Client Testimonials | Element Fitness

Ginny Wilson

As a mom of young children beginning a postpartum journey for the 3rd time in less than a 5 year stretch, I was looking for a place to get back in shape and have some time for me. At element fitness, I found that but I also found so much more! Drew, Brittany and the coaches have cultivated an atmosphere that truly feels like family. I have felt just as encouraged on my first successful attempt at a new move or new PR as I have if I have completed those same reps 100 times. Not only the encouragement, but the education! I have learned how to properly count and track macros, the importance of protein in my diet, the effectiveness of weight training for women and it’s importance (multiple reasons). My goals have changed because my mindset has changed— and I could say so much about this, but I’ll keep it simple: the skinniest version of myself is not the healthiest version of myself. The fittest version of myself is what I’m chasing.. not a number on a scale. Do I have physical goals? Absolutely. But a healthy mindset around those goals 😊 Lastly, people often ask me, how do you find the time and energy to workout with a full time job and 3 children? I definitely don’t want to boast in myself or my abilities, but I will argue that making time by sacrificing something else is worth it to me. We all have the same amount of time in a day, and while my life may look different than yours, I’m certain you’re probably giving time to things that you believe are worth it, and my kids will not be my excuse— actually, they’re quite the opposite. They’re a motivation ❤️ My mental, physical and over all health is arguably better than it has ever been in my entire life, and I’m a better wife, mom, and all around person because of this place and these people! So come on, jump in! Let’s get stronger together 💪🏼

Emily Knerr

At age 6 I was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer, with a 96% mortality rate. 18 months later, after intense treatments and almost losing my life on multiple occasions, I was pronounced “cancer free.” I considered myself a survivor. Then, two days before my 13th birthday I relapsed. The cycle continued, intense chemotherapy and suffering, multiple major abdominal surgeries, remission, recovery. It was after this my mom encouraged me to get into running. She told me that that anyone can run. So I did, and I quickly fell in love. I loved everything about running. I loved how I felt after, I loved the community, and I loved sharing running with my running family. I ran all through middle school and highchool, even while on a maintenance chemo and undergoing many other health setbacks. Then, when I was 18, about to graduate, and at my peak fitness another tumor was found catapulting me backwards. I finished off my running career and had a final major abdominal surgery and then I was again pronounced cancer free.
Now, I’m 20 and a junior at UA. After graduation I was burnt out of running and wanted to try something new. My parents were both into CrossFit, and when I was home for the summer encouraged me to come with them. I then quickly fell in love with the change of pace. I loved feeling stronger and making improvements, even if they were small. When it came time to take the step to find a gym in Tuscaloosa, I was terrified. I wasn’t confident in my skills and I was nervous to not know anyone there. When I first walked into Element, I immediately lost all the nerves. I was greeted by the most welcoming and encouraging atmosphere. Drew has helped and encouraged me since the first day I walked in to Element and my skills have improved significantly. At Element Fitness, I have learned to be confident in my abilities, I’ve met new people, I live a more balanced life, and I’m stronger and healthier than I’ve ever been.

Harrison Allen

Hi, I’m Harrison Allen, a senior at the University of Alabama. A little over a year ago, I decided I needed a change from my lifestyle and my mundane gym routine. That’s when I found Element Fitness, and let me tell you, it has been life-changing. The daily competition initially drew me in, something I missed from playing sports my whole life. Little did I know that joining Element would lead to a cascade of positive changes beyond my imagination. Over a year, I’ve gotten my body and fitness into the best shape they have been in. I have also witnessed improvements in my sleep, recovery, and nutrition – elements I hadn’t fully appreciated until now. Yet, the true magic lies in the community at Element. This gym is not just a place to work out; it’s a place for genuine connections and friendships that I know will last a lifetime. In Tuscaloosa, Element has become my community outside the college scene. And let me give credit where credit is due – Drew, our Head coach. Drew is not just a coach; he’s a mentor, a motivator, and, honestly, the best in the business. Under his guidance, every workout becomes an opportunity for personal triumph, and I can confidently say that Element Fitness is 100% the best gym in T-Town. So, to anyone considering their fitness journey or a change from the same routine, Element Fitness is not just a gym; it’s a life-altering experience. From physical and mental transformation to building lasting friendships and finding a community that feels like home, Element has exceeded my expectations in every way possible.

