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Two Extreme Workout Centers In Dead Heat For Best Gym in Cedar Falls

Vote in our first Best Of reader poll by selecting your choice in the poll below, and make your vote count even more by leaving a review for the business.

 


Cedar Falls has lots of choices to get fit, but we want you to tell us which is the best.

So, Cedar Falls, where’s the best place to get your fitness groove on?

This is our first Best Of reader poll. It began at 5 a.m., this morning, Monday, Feb. 27, and will run for two weeks. Polls close at 9 a.m. March 9.

Get notified of the latest news in Cedar Falls and at UNI by signing up to the Cedar Falls Patch newsletter

Because this poll is not scientific, it is not the sole consideration in choosing a winner. The winner will be determined by the Patch editor, based on poll results and reviews on Patch Places. Please vote only once per survey, per Patch.

On March 9, we'll see which spot got the most activity and will give the winning business a “Best of Cedar Falls Patch” certificate.

Here are the the places we've included in the poll. Click on the link to review the business, and vote in the poll at the bottom of the page:

Snap Fitness 24/7, 1820 Main St.

Farrell's eXtreme Body Shaping, 4507 Algonquin Dr.

Curves, 2520 Melrose Dr.

Anytime Fitness, 2512 White Tail Dr.

Cedar Falls Recreation Center, 110 E 13th St.

NRG Pilates, 115 E 4th St.

Field of Yoga, 115 E 4th St.

The Gym, 423 Viking Road

Next Level Extreme Fitness, 5911 University Ave.

Key West Tanning and Fitness, 4507 Algonquin Dr.

Are we missing a Cedar Falls gym? Tell us, and we'll add it!

  • In our first "Best of Cedar Falls" contest, tell us what is the best place to workout in Cedar Falls.

    (Voting has been closed for this question)
    • Snap Fitness 24/7, 1820 Main St.
        6 (0%)
    • Farrell's eXtreme Body Shaping, 4507 Algonquin Dr.
        508 (48%)
    • Curves, 2520 Melrose Dr
        1 (0%)
    • Anytime Fitness, 2512 White Tail Dr.
        1 (0%)
    • Cedar Falls Recreation Center, 110 E 13th St.
        35 (3%)
    • NRG Pilates, 115 E 4th St.
        12 (1%)
    • Field of Yoga, 115 E 4th St.
        25 (2%)
    • The Gym, 423 Viking Road
        32 (3%)
    • Next Level Extreme Fitness, 5911 University Ave.
        407 (39%)
    • Key West Tanning and Fitness, 4507 Algonquin Drive
        10 (0%)
    Total votes: 1037
  • Your vote will only count once. This is not a scientific poll. View Results Vote!
Related Topics: Best gyms in Cedar Falls and Best of Cedar Falls

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B.A. Morelli

2:33 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Hey Tom, is Nlxf a gym, and if so what makes it the best?

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Jordan Llewellyn

3:47 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Nlxf is a 10 week body shaping class. It includes kickboxing and bootcamp classes. Sorta like harder version of Ferrells but more personalized. What makes it so great? It is a fun environment, everyone is very friendly and the trainers are very helpful and will go the extra mile to make sure everyone is getting the results the want.

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Tom Stephens

7:57 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Ditto to what Jordan said,this is a truly incredible class designed by a local trainer.10 weeks of hardcore fatburning workouts that are made up of kickboxing cardio and bootcamp.I have achieved goals in 10 weeks that I have not been able to reach in 2 years of working out on my own.People i know who have taken this class and farrells as well say this class tops it all.I recommend this class to everyone I can talk to about it,and am looking forward to another session with the returning members

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B.A. Morelli

6:06 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Don't forget to leave a review on the gym's directory listing by clicking on the business name, so your comments carry on long after the contest is over.

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katie judge

6:17 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

I vote farrells so friendly and fun
Katie judge

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John

7:31 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Wow in the results it's a battle between two 10wk Fitness Programs. Can they even be classified as gyms?

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Lindsey Roberts

2:14 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

After two sessions I can tell you with 100% certainty that I would have never gotten into the shape I am now without NLXF. At Next Level Extreme Fitness we do a little bit of everything but what we do BEST is push each other! The trainers, the students...we believe in each other and we encourage each other every second of every day. THAT is what makes our program the best in the Cedar Valley!

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Johnathan Purvis

9:00 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrell's has a FIT program and goes far beyond the 10 weeks, I have been there for almost 2 yrs. It is fun, difficult, and I have made several new friends.

