Testimonials

When it comes to a personal trainer you need someone who has knowledge, work ethic, professionalism and a personality. Ryan has it all. It is his love and passion to get you where you want to be. I have been training for hockey for six years now and I have had several different trainers. This past summer was my first with Ryan, just after undergoing knee surgery. He was able to rehab my knee and get me in the best shape possible for my pro camp with the Pittsburgh Penguins. I had a great junior career with the P.E.I. Rocket and the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles. Its a huge transition from junior to the pro’s and spending the summer with Ryan has been my most productive summer yet. The great thing about him is he makes it easy on you, he makes going to the gym everyday enjoyable. He fully commits inside and outside the gym. I received phone calls on numerous occasions just to see how I was feeling, showing he is professional while at the same time personable and caring. Not only did I find an excellent trainer in him but I found a great friend as well, I highly recommend him to anyone who is looking to better themselves! I consider myself very fortunate to have a trainer and a friend in Ryan.

“Everyday is another chance to better yourself as a person” I‘m glad I took the chance with Ryan.

Joey Haddad (Professional hockey player, Contracted player with the Pittsburgh Penguins)

 

 

Training with Ryan has been a huge advantage for me as I pursue my goal of playing professional hockey. My coach and I have seen huge benefits to my game as a direct result of an improved fitness level gained throughout this past summer when I was training with Ryan. My UNB fitness assessment improved from 9th overall, to 1st overall as a result from hard work and Ryan’s guidance. It was his understanding of how to motivate and approach me during training sessions that made working with him such a positive and enjoyable experience. I used to spend my summers in Halifax because of a lack of sport specific trainers around Sydney. Now, Ryan gives every athlete or average person looking to improve their fitness level or achieve health related goals, everything they need to do so. I only wish this kind of opportunity had been available to me years ago. I highly recommend Ryan to anyone who is serious about achieving goals with a better fitness level in mind.

Chris Culligan, forward, UNB Varsity Reds

 

 

As a competitive junior figure skater, it was necessary to improve my core strength and endurance for an important competition. To augment my training, I contacted Ryan in late September to assist me in my off ice training for this important National event. Very early on, it became clear to me that Ryan possessed a great deal of knowledge about personal training and I soon realized the benefits of the program he designed for me. Goals were set and the appropriate amount of time was devoted to achieving these. I was able to find an excellent balance between my training on ice and the core strengthen and endurance we did together. This was always done in a way to keep the training session focused and challenging, but most important, enjoyable. My goals were achieved in the competition with results that represented a personal best for me. Ryan was a major contributor to this success and I am very grateful for his expertise and time spent on my behalf.

Najala Orrell, competitive figure skater

 

 

In choosing SFS I was looking for a program to enhance my overall fitness on the ice. When I began working with Ryan I learned that each and every exercise that we were doing, was worthwhile, and how it would affect my skating, which overall was making me a stronger skater. With his knowledge and love for training, its great to have a trainer so enthused see improvement. Whether it was leg strength, core, balance or cardio, it definitely helped my skating performance both on and off the ice. Ryan helped also informed me of what to and when to eat while training at high intensity during the competition season. Since beginning training with Ryan at SFS I excelled through provincials with two personal best scores, and competed at nationals also receiving personal bests. Thanks to Ryan’s continual motivation, contagious enthusiasm and positive attitude, my goals for this season are attainable. I highly recommend Ryan as a personal trainer, no matter what you are looking for, he knows exactly what you need to do, to get you where you want to be.

Janelle Hawkins, competitive figure skater

 

 

My experience at SFS was a fun and hard and well organized training experience. The trainers knew their stuff but kept it fun throughout. I liked the private atmosphere better than just going to the gym with a bunch of random people. The trainers were great to deal with and also I had a lot of positive results. Theres no way i could have done the same in the tryouts and assessments i did for the cougars. It was definitely worth it and I would recommend it for any elite players. My speed and strength on the ice greatly improved, my endurance on ice and off, and my work ethic all are much better, learned a lot this summer and improved big time ryan!

Nolan Smith, Cape Breton Cougars/Bantam AAA

 

 

My experience at SFS was a hard workout 5 days a week, overall it was a great learning experience. The trainers knew exactly what to work once I told them what I was lacking in. They also kept it very fun. I liked the private atmosphere alot more because it was much easier to keep on task, the trainers were very easy going through the camp. I noticed my speed has increased alot on and off the ice, I don’t think I could achieve it if I was still at the gym by myself. The program was definitely worth it, I would highly recommend it over any hockey school. My top 3 improvements from the camp were: My speed, My strength, And my endurance. Can’t wait for next summer.

