★ 5

Last spring I was looking for a personal trainer and gym in the Glenview area. I chose Activation Fitness because it has small group training, is reasonably priced, and the music isn’t too loud. The personal trainers are knowledgeable and professional. The equipment in the gym is clean and in good working order. The muscle activation work has been very helpful for my posture, lower back pain and plantar fasciitis. In a short amount of time I lost 7 pounds without starving myself. I’m so glad I found this hidden gem!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve trained at a lot of places and can say AF is A+. The space is clean, the equipment is top-tier, and the atmosphere is actually friendly. I dont love a big-box gym vibe; AF is far from that! The personal training here is the real difference maker. The trainers know what they’re doing, they’re invested in your progress, and every session feels intentional. I really trust the team there

Source: Google

★ 5

Steve Dam at Activation Fitness is the real deal. He is a master at muscle activation therapy. He is dedicated to his clients, and he LISTENS to them. He has reduced pain and restored my range of motion. At every workout, he checks for any muscle imbalance, and my weekly sessions keep me ahead of the aging game.

Source: Google

★ 5

I recently had a fantastic experience with Activation Fitness in Glenview. After struggling with plantar fasciitis, hip, and knee pain, I decided to try personal training to regain my strength. My personal trainer Steve focused on muscle activation techniques that really made a difference. He tailored each session to address my specific issues, helping me build strength gradually while alleviating my pain. I highly recommend Activation Fitness for anyone looking to improve their fitness and overcome similar challenges!

Source: Google

★ 5

In searching for a MAT practitioner near Glenview, I’m very glad I came across Steve Dam at Activation Fitness on Lehigh Ave. My mother is almost 90 and has been having balance issues. Her doctor has encouraged her to keep up her muscle strength while staying safe.

Steve assessed her abilities and challenges and recommended one of his colleagues Rob Paszkowski to work with her, particularly because he travels with a table and can work with clients in their homes.

It has worked out very well, and she’s been seeing Rob twice weekly for several months, once in home and once in the gym to use the weights. She appreciates how focused he is on her and how he challenges her based on her capabilities and progress. He even includes eye drills and cognitive drills. Rob’s parents are professional caregivers, so he has first hand knowledge of how to look after seniors. I feel so fortunate that we found him to work with my mother, and she intends to continue with him indefinitely.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been attending small group strength training sessions at Activation Fitness for about six months now, and it has made a remarkable difference in my fitness journey. These meticulously designed, hour-long sessions cater to the individual needs and fitness levels of each participant. I’m constantly challenged to push myself to gain more strength, which is crucial as I age. I was also experiencing some back issues and attended a MAT (muscle activation technique) session. It was incredibly helpful in relieving the pain. I highly recommend Activation Fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

I this is my trainer, Rob . I have been working with him for sometime now, for neuropathy that I have in my feet caused by chemotherapy drugs. It is severe and without the stimulation and exercise that he is able to provide for me I feel I would gradually lose all feeling in my feet. It has strengthened and relieved pain .

