Elite Fitness Training and Coaching

Fantastic experience: As a former athlete turned full-time working mother of 3, I was looking for a training program that I could complete over my lunch hour a few days a week that focused on building strength and burning fat! Mike designed just that for me. After training with him in his state of the art gym, he created a unique and effective program designed around my fitness abilities and goals. I've loved Mike's training programs (which is saying a lot since I use to dislike weight lifting). Mike's knowledge, customized approach to training, and individual attention is just what I needed to re-motivate myself and make my health and fitness a priority again!

Fantastic experience: I met Mike through a mutual friend and he challenged me to give his workouts a try. I've been a long distance runner for over 20 years and had just started doing Crossfit and was loving the weight lifting portions of the workouts. Mike promised me great results with his plan and he delivered! He designed a program specific to my goals and abilities and within three months I had dramatically increased the amount of weight I could lift. He was able to fix my form issues with what seemed to me like minor tweaks but in reality were huge in that they prevented injury and allowed me to do the lift correctly. Not living in Champaign I usually train at my local gym. Mike is always available to answer any question or explain how to do a lift. I would not hesitate to recommend Mike to anyone who is serious about fitness! He knows his stuff!

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Micheal for 5 years. He always listens to what my goals are and customizes my routines to get the results i'm looking for. I would strongly recommend anyone who is serious about getting fit to train with Micheal.

Fantastic experience: I have worked out with Michael for over 7 years. The strength gains from his workouts were enormous. As an athlete, not only did I become fit, I became stronger in all of my weak point, especially my core. Michael creates workouts especially for you, not umbrella workouts that have worked for others. His assessments are very accurate and his availability is unmatched. If you are serious about getting fit and changing you life and lifestyle, I recommend that you sign up and follow his program step-by-step. The environment is friendly and very professional. I have also made many new friends and acquaintances, while developing a more fit lifestyle. Sign up NOW!!!!

Fantastic experience: When I went to Micheal and asked if he could help this short old, woman be able to tie her shoes, and get off the floor when she fell as she got older; he accepted the challenge. In a few months I dead-lifted 215 lbs.! If you want to be challenged to work out at a level that won't hurt you, have fun with his hundreds of exercise ideas, experience using effective equipment- this is the place for you. His facility is clean and you'll meet some great people. No intimidation here. Motivational coaching and music. I'm always excited about going there, enjoy my time there, and never want to leave after my workout. I feel great!

Fantastic experience: MICHAEL IS AN AMAZING TRAINER!! MY GOAL WAS TO BE ON STAGE IN MAY 2015 FOR MY FIRST BODY BUILDING SHOW. FROM JUNE 2014- NOW, I HAVE LOST 49 POUNDS AND STILL GOING. HE HAS TOTALLY CHANGED MY LIFE FOR THE BETTER. NOT ONLY IS MICHAEL VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE HE IS ALSO ENCOURAGING HE STRESSES THE IMPORTANCE OF EATING AND LIVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. NO MATTER WHAT YOUR GOALS ARE, MICHAEL WILL HELP YOU GET THERE

Fantastic experience: Michael is a terrific trainer and pushes you without you knowing you are being pushed. I do not particularly like working out but it is an important part of my week now and I miss it if I am unable to go. He is very flexible about accommodating a changing schedule if you need that.

Fantastic experience: I have know Michael for a little over five years. Meet him when he was a personal trainer at refinery. We use to work together in the same place. Every morning when I come in to work, I would forget to eat breakfast, so I stop by the close fast food place close to work. I would work out seven times a day, big fan of the elliptical machine. Would be on it for over an hour. But of course no matter how long I would work out my eating behaviors not help my body. Michael started challenging me on everything I ate or how I worked out. He would teach me about nutrition and how it affect my body. What would be the best choices to make. I started listening to him and applying my eating habits as well as my working out habits and exercises. He would always tell me I was a strong gal. I started trimming down and building muscle. Who could ever images I would be that strong. Before my pregnancy I was able to dead left up to 305lb my heavies lift, hip bridge 345lb, 145 zercher squat, ground base squat 460lb. During my pregnancy I continue to left weights, at my 32 weeks pregnant I increase my zercher squat to 155lb and was able to still dead lift up to 225lb. I would left to what my body could handle. Thanks to all the knowledge I have learned from Michael and all the coaching, I was able to have a easy labor, natural birth at 40 weeks pregnant with my 1st baby. And very healthy little girl. Thank you Michael for all the coaching and training. Can't wait to get back to working out and strengthen my body. I recommend him 100%! 

Fantastic experience: I am a certified fitness instructor and was lacking in certain areas of my training. I started strength training with Mike several years ago. His programs yield the desired results. I went to him with a goal to supplement my current regimen and he exceeded my expectation and pushed me to areas in fitness I never thought possible. His programs are no nonsense and effective!

