|
 SATISFIED CUSTOMERS SPEAK OUT
Below is a small sampling of individuals who've experienced amazing results with Mike's program. His simple, yet effective methods have worked for thousands.
Mike's the best thing that's ever happen to my training regimen. I've dropped over 50 pounds in 6 months, and my co-workers don't recognize me. For the first time in my life, I've got real muscles (and the strength to go with it)! I'm looking forward to attending the fire academy, I know I'll be ready.
John M.
Police Officer/Firefighter Candidate
I took a CPAT for a local department and aced in in 11 minutes (I needed to do it in 14 minutes to qualify). My strength and endurance, especially grip strength, have soared. Thanks Mike!
Melissa B.
Firefighter / Fire Academy Instructor
As a competitive swimmer and lifeguard, I've kept myself in top shape all my life. Mike's firefighter specific training has opened up a whole new way for me to build the advanced strength and endurance I needed.
Ashley H.
Lifeguard / Firefighter Candidate
After 2 children, my body just wasn't the same. I needed something to get back that old gymnast figure, I found it in Mike's personalized approach to every aspect of my training. From state of the art workouts, to nutritional advice, Mike had all the answers. I'm back in my "skinny clothes" after a few short months.
Maryanne V.
Mother of 2 / Domestic Engineer
Thanks to Mike, I aced the FDNY physical and got through the academy with no problem. I'm now working in a firehouse in Queens, living my dream.
Rob B.
Firefighter, FDNY
Over the last 10 years I managed to pack on 50 extra pounds. But on Mike's program I dropped over 35 pounds in only 3 months, and still build real strength and endurance. Try that on Atkins!
John M.
Paramedic
I didn't have the upper body strength to complete 2 pull ups but after completing Mike's program, I graduated top 5 in my class of over 300. Today, I'm working in one of the busiest firehouses in the city, and loving every minute of it.
Anthony V.
Firefighter/FDNY
Mike's training principles, patience, and ability to mold a program to my needs is what's really made the difference. My much lighter, stronger body got over that six foot fence and I never looked back.
Kaitlin P.
NYPD Candidate
After a year training on my own, I hit a brick wall. I couldn't lose that last ten pounds and my workouts were getting really stale. Mike changed all that with his innovative, time-saving approach. I'm now stronger and leaner than ever.
Ginny C.
Small Business Owner
I'd been trying to lose a few pounds, while nursing and old knee injury. Mike's program taught me how to get a good workout, and ultimately strengthen my knees. I'm now 4 dress sizes down and feeling great!
Sue J.
Accountant
Mike's the best thing that's ever happen to my training regimen. I've dropped over 20 pounds in 2 months, and my co-workers don't recognize me. For the first time in my life, I've got real muscles (and the strength to go with it)! I'm looking forward to attending the fire academy, I know I'll be ready.
John M.
NYPD/Firefighter Candidate
I quit smoking and suddenly felt I needed Weight Watchers, but thank God I found Mike. His approach to fitness lets me eat more, workout less, and still get great results. It's only a month now, but my body is already starting to change. I can't wait for my next workout!
JoAnne F.
Nurse
I'm a graduate of Mike's Fire Academy Prep program. After acing the academy, I made my way right back to Mike and his original and state-of-the-art techniques. His programs keep me fit and ready for anything that might face a New York city firefighter.
Matt O.
Firefighter/FDNY
I hate exercise, but Mike has shown me how to actually enjoy my workouts. His programs are dynamic, original, and FUN. I'm finally losing weight thanks to consistency in the gym. Wow!
Anne P.
Academic Professional
BACK TO TOP OF PAGE
A Note of Thanks
Hi Mike,
I'm writing a quick note of thanks for the advice and knowledge I obtained from your workout program. Myself, my wife, and my 9-year old daughter all thank you.
At age 39, I've been a volunteer firefighter for many years. I have been using your workout and eating right for the last 16 weeks. As a result, for the first time in my 39 years, I am seeing excellent results in body shape and strength.
I used your motivation to quit smoking, get in shape, and apply for career firefighter positions. I took a C-PAT this past weekend, completed it in 5:36, and was given an interview on the spot.
Yours is the first program I've seen that takes the mystery out of fitness. I'm telling everyone who asks about my results to get on your workout.
Once again thank you,
FF Tom Day
Eternally Grateful
Hello Mike,
I'm checking in regarding the custom workout I have been doing for the past 5 weeks. I love everything about it! I get to the gym 3 times a week for a strenuous workout, and walk on my days off. My diet is changing and I make it a point to go out and purchase healthier foods, and keep a chart to ensure that I am drinking at least 12-cups of water every day! My eternal thanks goes out to whatever forces led me to this website.