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness is a fantastic place to train.I have been going there for six years. The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable and take the time to tailor workouts to your individual needs, which makes every session both effective and enjoyable. The facility itself is spotless, with clean, well-maintained spaces and up-to-date equipment. On top of that, the entire team is very friendly and welcoming, creating a positive environment that makes you look forward to working out. Highly recommend for anyone looking for expert guidance in a supportive and professional setting!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nearly 3 years ago, my wife invited family members to a post-Thanksgiving workout with Mary Nimrod, her personal trainer, at Activation Fitness in Glenview.
It was such a thoughtful, personalized approach that I've been joining twice per week ever since. Every workout is different and focused.
I hadn't fully understood the importance of functional strength training when I started; however, I do now.
Mary is exceptional at combining her expertise in physical therapy and strength training tailored to precisely meet individual needs. Whether recovering from an injury, overcoming structural limitations, or simply becoming healthier/stronger/fitter.
I'd recommend her and Activation Fitness to anyone interested in both feeling better and enjoying an active lifestyle.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been to many gyms over the years, but Activation Fitness facility is on another level. From the moment you walk in, you can tell the space is spotless, the equipment is top-notch, and there’s a friendly, motivating atmosphere you can’t fake.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been going to Activation Fitness for 7 years for strength training and muscle activation technique (MAT) as I've needed it. The top three reasons for my loyalty and duration with the gym are the people, the results and the facilities. The trainers are top of the line, knowledgable, personable and professional. They understand my needs and create an evolving workout that meets me where they are at physically and mentally while also moving toward my goals. There is always care to work on the weak areas in addition to building on the strengths to achieve balance. The gym is private and comfortable. There is a sense of community there while working out with small groups and it is well managed so that it never feels too crowded or that you are waiting for machines. The facilities are clean and well maintained. I've also received MAT when issues arise with my shoulder and back and there is alignment with the workouts to reinforce the MAT that I am doing. I consistently see positive results and feel I am achieving my health goals. I would highly recommend this gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I had never used a personal trainer before starting at Activation Fitness about 3 years ago. I did not know what I had been missing. The personalized instruction is fantastic, so I know I am doing all the exercoses correctly. The instructors keep up an optimal pace, so I get a super-effective workout each session. Each workout hits upper body, lower body and core, which I love. Lastly, the gym is clean and the machines are in good shape. I highly recommend Activation Fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

It’s only been a few months, but my knee issue and overall strength has greatly improved since starting training at Activation Fitness. Steve is knowledgeable and always focused on proper form vs just getting through the reps.

The gym is clean with great equipment and I love the small group setting.

Highly recommend!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a client of Activation Fitness in Glenview for several years. Steve Dam(owner) has helped me recover when I was in pain using MAT( muscle activation techniques ). In addition, I have worked with him for strength training. His knowledge as a personal trainer and his facility is outstanding. He does one on one training as well as small group training.
The environment at Activation Fitness gives you a small community atmosphere and is very welcoming.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Steve at Activation Fitness for over a year, both through personal training and small group strength sessions with a group of close friends. The experience has been nothing short of transformative. Steve is incredibly knowledgeable and supportive—he made the equipment easy to navigate and kept us on track (even through all our chatting!).

The space itself is warm, welcoming, and never intimidating. The whole team is friendly and encouraging, creating a truly positive environment. What I appreciated most was the accountability and consistency that came from working out with friends in a small group setting.

If you're someone who thrives with support and structure but still wants a fun and social vibe, this is the place for you. Resistance training here not only changed my body—it changed how I feel about regular exercise. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training at Activation Fitness for a couple years now and I can honestly say it’s been a game changer in my ability to achieve and maintain my physical health goals. I have worked with two of the personal trainers there and appreciate their practical approach to strength training. I highly recommend Activation Fitness to those in the Glenview area looking to get into a consistent and effective strength training routine.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic personal trainers from Glenview. Activation Fitness has helped me a lot with their muscle activation methods. Would recommend to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working with Steve Dam at Activation Fitness in Glenview, about 3 years ago after having surgery on one of the discs in my back. I needed to strengthen the muscles in my lower back to relieve pain that remained after the surgery. I worked with a chiropractor for a year and found some relief but it wasn’t strengthening my back enough and my sciatic nerve pain remained. This limited my ability to exercise and perform daily tasks. My friend recommended Steve and his use of Muscle Activation Therapy combined with weight training. I noticed right away the back pain and the back strength were making improvements. My back issues worsened for about 20 years. Now I have regular appointments with Steve and my back feels better and stronger than it has in a very long time. I continue with routine appointments to make sure my back remains strong and any issues I have are solved before they grow worse. I am now able to comfortably continue with many activities I had given up. Walking and driving were difficult before and I feel fine doing both. I highly recommend Steve. Ted

Source: Google

★ 5

5 Stars!! Great Experience at Activation Fitness!

I’ve had such a great experience training at Activation Fitness in Glenview, Illinois. The space is always clean, the equipment is high quality, and everything feels really well thought out.

What’s made the biggest difference for me is working with my personal trainer. They’re incredibly knowledgeable, especially when it comes to Muscle Activation and building strength in a way that actually works for my body. I’ve seen real progress, and I always feel supported and challenged in the best way.

