is that Kirk's methods of training really do work to prepare your body for rigors it might not have been expecting.

The last thing that I would like to tell you is that the most irritation thing about working out with Kirk is that you do lose the fatty weight.  And, because your body shape will change, that really cute pair of jeans that you bought a few months ago will NOT fit anymore. Sigh.  Prepare yourself for more shopping in the thinner sections.  Or you may have to go shop for a really cute belt to hold them up. :)

Liz S., October 2009
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I have had the privilege of having Kirk Orelup as a personal trainer now for two months.  We primarily work with kettlebells which I find to be an incredible work out.  Kirk is very knowledgeable when it comes to fitness, nutrition and overall well being.  During these two months I have had some obstacles to overcome and Kirk has been there to provide support in and out of the gym.  Kirk is always professional and treats everyone with respect.

During my initial evaluation with Kirk I decided that I wanted to increase muscle mass, function and lose fat.  In the two months that I have been working with Kirk, I have grown more muscle mass and have lost over 2% body fat.  I have seen other trainers be very robotic and treat all their clients the same without taking into consideration their state of mind, physical and mental condition etc.  With Kirk, he does a full work up to see what level you are and adjusts accordingly so that you have a workout that is fine tuned to what you can handle and are capable of.

Jon C., October 2009
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Kirk has been great at helping me gain a comfort level working with kettlebells and various associated exercises.  After a few short weeks, I felt very comfortable working with kettlebells and was quickly gaining experience with a number of new exercises.  In the months since my initial introduction to kettlebells, I have gone on to significantly increase my overall strength and endurance.

Kirk's help has been especially valuable in terms of keeping me motivated and on track with my workout program.  I have traditionally had a history of starting out on exercise programs with the best of intentions, only to fall back into my old bad habits.  With Kirk's encouragement and guidance, I have been working out regularly for a full year at this point and I still look forward to my next workout.

A key factor for me on the motivation front has been the continuous progress I've made week after week, month after month.  When I first started working out with Kirk, I was able to do a few repetitions with the two lightest weight kettlebells.  Since then, I've steadily increased both the number of reps and overall weight that i'm able to handle with each training session.  Kirk is constantly working with me to set new goals and helping me to achieve them.  The constant progress and reinforcement from setting and meeting goals has really helped keep my interest and motivation going.

Finally, Kirk offers a great deal of advice, guidance and support between personal training sessions to help make sure that I keep working toward my fitness goals.  Kirk often fills in my rest / recovery pauses between exercises with valuable advice on diet and lifestyle tips that help me stay focused on my overall goals even when I'm outside of the gym.  This has been particularly helpful to me, as I tend to be on the go and traveling quite a bit for work. Taking the extra time to think about my diet and planning ahead on how to maintain healthy exercise and nutrition habits while on the road has been very helpful to me.

In summary, I highly recommend Kirk Orelup's personal training services.  He has helped me meet my personal fitness goals and encouraged me to strive for continuing improvements.  His expertise, advice and guidance have been invaluable to me.

Ron W., October 2009
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Kirk Orelup creates and illusion of fitness osmosis.... He understands that the best tool for improving your body is your body, and he wants you to know how to use it.  Kirk is able to accomplish this mission without a hint of arrogance.  I already knew a great deal about exercise, be he taught me more.  I am convinced that his approach would work well with clients of all fitness levels.

Jim M.
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I want to thank you for being my personal trainer for the past 6 months. I have learned a lot about using weights in my own exercise program, proper lifting techniques, stretching, and more holistic treatment options for maintaining health.  I notice a difference in how I feel since I've been working with you, and have recently seen visible improvements in my cholesterol.  My levels have been in the high 100's for a few years now, and since I've been working with you, my cholesterol has dropped over 30 points! I hope to be off my cholesterol medicine soon.