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Alison Gowans

8:56 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Hey Farrell's and Next Level owners or managers - you guys should claim your listings - click on the links to your businesses above and hit "claim it!." Then you can have your fans leave reviews on the listings for extra points. Each review is the same as a vote.

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Megan Olmstead

9:26 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Next Level is #1....and it is not a gym. It is better than a gym! I believe that this program has the best results. I have had people at work ask how i have lost weight. I tell them about NLXF. I have never been addicted to working out...I am now! I was very scared when i first started....but the fear has turned into courage and confidence.

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Anonymous

10:02 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

There is a lot of great facilities in Cedar Falls, but I think this poll in some aspect is comparing apples to oranges. There is a big difference between a "gym" and a "fitness program". To say a certain "program" is better than a "gym", or vice versa, is comparing two different aspects of fitness. Both are great avenues to attain fitness goals, but are relative to each individuals personal goals and objectives. Some people thrive on the group cohesiveness that is developed through a "program", while others prefer the solitude of lifting by themselves in a "gym" with their headphones on to their own tune. To prove this point, many people that take "programs" also still workout in a "gym", and many people that are normal "gym" members participate in different fitness "programs" to get the complete workout of a program with weight lifting in a gym mixed in. My only point is there is a significant difference between a "program" and a "gym". That's why you see them combining efforts to give their members both as an option!

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Ashake

11:13 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Im not completely sure I agree. I understand what you are saying BUT when I go to NLXF I work out real hard for one hour with a personal trainer and then im too tired to do anything else for the day. I can work out hard for an hour at Next Level or at any other gym. The Next Level gym doesnt have cardio machines but it has trainers, weights and a space for people to workout. I could even go in and use the free weights when class isnt in session if I wanted to. Isnt a gym a place where people go to workout??? I workout at NLXF, therefore it is my gym.

Peter Pan

10:28 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

I agree, the Four Star pizza from The Other Place on University Ave is the best pizza in CF

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John

10:33 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Creator of this poll must not workout and apparently does not know the difference between "gym" and "program". Maybe have a poll of best program and a poll off best gym in Cedar Falls. Even the Courier got it wrong by giving a "program" Best of the Best in the Fitness category.

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Amber Suckow

7:05 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I guarantee that a workout at Farrell's is just as, or more challenging than any traditional "gym" workout. I've never been in as good of shape as I am now and wouldn't even consider going back to the "gym" with plain ol' cardio machines and free weights. Cardio kickboxing is so much fun and they actually teach appropriate form, and strength training turns each of my muscle groups to goo! :) Just an awesome and motivating way to get into the best shape of your life....no matter where you are in your journey to a healthier life.

Also, after the initial 10 week program there is an opportunity for each Farrell's grad to become a F.I.T. Member. Being a F.I.T. Member allows you to continue going to classes 6 days a week with additional challenges to keep you motivated and to keep sculpting and molding your body into a fat-burning machine. Come check it out, you'll see!

Micah

10:40 pm on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

A gym is where you workout. I call it a gym because that's what it is. Where I workout is my gym. If I worked out in my basement, I'd say I had a gym in my basement. Does it matter? You could break any category down. What's the best automobile out there? Well now you can break it down to truck, sedan, SUV...or you can just answer the general question.

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Ryan L.

7:21 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I just voted 4 times from the same computer. I don't know accurate this poll can actually be. Have there been any scientific polls done for best fitness award?

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Robin

8:07 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I love Farrells...Chris and Laurie make it a family experience. There is so much support on all levels of fitness (cardio, strength and nutrition). I won't go anywhere else!

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Susie Zimmerman

8:30 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I love Farrells too. It is so much more than a 10 week fitness program - the first 10 weeks is just a jump start to make changes for the rest of your life. The positive atmosphere, cardio, strength, nutrition support and group cohesiveness is what keeps me coming back day after day. Farrell's Extreme Bodyshaping is the only place for me!

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Andrea

8:38 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrells for sure! This place offers so much more than their 6 day a week fitness and nutrition program. If a person is interested in training for a 5k, sprint triathlon, tough mudder, or whatever you may dream to accomplish, Chris and Laurie will help you with that! They have and help groups train outside of the 10 week or FIT programs to help you accomplish those goals. They incorporate motivational and informational speakers into their program to help people with their lifestyle changes. All these additional things are no charge! Amazing program!