The whole staff is super professional and clearly educated in what they do. I really respond well to the environment here- it’s motivating, encouraging, and never intimidating. Highly recommend to anyone serious about getting stronger or just feeling better in their body.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am a long time caregiver, and have had to take many of my clients to different physical therapy facilities. But I am mostly impressed with Activation Fitness in Glenview. The personal trainers are exceptional. They all seem to truly care about the needs and concerns of the client. Brad works with my friend and is so patient and in tune of her needs and makes her feel so good, that she loves going there 3 times a week. I sit and watch how all trainers work with there clients, and am amazed how knowledgeable and passionate they are with both small groups, or individually. They also muscle Activation therapy. I'm just very impressed!

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness in Glenview has been my go to place for personal training, muscle activation therapy and small group strength training. I’ve been helped with tennis elbow (from pickleball) as well other joint aches and pains. I gifted my 28-year-old son personal training sessions to help him embark on a healthy lifestyle - he has been attending weekly for two years! I can’t say enough good things about Activation Fitness. Its a wonderful complement to yoga, pickleball, Pilates and cardio!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working out at Activation Fitness in Glenview for years, and I can't speak highly enough of the experience. From Personal Training to Muscle Activation Technique (MAT), their approach is both professional and deeply personalized. With their help, I was able to fix back issues and knee pain throughout my time there.

I'm currently doing weekly strength training sessions focused on improving overall strength and mobility. The results have been noticeable, not just in performance, but in how I feel day-to-day.

Steve and all the trainers are incredibly knowledgeable. What sets them apart is how much they focus on you — your specific needs, goals, and physical condition. They take the time to assess, listen, and tailor each session to ensure safe and effective progress.

Whether you're recovering from an injury, looking to improve your performance, or just want a smarter, more targeted training approach, Activation Fitness is the place to go. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is AMAZING! i see Rob P. at their Glenview office and he is as knowledgeable of a personal trainer as they come! very articulate, easy to talk to and will make sure he can do whatever it takes to make you feel better when you're done, then when you walked in, pain free and moving better. Also, after you get manually worked on, you can go through a whole workout too! if you have never done muscle activation therapy before and you've done all of the other therapy's, i would HIGHLY recommend MAT and the people from activation fitness! GREAT people and cant say enough great things about them.

Source: Google

★ 5

Started with Steve for MAT to address many issues! Have moved on to weekly strength training addressing imbalances and getting overall strength and mobility improved. Steve and all the trainers at Activation Fitness are extremely knowledgeable, and focus on the individual’s needs!

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness in Glenview is amazing! I work out with Gina, who is a personal trainer at Activation Fitness. Working out with Gina has greatly increased my strength and stamina. I am an equestrian, and training with Gina has made me a stronger rider and improved my position to better connect with my horse. I definitely recommend training here!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Steve at his fitness studio in Glenview for 5 years now. I was overweight and prone to injury when I began with Steve as my trainer. Now I am fit, strong, and much more active, due to his encouragement and skills. I trust Steve to get me to a higher level of fitness without the kinds of injuries I was prone to before I began working with him. He is conscientious, generous, flexible and encouraging. He runs a small, clean and well-equipped studio that feels very intimate and friendly. I highly recommend Activation Fitness and Steve Dam as a personal trainer.

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness in Glenview has completely transformed the way I approach health and strength. It strikes the perfect balance between great equipment, knowledgeable coaching, and a community that makes every workout something to look forward to.
The trainers take the time to understand your goals, correct your form, and push you just enough so that every session feels productive—never punishing.

I love the Group Strength sessions. Small-group sizes mean individualized attention, but the group camaraderie keeps everyone motivated. Over the past year I’ve seen measurable gains: heavier lifts, tighter core stability.
If you’re on the North Shore and serious about making real progress in a supportive, fun environment, look no further than Activation Fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

I can’t say enough about Steve and Activation Fitness. From individual sessions to group workouts, I’ve gotten stronger and less prone to injury. Steve focuses on both your strengths and weaknesses but knows how to push you safely, with proper form and speed so you can continue to improve. Thanks Steve!

