Olivia
“I scheduled a consult with Lisa at Custom Fitness Specialists shortly after my sister began a competition prep with her. I had been a yo-yo “dieter” and “exerciser” for years without seeing the results I wanted. Inspired by the success my sister was having with Lisa, I checked out her group training. I was pleased to learn that she takes on clients at all fitness levels, not just those looking to compete. It did not take long for me to become *obsessed* with her workouts, the results I was feeling and seeing, and the people I now call my good friends. After only 6 months of consistent training and following the nutrition plan Lisa customized for my body, I felt ready to begin my own competition journey. Lisa believed in me every step of the way: from our initial consult to my first step on stage. I. don’t have enough good things to say about Lisa and the CFS family. They’ve changed my life for the better and I wouldn’t have wanted to go through this transformation with anyone else.”
Patty
“My transformation story…..it is really quite basic. I needed a new place to workout. My personal trainer at the time was expecting her first child and she worked out at CFS and was also one of Lisa’s competitors. She talked a lot about CFS during our workouts and so I decided to give it a try. My trainer told that the Lisa was great and the other people that trained there too were a lot of fun and would often hang out together outside of the gym. I told her, “I don’t need people, I need a gym.” Fast forward to a year later, I need my CFS people. I would not be as successful as I have been without them.
June 2017, I met with Lisa. She weighed and measured me. She got me set up with my macros. It was overwhelming at first. It still can be. I worked out a few time a week at first but that quickly turned into six days a week. With each passing workout, I met new people, heard their stories, saw their results. I really became intrigued with the competitors. I had a very distorted opinion about bodybuilders. I didn’t get it, especially as a woman. I could not wrap my mind around why a woman would want to do that…..and on purpose. I didn’t even consider it a sport. But, somehow, I got the idea in my head maybe I would want to compete but I didn’t want to share that. I didn’t want others to judge me. Then, one Saturday morning workout, a conversation was sparked between myself and two other ladies about competing and they told me I should go for it! They said they would be my biggest cheerleaders! I left that workout that morning knowing that I was going to do this. Those two women changed my life. They made me believe in myself. Those two “people” that I thought I didn’t need, I needed more than anything. I would have never had the conversation with Lisa if they didn’t lift me up and give me my final push. As word got around in the gym, that I was going to compete, everyone pushed and encouraged me to reach my goals. I have competed in two competitions and each and everyone of them was with me in my heart up there on stage.
I have had amazing results at CFS. I have dropped 18% body fat, almost 25 pounds. I look like I have never looked before. My confidence, determination and self image are on a whole new level. CFS has given me things I didn’t even know I needed…like people.
If you are looking for a gym you have a lot of options and a lot of great places to go, but if you are looking for a place to go and get excellent workouts with even better people, Custom Fitness Specialists is where you need to be.”
Jamaar
“I moved to Madison Wisconsin in January 2018. I told my self that I need to be healthy for my family. I truly felt like I was slowly dying. I noticed my weight continuing to rise and at the pace of my weight rising I didn’t know if I would be alive much longer. My family and I were in search for a home in Sun Prairie WI. Living in Sun Prairie WI would allow me to be close to work. I told my self that once we move I need to find something to do to get back in shape. I searched online trying to find a gym where I can be part of a group work out. I enjoy group training not only to meet people but also to build relationships with people that can hold me accountable to working out hard and eating healthier. After searching several fitness gyms I came across Custom Fitness Specialist (CFS). I will tell you that I was terrified to say the least. I was afraid of failure but I thought to myself why not just give it a try, I need to become healthier for my family. My first interaction with CFS was a consultation with one of CFS fitness coaches Ariel d Mierendorf. Let me tell you that once I entered the gym I was petrified. Ariel was very welcoming but was very intimidating to me. Ariel and I discussed some of my goals and we discussed how classes are ran. After my consultation, I drove home and I was thinking to myself that this is it, one last ditch effort to get healthy again. I recall meeting Lisa the owner of the gym for a 1 on 1 session and I am thinking to myself that this little lady is going to kill me… I couldn’t even make it through a 1 hour session. I literally had to stop working out after 45 minutes and I could barely walk out to my car to go home. But I continued to push through.
Since I began working out at CFS in September, I have gone from 333lbs and dropped 68lbs in 5 months. Lisa has a great team on her staff and I have been amazed of the results working out at CFS. CFS has taught me several things over the last 5 months on how to properly train but also how to balance the training with a healthy diet.
I know that I am doing some of the work myself but I can tell you that I was not able to shed this weight on my own. Shedding the weight and becoming healthier again was a team effort. I have to personally thank the staff at CFS but also I have to thank the 5:30 am class for encouraging me and pushing me to become a better person each day. I enjoy working out early and I am excited to see everyone during the 5:30 class. Everyone in the 5:30 am class all have one common goal and that is to become healthier people. Each morning we are pushing, encouraging, and hold each other accountable through the work out.