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Charisse

8:38 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I love Farrell's too, Everyone is so friendly, they know your name and support you no matter what level you are at.

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Josh

8:52 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Been with Farrell's since Sept 11 and it has changed my life. Lowered my blood pressure, took off 30 pounds, and basically got me off a path of late health problems. The people make the difference I believe, I never worked out at place with such kind and fun people.

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Fitness Enthusiast

8:52 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I dont think Ive ever heard of anyone taking both and liking Farrels better. Myself included. I like intensity and I like results. Didn't get them at Farrels but in my first 10 at next level i got more than I did with 3 sessions at Farrels.

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Tiffini

9:04 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I vote for FXB (Farrells) in Cedar Falls. The owners/instructors/coaches are amazing and all of them are so caring and helpful. Farrells is a way of life, not just a 10 week diet course.

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MB

9:22 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrells has really stepped up their game in terms of providing the whole package. Fitness is just part of well being. Nutrition is just as important. Farrells has done a solid job of providing both cardio and strength training courses( this "program" provides what a "gym" provides if you commit to both the lifting and cardio sessions), along with a well, laid out, easy to follow nutrition plan. The plan is backed up by experienced coaches, seminars by certified nutritionist and even classes on clean cooking. Farrells, continue with this focus. Folks who tried the "program" at this "gym" in the past, give it a try again.

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Michelle

9:22 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

As mentioned previously Farrell's offers more than just 6-day-a-week fitness and nutrition program, but the success of any part of it lies within you. The 10-week session is a kickoff program. As with any program or workout in the competition, YOU determine your success. Listen and follow instructors' directions, work to your "level 10", band up, follow the nutitrion guidelines, make lifestyle changes. Success will result. The extras the Farrell's "family" provides (mentioned in other entries) are bonus. Inspiring people to incorporate activity into their lives to be healthy and have fun doing it is part of the package.

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Angie

10:07 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrell's is by the far the best program I've ever done for myself. I love the intensity, I love the flexibility of classes, I love the trainers and owners, and the support is by far the best thing ever. The FXB Family is real and welcoming to all!

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Courtney Fauver

10:10 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Next Level Extreme Fitness is a life changing experience! It's not only physical, but mental as well. There are days I cannot believe what I can push myself to do! This program is so much more than a fitness program they have taught me how to eat right, how to push myself and not give up, and most importantly Next Level has given my confidence back. Everyone in these classes are all so friendly and motivating and have become like a second family to me! Being a part of the Next Level Family is not just going to the gym for and hour or so everyday, its something you take with you all day everyday.

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Kristi Tibben

10:34 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Gym, 10 week program, whatever you want to call it....the Cedar Valley needs to consider itself lucky for having Chris and Lauri in our community and running a business. Farrells is top-notch and nothing but class. And, it is a killer workout! Plus, they go beyond the workout to offering hands-on guidance on the one thing we all struggle with the most...nutrition. They have also gone out of their way to change things up. I have literally been sore since I started this program 10 weeks ago. Each week, the stakes change and we are doing new things. More importantly, I believe supporting owners who give so much back to our community is extremely important. That is coming from a girl that grew up in Cedar Falls.

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Mark Lavallee

10:55 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrell's is an excellent place for people of all ages and sizes. I can only comment from my personal experience and to a greater extent the results I have witnessed with people that I have coached over the last year. Sure there are significant changes in the weight (20-100lbs over time) as well as the cardio ability and strength of the people increasing. But what I can say is maybe the most impressive aspect of the FXB program is the confidence and personal pride that people gain over 10 weeks that continues on over years. This is the difference between being happy for three months a nd being happy for life. Farrell's, if you apply yourself in the program, can prepare you for a proud, strong, and confident future. I'm proud to be part of it and I couldn't be happier with the life I've gained with them which extends far beyond the ten weeks.

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michellea

11:41 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Instead of bickering back and forth, why don't you both try each other's program so you can speak out of experience instead of bias.