Cam T., RN, April 2010
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I have been working with Kirk for the past four months.  On a one-to-one basis, he functioned as my personal trainer.  I found him to be very knowledgeable regarding physical activity, nutrition and physical fitness.  He was amazing at judging a client's endurance, basic muscle tone and required nutritional needs.  He took me from a very out of shape desk jockey of 20 years, then developed a personal training program by gradually adding additional exercises and weights for me to achieve greater endurance and stamina.  Kirk is a true motivator in getting me from someone that has very limited exercise routine to meeting him 3 times a week for a full workout.  He was patient at all times, and has a very engaging manner which puts the client at ease and motivated from the start.

The results are that I have lost body fat and gained muscle.  I am now wearing suites that have been in the back of the closet because I could not fit into them.  My stamina and strength has returned to a level I have not experienced in over a decade.  The biggest result is that I still go to the fitness center 3 times a week and continue to physical routine developed by Kirk.

I feel that Kirk would be a great asset to any client or organization and I recommend him without any reservation.  If you are looking for a personal trainer or if you are looking for an individual to be part of a fitness organization, you have the best choice in Kirk Orelup.

Joe M., April 2010
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I want to thank you for your services as my personal fitness trainer.  I was very pleased with the experience and feel that the investment into my health was worth every cent and more.  I have much more confidence now to maintain good health in the future due to your thorough efforts to educate me about the science of exercise and nutrition.  I was very impressed with your patience when teaching me how to lift weights.  I learned more about my muscles, how they work, and how to avoid injury than I ever imagined.  I felt a great deal of confidence with you because of your sincere concern about my overall well being, which I perceive you hold not just for your clients but for everyone you know.

Thank you again.  The experience helped me to improve many areas important to my health.  I really feel that you went the extra mile, far beyond my expectations. I also appreciate your flexibility with regard to my schedule.  I will gladly refer you to everyone I know.

Yolanda M., May 2010
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I trained with Kirk Orelup for 2 weeks, getting ready for a one week "Habitat type" trip to Biloxi, Miss.  He gave very good instruction and was never critical or judgmental.  His added information on healthy eating was helpful. I would highly recommend using his services and knowledge.

Leah C., June 2010
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Kirk Orelup is true professionalism.

Not only is Kirk compassionate about his clients, he is excellent at adapting to their needs.

After losing my first trainer, [she] felt Kirk would be a good fit for me. I believe his is the best fit I could have asked for.

Thank you for building my confidence in the future.

Daniel D., June 2010
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I had torn a ligament in one of my fingers and had to wear a brace around it for six weeks. I was frustrated lifting weights, knowing what I was doing was probably making my injury worse. I knew I needed help in adjusting my weight training to my injury....

When I approached Kirk, he wanted me to show him what I was doing and make a plan from that; however, I got a lot more than just that.  In talking with him, I learned his fitness approach focused on the whole person. He promotes wellness with educating his clients on core, balance, strength, stretching and nutrition.  His approach wanted me to commit to a healthier lifestyle.  I wasn't looking for all of this, but it was exactly what I needed.

Kirk was very creative in the workouts by including traditional type of exercises along with newer exercises that combined various muscle groups that I had never done before.  He did this while having to adjust to my hand brace, which was definitely a challenge to work with.  Kirk even brought his own bands from home to help me.  After my brace came off, he then adjusted the exercises and weights to keep me progressing in our workouts.  He always had a plan written on my chart and was diligent about recording my performance.... I was an athlete growing up and continued to exercise all of my adult life.  In just turning fifty years old, I have never felt so good.

I would not hesitate to recommend Kirk to any person looking for a personal trainer.  He was creative, encouraging and professional and is looking to make positive changes in peoples lives.

Sandra M., July 2010
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Kirk Orelup has been my personal trainer since the summer of 2010. I had to switch over to Kirk when my previous trainer went back to school.  I could not be happier with Kirk's training and my progress overall.  Kirk is a smart trainer, highly responsive to your individual abilities, and considerate of your limitations.  In my opinion, Kirk recognizes and respects the mind-body connection which shapes his training and as a result he delivers better workouts.

Kirk has helped me improve my overall health, by which I mean strength, endurance, muscle tone, and outlook in a short amount of time.

I have and will continue to recommend Kirk to others.

I highly urge you to consider him if you are looking to change your state of fitness for the better.