I know I still have a long way to go but I am truly blessed to have found CFS and I am honored to have built some great friendships along the way. Thank you CFS and I am excited to see more results in 2019. Keep up the great work everyone!”
Kirsten
“I turned 50 in July 2018 and had just completed grad school. I was overweight from sitting all the time to study and using food as a stress reliever and reward. I felt like I was 70 rather than 50 and knew I was at a crossroads. I could either go down the path to become unhealthier and more overweight or I could take control of my life and start treating myself better. One of the nurses that I work with had talked to me often about different diet plans, recently she had lost a significant amount of weight, so I asked her what she did. She told me all about CFS and Lisa and how much it helped her. I set up an appointment with Lisa for that week, originally planning to only be a nutrition client. Lisa had bigger plans for me however, and not only did I do the nutrition component but also started working out. I literally went from sitting on the couch every night with a cocktail after work to heading to the gym right after work. I was terrified walking in for my first workout but both Ariel and Collin made me feel like I belonged right from the start. Most of my classes were with Collin, and he was so patient and kind to me every step of the way. He never made me feel badly when I couldn’t do something but rather just helped me modify the exercise. Betty came along a few months later and she taught me how to really believe in myself and not allow my own mind to become a limiter in what I could accomplish.
I started my diet and exercise program the last week of October and within 6 months I lost 9% body fat, 15 pounds, and went from a size 14 down to a 10. All while not only maintaining muscle but actually growing it! Normally from Halloween, through the holidays and into February I would gain weight every year not lose so this was an extra achievement to me. I feel like I’m 30 again instead of 50, I have better sleep and endurance for daily life. I also feel I have the tools to keep my weight under control with real foods and counting macros. We all have times when we go on vacation or eat a little more, but I know at any time I can go back on the program Lisa gave me, so my weight never gets out of control.
I have recently left Wisconsin for a teaching position in Tennessee and the hardest part of leaving Madison was leaving everyone at CFS as they have all become like family. I would recommend CFS to anyone looking for trainers who truly care about you, who will push and encourage you but not to a level where you would get hurt. They will watch your form like hawks, so you don’t get hurt and make you realize you are stronger and more capable than you think you are.
Thank you to everyone at CFS, Lisa, all the trainers, everyone I worked out with. Each and every one of you touched me in some way, this experience has been life altering in such a positive way it is hard to express in words.”
Heather
Shifting focus from Cardio to strength training
“Weight has always been a struggle for me. I have had to be very regimented with my nutrition and exercise consistently. But, the more I educated myself on fitness, the more I learned that it isn’t all about the number on the scale. I no longer had the same goals that revolved around my weight. I had been able to accomplish weighing 30 pounds less than I did in high school but struggled to get my body fat percentage to change, despite trying many different nutrition and exercise plans. I was confused and frustrated. I wanted to focus on body composition which meant leaning down to expose muscle definition but, after many years of attempting, I wasn’t able to accomplish it. At 22% body fat, more muscle mass meant trusting the process of initially eating more, lifting more, running less, and not letting the scale movement get the best of me. It took a strong mental game and a lot of faith to watch the scale go up 10 pounds initially but the commitment and dedication has gotten me to where I am today, at 14% body fat, and the most fit I have been in my life!”
Brandi- Nutrition Client
“As I cleaned out my closet this weekend, filling bags with clothes that no longer fit, I determined it was finally time to write this testimonial. Last July, at the encouragement of a friend, I met with Lisa for the first time. I had witnessed my friend’s success while working with Lisa, and though I was skeptical it would work for me, I decided to give Lisa’s method a shot. At that time, I had been doing Crossfit with varying degrees of consistency for a few years, and while I had certainly gotten stronger and fitter, I knew I was not meeting my full potential in the gym. Also, my body composition was not visibly changing, which had long been a goal of mine. Before working with Lisa, my diet wasn’t terrible. I wasn’t drawn to sweets, and I tried to avoid foods I knew to be fattening. Nevertheless, I wasn’t feeling or looking my best. When I had tried to dial in my diet, I made drastic calorie cuts, thinking that was the only way to get results, or I would eliminate whole categories of foods, all of which left me feeling deprived and weak in the gym.