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Brent Barloon

11:45 am on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Before I started to even think about getting back into shape I asked around where to go. I got answers like this is cheap, or this place has good equipment, or this place is open whenever and is a great environment. A family member sugested farrells. I told her she is crazy and I'm too fat and lazy for that type of place. I asked different people about it and heard the same thing; its amazing. I decided to take the challenge up, with a little push from friends and family. My first week my fears were confirmed as I lay there on the mat extremly dead and pooped. Since then I have lost 20 lbs cut 8 inches off my body and drop percentage in my body fat. I couldn't be happier with the choice to join farrells. The owners are nothing but supportive and push you to level ten every day. Our coaches, whether you personal ones or all of them, make you believe you can do anything. The workouts push you to your max. Whether its bands or kickboxing, you walk away drenched in sweat everytime. I would recommend this place to anyone, fit or out of shape. It changed my life and my view of working out. Absolutely love it!!

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Ryan

12:26 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I LOVE Farrell's!!! At 40, I finally found a place, program, family that works! It is truly addicting in a good and healthy way. My life changed. I am super confident now, healthier, stronger...a better person overall. I also like the wide age range at Farrell's. All are welcome. You will be pushed to your limits... and you'll find new limits! But, it is always through positive encouragement and support. The wide variety of instructors push you, while also keeping each workout fresh and different. I promise you that if you commit, it WILL change your life!

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Abby Carney

1:30 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I have been going to Farrell's since September of 2010. It is a complete package deal. They are extremely helpful when it comes to the diet portion, even offer chances to learn how to cook "clean". There is a family atmosphere to Farrell's, and I feel Chris and Lauri genuinely care about every single person that steps through Farrell's doors. There are many coaches and instructors that also are very caring and giving of their time and knowledge to help you get on track and stay on track. As for the workouts, they NEVER get easier. In my 18 months there, I leave EVERY kickboxing session dripping sweat and utterly exhausted. In addition to the 6 days a week workouts, there are plenty of opportunities to get together with the Farrell's family to get more exercise in. They have opportunities to run, swim, bike etc as a group. We do races together as a group, whether it is a 5k or a Tough Mudder. It truly is a welcoming atmosphere. I am a Farrell's junkie, and I will never do (or need to do) anything else. The variety is so that you never feel you are getting the same work out. They constantly switch it up to shock your body. I love it. Nothing but love for my Farrell's family!!!

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Mark Lavallee

4:30 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Life before Farrell’s… 43 years old 236lbs, high blood pressure, extremely high cholesterol, couldn’t run across the street, struggled to do 20 push-ups, failed to do more than 15 sit-ups, my life turned into an embarrassment. After ten weeks I lost 28 pounds ran a mile in under 9 minutes, could crank out more than 50 push-ups and 40 sit-ups in a minute, and to be honest felt better than ever since high school. The following ten months brought another 30 pounds of weight loss, won gold and two bronze medals in the Iowa Games for Track and Field, lowered my blood pressure, dropped my cholesterol to amazing levels, gained staggering numbers in push-ups and sit-ups in a minute for a 44 year old and find myself enjoying running 5k’s often, nearly weekly. I’m a new person, a happier person, a proud person, for me Farrell’s isn’t just a great option it is the only option.

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Crystal

4:56 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I started going to Farrell's on July 18th 2009. I will never forget that day. It changed how I think and feel about every aspect of my life. I feel so supported by Chris & Lauri on such a deep level. They are there for you not just physically, but emotionally too. They really care about you! They're not in this for something to do or something to try......this is something they truly believe in with their whole hearts. They go SOOOOO far above & beyond for anyone & everyone who needs them.
I tried a different program (a very popular one) last year....but after 5 weeks, I knew where I wanted to be (where I HAD to be), and I came back to Farrell's. I can't think of a better place to be encouraged, to be motivated, to work at YOUR level 10 and not be embarrassed or feel shy.....everyone makes you feel SO welcome and at home. I love you Farrell's.....you have changed my life.

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Barb H.

4:57 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Almost 3 years ago, I joined Farrell's as part of their very first class. I have been getting up at 4:15 a.m. EVER SINCE to work out at 5:00 a.m.! What else could make a person do that!? Only Farrell's!! It has completely changed my life. 5ks, 1/2 marathons, and the Chicago marathon are only some of the things I've accomplished in the last 3 years because Farrell's gave me the confidence to just go for it! Farrell's gets MY vote hands down!

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Crystal

5:03 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Oh----I forgot to mention----I lost a lot of weight----gained a ton of muscle----went from 10 sit ups in a minute to 42!! I went from 32.9%bodyfat down to 19.1%!! I started at 11.17 minutes for the mile and got down to 8.52!!!
I have confidence now, I can run & play with my 3 boys and instead of lazily watching them...I chase them around!
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!!