Source: Google

★ 5

I first started working with Steve at Activation Fitness when I had pain from a herniated disc. While many gyms focus on building strength or burning calories, I found that Steve at Activation Fitness placed a strong emphasis on proper form, correct wights, muscle balance and injury prevention. Thanks to Steve's expert guidance, I feel more confident in my body's ability to handle physical activity without the constant fear of re-injury. Their holistic approach to helping people improve overall strength and flexibility has made a significant impact on my health and well-being. Activation Fitness is a top tier personal training facility.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve worked with Steve over the last two years and I’ve seen significant improvement on my strength and overall wellbeing. It has been great to work with someone who is committed to health and providing recommendations and routines that get results. The group training my personal favorite. They offer lots of support, the experience is tailored to what you need while still being a great price.

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness made a significant impact on my health and overall well-being. Before I starting working out with Gina and Steve I delt with a back and hip injury that kept me from working out. After training with Gina and doing Muscle Activation with Steve I am able to workout on a daily basis. I now feel way more confident in my bodys ability to workout without the fear of re-injury. Working with Gina and Steve has been a life changer for me, my body and my overall health.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place. I have often been intimated to do strength training for fear of injuring or overtaxing myself. He targeted specific muscles that were weak or underperforming and I can feel a difference in just a few weeks. Instead of focusing just on building strength, the trainers here place a strong emphasis on proper form, muscle balance and keeps me feeling safe. Thanks to Steve's guidance, I feel more confident in my body’s ability to handle physical activity without worry of injury. I do yoga also and feel that is has helped my yoga flow. Steve is the perfect guide to help me stay in alignment and get stronger. Highly recommend!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Steve for 9 months, and the results have been incredible! His holistic approach to overcoming muscle dysfunction and imbalance has made a huge difference in how I feel and move. I do private muscle activation sessions along with strength training twice a week, and the personalized attention to proper form and injury prevention has been key. Unlike many gyms that focus solely on strength or burning calories, Steve prioritizes muscle balance and long-term health. Thanks to his expert guidance, I feel stronger and more confident in my body’s ability to handle physical activity without constantly fearing re-injury. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love the group fitness classes at Activation Fitness. Every session is challenging and fun. Steve is great at catering to all fitness levels, ensuring that everyone gets the most out of the workout, no matter where they are on their fitness journey. The exercises are always varied and engaging, so I never get bored, and I always leave feeling stronger.

If you’re looking for a group fitness class that challenges you, while still being fun and supportive, I highly recommend Steve’s classes!

Source: Google

★ 5

If you’re searching for the best personal training in Glenview, Illinois, look no further than Activation Fitness. Since October 2023, I have been a dedicated client, and I can confidently say that this place has made a significant impact on my health and well-being. Referred by a friend after months of dealing with acute neck pain, I was desperate for a solution. I had already tried chiropractic treatments and acupuncture, but neither approach brought me lasting relief. That’s when I turned to Activation Fitness, and it changed everything for me.

Activation Fitness specializes in muscle activation techniques and provides a holistic approach to treating acute pain. Whether you’re struggling with pain or simply looking to improve your fitness, they have a well-rounded team that excels at helping clients achieve their goals. From day one, the team’s focus was on addressing the root cause of my neck pain, rather than just masking the symptoms. Through muscle activation therapy, they targeted specific muscles that were weak or underperforming, providing relief that I hadn’t experienced in months. Within a few weeks, I noticed a dramatic reduction in pain, and for the first time, I could feel my muscles becoming stronger and more resilient.

Beyond their exceptional expertise in pain management, Activation Fitness offers top-tier personal training in Glenview, IL. Their personal trainers are knowledgeable, patient, and truly invested in helping their clients succeed. I’ve personally been working with them in personal training sessions, and the results have been amazing. Not only have I strengthened the muscles that were contributing to my neck pain, but I’ve also worked on improving my overall strength and flexibility. The personalized training plans they create ensure that each session is tailored to your unique body and needs, whether you’re recovering from an injury or aiming to push your fitness to the next level.

