Testimonials
“I came to VO2Max with a background in competitive cheer, but I had stepped away from athletics to focus on school. After moving to Grand Prairie, I wanted to get back into a competitive environment and explore something new. I was drawn to CrossFit because of its gymnastic elements, but I had little knowledge of the sport and didn’t know anyone in the community.
When I first joined VO2Max, I thought I’d need 1-on-1 sessions to learn the movements. Instead, I found a welcoming and knowledgeable coaching team—especially Ryan—who supported me from day one. Although I started online, I quickly found my footing and built confidence through consistent training and honest feedback.
My goals evolved over time. At first, I just wanted to compete again, but I’ve grown so much mentally and emotionally through CrossFit. I’ve learned how to handle setbacks, prioritize progress over perfection, and trust the process. Whether it’s mastering double unders or just showing up on tough days, every step has mattered.
What success looks like to me now is being able to train hard while also balancing other parts of life. Yes, I still want to compete at a high level, but even more, I want to enjoy the journey. My advice to anyone starting out: everyone begins somewhere. Don’t compare yourself to others—celebrate the small wins, embrace the challenges, and keep going. The training session doesn’t define you—your consistency and heart do.”
- Sydney Haywood
I started at VO2Max about three years ago, just looking to get in better shape and build strength. I’d heard great things about the training environment, and the personalized coaching really stood out. I had no idea at the time how much this place would change the game for me.
About 18 months in, my partner introduced me to HYROX—and I was instantly hooked. The mix of strength, endurance, and functional fitness was exactly the challenge I didn’t know I needed. After my first race, I knew I was all in. It was intense, humbling, and completely addictive.
A huge part of my progress has come from working with Coach Husan. His approach is on another level—smart, strategic, and 100% tailored to me. He pushes me outside my comfort zone, focuses on my weaknesses, and builds on my strengths. I’ve never trained like this before, and it’s paying off big time.
Since starting HYROX, I’ve completed 4 races and keep improving each time. I’m faster, stronger, and more confident. The long-term goal? Qualify for the World Championships and keep leveling up.
But it’s not just the coaching—it’s the VO2Max community. The energy in here is unreal. Everyone’s pushing each other, supporting one another, and celebrating every win. It’s more than just a gym. It’s where I’ve grown into a real athlete.
If you’re thinking about getting serious with your training—or aiming for elite competition—VO2Max is where you want to be. You’ll get expert guidance, a supportive team, and the drive to hit goals you didn’t think were possible.”
- Joel Kish
I first joined VO2Max to improve my mental well-being and manage stress. I wasn’t big on working out, but the positive environment and supportive community changed that quickly.
Training with Jen Roach for nearly 10 years has been a huge part of my journey. She understands how to push and motivate in just the right way—it’s a rare kind of coaching.
The online programming gives me structure and accountability, even when life gets busy. My wife and I train differently, but VO2Max offers options that work for both of us.
At 50, I’m stronger, healthier, and more consistent than I’ve been in years. VO2Max has become a habit I truly value—and a place I actually look forward to.
- Chris Jones
My journey with VO2Max began as part of a college project, and it quickly became clear that this gym was unlike any other. The commitment to education, the supportive coaching environment, and the strong sense of community truly set it apart. From the beginning, I had the privilege of shadowing Ernie, whose leadership and personalized coaching have played a key role in my development. Throughout significant life transitions—including pregnancy, postpartum, and now as I train toward the CrossFit Games—Ernie has consistently adapted my programming to meet my needs. His guidance has been instrumental in helping me stay focused and continue progressing. The connections I’ve built here and the support I’ve received are a testament to the unique culture VO2Max fosters. It’s a place where you’re truly supported every step of the way.”
- Vyktoria Kay
My husband had been going to VO2 Max for a few years, and he always spoke so highly of it.
He was working with a trainer and really enjoying the experience and getting results. I was doing
home workouts here and there, but to be honest, I didn’t feel like I was getting much out of them.
I knew I needed a change, so I finally decided to give VO2 a try for myself.
