What Does Functional Exercise Really Mean?
by Lori Michiel | May 1, 2025 | Blog
You’ve probably heard the term – but what does it actually mean? For many it can sound vague or even a little confusing. Let’s break it down and explore why it matters, especially when it comes to everyday activities involving...
Posture Exercise for Seniors While Seated
by Lori Michiel | Apr 1, 2025 | Exercise Snack Videos
Maintaining good posture is vital for everyone. Having correct posture can help reduce back pain. As we know, balance is essential, especially for seniors, and good posture helps with that too. This straightforward chair exercise targets the upper back, helping...
A Tale of Two Hips
by Lori Michiel | Mar 1, 2025 | Blog
Some types of arthritis can run in families, but it doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to get it. After having my left hip replaced in 2023, I recovered well. But not long after, my right hip started to give me trouble....
A Fresh Approach to Strengthening Your Back, Hips and Glutes
by Lori Michiel | Feb 1, 2025 | Exercise Snack Videos
By strengthening glutes, these exercises promote posture and stability. The movements also help stabilize the pelvis, preventing injuries and promoting balance —especially important to seniors. Glutes also come into play when performing daily activities such as...Kind Words from our Clients
Barb Weitzberg
Lori – I just wanted to put in a plug for you as a trainer. I’ve been very impressed with how you individualize your training and make an effort to get a question answered if you don’t know the answer. Not only did you check out my condition (Fibromyalgia) and how you can help, you sent me an email within the same day as we saw each other. You’re organized and fun to work with. I asked for some cheat sheets so I could practice at home and remember what to do and you had them ready the next time I saw you. You have a great, cheerful attitude. I would recommend you to anyone!
– Barb Weitzberg
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2017-02-06T17:06:22-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/barb-weitzberg/
Sherri
Thanks for all of your support and understanding. As I said on the phone, you are terrific!
Best wishes,
Sherri
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-04-01T09:21:09-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/sherri-2/
Julie Pearlman Snyder
Lori is wonderful! She's an expert in her field and has a warm and engaging personality. I highly recommend her! Five Stars.
- Julie Pearlman Snyder (from Facebook Reviews)
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-07-22T11:59:09-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/julie-pearlman-snyder/
Cameron Edward Benton
Thanks for your work, care and dedication in working with my grandfather who has this dreaded disease called Parkinson’s. Your team is great!
- Cameron Edward Benton
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2017-09-21T22:51:54-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/6917/
Sherri
I thoroughly enjoy working with you. You are terrific! You engage and connect with clients during the first intake assessment. That bond continues and grows during their training programs because you are so caring and concerned that each person gets the best training that meets their individual needs and goals. You treat everyone respectfully. Including the Personal Trainers that work for you.
As a Personal Trainer, I appreciate that you trust my skills and give me the freedom to create the best personalized training programs for our clients. Since you too are an excellent Personal Trainer, and stay up-to-date with current trends and fitness education, we're able to collaborate to determine the best approach for our clients. It's a great working team! Thank you for the opportunity to work with you.
As a Personal Trainer, I appreciate that you trust my skills and give me the freedom to create the best personalized training programs for our clients. Since you too are an excellent Personal Trainer, and stay up-to-date with current trends and fitness education, we're able to collaborate to determine the best approach for our clients. It's a great working team! Thank you for the opportunity to work with you.
- Sherri
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2022-09-07T13:59:53-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/sherri/
B.
After an extensive search looking particularly for a training service that could work creatively with older clients, we were blessed to discover Lori Michiel Fitness and her team. From our introduction on the website to a detailed reciprocal introductory interview to a match with one of her very special trainers, it was clear that she and her team understood our needs, met every expectation, and at the most reasonable cost. Without hesitation our family recommends her at the highest possible level of satisfaction.
- B.
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2025-04-17T10:37:48-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/b-2/
Sam Strain – Trainer
I have had the pleasure of working for/with Lori Michiel Fitness since June 2016. I have found Lori to be conscientious, thorough, polite and a joy to work with. Lori has demonstrated numerous times that she understands that we are in the “service industry” and prides herself on giving the best service possible.
Customer care is of the utmost concern to her. She is very knowledgeable about personal training and the workings of the functional human body from a bio-mechanical point of view. She is compassionate about all her clients as they all get her personal touch.
I would feel most comfortable recommending her to anyone that is in need of her services.
Customer care is of the utmost concern to her. She is very knowledgeable about personal training and the workings of the functional human body from a bio-mechanical point of view. She is compassionate about all her clients as they all get her personal touch.
I would feel most comfortable recommending her to anyone that is in need of her services.