One thing I appreciate about Activation Fitness is their commitment to injury prevention. While many gyms focus purely on building strength or burning calories, the trainers here place a strong emphasis on proper form, muscle balance, and injury prevention. Thanks to their expert guidance, I feel more confident in my body’s ability to handle physical activity without the constant fear of re-injury.

For anyone dealing with chronic or acute pain or those simply looking for the best personal trainers in Glenview, Activation Fitness is the place to go. They offer a unique blend of therapeutic treatment and functional training, which makes them stand out in a crowded fitness market. Whether you’re like me and need help recovering from an injury, or you’re just looking for a supportive environment to reach your fitness goals, Activation Fitness is well worth your time.

Their comprehensive approach, experienced team, and personalized programs have not only helped me heal but have also set me up for a stronger, healthier future. If you’re in Glenview or Chicago North Shore, and searching for top-quality personal training or relief from pain, I highly recommend Activation Fitness!

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined Activation Fitness in January of 2024, and I can confidently say that the group strength sessions have transformed my fitness journey. From day one, I felt welcomed into a supportive community where everyone is motivated to achieve their personal best.

The group dynamic makes each session not only effective but also genuinely fun! Working out alongside others creates an atmosphere of camaraderie that keeps you motivated and engaged. I love how we can push each other while still focusing on our individual goals.

I've noticed a significant increase in my strength since participating in these sessions. The workouts are well-structured, allowing us to maximize efficiency while ensuring we’re using proper form. I appreciate how the trainers provide guidance tailored to each individual's level, which has helped me make consistent progress.

Overall, Activation Fitness has struck the perfect balance between enjoyment and effectiveness. If you're looking to get stronger while being part of a wonderful community, I highly recommend joining their group strength sessions! The results speak for themselves.

Source: Google

★ 5

While training for a marathon I developed IT band issues that brought my running and training to a halt. Enter Steve who provided top-notch treatment and exercises that got me back to running in no time! After only a few visits I was feeling much better and at this point my legs feel stronger and better than they did prior to the injury!

Source: Google

★ 5

Thanks to Gina and Activation Fitness I am getting into the best shape of my life. Gina tailors my workouts to what my body needs and I look great, am sleeping great and overall feel GREAT! On top of the results I genuinely enjoy going to my workouts because everyone is very friendly and fun. I would and do recommend Activation Fitness to everyone on the North Shore.

Source: Google

★ 5

My wife and I work with Steve. He tailors our workouts (either once or twice a week) each week and we’ve seen remarkable progress over the last 18 months. Steve has a unique mix of patience and “pushiness”. Having an appointment on the calendar always gets me out of the house and to their gym and Steve always pushes me to work out a bit harder. when I’m there I highly recommend trying a work out. You’ll be sore but satisfied afterwards.

Source: Google

★ 5

Steve's gym has carefully chosen weight machines that give me a much more effective workout than those in other places. He has helped me to develop muscle strength in my upper and lower back, abdomen, and legs. I'm a senior who would be loosing muscle strength if Steve didn't continue to challenge me. Every week I feel stronger and can stand straighter, retaining my shape with the core muscle power he works on. I highly trust him due to his background in muscle activation and years of training experience. In addition, he is a very pleasant, caring person to work with.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working with Steve at the recommendation of my tennis pro after complaining that my left arm was starting to hurt post tennis. After only a couple of sessions using the MAT technique, the pain I was experiencing went away. Since then I have shifted to doing personal training twice a week to strengthen my shoulder / arm to prevent any further injuries and it has been great. I would highly recommend Steve and his team of personal trainers if you have an injury OR if you just want to start a personal training program.

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness is the best find I have had in a long long time. After injuring my shoulder to the point where it was impacting my quality of life, Steve's distinctive MAT technique got me substantially back to normal and close to full use in a short period of time. I am very impressed and would highly recommend Activision Fitness to anyone. Thank you Steve.