Like so many women, I have a complicated relationship with my body and weight. While working with Lisa, I wanted to avoid falling into a mindset that privileges thinness or being a particular size above all else. Rather, I set out to focus on improving my body composition and my performance in Crossfit. When I started, I didn’t have a distinct weight goal or an ideal body fat percentage (BF%) in mind. If I’m being perfectly honest, my reluctance to set a precise set of goals was also grounded in my skepticism of whether this method would work for me. Reservations aside, I chose to follow Lisa’s programming, to be patient and see how my body responded, and then later to formulate more precise goals based on how I was feeling, performing, and looking. With these priorities in mind, at my first meeting with Lisa, I asked her not to tell me my weight or my BF%. I knew myself, and I didn’t want to feel discouraged before even starting. I requested that she only tell me the change in my weight and BF% at each monthly meeting, not my actual numbers. Lisa didn’t balk at my request; she met me where I was.
Four months into eating on plan, I finally learned my numbers, and I was shocked! I had been steadily losing body fat and pounds; my workouts were improving; and my clothes were fitting differently. Moreover, despite being at a calorie deficit, I was still making gains in the gym and retaining my lean muscle mass. At the point when I learned my actual numbers, I had lost a little over 15 pounds and 10% body fat. In just over four months, I had far exceeded my expectations. I was fitting into clothes I hadn’t fit into for almost ten years. Knowing what I weighed back when those clothes last fit, I had an idea of what I was currently weighing, but when Lisa finally revealed my numbers, I was left dumbfounded. I weighed approximately 12 pounds more than when I last fit into those clothes. How was that possible? After losing over 15 pounds, how did I still weigh so much and fit into my skinny pants? Of course, the answer is a pound of muscle occupies a lot less space than a pound of fat, which is why focusing on weight alone can be misleading and counterproductive—weight only tells half the story. I had to learn this lesson firsthand, to see it in how my old clothes fit, to finally accept this as fact.
Now, weight is just a number to me. It’s simply one bit of information that helps me understand the state of my body. I’m far from my lowest weight, but I’m by far the leanest (BF%) I’ve ever been. As of writing this, I’ve lost over 20 pounds, 13% body fat, and dropped almost two pant sizes. I continue to make regular progress in the gym and between the calipers, and I like how I look in my clothes, or at least the ones that still fit. More importantly, I feel great! This diet started out as just that, a diet, but it’s become a lifestyle. Eating according to macros is second nature now, as is tracking my macros. And bonus, because I meal plan, no food goes to waste. I’ve even come to enjoy the planning, and the measuring, and the calculating.
This is getting long, so I’ll conclude by saying that—without exaggeration—working with Lisa has changed my life. Making this lifestyle change has prompted a cascade of other significant, positive changes in my life. I’m physically a different person, but most significantly, I’ve gained much-needed confidence by proving to myself I’m capable of making substantial life changes when determined. Lisa is a true professional. She knows how to help you get where you want to go, and she is honest about what’s realistic. Regardless of your goal—whether it’s to be a figure competitor, to boost your performance at the gym, to improve your health, or simply a vanity goal of looking better in your clothes—Lisa can help you accomplish it!”
Ashley
Life Changing Results after an illness
“I started my weight loss journey about three years ago. I had just overcome a serious illness that required me to have chemo treatments every ten weeks for two years and to be on a high dosage of steroids. I was a Mom to the best little guy anyone could ever hope for and I was ready to live a healthier life not just for myself but my son as well. I was at my highest weight I had ever been at (274lbs) and was ready for change. My weight loss journey had a slow start, for the next two years I dropped about 40lbs by trying to eat healthier and exercise about three times a week. 40lbs was great but I had a much larger goal in mind, that to be truthful never thought I would actually be able to achieve. So in May 2013 I contacted Lisa Feran with Custom Fitness Specialists and told her I was ready. I was all in, at this point I was about 235 lbs and had a goal of 150 I began working out with Lisa 2-3 times a week and immediately saw results, not just in loss of pounds but inches. I couldn’t believe how fast my body was changing, workouts that were so difficult were becoming easier and my endurance improved overnight. Lisa provided me with a nutrition plan (even though I thought I was eating pretty well) that really opened my eyes on how someone needs to eat if they have a large weight loss goal. By winter of 2013 I had reached my first milestone goal, I was under 200lbs! A number I hadn’t seen probably since grade school. That was such a huge moment for myself, tears of joy (Lisa may have had a few too ;))! At that point even though Lisa believed that I was going to reach my goal, I actually never thought I would…until that day. After that time flew by, the pounds and inches continued to come off and I hit my year in May 2014. I was down a total of 109 pounds! Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be able to say I lost 100+ pounds! At this point it was not even about the number, I felt great….never had I felt better. My world was changed forever, the way I see things now is so different. I no longer worry that my son is going to be embarrassed by his Momma or that I’m not going to be able to keep up with him (in reality he now has to keep up with me!) I’m not afraid to try new things, which I once thought before I couldn’t do. So, like I said my year was up in May 2014, I was done right? Nope! The workouts and nutritional information that I get from Lisa are AMAZING. In the year and half that I’ve worked out at CFS I have never once had the same workout!!!! Not once! This is why I continue to see results; she is constantly changing what I’m doing and helped me figure out classes that I could take outside of CFS to maximize my results . Lisa also paired me with other people to work out with that make me a better person, I push myself more during those workouts and for that I’m so thankful. If you are trying to decide whether this is for you are not, I say go for it!!!! You have nothing to lose but everything to gain, the time will pass anyways. Lisa and CFS provides the best of the best; personal training provided in an inviting environment that never passes judgment. Every personal trainer at CFS is amazing and was always cheering me on the entire time! How great is it to have your own little cheerleading squad?! I thank Lisa, without her I would never have been where I’m at today. She believed in me when I didn’t, so much more than just a trainer, but bestie for life! Love you girl!!! As of today I am down to 159 pounds, a total weight loss of 115 pounds. Technically I have 9 more pounds to go until I reach my goal, but I couldn’t be happier with where I’m at today. Stronger, happier and healthy”
Jessica
Jessica stared eating more and working out less and got the body of her dreams
“I began searching for a personal trainer about six months ago. At the time, I was already working out six or seven days a week and eating around 1200 calories per day. Some days I attended group fitness classes and others I would do an hour of cardio followed by weight training. I spent almost two hours in the gym each day, but I was not seeing the results I wanted. I came across the Custom Fitness Specialists website and was inspired by the testimonials of CFS clients. I reached out to Lisa and began training with one of her small groups.
After training with Lisa for a few weeks, I committed to competing in my first bikini competition. Lisa provided me a customized nutrition and work-out plan to prepare me for the competition. With Lisa’s guidance, I was able to increase the amount of food I ate and decrease the time I spent in the gym while losing body fat and building muscle. My preparation time for the competition was five months. I could not be happier with the results. I lost 8% body fat and transformed my body in a way I did not think was possible. I won first place overall in the bikini division and won my pro card.
I am so thankful to have Lisa as a trainer and to be part of the Custom Fitness Specialists family. Lisa is a positive, supportive, and honest person. She has been a role model for me since I began training with her. My journey at CFS has helped me gain self-confidence, build new friendships, and become a healthier, happier person overall.”
Angie
Fun mom cuts some of the cardio and start lifting weights!
“I started training with Lisa at Custom Fitness Specialists about 10 months ago. Prior to personal training, I was a cardio-only girl. I would run 5-6 times a week–running about 25+ miles per week. However, my body was not changing at all. I had no energy and my clothes didn’t fit. I felt like I was stuck and I didn’t like it. I was tired of working so hard but not seeing or feeling any results. That’s when I decided I needed to make a change in my life. I saw a random post on Facebook for CFS and was immediately intrigued. I set up a consultation with Lisa and within the five minutes I knew that I needed to train with her.
I was extremely nervous my first couple of sessions. I had never lifted weights or done any type of strength training–this was going to be a new adventure for me. It is the best decision I have made for myself. With Lisa’s support and guidance I’ve been able to transform myself and live a much healthier lifestyle. Lisa has not only trained me in the gym, but she has also helped me with my nutrition. She has developed a personal eating plan for me (which I try to follow most days:)). I have lost over 13 pounds, lost numerous inches, dropped sizes in my clothes, gained a lot of muscle and become a lot stronger. I also have learned to love, appreciate, and respect my body!
I now look forward to each and every session with Lisa. She holds me accountable for my workouts and my nutrition. She motivates me to be healthier every day. Lisa truly cares about me and my progress. Every session with her feels new, never boring, and always extremely challenging. I am excited to see where the next year takes me!”
Sarah
Doctor decides to get back into shape and get healthy
“I was the pot calling the kettle black. A family physician counseling patients on how to be healthy when I was obese at nearly 200lbs. After a blood test put me in the pre-diabetic range, I found my motivation to get healthy. I was able to loose 40lbs on my own but struggled to loose any further. I thought I was eating right and exercising enough, but my weight didn’t budge. Lisa changed my life. She gave me a nutrition plan which helped me understand a better way of eating to fuel my workouts, and create the fit body I always wanted. In 6 months, I lost an additional 25lbs, while gaining lean muscle mass. I’ve since run a marathon, completed a triathlon, and proudly sported a bikini after having 2 kids. (WooHoo!) I continue to train with Lisa on an ongoing basis to help me stay on track with my fitness goals. Each workout is unique and she provides frequent modifications to help me safely train thru injuries (none of which occurred as a result of working out with her). From a professional standpoint, her educational background & experience uniquely qualifies her to provide superior nutritional guidance, personalized workouts, and truly amazing results!
