Being an actor requires me to train on a regular basis. Val’s ability to adjust my training to fit my personal needs whether I needed to bulk up for a job or stay fit, all while working around old injuries and limitations, was impressive. She is always learning and improving her technique.

Before working with Val I had difficulty committing to a fitness routine. I got bored easily and had trouble being consistent. But soon after we started working together I felt stronger and more flexible. I was able to raise my fitness level safely and enjoyably. Val will motivate you and deliver her wisdom straight up.

I always thought of myself as really fit; hit the weights regularly, played tennis, hiked, biked, etc., but once I started taking Val’s functional training classes I discovered I could be far fitter and feel even better. I’d never had the experience of simultaneously getting stronger, fitter, more flexible and improving my form until working with Val. Her rigor, passion and expertise is evident every minute of every class.

Val expected us all to push the limits of our capacity, but she understood those limits and took great care. She was constantly taking classes, learning new techniques, and excited by new concepts. I was probably Val’s oldest regular client, but maybe also one of her more athletic. She completely cured a tennis shoulder. She brought me through a lung operation. She made it possible for me to stay fit, and even now I feel like I am 50 when I am, in reality, 70 plus!

Val has an encyclopedic knowledge of the most advanced training techniques, which she constantly updates through her own research and by attending the very latest instructors’ training seminars. Every time I lift something heavy or perform movements in daily life, I have Val’s voice in my head regarding the proper, injury-preventing way to do it. Her approach is truly “functional training” at its best, as now I think about daily activities involving movement, so that I am avoiding possible injuries.

Val continually stayed abreast of the latest information and techniques in her field. I trusted her completely to do what was right for my body and physical capabilities—a high priority for me as a more mature woman. I am much stronger, my balance has improved significantly, and I am much more capable of handling the up and down lifting that everyday life requires. I now surprise my husband and myself at times with how strong I have gotten—like lifting 40 pound softener salt bags in and out of the trunk and carrying them into the back yard. Not too bad for a woman in her 60’s.