Thanks for your time,
Ashley Norgart
35 y/o Single, Working Mom Loses 30 Pounds
Dear Michael,
I'd never exercised before, and my experience with diets have been nothing but negative... Then I found the DesignONLINE plan. With Mike's program, I was able to fit exercise AND eating right into my incredibly busy schedule, and still lose weight while getting back my muscle tone. WOW!
Thanks Again,
Michele Jones
40 y/o Busy Professional Gets His Life Back
Hi Mike,
Suddenly I found myself working 60 hour weeks, too exhausted to pay attention to diet or exercise, and 50 pounds overweight. Mike's program provided quick results in the privacy and convenience of my own home. I learned what to eat and how to exercise for my body type... and it worked! I'm now on the maintenance program after losing almost 50 pounds of fat.
Forever Grateful,
Jeffrey Raymond
A Letter From a Doctor
Dear Michael,
I want to thank you for taking the time to put together the Firefighter's Workout. I am a practicing physician who uses regular exercise as part of my regimen for stress reduction and general fitness. I have been exercising regularly for more than 25 years.
I am very much impressed by your choice of exercises and your foresight in hitting the major muscle groups. You seem to provide guidance on form for the beginner and challenges for the experienced--no mean feat!
I especially like your emphasis on warming up, on stretching throughout, and on cooling down at the end. I really feel that you have put together a balanced, sensible workout that is approachable and a real boon for people with busy schedules, who must exercise efficiently. Thanks so much for this contribution to all of us, done in memory of New York's bravest and finest!
Sincerely,
Cynthia B. Stevens, M.D.
Learn more about Captain Mike's Custom Workouts: CLICK HERE
Personalized Program Success
Since I purchased your personalized program, I was able to drop my gym membership and work out at home. I haven't lost a ton of weight yet, (5 pounds in two weeks) but it's a start. The thing I like about your program is that is makes it clear that you don't need a ton of fancy equipment to get the job done, you just need the right information and motivation. Thanks for everything!
Doug Parson
Mechanicsburg PA
Fire Chief Loses 31 Pounds
I purchased the Firefighter's Workout Book and used it to developed a fitness program that worked for me. I like the straightforward no nonsense information. I am 45 years old and have been a career firefighter for 22 years. I have been overweight and out of shape for too long. I now have lost 31 pounds and I am within 15 pounds of my goal. I am in better shape now than I have been in twenty years and I feel great. Thanks for the help.
Byron Anderson,
Chief Plainfield Fire Department, Indiana
I went from 218 to 185
I just wanted to thank you for all the work you did on your book. I have been working out and doing different exercise programs since I graduated from college 7 years ago, but a lot of your suggestions definitely helped accelerate my progress. In the last year I went from 218 to 185 poundsand lost about 6 inches off the waist. I'm 6'2 so it never seemed to be that big a deal, (that I was overweight) but I'm in much better shape now and can see a big difference. In the meantime, thanks for the help in achieving some fitness goals.
Firefighter Candidate, Jim Chern
New York
I Lost 16 Lbs in 2 Months
I have been faithful about working out at least 2-3 days a week using The Firefighter's Workout. I have lost 16 pounds in 2 months, and I just wanted to thank you. I have to admit, the first time I did the workout I thought, this is too easy to work, but it has!
Denise
Captain Al's Story
Thanks for showing us the way to becoming fit firefighters, and individuals.
My name is Albert Craven. I am a firefighter / captain with the Calcium Fire District in New York. My friend and I were on the heavy side, and because of us being interior firefighters, we knew we had to to something about our weight, so we bought your book six months ago. Between him and I following your program we have lost 78 pounds together. Thanks for showing us the way to becoming fit firefighters, and individuals.
Capt.Albert M. Craven
Calcium Fire District, New York
Brian's Story
A letter from a true hero
My name is Brian Hickingbottom, I am in the United States Air Force. I recently did a tour in the middle east for Operation Enduring Freedom, I am a volunteer firefighter in Missouri. Before leaving to the desert I went to the gym maybe 2 times a week. My partner on the fire department showed me a couple of the work out steps in your book.
I was deployed on the 25th of September I weighed 221 pounds. While I was in the desert my partner Drew, emailed me some pics and work out routines from your book. To make a long story short I came home from the war on January 18, 2002, I have lost 24 pounds. I now weigh 197, and I feel good about my body, And more fit and in shape to do what I love the best -- firefighting. Thanks for letting me share my story.
Brian Hickingbottom
Firefighter/EMT
Knob Noster Fire Department
Knob Noster, Missouri
Learn more about Captain Mike's Custom Workouts: CLICK HERE
Emily's Story
When I turned 40 I decided that I did not want to continue gaining 10 pounds every year.