Debbie
Another great weight loss story
“It has been great to work out at CFS with Lisa! I have seen my body size and pants size drop, along with losing about 22 pounds. The great thing about CFS is that they are flexible and the work with you at YOUR workout level. I have problems with my back and knees and Lisa has found a way to give me a great workout with my limitations. I also love the accountability that I get each week with my workouts. Thank you Custom Fitness Specialists.”
Taylor
College student learns to love her body through proper exercise and nutrition
“I had never respected my body or felt proud of what I saw in the mirror. Once I entered highschool, I began chasing after a physique that seemed unachievable through rigorous diets and attempts at exercise. The negativity I felt toward my body intensified once I reached college, and eventually these negative feelings turned into negative behaviors. I began struggling with anorexia binge-purge subtype. In addition, I was running long distances of up to 11 miles a day despite the fact that my body simply was not changing.
After over a year of depression, deprivation, and a diet/exercise obsessed world, I was still desperately searching for another alternative. I googled personal trainers in the area, and came across Custom Fitness Specialists. Lisa caught my eye with her experience competing in figure competitions and her stellar reviews. After meeting with her for the first time, I was excited about her holistic approach and expertise not only in fitness, but nutrition as well! I had no idea working with her wouldn’t be another failed attempt at finding the health and happiness I was searching for.
After one short month with Lisa, things were changing radically for me. Not only was my body physically changing, but my mentality was improving as well. Her butt-kicking workouts became easier, and soon I was looking forward to every workout (which never fail to be something new and exciting). The longer I worked with Lisa, the less presence my eating disorder had in my life while my self-esteem simultaneously rose. I am now able to eat without guilt for the first time in years, knowing I’m making smart choices while fueling my body for the constant improvement Lisa is guiding me through.
Although Lisa is an exceptional trainer who is extremely qualified, she has been so much more than a coach to me. Her positivity, upbeat personality, encouragement, and patience is what has kept me on my fitness journey for over two years now at CFS. For the first time in my life, I respect what my body is capable of, and I’m happy, healthy, and strong. I’m even training for my first competition this spring, something I didn’t think I would ever have the confidence to participate in. I would never been in the positive place I am now without the help of Lisa. Thank you so much Lisa!”
Ingrid
Fit military mom drops over 50 pounds and gets back into shape
The environment at Custom Fitness was exceptional. Very welcoming, clean and highly motivating.
Now because of Lisa’s loyalty and inspiration I am currently in the process of becoming a personal trainer as well. I can’t thank you enough for everything you have done for me and for what you have made me become. I once only dreamed of goals, now I set and accomplish them. I feel amazing and on top of world. I can do anything now for I am super women all thanks to who now I can call a wonderful friend. Thanks Lisa!”
Chris
Another great life style change
Steve
After trying many workouts and gyms, Steve finds one that works!
Brittany
Brittany finds self-confidence through weight loss, muscle gain, and personal training.
I have always wanted to be a much smaller version of myself. I tried diet plans and trainers, but my weight never seemed to budge. I dreamed of having the “model type” body, wanting to fit in a size 2 when I was currently in about a size 6. Without starving myself, I never thought it would happen. Then in the fall of 2014, I met Lisa. A friend had asked me one day if I was interested in training for a bikini competition. It was something I knew would be amazing to accomplish, but I never thought I could do it. After a few months of persuasion, I had the guts to come into Lisa’s office to meet with her. I figured one more trainer wouldn’t hurt.
It has been only 16 weeks that I have trained with Lisa, and she has literally changed my life, my perspective and my self-confidence. I trained with Lisa for my first bikini competition that I competed in in May 2015. I came in first place in the short division for bikini novice. I have learned so much about fueling my body with the proper nutrition and weight training in the gym, something I never really focused on during my “workouts” in the past. I was amazed at the transformation my body made in just four months. I could not have come this far without the help of Lisa. She has become, over the course of 16 weeks, one of the most inspirational people I have met. She pushed me to do my best on a daily basis and never gave up on my success, even when I wanted to. She’s not only the greatest trainer I have ever had, but a true friend throughout it all. You stood by my side when I needed you, Lisa. For that, I will forever be grateful. I am so excited to see what my future brings as I continue to train at Custom Fitness Specialists. This journey has officially just began!”
Janine
“I started at CFS with Lisa in March, 2014. Previously,I had been working out and thought I was eating right, but I was not making any progress. At that time I weighed 160lbs. Lisa gave me a nutrition plan which had a ton of food in it. She taught me to eat the right things at the right time. She adjusted my plan along the way and as of December, 2014, I am down to 144 pounds.My workouts with Lisa are never the same, strenuous and fun! She paired me up with like people who inspire me to bring my best each day. I have gained muscle and have dropped 4 pants sizes in 10 short months.I look forward to what my future health will be as I continue down the road with CFS.”