Kiana Winston

If you were to ask me 2 years ago if I’d join a gym, I’d probably laugh and say no, especially after trying a class that pushed me to my limits. After doing gymnastics for 18 years, I took a break from working out every day. Here I am, coming up on my 2 year anniversary at Element Fitness… the gym I tried and said no to; I joined after trying it out one more time. Element Fitness has some of the best coaches and staff that instill a positive environment and atmosphere. I can do HIIT or CrossFit workouts, and each one comes with its challenges and allows me to push myself at my own pace. In addition, Element Fitness has broadened my Tuscaloosa Community and led me to establish more meaningful relationships. When I go too long without going to the gym, I feel like I’m missing something, and it’s my gym peeps. Element Fitness is a great gym that helps me take care of myself, and for that, I’m forever grateful! So, if you’re 2nd guessing joining a gym, try it once and then maybe try it again as I did, and you may find out you like it!

Ella Ahia

Getting told at 20 years old that I had two herniated discs in my lumbar spine was less than ideal. My life was flipped on its head in a moment and I had to learn how to live with the debilitating pain. I was a very active college student and exercise was my escape. Within a moment it had been taken from me. For months I had no outlet and simple tasks like putting on my socks were extremely painful. I thought I would never be able to workout and love the gym like I used to.

A few months after being released from doing nearly 15 months of physical therapy and moving to Tuscaloosa, I found the X4 classes at Element thanks to my friend, Caroline. It has changed my life in more ways than I can count. My physical and mental health have greatly improved in so many ways! The best thing about the X4 class is how easily I can modify the workouts to accommodate my back. I never have to worry about compromising what my discs are capable of handling, but I’m also able to really push myself and still get a great workout every time. Each of the incredible coaches have taken their time to help me modify or change exercises and the rotation of exercises keeps each class interesting. Element has been an answered prayer & a big blessing! It has helped me incorporate fitness back into my life and fall in love with working out all over again!

Valerie Holifield

For years, I was strictly a runner, I had always had ‘gymtemidation’. After some convincing, B signed me up for a free class. I had fun, and I kept showing up. I saw results, and found a new love for the process, and fell in love with the people of Element. It now feels like home, and the community feels like a family. It’s an environment you can’t help but smile at walking into even though you know you’re probably about to die in the work out. Now, as life changes I love watching my Daughter grow up in the gym and the community falls in love with her too.
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My success story is I was able to workout my entire pregnancy with her. When I found out I was pregnant something that was very important to me was continuing to go to the gym, staying active and work out as long as I can. I was determined to put an end to the myth that working out pregnant isn’t safe (as long as the doctor approves it). Lucky for me, I was able to do that until 39 weeks pregnant. My last work out was 3 days before we had Addie. As the weeks went on and movements got harder, the coaches were always willing to help me figure out safe alternatives and keep me motivated even if the goal for the day was just to simply keep moving. With the help of Element I discovered new limits and a new sense of self pride in my pregnancy. My hope was that putting the work in would result in an easier labor/delivery and postpartum recovery, and it did just that. The night we went into induce Brandon and I both went in with full confidence that I was physically prepared for this. I was having contractions I could hardly feel as a result of my core strength absorbing the shock, and once we got the epidural there were moments though I could not feel a thing, I was still able to engage the muscles in my legs to move however was necessary at the time. Not only did I surprise myself, but my Doctor and nurses too. I could not have been more proud of myself and my body. With Dr. Approval, I started back with going to Open Gym at 2.5 weeks postpartum, at 7 weeks I started PT recovery with Physiolete once a week and was back at x4 full time. Though the bounce back was not easy, and still has it challenges, working with a staff that educates on technique has been a huge help. I am now 8 months postpartum and THRIVING!! Working out now helps keep my sanity, wether I’m showing up solo, with a baby, or as a family of 3. It makes me goal oriented and driven, it’s my escape when needed; it gives me the physical and mental ability to keep up with my fast-paced life making me a better leader and person no matter what roll I’m in, partner, mom, boss and friend.