Kenzie Dowie, Forward, Sydney Academy Wildcats

 

 

My experience this past summer training with Ryan and SFS was my best and also funnest summer of training in my life, Ryan is a easy guy to get along with and knows basically everything there is you need to know, he makes working out fun. I wish i had the chance to start at a younger age because this summer made me realize how important off ice training along with being healthy really is, and i could feel it soon as i stepped on the ice. Being in the studio pumpin iron or atlantic street getting bagged .. (brutal) , the guys would always find a way to make sure we are getting the most out of the time we are training but still enjoying ourselves at the same time. I loved the private atmosphere at SFS you never had anything to be embarrassed of and Ryan really made you feel like you were working out at home. The trainers were easy people to get along with, anything you needed to know the guys could help out, there was not much they didn’t know. Ryan’s motivation made me enjoy working out 5 times a week, which I never thought I’d actually enjoy. The program was 110% worth it and i wish i could have trained with Ryan year round but i was unable too due to moving away for hockey. I would recommend this program to any hockey player who wishes to succeed, you wouldn’t believe how much of a difference Ryan can really make. Great trainer and also a great friend , can’t wait for next summer.

Colin Campbell, Yarmouth Jr. A Mariners

 

 

My experience training at SFS was amazing, they made going to the gym fun. The trainers definitely knew what they were doing by pushing you to do your best, but keeping in mind your safety and knowing how to prevent injury. The private atmosphere was so much better then going to a public gym; it made me feel more comfortable. The trainers were easy to deal with and very understanding. I had lots of positive results. My cardio conditioning is defiantly the best it has ever been and there is no way I could have ever got it so high by just going to dry land twice a week and running the odd day. I would recommend SFS to any elite athlete looking to make the jump to the next level. My top 3 improvements that I’m proud of are: 1. my endurance 2. my knowledge of proper nutrition 3. my hockey stride. Thanks a lot Ryan and Culli for a great 3 months of training.

Brennan Forgeron, Cape Breton Tradesman

 

 

“In early May 2010 I tore my hamstring and was told by the doctor that my injury would take five to six months to rehab. I began working immediately with Ryan Szeto and within two and a half months Ryan had me back on the ice. Ryan is a great motivator and role model for young athletes such as myself. He not only teaches us the importance of physical training and how to excel in our sport, but also how to be confident and respectful young men. These aspects are not only important in sport, but also in our everyday lives”.

Drew Wilcox, Forward Cape Breton Tradesmen, Nova Scotia Major Midget Hockey League

 

 

This was the best decision I made in a long time. I was really nervous when we first met,but Ryan and his team are very easy to talk to, and they make you feel so relaxed. My initial consultation with Ryan was nothing short of first class. My goal was to increase strength and gain muscle safely and with proper form. Ryan and his team listened to my needs and Taylor a workout for my goal. I have a renewed passion for fitness and I am enjoying my workouts again thanks to Ryan.
I have a great respect for his level of professionalism and experience. This company is refreshing they don’t just care about making money.They truly care about clients and the progress that we all make.They really take personal training to the next level.I have referred Ryan and his team to many of my friends and will continue to do so. Thumbs up all the way for this  excellent team Ryan Szeto,Rachael Reeves,Craig Evely. I miss all of you and thank you very much and one more thing I will be back.

Patty Durham

 

I came to Ryan in late February to see if he could help relieve some of the pain in my lower back by correcting any imbalances that might be the cause. I’m a construction worker in my late 40′s, and several years ago I bulged a disc in my spine. I tried different methods of therapy and nothing seemed to fully work. My doctor persisted I should try to build some strength in different deep muscles around hips and legs. I heard about Ryan and his private studio, and knew it was something I’d be interested in. During his initial assessment, we were both a little bit discouraged in how unstable I really was. After a month there was improvement, and after two months I’m a new man. I could hardly walk or sit before, my leg and back went from being 20% to 95%. He is very professional, but easy to talk to. I am still currently working with Ryan for other fitness related goals, I’d HIGHLY recommend him to anyone seeking post-rehab or strength gain.

Bruce S., Sydney, N.S.

 

 

I am a 60+ year-old woman who has been exercising on and off for most of my adult life. I wanted to feel fit enough to enjoy everyday activity and push myself to feel stronger. I had always felt intimidated when working out at a busy gym surrounded by very fit people and equipment that looked ‘alien’ to me; I would quickly become discouraged. When I walked into Ryan’s studio, his professional and approachable nature was a great encouragement to me. He asked me about my goals and I explained that I was interested in creating a routine that I could do in my own home. We began a program using the same equipment I have at home; free weights, exercise ball, a stepper and incorporating core exercises. I had to retrain my body. The routines and exercises that Ryan implemented were absolutely incredible! His one-on-one training methods, individualized exercise program and challenging yet achievable goal-setting motivated me to push past my perceived limits to get results. Ryan places a high value on correct form with each exercise.