Source: Google

★ 5

Activation Fitness has a complete array of fitness and strength training equipment. Steve is a true professional in personal training and a great guy. Always a pleasure to work out with. He was able to help me meet my goals of increased strength combined with weight loss. He also helped me quickly recover from a minor back injury with his muscle activation technique (I was impressed and surprised that it worked so well). If you are ready to restart/refocus your fitness goals, definitely contact Steve!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Can't say enough good things about Steve!

I have worked with Steve for about 1 year now. I initially began doing MAT work with him for a lot of structural imbalances that had created pain and dysfunction, and difficulty maintaining a regular and vigorous exercise routine. The technique, which I don't totally understand, was VERY effective, and as I felt that he understood my body's mechanics very well by that point, it was just a few months before I moved on to begin combining the MAT work with weight training. I am SO MUCH STRONGER, and experiencing none of the pain that had plagued me for years. Steve is a very good listener, and makes sure you are not aggravating any parts of the body that had been previously problematic. The gym itself is small, with not a lot of traffic at the same time, so I have felt very comfortable resuming our workout routine after the stay-at-home order was lifted.

Source: Google

★ 5

“I am a professional violinist and sustained an injury almost 20 years ago to my neck that caused continuous pain. Over the years I saw physical therapists, sports medicine doctors, chiropractors, and a napropath-despite months and years of therapy the pain had never receded until my current trainer recommended MAT and Activation Fitness over 8 years ago. It has changed my life completely. After a few initial weeks of extensive therapy I am now on a flexible schedule with appointments when needed. I am able to practice, teach and workout on a regular basis and even play competitive tennis-things I could never have achieved together prior to Activation Fitness.”
— Deb Ponko

Source: Google

★ 5

My personal training experience at Activation Fitness has been exceptional. The gym just doubled in size and has a great range of equipment. My trainer, Mary, is most knowledgeable and experienced in motivating her clients to reach their highest fitness potential. I highly recommend them!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Steve at Activation Fitness for over 2 years now and he has really helped identify my weak muscle areas and make them stronger. When I first started, I was having a lot of back and shoulder pain and some restricted range of motion. Through the MAT techniques, we were able to eliminate the pain and expand my range of motion. I now have to rely much less on the MAT Techniques and can spend more time strengthening my muscles and keeping my body pain free. It has made a huge difference in my quality of life.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter is a collegiate runner who worked with Steve to improve her running form and address the injuries that prevented her from finishing her cross country season. Steve worked with her busy schedule, addressed her muscle weaknesses and gave her exercises to work on between visits. She's back to running pain free and her form is more fluid than it's ever been.

Source: Google

★ 5

I had been struggling with decreased mobility and pain in my lower back and hips for about a month. Steve and Activation Fitness were able to isolate areas of weakness in the first session. They helped not only restore but increase my flexibility beyond what it was before. They also sent me home with some specific exercises to reinforce and maintain the progress we made. I have been able to continue to grow in my personal strength training and life! Super genuine and professional, Steve really cares about the end result and your story.

Source: Google

★ 5

After 20+ years of playing golf, platform tennis, and post college lacrosse, I had developed numerous ankle, leg and lower back issues that never seemed to improve despite my attempts to strengthen those areas through stretching, targeted exercise and the occasional trip to a chiropractor. At the suggestion of a co-worker, I looked into MAT as a possible alternative. After only a limited number of sessions, Steve at Activation Fitness was able to completely address the issues that had plagued me for so long, leaving me pain free and more mobile than I had been in years. I have wholeheartedly recommended MAT and Steve to numerous friends and family and continue to work with him to build strength and mobility.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been going to Steve now regularly for about 3 months and have seen significant improvement. He worked with me to identify weak muscle areas and to strengthen them so that I've seen improvement in physical activities. Fitness and sports performance are important to me and Steve has zeroed in on the areas that need strengthening so that I can optimize my activities. His MAT technique makes avlot of sense and has worked well for me! Thanks Steve.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing place to train at, it's got quality equipment, nice & friendly people working there and the owner Steve is great to work with. Love training and working out here. Definitely the best private gym in the area.

Source: Google