Respectfully,
Samuel Strain II NASM/CES
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2018-05-02T07:50:18-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/sam-strain-trainer/
Ann (Maine)
A year ago I was fortunate to find the exceptional Lori Michiel. I can't say enough positives about this company. Foremost is their knowledge and expertise of the aging human body. I began my journey toward fitness on the heels of big life changes: sold our long-time home, moved to a new town, and traveled in an RV for 4 months. Because Lori's trainer and I work together online, I have been able to continue with our twice weekly get-togethers during all this upheaval, and see improvement in my physical well being. In addition to the trust I have in the trainer to monitor my efforts, suggest changes or new strategies when needed, she brings humor and a warm-hearted spirit to my life. From time to time, Lori calls or texts to check in; these are welcome and let's me know she keeps an eye on her clients. Hiring a personal trainer has been one of the best things I've done for myself in a very long time. I feel stronger and more fit. A big hug (virtual) and thank you, Lori!
-Ann (Maine)
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2022-07-30T09:19:46-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/ann-maine/
Miriam Brauner
I went to Lori Michiel because I needed help, especially in walking. In the past I have been doing exercises at least five times a week.
Now I can walk better. Also before I was going up the stairs one step at the time. Now I can go up and down by holding from both rails without a problem. I can go up 120 steps and more.
I continue doing all the exercises and they have given me more strength in all my body.
There aren't any words to say how much Lori and her trainer, therapist changed my life forever. Until today, I do the exercises they taught me.
I will thank them forever.
They changed my life. They can change your life too.
Now I can walk better. Also before I was going up the stairs one step at the time. Now I can go up and down by holding from both rails without a problem. I can go up 120 steps and more.
I continue doing all the exercises and they have given me more strength in all my body.
There aren't any words to say how much Lori and her trainer, therapist changed my life forever. Until today, I do the exercises they taught me.
I will thank them forever.
They changed my life. They can change your life too.
- Miriam Brauner
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-10-18T11:44:12-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/miriam-brauner/
Rebecca
After my mom’s strokes, we knew we needed to help her become active and improve her balance. She didn’t have a good habit of any exercise and none of the local senior classes were appropriate for her.
I’m so glad we called Lori Michiel Fitness. Lori came to the house, met with my mom, listened to her needs, took a careful medical history and matched her with a trainer. He is a wonderful trainer who comes to the house three times a week to help support mom’s recovery. The trainer really understands senior fitness. He gives the whole family peace of mind that we are doing what we can to prevent another fall and keep mom active. Lori checks in with us regularly to make sure the therapy continues to be appropriate for mom. We’re very grateful to her.
- Rebecca, San Marino
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2019-01-30T11:20:34-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/rebecca/
Mary-Austin
Ginger is stronger than she’s been since we reached out to you. Her knees bother her still but we keep stressing that she’s got to keep moving to stay healthy and independent.
We are grateful for your help in getting her to this place and sustaining it.
We are grateful for your help in getting her to this place and sustaining it.
- Mary-Austin
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-11-18T21:48:49-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/13028/
Ann
I am so grateful that you and her trainer are part of Mom’s life! It has been wonderful to have this support and guidance. Mom will often mention something they’ve done and how much she appreciates having someone encourage her to push herself a bit harder.
Gratefully,
Ann
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2023-10-12T15:24:14-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/ann/
Julia Nelson
I've been working with Lori and her excellent staff since 2011, and my experience has always been positive! Most recently, her personal trainers she's assigned have been a very good "fit" with my clients. The clients have special needs, my older female client has Alzheimer's, and my younger male client had physical disabilities. In addition to the many benefits to their physical health, the trainers have served as friendly visitors, and occasionally have reported concerns regarding their personal care and emotional health, which has been very helpful. Lori and her staff have always been professional and courteous, and I am always kept informed of progress. And I know they really care about my clients, which makes all the difference!
- Julia Nelson, CA Licensed Professional Fiduciary
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2019-01-31T16:24:21-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/julia-nelson/
Kimberly
Thank you for all your help with Marilyn (and Larry of course). I know you and your trainer really cared about them and that means a lot. I truly believe that Marilyn's life would have been a lot shorter without our little team of support people working to improve her situation as much as we could.
- Kimberly, Personal Assistant
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2023-12-11T22:55:39-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/12226/
Eileen ED PRO
I just wanted to send the biggest thank you for joining us at The Variel. You put on such an excellent class and I know our contact at The Variel was really impressed.
I can't say enough good things about your class. You were knowledgeable, engaging, and FUN! I've worked with a number of fitness instructors over the years -- some are good and some are standout, and you quickly revealed yourself to be standout.
I look forward to working with you again in the future, and thanks for donating your time to our special community this past Saturday.