Thank you Ryan for giving me inspiration to go further. You are indeed an outstanding master of your craft and the standard by which any trainer should be measured.

Sheila Amos, Sydney Forks, N.S.

 

 

Ryan is a great guy to work with, he always makes you feel comfortable from the moment you step into his studio. Ryan doesn’t look in a book and tell you what to do. He has a knowledge to assist you in reaching your personal goal by assessing what works best for your body, looking at your weaknesses, looking at your strengths, and helping you isolate the target area. I am very happy with my training so far with Ryan. I would recommend his services to anyone who wants to better themselves.
As an athlete, Ryan has assisted me in achieving my goals as a national competitor.

Kyle MacNeil, national competitive figure skater

 

 

Good news travels fast! Learn by example! It has been nothing short of unreal working alongside Ryan in his studio! I was searching out knowledgeable strength training professional and found that as a client Ryan’s commitment is consistent, his attention to detail and performance is impeccable, and his knowledge on program design speaks for itself. I didn’t just want to workout, I wanted to learn. Ryan has incredible follow through on returning queries; discussions have turned training into value and a passion! You can’t help but want to work hard under his stellar positive guidance and subtle, yet powerful motivation. Ryan’s passion is contagious and trustworthy, which is why you can lift and push beyond what you might think! As a novice candidate looking to gain weight and take my body to a more athletic level, I wanted to add muscle mass along with increase strength and endurance for those long distance rides. I gained 4lbs(?) of lean muscle! Prior to Ryan, I reached a plateau with squats, never did I think I would be able to break it and squat one plate after a month! Not just from the results I have seen and felt, but from the beginning I have never doubted my time or commitment for a moment at Szeto Fitness. Ryan has been a guru for getting me there consistently! You WILL attain your goals with Ryan, just don’t forget you walked in and asked for it! Thank you Ryan, in only two months you have made a huge difference in my life, and therefore those around me!

Margaret Amos (MA Education & Youth personal trainer in progress)

 

 

I am not an athlete looking to enhance my performance, I am a regular person who has been trying for a long time to get my weight under control. It was time to hire someone to teach me how to exercise properly, get the most out of my workouts and get my motivation back. That is where Ryan Szeto came in. I checked his certifications before I even met with him to make sure this guy was well trained in what he is doing. And he is. Initially I was only going to hire Ryan for 1 month. 1 month has now turned into 5 months and I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon. It is the best money and time that I have ever spent. Besides losing weight and inches, I am getting much stronger. Playing with the kids is easier, carrying groceries, walking up a flight of stairs and even tying your sneakers. Its not just because you are smaller with the weight loss, you are stronger, more flexible, balance is better. When Ryan gets me to do a new exercise I just look at him, laugh and tell him he is crazy. But I have learned that I can do it and to just trust what Ryan is saying because if he feels that you can do it, you probably can and are not giving yourself enough credit. The training style that works with me might not work for you, but Ryan has the ability to adapt to each persons personality so he can get the best out of you. Ryan cares about you and your goals. He wants to make sure that you reach your goals safely and he will do anything to help you get there. From adjusting your workouts, helping with diet, emails and phone calls, Ryan is always there to make sure you are on the right track. If hiring a personal trainer is something you are thinking about, meet with Ryan, workout with him for 2 weeks and you will amaze yourself. I know that I am each time I do something new or something that I couldn’t do before. You could give me an hour and I could go on and on about the benefits that hiring Ryan Szeto has given me, but trust me when I say I would not be able to do the things I can today without Ryan’s help.

Ella Hussey, Sydney, N.S.

 

 

As a 50 year old who had never been to a gym before, I was leery about joining one of the local “traditional gyms”. When I heard about the one on one concept of personal training that Ryan was offering at his Studio I immediately knew this was what I was looking for. Ryan set up an individual fitness program designed for my fitness level and goals. During our workouts, he explained each exercise and demonstrated the proper techniques and form. All through our sessions Ryan continued to motivate and encouraged me to achieve the goals we setout. Ryan’s easy going, friendly personality creates a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. I recommend it highly!

Larry Dunn, Sydney, N.S.

 

 

Time is certainly something we all value and feel at many points during a busy day that we don’t have enough of. It definitely has become a wanted commodity in our household after the arrival of our twin girls over a year ago. As a result, I found myself seeking a flexible method to regain my strength. Rather than familiar, fad diets or self discipline gyms, which had not worked before, I decided to try a new methodology to get fit. The right way. This is when I met Ryan.