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bassopotamus

5:07 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrell's is fantastic. I went grudgingly because my wife made me, but I have been blown away by the lost pounds, inches, and fat, and more importantly, the gained fitness (6 months ago, I couldn't run 2 blocks, today I ran four miles). What impresses me most about Farrell's is the supportive environment. They push you to do your best without tearing you down or beating you up, and that is exactly what I needed

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Bridgette Exman Wagoner

5:37 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

When I joined FXB more than a year ago I wanted to lose weight. I could talk about the pounds and inches I've lost, and those numbers are compelling. However, what I've gained is so much more. I've gained strength (mental and physical), healthy habits, belief in myself, and the support of an amazing community. The support to adopt a healthy, active lifestyle and clean eating habits has changed my life. Those changes have set my entire family on a path to longer, richer, and healthier lives. I love my Farrell's family!

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Craig N

6:54 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

I have been at Farrell's for just over a year. With their help and support, I have been able to lose 109 pounds, a ton of inches, and no longer use a CPAP. You know that everyday that you go in there you are going to see friends and that keeps you coming back. They teach you how to workout, how to eat and how to change your life. I owe a ton to those guys. No matter how this survey ends up, FXB will be the only place for me. I would recommend it to everyone!!

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Christy Purvis

8:24 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrell's is a great place to go for a tough and challenging workout, but it's so much more. When my husband and I joined in October 2009, we were both around 250 lbs and scared to death. The owners and instructors at Farrell's welcomed us with open arms and our journey to health and fitness began. Today, we are down a combined total of over 150 lbs and we completely changed our lifestyle. Through Farrell's, we also came to enjoy running (5Ks, 10ks), road biking (Rash rides, Century rides, Ragbrai) and Sprint Triathlons. Now, we have a good grasp on nutrition and enjoy cooking. My husband and I coach and instruct in the program. The culture at Farrells is truly what separates the program from all of the rest. We are from out of state and did not have any friends or family in the area. Through the Farrell's program, we now have both. We've met so many wonderful people through the program who truly care about one another and are so supportive and encouraging. Through the structure of the program and all of the support, people have had fantastic results session after session. It's the best environment I've ever experienced at any gym. This program is all inclusive cardio kickboxing, strength training with resistance bands, nutrition, and great people who are a lot of fun to be around. Come check us out!

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Sara Stephens

10:41 pm on Thursday, March 8, 2012

Farrell's is an amazing place to reach your fitness and nutrition goals! I have never been to a place where everyone is as supportive as they are at Farrell's! Awesome place! I will never go anywhere else!

Thank you Chris and Lauri for who you are and for whose lives you have touched! I am a better person now and you have each been a huge part of that!

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Patrick Newstrom

12:01 am on Friday, March 9, 2012

Farrell's (FXB) is simply amazing and life changing...which is due to the absolutely wonderful owners (Chris & Lauri), excellent instructors, & a completely fun, positive & encouraging environment! FXB has not only changed my life physically but given me mental toughness, self-confidence & a winning attitude. I have finally found a place where everyone truly cares so much about your goals-success & well-being. I have lost 48 pounds since March of 2011 & this is only the beginning! I will be training for 5K's, half-marathons, Ragbrai, Century Bike Rides, & eventually a triathalon. In September, I will be a part of a 48 person Farrell's team to participate in Tough Mudder, a 10-12 mile extreme obstacle course in Wisconsin & I owe it all to FXB without a doubt! The combination of challenging workout sessions, nutrition plan-guidance, amazing-committed owners-instructors, tailored training, guest speakers-events & wonderful atmosphere are unparalled! Clean eating is stressed & members have even been invited to other members homes to learn how to eat & cook clean-healthy. Chris & Lauri (along with all the coaches-instructors), care so much about everyone who walks through their doors at FXB! Everyday I can't wait to workout. They all get to know you as individuals & it is really a family environment; I have also made some great friends! This is THE PLACE to exercise in the Cedar Valley & I'm so proud to be a part of it! THANK YOU Chris-Lauri-instructors & FXB!

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John

8:02 am on Friday, March 9, 2012

Farrells has both cardio and strength training. They also give you nutritional info so you eat right, loose weight and stay healthy. Its also a friendly atmosphere with many groups of people doing events outside of Farrell's like 5K's, bike rides, triathlon's, half marathons etc. I ran my 1st marathon after joining. Farrells is much more than a gym or fitness program, its a lifestyle!

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