Thanks,
Eileen, Executive Director Parkinson's Resource Organization
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-05-02T14:48:54-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/12787/
Ethel
I am very impressed with Lori Michiel Fitness. It has improved the quality of life for my 87-year-old mother-in-law who suffers from moderate dementia and had become weak and unstable due to spending too much time sleeping and being sedentary. From the very thorough initial evaluation to the now twice weekly workout sessions, my mother-in-law is really having fun with the exercises with her personal trainer; I can see the benefits of these sessions. Additionally, I really appreciate the excellent communication with Lori, who always responds in a timely fashion and sends weekly email updates about progress being made. I highly recommend!!
- Ethel
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2019-02-17T10:19:01-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/ethel/
Rico
The last time I spoke with my mom she was just so happy with Lori Michiel Fitness. She told me that without your training she wouldn’t be able to move as she well as she is doing now.
My mom is doing very well. She’s getting back into her ceramics studio and making more stuff and seeing her friends.
My mom is doing very well. She’s getting back into her ceramics studio and making more stuff and seeing her friends.
- Rico
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2022-10-11T14:59:25-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/rico/
Dr. Kaloostian
Thank you for your great work. Your clients speak highly of your care and this is what matters most to me. Don’t ever change!
- Dr. Kaloostian
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-03-29T08:44:31-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/dr-kaloostian/
Jill M. Brink
For the past seven years, my clients have reaped the benefits of working with Lori Michiel and her team. My clients are living with less pain, greater strength, endurance and flexibility; fewer falls as well as less depression and more energy for life. Speaking as a Professional Geriatric Care Manager, physical exercise is an integral component of a Care Plan, especially for my clients with health issues. Moving the body is essential to physical, emotional and cognitive well-being and Lori and her trainers know how to safely and effectively engage my clients in an exercise program that is appropriate for their needs.
- Jill M. Brink, Ph.D, Geriatric Care Management, Aging Interventions
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2015-01-15T03:04:48-08:00
- Jill M. Brink, Ph.D, Geriatric Care Management, Aging Interventions
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/4125/
Debbi, Trainer
Lori Michiel Fitness is the premiere go-to company for older adult and senior fitness training. I have worked in the geriatric field for many decades and have the pleasure of rendering fitness sessions to Lori's clients. Lori is always available to address her clients' needs and confers with trainers to ensure the utmost in quality service and outcomes are met. I highly recommend reaching out to Lori to discuss your fitness needs for services including enhancing range-of-motion, cardiovascular endurance, increased strength, and overall well-being.
- Debbi, Trainer with Lori Michiel Fitness
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2019-05-06T16:04:13-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/8778/
Scott
Mom's doing great and she really likes her trainer. She's so much more comfortable now and not scared to move - she even rode the exercycle a little in the building gym with her senior helper person the other day, so her trainer has really gotten her self-confidence back. She's also moving better. I can see it, though I'm sure she can't as much. And most importantly, her trainer has done a great job putting her mind at ease about the little aches she will feel from working out. She's not worrying every sore muscle is a heart attack anymore.
- Scott
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2023-11-20T12:06:27-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/scott/
Bryan
I contacted Lori after researching several personal trainers for my mom online. I was very pleased with the whole process. To start, Lori spent the time needed to learn about my mom and our goals and objectives for her. She took the time to really understand my mother's needs and situation so that she could match us with the appropriate trainer. A trainer was selected to work with my mom and although I was not there for the sessions, I heard everything went very well during the training sessions. Both Lori and her trainer are punctual, care about their clients and the constant follow-though shows that they are not in this to make money, but genuinely care about their clients well-being and results. If you are looking for quality service and professionals who are gentle and actually care about your needs and results, I highly recommend.
- Bryan
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-03-08T22:16:30-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/bryan/
Sheri L.
My family engaged the services of Lori Michiel for my 77-year-old mother. I was very pleased with Lori's overall professionalism, starting off with in an in-depth health questionnaire, and then physical assessment. She was very engaging, personable and easy to work with. Her approach with my mother (a difficult person) was always right on target, and she was encouraging, positive and upbeat. She would give us reports after each training session to keep us apprised of what went on. I would definitely recommend Lori Michiel to anyone seeking personal training sessions for those over age 50, as she is quite knowledgeable and experienced with the health issues of this population, and appears to have a natural affinity for these individuals.
- Sheri L.
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2015-03-16T03:08:24-08:00
- Sheri L.
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/4216/
Grace
Lori,
Thank you so much for your patience, persistence and passion in serving clients like my mother. You and Kim are amazing.
Blessings, Grace
Thank you so much for your patience, persistence and passion in serving clients like my mother. You and Kim are amazing.
Blessings, Grace
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2019-05-16T15:33:57-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/grace/
Charles Savinar
Lori, In a few days it will be one year since I began with your program. I can say now, without a doubt, that I am in a much better place, in so many ways, than I was one year ago. I still remember the day you visited me and Mary and explained what it was that you work to do. (She still marvels about the balloon hat you wore that day.) Your suggestion to pair me with your trainer was spot on. Sometimes I wonder what she does to stay positive when I turn into "grumpy old man"...It was our daughter, Robin, who found out about you, and the rest is history...When it all began, I, as a classically trained cynic, expected to go a few months and then leave it all behind. Just goes to show you what can happen when you work and believe. Hope you're doing well.
