As a client of Kim Merkel’s, I have been thrilled with not only the results I’ve seen, but also the knowledge I’ve gained. Kim teaches not only the “how’s” but the “why’s” of physical fitness. Her eye towards perfect form and execution make her stand out at the highest level of personal trainers. Kim’s unique combination of encouragement, leadership and guidance provide an experience that allow her clients to work hard while training with her but also the ability to work out on their own with the proper form and techniques.
Kim’s well-rounded knowledge of training methods and bodywork enables her to truly tailor each and every workout to a client’s specific needs and objectives. I began working with Kim while coming off an injury, and her knowledge in the field of athletic rehabilitation was amazing. We were able to work hard on a variety of fronts yet never put the healing process at risk. As I’ve continued to work with Kim, the workouts she’s created make me a stronger runner and an all-over better athlete.
Training with Kim provides for a wide range of workouts, and variety and challenge are always a part of the process. Kim’s enthusiasm for her work is a huge motivator for her clients, and her vast knowledge of fitness and training is amazing. Working with Kim helps inspire clients to be better and stronger at whatever goals they choose. Through many years of experience, Kim has perfected the right balance of pushing her clients hard, helping them reach their goals, and having fun and feeling good.
Nancy Buese, Senior VP & CFO, Markwest Energy Partners
Kim is one of the most versatile and knowledgeable instructors in Denver. She can teach most formats in the fitness industry and her classes are always well-attended. Her classes consist of participants of a variety of ages and fitness levels. Kim displays exceptional communication skills and provides many exercise modifications for her students.
Kim is a team player who is always willing to share her knowledge and experience to benefit her colleagues and students. She continually gives 100% of her time and ability to help her students reach, maintain and exceed their fitness goals as well as improve overall health and wellbeing. Her training style is challenging, fun, entertaining and effective which makes her classes so popular. Her strengths are her wealth of knowledge, her charismatic personality and her love for fitness!
Michelle Sauberzweig, Group Exercise Coordinator, Cherry Creek Athletic Club
Kim is an excellent physical trainer with extensive knowledge, clear instruction and versatility to her practical approach to training and coaching. Her professionalism and enthusiastic commitment to her work and clients provides the best scenario for success, ultimately leading to a new healthier lifestyle! Kim has a vast understanding of muscle function, body mechanics and alignment and is capable of determining her client’s individual abilities. She’s the standard by which any trainer should be measured.
Kimberly Chio, Account Manager, Press Ganey
The first time I attended one of Kim’s classes (which was packed) I told her that I had bad knees. Throughout the entire class, Kim made sure to show modifications meant to reduce stress on the knees for certain movements she knew might be difficult. It was in that moment I began to build up false hopes that all trainers should be as good as Kim Merkel. Kim’s commitment to form in fitness taught me how to protect my damaged joints and still get fantastic workouts. Although she is a stickler for proper form, Kim is also a stickler for fun and she will interact with absolutely everyone in a class to ensure form and fun for everyone.
I trained with Kim and attended her classes for years during which I continued to learn from her how to create a fit lifestyle, how to have fun working out, how to work out safely and intelligently, and not only what to expect, but what to demand from any other fitness professional. Whether in classes or one-on-one sessions, Kim is the ultimate motivator and inspiration. Not only did Kim’s training help me to compete (and place) in triathlons, it also inspired me to become a Spinning instructor. Next on my docket: to become a personal trainer. I know that if I am only half as good as Kim, I will be a success.
Ben Yde, Fitness Participant
My name is Susie Martin, age 63, and I'd like to tell you about Kim Merkel. I have taken mat pilates, one-on-one reformer pilates work, Zumba Dance, spinning, and personal training with Kim. I really can't say enough nice things about her. First of all, she is very knowledgable about the body, and is always ready to correct form and posture when needed. She has a wonderful personality, and is fun to be with, even though she has a high goal for me to reach, and can be demanding about reaching it. She is serious about helping her clients in every possible way. For 10 weeks in the fall of 2010, I was suffering from acute pain in my back, because of two "bulging disks." Kim started me on a regiment of exercises that really worked for me, and I have been able to prevent surgery because of her careful assessment and follow- through. I think Kim is outstanding in every way, and I urge anyone to work with her. Her personality is just THE BEST !!! I've done lots of athletic training and I think, without a doubt, Kim is the best trainer I've ever worked with !!!
Susie Martin, Fitness Participant
Without hesitation I can say that Kim is the best fitness instructor I have ever had! I am an avid group fitness exerciser and compare all other teachers to Kim. Her greatest strength is her energy- she is excited, involved, and attentive in every single class. Moreover, Kim shows genuine interest in her students, getting to know their names and needs. As an instructor Kim is adept at creating classes that are both challenging and fun, with great music and a variety of exercises. Having taken many different types of classes (from pilates to Zumba and everything in between) I know that she is an incredibly talented instructor.
Emily Stewart, Fitness Participant