Heather
“What Lisa Feran of Custom Fitness Specialist did for me was not just get my butt in shape, you see, there is more to the story….I came to CFS in the early summer of 2014 looking to better myself and my confidence level. I’ve always worked out, but I needed to shake things up. I was struggling with some things in my life at the time and needed to take charge. I had heard about CFS through a couple of friends who were also training there. I decided to check it out and am I ever glad that I did! Not only did I start to see changes in my body, but most importantly I noticed changes on how I viewed myself. As time went on, Lisa mentioned competing. At that time I thought, NO WAY would I have the courage and confidence to ever get up on a stage wearing a tini bikini and feel that I belonged there. I had no clue what it was about. After weeks of trying to talk myself out of it, I finally decided to do it! With Lisa’s consistent push in training to reach my goals, I was ready to face a fear and go for it!
Lisa Feran, you dedicate so much to your clients and your job. You are truly a great trainer and you help people realize they can achieve goals in fitness they never would have thought possible otherwise.
I appreciate what you have done for me! Not only did I come back with 3 tropies from my first competition, I came back with a different kind of confidence that was stuck inside for far too long and made new friendships along the way! I am grateful! Thank you!”
Sarah
Life Changing 100+ pound weight loss
“Before I met and worked with my trainer, Lisa, I had absolutely no confidence in myself. I was obese, weighing at 250 Ibs at 20 yrs. old, and eating whatever appeared in front of me. Thanks to Lisa, who was consistently on my case whenever I told her what I ate was bad, I started to choose healthier foods over bad ones. I’m also glad that Lisa encouraged me to go to the gym on my own and not just when I saw her for my sessions. Before Lisa became my trainer, I never felt comfortable going to the gym by myself cause I always gave up after 5 minutes of being there. Thanks to Lisa, I can now feel comfortable going to the gym on off days. I also appreciate how Lisa really listens to me whenever I have a problem or needs some advice.
I come from a family that has a history of obesity and other health problems and was on the verge of being on my death bed before I was even 21. I felt embarrassed. I’ve always had weight issues throughout my life. I have a lack of support at home. One thing that Lisa has done for me is encourage me to keep reaching for my dreams and goals. Luckily, I am proud to say that I am very close to achieving one of my goals-which is to lose 100 Ibs. It’s been hard work and a struggle at times but Lisa has pushed and encouraged me throughout this year. Thank you Lisa! I don’t have many friends, but I definitely consider Lisa as one of my closest friends and I’m lucky to have known her.
I would say Lisa’s training methods are challenging sometimes but a lot of fun. Thanks to her methods that she’s taught me, I feel like I’m living again. I have a lot more energy than what I used to have. I also appreciate how she encourages all of her clients to use Advocare products. They’ve done wonders for me and for some of her other clients.”
Katie
Katie gets in shape for upcoming wedding!
“Lisa and I have known each other for about 10 years and we worked together at a gymnastics gym in Madison, so I was well aware of her enthusiasm for fitness and her upbeat personality! Over the past few years, there were times off and on when I knew she had opened up CFS that I have reached out to her thinking “I’m ready, let’s do this”. She encouraged me every time to come in and “let’s talk about it”. I think I did this about 3 times. There was always something in my way to getting into that gym-mainly, myself. It wasn’t until “he put a ring on it” that I felt the motivation to get back into shape. I didn’t know much about HIIT training; my exercise experiences were mainly limited to running, and I had done a few sprint triathlons a few years back. I started at CFS in May of 2015, thinking that it would take me a good year to get where I wanted to be in my wedding dress. I worked really hard over the summer and it only took me until mid-November to reach my goal (about 12 pounds). Not only did I meet my goal weight, but my body has changed dramatically. I never thought I would see the definition I see now on my body. I chose Lisa and CFS because I am someone who needs that extra push to stay true to work outs and diets. I need someone to motivate me each and every work out and strive to do my best. In years past, I had attempted the weight loss and fitness plan independently, but never really noticed any significant results. I can say that in the past 6 months working with Lisa, I have dropped 3 full pants sizes! I couldn’t have asked for anymore! I love the people I have met through this experience and embrace every workout. This has not been a new workout routine for me, it has been a lifestyle change. I have always thought of myself as “healthy”. Now, I consider myself “healthy and fit”.”