Laura G., December 2010
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Regarding a Nutrition/Health Presentation to a Team of 60 Sixth-Graders:

When I called to ask whether someone could come and give a presentation about heart health, sleep, nutrition, and exercise, Kirk was more than willing to present.  I sent him a list of the areas that I wanted him to discuss, and he made a very thorough and informative presentation for our students.

Kirk created a beautiful Powerpoint presentation and a handout for the students.  He was patient with the students and willing to answer all of their questions.

I would recommend Kirk Orelup for a presentation in the future.

Jill B., Sixth Grade Teacher, March, 2011
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It is my pleasure to recommend Kirk.  I signed up for the personal training classes and found Kirk to be a great motivator for me.  He was key to my staying with the program.  I found him to be a very well-rounded trainer.  He helped me focus not only on my body mechanics and exercise, but also on my nutrition/eating habits.

I work long hours and my daily schedule is unpredictable. Kirk helped me stay on track by being very accommodating to my schedule.  It was much appreciated and necessary for my business and my desire to continue with the training.

I also was pleasantly surprised when my sessions were over to find that he had prepared a follow-up work out plan for me to help me with my long term success at hopefully staying more physically fit.

Jared F., March 2011
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I trained with Kirk to prepare to complete the Hustle Up the Hancock, a race where runners climb all 94 flights of stairs up to the top of the Hancock building. For three months he helped me strengthen my lower body, upper body, and core so that I could successfully accomplish my goal--and it worked!  While it was one of the hardest physical challenges I have ever attempted, my body was ready.  I credit this to Kirk's knowledge, patience, and support.

One of Kirk's strengths as a trainer is his patience. I always felt challenged by the exercises he taught me and the circuits became harder and harder as I grew stronger.  He knows how to put you right outside of your comfort zone--the place that is difficult to take yourself but the only place you can ever get results! Just as I would begin to feel comfortable with an exercise or weight, he would adapt it to make it more challenging.  This allowed me to not only get stronger physically, but mentally as well.  There was never time to settle in or get too comfortable. Instead, the change and continuous encouragement to progress kept me constantly challenged.

I recommend Kirk to train anyone.  After I raced in the Hustle, I came back and told Kirk, "You know what you're doing," and I stand by that!  He is a knowledgeable, patient trainer who is interested in creating healthy, strong people.

Samantha M., April 2011
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I would like to take this opportunity to recommend Kirk Orelup who was my professional personal trainer.  Working with Kirk was a wonderful experience.  His knowledge of fitness and nutrition helped me enormously.  I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical to work with him, but I found it to be fun and effective! After only a few sessions, my strength had increased and results were visual.  His patience and positive attitude is a great asset to his willingness to work with his clients at their individual levels.

I would recommend Kirk to absolutely anyone.  He is a compassionate trainer who truly cares about his clients.  Furthermore, he puts extra time and effort into assuring you receive maximum benefits.  I can't thank Kirk enough for what he has done for me.  He helped changed my life in more ways than he knows.  I credit my new healthy and fit lifestyle to Kirk!

Helen V., January 2011
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My upper body strength, particularly my arms and hands, were becoming weak to the point that I was dropping things.  This was a result from a prior cervical disc injury which I had suffered in 2007.  I was a little reluctant about working out and concerned that I could further injure myself and make things worse.  I had already been under the care of prior physicians and performed physical therapy at another facility and it did not really help.  The weakness and neck pain had become something that I just learned to deal with for the last few years.  However, I was pleasantly surprised when I met Kirk.  He was kind and personable and really listened very patiently to all my concerns regarding my injuries.  He proceeded with a full assessment.... 

Kirk modified a routine for me that not only met my individual needs but most importantly, he made sure to stop me while preforming each exercise to correct my form so that I would not risk any further injury.  He really cares and takes pride in the work he does.... 

I have since completed all my sessions with Kirk and can tell you I stick to the routine that he taught me, always keeping in mind the lessons he taught about posture, technique and making sure to fuel my workout with whole healthy food.  I feel better and stronger than I have in years. My neck pain has almost completely ceased and I am not dropping things anymore.  I sleep better, feel less stressed and the change in my body is just an added bonus.  Whether you are looking for weight loss, strength/conditioning or like me suffered from pain due to old injuries, I really would like to recommend that you give Kirk a try.  You will not be disappointed.