Ryan introduced a process that accommodated my lifestyle and level of fitness by asking questions and taking his time to find out where I wanted to be. I was immediately impressed with his level of professionalism, sincerity and his genuine interest in his line of business. Ryan’s knowledge base extends beyond the confines of his position due to his innate nature to fully understand the situation at hand. He provides a discreet atmosphere, positive feedback and demonstrates several different ways to work various areas, based on individual abilities.

Most of all, however, I am grateful for his time. In my experience, the time that Ryan gives is beyond traditional sessions, as he follows up to ensure all is well and works promptly to answer any questions I may have, on a realm of fitness and nutritional topics. With our busy household, I appreciate his understanding ways as he makes getting the gym to work out a seamless effort.

I am continuing to work with Ryan to meet my personal goals and am looking forward to the results. I would highly recommend Ryan’s services to anyone at any fitness level who is seeking to make a positive, supported change to their health and wellness.

Laurie Laderoute, Sydney, N.S.

 

 

Ryan Szeto has been major contributor to the off-ice fitness level of the Cape Breton Tradesmen Hockey Club. His honest, up front approach combined with his vast knowledge in all areas of fitness created a positive experience for my players. He teaches his clients all aspects of training: nutrition, technique, flexibility to name a few. It is my recommendation for anyone looking to improve their fitness level to make Ryan Szeto there first choice.

Aaron Rice, Head Coach of Cape Breton Tradesman Hockey Team

 

 

Hi, I’m Graham Quinn, I am president of our local Major Bantam Hockey Club and I also serve on the board of our Major Midget Hockey Club.

As a group our goal has always been to provide a quality hockey program for our local major bantam and major midget age players who display the skills and attitude that would allow them to progress in our sport. We have been delighted to partner with Szeto Fitness Studio in helping us reach our goal for these young players. Ryan has specifically designed and conducted an individual program to fit the two age groups. Ryan’s sport background and education makes him a premier choice for any young athlete in their quest to attain the highest level possible in their chosen sport.

Graham Quinn, President Major Bantam Hockey Club

 

Being trained by Ryan was my first eperience with a personal trainer and exactly what I was looking for. First and foremost, Ryan is very professional. He was concerned with my training methods and diet to best benefit my goals. He was very personable and created an atmosphere of comfort and that was ideal for our training sessions. He tracked my progress and showed me step by step my gains. He knows how to get the best out of you and to motivate you to your potential. I would highly recommend Ryan as a personal trainer for anyone who wants to get fitter, healthier or just take their workout to the next level. I have been going to the gym for many years and Ryan still showed me things I was doing wrong and taught me new methods of training. He is a trainer for someone who has never been to a gym or who has gone their whole life and wants to know more from a professional’s point of view. He will build a plan tailored to you and make sure you are satisfied every step of the way. I got what I wanted and you’ll get what you want.

Glen Weatherbee

 

 

Commitment is a word that is associated with Ryan since the day I have met him. He does not take on a task unless he can get everything out of it that is both beneficial to both himself and others.

When I first met Ryan, he was this very introverted kid, who because of his size was smaller than the others. This only led to a determination to “catch up” with the others in speed and guile. It was not too long after that that other players were trying to catch him. This was because he worked for his place in the team. He deserved to be there.

In life, there are times when you have to be in the right place at the right time and others where good fortune befalls you. It is those that take whatever opportunity that comes to them and makes the best of it. Through his family and support from others, Ryan has achieved a status that has been earned. It is no doubt that with his support structure in place that success is always looking over his shoulder.

I wish to thank Ryan for giving me the opportunity to say a few words on his behalf and to wish him success in this endeavour. It will not stop here because staying the course is not within him.

Wendell Mac Gibbon

 

 

Ryan is amazing to workout with! He has contagious enthusiasm, tons of energy and true passion for exercise and healthy living. He has helped me to isolate and recognize my weak areas and designed a soccer specific program that helped me to improve my overall strength, speed and power. I have always struggled with reoccurring knee problems due to soccer. Ryan’s understanding of movement along with his creative training approach helped me overcome my sport weaknesses and overall strength in my legs. I have learned proper training is very important to my recovery and prevention of injury. I am confident my time with Ryan will enable me to obtain a much higher level of performance in my sport of soccer. Ryan is clearly dedicated to helping others achieve their goals, as he has with me, and I would highly recommend him.

Kiley Snow, CBU Soccer player (CIS first team all Canadian, CIS National MVP, CIS National Champion)