Kristin
Kristin cuts the cardio and hits the weight for amazing body transformation
“Before I first started working with Lisa, I was a little lost in my fitness/nutrition journey. I knew I needed a change to my everyday workouts to see results, but I wasn’t sure what that something was. I caught the fitness bug in my early 20s and would do home workout videos, went to the gym and counted calories. At first, I saw results, but then I stalled. I took up running and started going to the gym daily, where my mindset was to burn as many calories as possible. I would run anywhere from 8-12 miles a day, doing 1-2 hours of cardio with minimal weight lifting. My body wasn’t changing the way I wanted it to, so I started to research. I read numerous fitness magazines and websites, and that caused me to take up weight lifting during the winter of 2014. I was still unwilling to give up the mass amount of cardio I was accustomed to, afraid I would put on more weight if I didn’t burn off enough calories. In addition to that, my lifting plan was spotty at best—and still, no results.
One of my good friends trains with Lisa and she inspired me to at least go chat with Lisa—no pressure. After talking about my goals, I started working with Lisa because I saw first-hand that she knows how to get results. I needed a challenge and Lisa laid out a solid plan for me to get the results I was looking for. Custom Fitness Specialists is different because the style of training is far more effective than anything I’d tried previously. I feel the way I am being trained is not temporary, it will allow for me to maintain a body that I’m proud of. The girls that I train with are extremely supportive and we have become friends. Training is fun and challenging due to that atmosphere that Lisa creates in her gym. I started training with Lisa in August 2015 and following her nutrition plan. In the 3 months that I have been working with her, I lost 15 lbs and lost 8.5% body fat. I’m also proud to say that my cardio time has been cut to about an our a WEEK. I am so grateful for Lisa and her continuous support throughout the process. Her motivation and inspiration have helped me and pushed me to levels I didn’t know I could achieve.”
Shellie
This mom finally finds her inner athlete
“My whole life I’ve lived in the shadows of athleticism, from my big brother who was built for speed and makes running marathons look easy to my world class karate champion of a husband who has more trophies than we can fit in our house. I’ve never been athletic; I’ve never enjoyed or pushed myself to be good at any sport related activity. I’ve always been more of a cheerleader on the side lines; I was a good one but have always dreamed of more for myself.
Then I met Lisa at Custom Fitness Specialists. She’s exactly what I’ve always needed. She might be small in stature, but she’s vast in her skills and abilities at helping others achieve their fitness goals. In six short months I’ve been guided along a journey I never thought possible for myself. This past weekend I put on a bitty bikini and walked the stage in a fitness competition, something that would have caused me to pee my pants just thinking about in the past. And I did it with the most confidence I’ve ever felt in my life. I may not have won a trophy to place on my mantel at home, but I feel like a true winner.
Lisa is amazing. With of her training, guidance and endless support, today I feel strong, I feel healthy, I feel confident, and I feel like an athlete. Lisa has helped me get off the sidelines and be that someone I once only dreamed about becoming. I cannot wait to see what I will accomplish next, with Lisa by my side.”
Tasha
Tasha overcomes an eating disorder to get in the best shape of her life
“I have always struggled with my weight and body image. I was involved in sports my whole life but I was never the most athletic girl. I always wanted to be thinner which, in my mind, was more attractive. In high school and college, I struggled with eating disorders and depression.
Last year I made a serious change. I stopped drinking to get drunk and started lifting heavy. I was able to drop 10 pounds by myself and was in a much better mental state. I decided to really push myself and talk to a coach about doing a bikini competition. I did a little research and found Lisa who helped me prepare for my first competition in November.
I didn’t place in that first competition but in those 13 weeks I accomplished so much more than I could have ever hoped for! I learned how to lift properly to get the most out of each workout and all about nutrition and how to eat in order to fuel my body.
I was hooked. I continued working and following Lisa’s nutrition plan in order to compete again. This spring I did 2 competitions and placed 2nd in both and am now nationally qualified! On top of that, the changes that were made to my body in just 5 months was amazing!
Even though my competitions are done for the season I am most definitely not. I will keep working with Lisa to build more muscle to compete in the figure division. I cannot thank Lisa enough for helping me see what my body is capable of. She is a great coach and trainer and an even friend. I know she truly cares about my growth not only physically but mentally, and I couldn’t be more grateful!”
Tim
Best shape of his life at 50+ years old
“I started working with Lisa Feran at CFS in June of 2014. I was quickly approaching 50 years old and decided that I would need to be in better shape if I wanted to make it another 50. I am a former college track athlete and was in pretty good shape most of my life until I decided to start smoking, drinking beer, and sitting on the couch for that past 15 years. Walking up a flight of stairs would nearly take my breath away and I could feel my belly fat bounce on the way down. I knew I had to make some changes. That’s when I decided to contact Lisa at Custom Fitness Specialists.