Margaret S., RN, February 2012
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I highly recommend Kirk Orelup as a personal trainer.  I worked with Kirk for three months.  Only my departure from the area ended my training.

Kirk began with the basics of stretching followed by base lining my level of weight training.  During the time I received training, I was able to maintain a regular 3x per week schedule, increase the amount of weight being lifted and increase my measured lean mass. Each session varied to avoid over working any specific muscle group. Thanks to Kirk I was able to establish a very solid foundation to my exercise. No matter where I go, I look forward to applying what I have learned in the future.

Bill B., April 2012
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I approached Kirk because I was experiencing a long standing problem with my lower back and I had a five day backpacking trip planned into the Grand Canyon in October 2011 and felt no where near in shape for such a trip.  I noticed that Kirk was known as a Master Trainer with kettlebells which interested me very much for the functional aspect of trying to get ready for my trip. Kirk thoroughly evaluated me and coached me through more foundational exercises teaching me how to move pain free.  Within a couple of weeks I was able to perform squats, lunges, and deadlifts without pain. This was not possible before.  As the foundational training continued strengthening my core and as I began learning how to engage multiple muscle groups, Kirk eased me into training with kettlebells.  At first sight of performing the kettlebell exercises, I wondered how I would be able to complete these without injury.  Kirk safely monitored my progress and I eventually was completing lengthy kettlebell sets with heavy weights without the worry of injury.

Consequently, I completed a very strenuous, exhilarating and successful 5000 feet descent and climb out of the Grand Canyon feeling stronger than I have in years and no injuries.  Without the professional, very knowledgeable coaching from Kirk, I am certain I would not have succeeded without issue.  I continued to train with Kirk longer than I originally planned because of my continued improvement in my cardio, strength, and greater range of motion. I am still without low back issues and pain free thanks to Kirk.

If I had to describe Kirk, I would use such adjectives as professional, extremely knowledgeable with his anatomy and fitness training, conscientious, reliable, and excellent communicator.  With Kirk's skills I would definitely consider him a viable asset for any organization.  Kirk cares about his own health and projects that caring to his clients and fellow staff as evident by the many positive comments and feedback from his other clients.

Craig B., manager of a hospital-based fitness center, April 2012
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I want to take a minute to express my thanks and gratitude for the training you provided me on the kettlebells. In the 2 months that I did the training, I really feel I made great progress in terms of ability, technique and strength. Even though it was somewhat difficult at the time, your commitment to instilling the proper technique really helped me in the long run.

Mike H., April, 2012
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Kirk Orelup, master physical trainer, has been my trainer for the past several months preparing me for a physical agility test for the fire department testing. The test I needed to take required one to wear a 50 lb vest while going through a series of physical exercises including a 3 story stair climb, a 50 lb tool carry of 100 ft, a ladder climb, a charged hose drag of 50 ft, a 180 lb dummy drag of 100 ft, along with 2 additional upper body strength exercises. To pass the test, all exercises had to be completed, in succession, in 7 minutes or less. Thanks to Kirk Orelup, the test for me was a great success! He focused on core and total body strength instead of focusing on specific muscle groups in the body.

Kirk truly is a master in his trade. He devotes the time needed to you by personalizing a program that will best suit your needs and goals. When I first approached him about my physical goals, he also did some research, calling firefighters he know to see what would be the best physical aspects to focus on. Not only will he educate you on physical fitness, but he will also guide you in nutrition to make you feel better and perform better. He keeps you accountable for what you're putting in your body, and how the foods you consume make you feel ...

Throughout our time working together, a personal relationship developed and made the experience more enjoyable and certainly more memorable! His mission to help people live healthier lives also stretches beyond the gym. Hosting rafting trips to Wisconsin is just one way he motivates people to live active lives. I would recommend Kirk to anyone looking to not only look better, but to feel healthier and to make healthier choices, and reach any physical goal or challenge that you face!  ...

