Client Testimonials

Named San Diego's Best Neighborhood Gym from OurCitySD.com

"I have been training with Larry at Island Fitness for 3 months. In the first month I began to see my body take on a new shape, I was slimming down, fat was being replaced by muscle - I was seeing muscle definition in places where I never had any before! Today I am on month 3 and am very excited about my results. I am extremely motivated to come into the gym and am even more excited to continue to see my "new body" appear!" - Janet, 45

"Island Fitness is the best gym I have ever been a member of. I love the low key atmosphere, the open air outside area, the fact that everyone is so friendly!" - Kelly, 28

"When I was on vacation, I worked out in one of those huge chain fitness clubs... I couldn't wait to get back home to my own gym! Island Fitness in Coronado has a relaxed atmosphere, there is never a wait for the cardio equipment and that uncomfortable big gym feeling is non-existent here - just friendly people working out!" - Amanda, 34

I enjoy the clean, well maintained equipment and facilities of Island Fitness which is only topped by the friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff.

Island Fitness is a hidden gem and locals favorite, it is like cheers (where everyone knows your name) with workout machines instead of bar stools. I highly recommend Island Fitness to anyone! - Lou Milioti

As a member of Island Fitness for a couple of years, I am excited about the changes being implemented by the new ownership. Not only is the facility itself looking considerably upbeat, the change in attitude by bringing the membership new and varied fitness classes is much appreciated. I have always been a big fan of spinning with Jerry and Chelsea and personal training with Larry, but the choices for new classes and personal training opportunities are really starting to take off. Like all prospective members, I checked out all the various gym opportunities in Coronado and chose Island Fitness for the unique warm atmosphere and hospitality of the club and its members. With the attention to detail brought by the new owners, George and Natasha, the experience can only become even better from here! Best wishes for continued success. - Pen Wilson

I became a member of Island Fitness approximately 10 years ago. After 30 years of unidirectional movement (limited to forward motion) as a long-distance runner, I felt it a novel idea to introduce lateral challenges to the muscles. Moreover, I had completed the necessary research on the loss of muscle mass as we age and was focused on nipping that puppy in the bud at a young age!! I intended to initiate this new program with reduced risk of injury (and pain!) and thus solicited the assistance of the personal trainer present at that time at Island Fitness. After several sessions, he provided a variety of exercises that I could employ each time at the facility. I felt empowered!!! And my muscle groups were grateful. I noticed changes within a few weeks in terms of strength, mobility, flexibility and muscle tone. I was definitely morphing into a gym babe.

At the same time that I embarked on this physical fitness mission, with svelte and sinewy aspirations, I became quite attached to the members and staff at Island Fitness. There is a close, family-type environment in which people care about you, your family, and what is happening in your life. I have established solid friendships that transcend the time spent at the facility and we socialize in the evenings and on the weekends.

I began training sessions with Bret Smith, this past summer as I felt that I needed a change up in my routine and a few more challenges. I have been training with Bret at least once a week and the sessions he designs are exceptional. They are modeled to my individual abilities and style and at the same time they are challenging. Bret is extremely knowledgeable and educated in every aspect of physical fitness, exercise instruction, personal training and also nutrition. He is intuitive, recognizing each person’s strengths and areas that need improvements. He is sensitive and understanding, listens intently, and at the same time, encourages each athlete to extend his/her efforts to achieve new goals. Furthermore, he has an extraordinary sense of humor! Sessions are not only demanding but also enjoyable. Once again, I have noticed dramatic improvements in my body composition, strength, flexibility and balance. I intend on continuing sessions with Bret each week. - Linda Copp

Dr. Brené Brown is a researcher professor at the University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work, where she has spent the past ten years studying a concept she calls Wholeheartedness, posing the questions:

How do we engage in our lives from a place of authenticity and worthiness?

How do we cultivate the courage, compassion, and connection we need to embrace our imperfections, recognize we are enough -- we are worthy of love, belonging and joy?