I began a strength training routine. Sure the benefits for a woman are increased muscle mass and hopefully, less chance of bone density loss. I began my routine with better health in mind. I liked the changes but I could not shape my abs like I wanted. I found the Firefighter's Workout, with the 5-minute ab work out. The more I used it the tighter and more defined my abs became. I was very pleased with myself but not so much as when I started marching band camp in July.
I teach high school and image is everything to the teenagers. At band camp I wore the midriff-baring tops popular this summer. My color guard were so proud of me. They kept telling me that I looked great. Thanks to a few minutes three or four nights a week my energy level is high, I eat better because my body does not crave fats and sweets, and I feel more self-confident. I went from a size 14 to a size 6 in 12 months. I realized just how much I had changed after beginning school when teachers would stop me in the hall and ask how I had shaped up. I was happy to share my "secret" with them. Persistence, patience, and a great program! Thanks for all your help.
Emily Neely
Smyrna, Tennessee
BACK TO TOP OF PAGE
Mrs. Johnson's Story
Dear Sir, I was thrilled to find your website.
I found your book in the library last spring and it saved the day for my mother, a cancer survior!
Briefly, she had started working with a personal trainor at a club and after a year was feeling so defeated. Overweight for years and dealing with past chemo and radiation treatments had depleated her spirits. We had been so proud of her commitment to her work out days, but things were not progressing- YOUR book especially the sections on evaluating your routine and trainor were key in helping us with a serious problem.
We discovered her personal trainor had this unlikely, unknowing grandmother doing POWER training!!! She was just about to give up, when I happened on your book, and read through it.
I knew it had exactly the answers we needed and just in time --definitely a blessing! She started on a different routine without the "trainor", and is making much progress -- healthy, happy, and stronger every day.
We were horrified on September 11 and also felt a special connection after reading the stories in your book about fiefighters. We discussed how much that book had made a postive impact in our lives, the encouragement and direction, and we sadly didnt know if there was ever a way to say "THANK YOU", even checking FDNY websites for info from time to time. So just today, I found this link and am joyful to be able to tell my grandmother that you are safe and still in the business of helping others.
Our heartfelt prayers, thanks, and appreciation for all firefighters!
Mrs. WH Johnson
Mtgy,Alabama
Highly Effective
I've been using Capt. Stefano's video workout for a month now. When I began I was a bit doubtful, but even after just a month the results are amazing. Yes, the 'Proby' workout may seem basic, but basic is good when it comes to exercise - the muscle groups that are targeted are necessary for the day to day physical requirements of fire/rescue.
The 'Salty Dog' workout is a step up and as Capt. Stefano suggests, may be alternated with the 'Proby' workout. I plan on staying with the 'Proby' workout for at least another month before introducing the 'Salty Dog' workout into my pattern.
I highly suggest this workout to anybody. I have noticed marked improvement on the job as a Firefighter/Emt - I credit this to Capt. Stefano's excellent routine. Some have commented on it's simplicity, but I think that's what sold it for me. In this case, these 'simple' exercises may be just that, but they are also extremely effective.
Troy S. Nies
Killdeer, North Dakota
Derek's Story
I just wanted to write you to thank you.
When I first became a volunteer firefighter in 1993 I was in excellent shape. I worked out five days a week for about two hours and looked and felt great. Over the years I had let my fitness levels slide, justifying each slide with excuses.
Several times over the years I have tried to lose weight, but never stuck with it. Your book and the advice to make a lasting change helped greatly. I realize that this is what I want to do, forever. Other than the committment to my family, I don't think that I had ever made that type of change. It sure feels good.
People have been telling me how good I look, especially my wife, I have a great deal more energy and I feel great! My peak weight was 195. I am down to 165 so I am much more proportioned for my 5' 6" frame.
Thank you for helping me make the greatest change in my life. As a father, I cannot guarantee that I will always be around to spend time with my son, but I have increased the probability greatly. This means everything to me. I wish you the best of luck on the job and hope that you are safe. The service that you have done the fire service is immeasureable.
Sincerely,
Firefighter Derek Callahan
Boeing Helicopters Fire Dept.
John's Story
I got the Firefighter's Workout Book and have used it for about 6-8 weeks.
I was already starting a fitness program about 6 months prior, but I noticed an incredible difference in using the Firefighter's Workout just a few times a week. The great thing is that, even when I only have enough time for a short workout, I seem to be able to get the maximum benefits using the principles in the book. Little by little, I'm moving from a fat gut to being slim and trim!