If it were not for all of his time, dedication, and expertise, I know my success on the fire fighter physical test would not have been possible! Thank you Kirk for all of your help you have given me and continue to give!

Katie K., June 2012
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Kirk is an excellent trainer. I have learned through my sessions with him that he truly cares about his clients and their goals. No matter what insecurities I had he made me feel totally comfortable training with him. I am glad I chose him for my trainer and feel like I have made a friend for life with him.

Sophia N., October 2012
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I hired Kirk to get me into shape and to lose some weight before both my sons got married in the summer of 2010. I have a bad back and Kirk was very aware of my issues and found exercises I could tolerate and not hurt myself. He was patient and knowledgeable. He truly understood what was the best plan for my body and its issues. I did lose weight and looked great on both wedding days. I appreciated all the time he spent with me.

Debbie M., October 2012
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Kirk brings a serious yet humorous approach to fitness training and wellness. He is also leading edge -- he introduced kettlebells and other innovative strength and cardio tools to the gym well before they became standard equipment. He is very selfless with his advice about correct training form and procedures and in sharing encouragement. For anyone -- beginner or more seasoned individual -- seeking a mature, capable and creative physical trainer, Kirk is an excellent and recommended choice.

Jim L., October 2012
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Kirk is a very experienced trainer. He is someone who can provide the right type of training to suit the individual. He has the technical knowledge, plus the ability to explain everything in a clear and precise manner. Highly endorsed, both as a trainer, and as a great person to be with.

Alan C., Police Detective, October 2012
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While a student at College of Lake County, I worked with Kirk at Fitness 19. I was able to shadow him in his job as fitness trainer, and then train a number of clients under his supervision. Also, after seeing Kirk train clients in using kettlebells during their workouts, I was able to become certified under him as a kettlebell fitness trainer, through the World Kettlebell Club. Through working with Kirk on a regular basis for two semesters, I have found that he is very capable in his field, as well as professional in all of his interactions with clients and staff. I would highly recommend him as a trainer who puts the needs of clients first and is skilled at helping them reach their fitness potential.

Corrina W., February 2013
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Kirk was very knowledgeable about the work out plan he constructed. It was very challenging, but yielded great results. I would recommend Kirk to anyone.

LaMar B., February 2013
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Kirk Orelup of Fireside Fitness will inspire you to change and reach your goals and improve your life. He blends knowledge from training in a variety of methods from martial arts to kettlebells with wisdom that comes from experience.

Kirk walks the talk. He believe in whole healthy living in mind, body, and spirit and lives it! This is why he is quietly very motivating.

Kirk helped me increase my fitness by getting challenging workouts without wiping me out. I've increased my strength, lost weight, and feel good about my body again.

I highly recommend Kirk Orelup as your fitness consultant.

Brenda Zagula, Owner of Living Well Physical Therapy, April 2013
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I want to thank you for your awesome training services, knowledge, and friendly conversations. It was an absolute joy to work with you. It isn't often that I get exactly the service I'm seeking (especially without any type of referral from another person). Fireside Fitness, however, is exactly what I was looking for. The training I received from you is more than I ever expected. I very much appreciate your patience and expertise as you worked with me and planned workouts to fit my needs.

I look forward to continuing my workouts at home...remembering to "dig in my heels," "power through my legs," "keep my back straight," "find the correct muscle," "don't let my knees go over my feet," etc. Whether I demonstrated it or not, I was actively listening... Now, I have to hold myself accountable! I had to start somewhere and couldn't have asked for a better starting place. Thanks for getting me pointed in the right direction. It's crazy that a mere 8 weeks was a life-changing experience for me. 

You are very good at what you do; you make the world a better, healthier place to be.

Thanks again for everything!! Health and Happiness,

Jennifer H., August 2014
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I recently had the opportunity to work with Kirk Orelup for his Kettlebell Certification. What I enjoyed about the course was Kirk's attention to detail. He explained all of the cues for each movement very well, and was patient with me during my attempts to lean the movements correctly. I highly recommend this to any fitness professional who would like to teach kettlebell training to their clients, with the highest regard to safety. I am very happy with my purchase.


Matt H., ISSA Certified Personal Trainer, August 2014
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