Lisa not only pushed me harder in my workouts than I ever would have myself, but she also helped me change my diet. I experienced amazing results almost immediately. I’ve lost more than 20 pounds of fat and increased my muscle mass. I’ve never had so much fun getting my ass kicked three times a week. Thanks to Lisa, I am in the best shape of my life at 50 years old.”
Jamie
40+ pound weight loss story
When June 2011 came around, I was determined to get back into shape! When I first started Boot-Camp with Lisa, I was pushing 180 lbs. I was seriously unhealthy and completely out of shape. Even though I played volleyball and softball a couple nights a week, it still wasn’t giving me what I needed. When Lisa started offering Boot-Camp sessions, I thought this would be a great opportunity to try and get back into shape. I committed myself two mornings a week through the summer and to Lisa and Spencer. Within the first couple of weeks I started seeing results instantly. I was excited and it made me want to come back for more. The best part about the workouts is that they are always different and they target all areas of the body. I am not going to lie…It was tough and Lisa pushed me and others each and every morning. When I didn’t show up I was regretting not going and new if I wanted a better me, I needed to stick with it. As of March 2012, I have lost over 40 lbs and 6 inches in my waist! AMAZING!!!! If you are looking for professional, dedicated trainers you need Custom Fitness Specialists! I Thank Lisa and Spencer for dedicating their time and efforts into shaping the person I am today
Vanessa
Personal trainer achieves goal
“I started my Journey at Custom Fitness Specialists in May after seeing one my friends figure competition pictures on Facebook. Doing a show has always been on my bucket list, so I figured this would be the perfect time to do one. I was in an exercise rut and spent a lot of time doing group exercise classes without a lot of results. Lisa completely revamped my exercise routine and nutrition plan and within 4 months I dropped 7% body fat and gained more muscle than I ever thought possible. I finished this season with one 1st and two 2nd place wins and learned that I love lifting heavy weights. Most importantly I carry myself with more confidence and understand the importance surrounding myself with people that support and uplift me. I love the accountability and motivation working with a group provides. It feels great to be part of the team. Lisa is a phenomenal coach because she spends the time to create customized fitness and nutrition plans so each of her clients find the success their looking for. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to take their fitness to the next level.”Maria
Better health and lower medication
“Prior to coming to CFS, I had gained significant weight and started to see a rise in my blood sugars to the point that I was considered pre-diabetic. At that point I really knew that I had to make a change in my life. With the past health clubs I tired, I found that I did not have the day to day support that I needed. As time went on, not seeing the results that I wanted I just stopped going.
A friend of mine had told me about working with Lisa at CFS and she had amazing results. I decided to contact Lisa and talk to her about my health goals and some of the deconditioning that I had experienced over the last few years of no exercise. Lisa worked extremely diligently with me and was very encouraging even though I was out of my comfort zone.
I am very happy with the result that I have scene. Currently I am down 28 pounds, my energy is high, my strength and balance has improved, my blood pressure is lower, and I am no longer in my pre-diabetic condition. I would encourage anyone who has a concern for their health to consider Custom Fitness Specialists for a great place to get personalized training.”
Kimberly
” Working out and eating healthy is what we all aim to do in life. It is the one personal goal that hardly seems attainable to achieve. That is until you meet Lisa. If you are like me, you are most likely unmotivated and apprehensive about trying one more diet and exercise program that claims it can help you lose the weight and keep it off this time. Lisa is more than just the claim. She is focused and determined on helping you achieve your goals, and maintaining or excelling your own expectations. Within a week, I was more than just sore. I could already feel the difference in my clothes and the way I felt on a day-to-day basis! There are no words to describe the gratitude I feel towards her and her program. My life has been changed, and not just for the short term, but an everlasting change. I owe her my health, and my self-worth.”
Carla
Carla changes up workouts and sees results
“Before I met Lisa, working out wasn’t fun. I did the same thing all the time. I would run on the treadmill and do the same exercises because I didn’t know what else to do. I wasn’t really losing any weight, more just maintaining where I was.
Then a friend of mine wanted somebody to go with her to this new boot camp class run by Lisa. I thought I was in pretty good shape, so I went in thinking if I could lose 3 or 4 pounds that it’d be good.
Now, through Lisa’s help and encouragement, I’ve managed to do a lot more than that! I’ve lost twice as much weight as I thought I would. I’m lifting 3 times more weight than when I started which you can see in my arms. Best of all, I’ve lost inches in my stomach and now almost have that 6 pack of abs I’ve always wanted!
Lisa makes each class just as challenging as the last, but with different exercises every time. Working out is now fun and I look forward to every time I see Lisa because I know she’ll make me work hard! I look and feel great because of her!”