John Centofanti
BACK TO TOP OF PAGE
Lorry's Story
At age 37, a wife, a mother of three young boys, working a part time job
...who thought there would ever be the time to exercise and get back the shape I have longed for. Shopping, my husband and I came across The Firefighter's Workout Book, and we decided to give it a try. It has been close to three months now that we've been doing this workout, and find it to fits right into our very busy schedules. Not only have both my husband and I lost weight, we have gained muscle, energy, and the knowledge on how to stay lean and fit for the rest of our lives.
We workout at home with the basic equipment that we had down our basement, for short periods of time, without having to get a babysitter, and have seen remarkable results. My husband says my body looks even better then before I had my boys, and he too looks great! If we could do it, anyone can. Buy this book!!
Lorry Anniston
New Hyde Park, NY
Learn more about Captain Mike's Custom Workouts: CLICK HERE
Dawn's Story
Me and a few guys from the firehouse used the book.
I bought the book at the Baltimore convention, I feel great. Me and a few guys from the firehouse used the book. We meet every other day at my house in my basement, I have a small gym. We all love it. we are a volunteer company, so we never know when we'll be called, this book helps a lot. I'm not out of breath as much as i used to be, thanks again.
Dawn Higgins
Jason's Story
I have been working out with the Firefighter's Workout for about two months now and have lost 20 Lbs.
It is one of the easiest workouts I have done because it is not too intense, and after your done your muscles do not hurt for days after, like a normal workout routine.
I am a volunteer firefighter and Mr. Stefano is right, you do need all of the endurance that you can get. Everyone at my firehouse uses the routine, and are getting amazing results.
Thank You,
Jason Gilbert
Thanks Mike
Mike, just wanted to thank you for a great book. It was given to me as a gift and I have followed your program since feb. of this year. I'm proud to tell you that I lost 45lbs, 4 inches in the waist and haven't felt this good in ten years!
As a fire chief I felt I was disgracing our profession by being so out of shape, lead by example I guess is the rule here. Thanks again for the training info. and updates.
Mike Sonefeld
Irmo Fire District
Chief Whalen's Story
My name is Rick Whalen, Chief of Woodward Twp VFC, a small dept in central Pennsylvania. I have been following your program for about 6 months and what a difference. With the workout I have lost approx 25 pounds and two inches around the waist, and in the meantime bulking up my upperbody.
Rick Whalen
Linden, Pennsylvania
Tracy's Story
I just came across your website via AOL Fitness Tips. What great information you have on getting fit! I used to exercise regularly, however, I let my busy life take over for little time or desire to exercise. Now, I can do these quick exercises in the morning while I am getting ready! It's amazing how one can put makeup on and do the kickbacks at the same time! I am making time for it all now!
Thank you Mike! May God continue to bless you in all that you do.
Tracy Burke
Oklahoma City!
Jay's Story
My name is Jay Sarno. I started as a volunteer firefighter for the Linwood, NJ Fire Department (LFD) in Oct. 2001, yes, right after the massacre at WTC.
When starting as a probie, I weighed 220-225 and felt I was in OK shape as I windsurf 3-5 hours per week. I was unhappy that I had gained 20+ since September and wished to lose that extra and get to under 200 lbs. by the end of February 2002.
Right prior to joining LFD, I felt the need to get in better shape and I found your book/DVD. After joining the LFD, I was asked by one of my fellow firefighters to play hockey with other firefighters, cops and locals. Since I had not skated in a while, I felt I might be biting more than I could chew, but I opted to say yes. The first night skating, I thought I was going to throw-up. Indeed, I wanted to throw-up. In addition to my stomach ache, I had a headache, and me heart was racing.
I got through the night without throwing-up, mostly because I figured I would be in for quiet a ribbing from my fellow firefighters. The next night, I started a running program, based on your books ideas. I also supplemented my 15 minute runs with strength workouts focusing on my arms/upper body. I also adopted a stairs routine where I wear my Turnout gear and began doing 5 minutes of stairs (60 steps per minute).
With the running and additional training, its was remarkable, but my stamina improved. So much so, I can skate very hard for the duration of the hockey game and not feel a bit of pain the next day. I am also following your hydration suggestions and water pack my body on hockey game nights.
The results have been great! Last week we had our SCBA (self contained breathing apparatus) I drill. One of the exercises was set up run 10-15 minutes and cause our low-air warings to activate. I was the only person in class to NOT hit a low-air warning. The drill instructor thought my equipment was malfunctioning and when he read my gauge showing I had nearly 50% of my tank left, he said "You must be in great shape! You are the first FFI trainee to ever in my 8 years of training NOT to suck up all your air.
Not bad for a 40+ year old FFI trainee competing with mostly under 25 year olds.
Thanks, and keep up the good work
Jay Sarno
FF#26 - LFD
BACK TO TOP OF PAGE
Learn more about Captain Mike's Custom Workouts: CLICK HERE
|