- Charles Savinar
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2023-06-27T20:24:30-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/d-p/
Karen
Lori,
Thank you so much for your awesome presentation at Senior Congress! Your passion for what you do was clear and everyone thoroughly enjoyed it! We so appreciate the time you took out of your busy schedule to join us and share your insight with our attendees.
With gratitude,
Karen
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-03-20T07:26:19-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/karen/
Mary
I've become more confident in pushing my limits as I learned techniques from Lori that were customized to my age and condition. Before, I would pull back from activities for fear of pain or further injury, but she taught me how to build muscle and stamina progressively and safely. Confidence is built on a series of successes; The Lori Method™ works!
Lori's principles of dynamic stretching revolutionized the way I approach stretching. I've seen a great increase in flexibility and have even built additional strength using her techniques.
Lori's principles of dynamic stretching revolutionized the way I approach stretching. I've seen a great increase in flexibility and have even built additional strength using her techniques.
- Mary
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2015-08-27T01:31:46-08:00
- Mary
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/4550/
B
Thank you! Linda is proof that the right medication plus the right exercise can create miracles!
- B
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-08-13T11:56:35-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/b/
TomMac
I am glad that you had the chance to see how I have prospered under the tutelage of your trainer. She has been such a genuine part of my recovery and has become a wonderful friend.
To the both of you, I say take a bow for a job well done.
Love ❤️
TomMac
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2024-11-14T08:24:21-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/13014/
Rolanda
I learned from Lori how important exercise is to my well-being and that I need to be accountable to myself and make exercise a part of my every day. I actually see Lori's face when I swim, or use the tread mill and know that she will be proud of me and my efforts to live “the good life”.
– Rolanda
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2015-08-27T01:36:34-08:00
– Rolanda
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/4553/
Tristan
Thanks so much for your help in running a class for our staff yesterday. They truly enjoyed it and think it was a great way to break them out of their usual routine.
- Tristan
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2019-11-13T23:25:54-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/tristan/
Rebecca
I enthusiastically recommend Lori Michiel Fitness! My 80 year old Mom had a cyst on her spinal column, and underwent a difficult spine surgery. We knew she had a long road of recovery ahead. Thankfully, as we left Villa Gardens, a Skilled Nursing Facility, they recommended Lori Michiel Fitness! Lori came to Mom’s house and thoroughly interviewed us, listened carefully to Mom's needs, read her neurosurgeon’s reports, and matched us with a Rehab Trainer that perfectly, gently helped Mom safely move and stretch. On top of that, Mom really liked the trainer and enjoyed their sessions. Lori kept in touch throughout Mom’s treatment as a liaison between us and the trainer. She conveyed any concerns we had to the trainer and helped make adjustments to Mom’s program. Lori is a gracious, warm-hearted woman with a passion for helping seniors. She truly gave us her whole heart as as we went through a very challenging time.
- Rebecca
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2022-09-30T18:03:38-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/rebecca-2/
Jersey John
Lori,
You're amazing...you can pivot in a moment's flash... if you could bottle that productivity and sell it to seniors you could buy California, despite the fact that you already help many people and make their lives better!! Stay YOU!!!
Love, Jersey John
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2025-01-16T18:14:10-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/jersey-john/
Jackie
Lori is a talented, innovative teacher /trainer. She has helped me better how my body works -- and what is needed to keep it moving! She constantly works around limitations with creative ways to accomplish the exercises and movements needed to build more strength and resilience. In addition to helping me with pain issues, she's helped me become more aware of how important posture and balance are. She's led me through provided me with methods to improve both. She also shares resources regarding my particular pain issues as well as general good health and body maintenance.
– Jackie
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2015-08-27T01:40:45-08:00
– Jackie
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/4555/
Deb
Love Love Love your video on helping to relieve pain in the hips!!
My struggle area right now, Lori!
You are such a blessing and like your sign in the video in the background, I do 'give thanks' for you and your dedication to all of us who are trying to do the best we can with our bodies...no matter where we are and at what stage of health we are in!
Love your heart to serve, my friend!
My struggle area right now, Lori!
You are such a blessing and like your sign in the video in the background, I do 'give thanks' for you and your dedication to all of us who are trying to do the best we can with our bodies...no matter where we are and at what stage of health we are in!
Love your heart to serve, my friend!
- Deb M.
Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc
2020-10-29T08:45:08-08:00
https://lorimichielfitness.com/testimonials/deb-2/
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Lori Michiel Fitness, Inc