I was pretty nervous at first. But as soon as I walked through the doors, I felt surprisingly
comfortable. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming—it wasn’t intimidating like I expected.
That first impression really stuck with me.
Now, I actually look forward to going. Working out at VO2 has become something I genuinely
enjoy. It’s turned into this addictive; healthy habit that’s just part of my routine now. I never
thought I’d be the kind of person to say that, but here we are!
I really love the group fitness classes. They’re fun, energetic, and always a good challenge. The
coaches do a great job of keeping things upbeat and engaging, and it helps that I’m surrounded
by other people who are pushing themselves too. I find that I work harder in the group setting—it
brings out a bit of competitiveness in me, but in a good way! Plus, I’ve made some friends in
those classes, and we keep each other accountable, which makes a big difference. There’s
something about having that consistency and routine that just works.
One of the biggest turning points for me was when Janine encouraged me to join the 16-week
challenge. She put together a personalized nutrition plan, and that was honestly the missing piece
for me. I’d always struggled with figuring out what to eat and how to fuel my body properly.
Once I had a clear, manageable plan, everything just started to fall into place. I saw results
almost right away, and more importantly, I felt better. I turned 50 this year, and I can honestly say
I feel stronger and healthier than I did in my 30s. It’s been such a confidence boost.
I’ll never forget my first day—Pricille was the first person I met. She greeted me with a big
smile, introduced me to a couple of ladies in the group, and made me feel like I belonged. That
kind of warmth and friendliness really makes a difference, especially when you’re starting
something new and a little intimidating.
Looking back, I’m so glad I took the leap and joined VO2. It’s made a huge difference in how I
feel, both physically and mentally. I’ve stayed consistent, rarely miss a workout, and genuinely
enjoy being part of the community. If anyone’s on the fence about joining, I’d absolutely
encourage them to go for it. Your health and wellness are so important, and this place makes it
easy to prioritize both in a way that’s fun, supportive, and actually sustainable.
- Denise Jones
I went to Vo2Max for approximately 5 years. I always enjoyed going. It is much easier to push yourself in a fun environment. Vo2 max is one of the most diverse gyms for the the classes they offer and I believe there is something for everyone there. Prices are good. Any fitness facility that does classes is going to have a larger overhead and cost more. However, the coaching you receive is well worth the price. To get the same quality of coaching I received on Olympic lifting would probably cost me at least 3 times as much going anywhere else. Although I no longer live in Grande Prairie, I still occasionally look at their website for workout ideas. I would highly recommend this gym.
- Sean Helstein
I have been going to VO2 for ten years. Every time I walk in I feel at home. From the owners to the trainers and administrative staff, everyone is professional and welcoming.
The clientele are a cut above the rest. Anyone can walk up to another and have a full 30min conversation. Even if you don’t know the person. A quick introduction and you’ve basically made a new friend. Everyone is there for the same purpose, to improve in some capacity of their life, so it is an extremely motivating place. If you are away from the gym for a while and haven’t been seen, people take notice. VO2 goes out of their way to make you feel apart of the family, but they do so without it feeling fake. It is a genuine passion for health and community that the owners and trainers have exemplified and it shows through in their clientele.
I have been too many gyms and nothing compares to the level of cleanliness VO2 has. They clean the entire facility three times a day, at a minimum.
- Kyle Lovett
I have been lifting weights for many years. I have worked out in gyms all over Canada. But there is no gym that compares to vo2 max. From day one I was welcomed with open arms and treated as an equal. As someone with my ethnic background this is something that is not too common in todays world.
The staff are incredible, the coaches are the definition of professional. The community has help push me to become the best version of my self.
The facility it’s self is very clean and organized with a open floor plan that has very well thought out.
I highly recommend this facility to anyone and everyone!
- Jeremy Patfield
Been training there for over 10 years, tons of knowledgeable staff, friendly and overall great environment for someone looking to take their fitness seriously. Every walk of life is welcomed and embraced no matter what level you start at. Truly one of a kind facility.
- Brett Shillington