Fantastic experience: I have known Mike (owner of Elite Fitness) for more than 35 years. I was formerly a team member of his in High School and Division 1 college teammate at EIU and can attest that he is an amazing athlete, trainer, coach, and all-around good guy. I lived out of the area for about 15 years and I called him up because I moved back to Central Illinois and my wife was considering a performance coach. I went to visit his gym and was absolutely FLOORED by the level of equipment he has there. I can confidently say there is nothing even comparably close to what this gym has within a 2 hour radius or more. Just in the last year he has added a whole slew of new equipment and has plans to add even more. Mike has dedicated his entire life to coaching and training. He constantly reinvests in his business and his customers. He just expanded to a larger facility a few months back and this is definitely not the place where you see pretty people and wannabees. This is the real deal gym where dedicated athletes go to get high-performance results - the people who are looking for that extra 10%. The workouts are not cookie cutter! They will give you a very personalized program that is only targeted to your specific body makeup and what your goals are. All I can say is that If you are looking for that small difference and big motivation that will get you from where you are now to where you want to be, this is the place you will find it.

Fantastic experience: Coach Giesler was my collegiate track and field coach and his knowledge of fitness, strength, conditioning, nutrition, and rehabilitation is second to none.He has coached individuals of all levels, from those just wanting to lose a few pounds to NCAA All Americans and NFL football players. Coach Giesler will develop programs that are designed to meet your own individual needs. Whether your goal is simple fat loss or two be more explosive, Coach Giesler will implement his proven successful system for you to meet your goals. It is not even a question that the Elite Fitness Training center has the best strength and conditioning equipment in the Champaign area. Much of the training equipment is the very same equipment that is used by the University of Illinois athletes and lifters at the famed West Side Barbell club. In addition, to all of the equipment, the training center has every prehab/rehab tool imaginable to keep you healthy. Unlike other gyms in the Champaign area, the Elite Fitness has an outdoor space that is utilized for various conditioning workouts.

Fantastic experience: I've been working out with Michael for two summers now when I am back home from school and baseball. Every summer I have worked with him I have left bigger, faster, and stronger than when I started. His training style is different from your conventional lifts and that makes it fun. I would recommend Michael to anyone looking to better themselves physically, plus you meet some pretty cool people with the same goals as you have which can keep you motivated!

Fantastic experience: I have been working out with Michael for about two and half years now. Shortly after I joined, my wife also started working out with him. Michael is wonderful trainer. He assesses everyone's individual needs and goals, and plans out routines that are specifically tailored to each individual. Working out with him is a pleasure and we also enjoy the company of other people who work out. Michael has been adding some excellent equipment and his facility has an excellent range of equipment for working out. We expect to continue working out with him for a long time.

Fantastic experience: Michael is the best trainer in central IL. I have been training with Michael for 5+years. My goals change, new equipment is added and Michael continues to research which keeps my training sessions fresh, challenging and always fun. If results are what you are looking for you have found the right trainer. In two months I lost 18lbs and 35in, my body fat percentage dropped 13.7% and my lean body mass increased significantly. I am a lot stronger and feel great!!

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Michael for a little more than two years now. I am now probably in the best shape I have ever been. Michael has a knack for working you hard without it feeling like it. He observes what you do and is always giving you exercises to balance you out. I can't recommend him highly enough.

Fantastic experience: Mike was actually my college track coach! I can speak for his intensity and individual attention in workout development and his high level of knowledge on nutrition. This is the guy you want on your team if you have some serious goals to reach and you want an expert with the most cutting edge nutrition information and training techniques.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Michael now for a couple years mostly when I am home from college. I credit my ability to play college baseball to Michael for helping me get bigger and faster. The people that I have met at Elite Fitness are a great group that are fun to be around. No matter what your goals may be, coming to Elite is your best opportunity to accomplish them.

Fantastic experience: I have been a member of a several gyms in the community over the last 25 years. I always enjoyed cardio classes but could never stay committed to weight lifting. I found it monotonous and didn't ever see significant changes even with the help of trainers. Not anymore since working with Michael at Elite Fitness! I started about a year ago and I have never felt better or stronger than I do now, I love it!! Michael keeps me motivated, challenged and I honestly look forward to going and constantly trying new exercises. We are very fortunate to have someone of Michael's expertise available in this community. I highly recommend Michael to anyone looking to improve their overall health at any level.

Fantastic experience: Amazing gym! Super nice owner and great atmosphere!

Fantastic experience: Elite is unlike any other gym in Champaign-Urbana. Though small in floor space, it is appointed with a remarkable array of purpose-specific, high-end strength and fitness equipment carefully curated by the owner based on his extensive knowledge and experience in coaching athletes of many sorts. It is, in particular, the best facility in town -- bar none -- for those interested in the sport of powerlifting. Although it is a bit far from the city proper, Elite is well worth an inquiry for anyone serious about strength and athletic training. Nothing else in the region comes close.

Fantastic experience: Positive: Communication , Professionalism , Quality Michael is simply the best and this is the best gym I’ve ever been to. I love the equipment, programming and atmosphere. Michael is very professional and knowledgeable. If you want great results and you’re willing to put in the time and effort, this is definitely the best place to be.

Fantastic experience: Michael is simply the best and this is the best gym I’ve ever been to. I love the equipment, programming and atmosphere. Michael is very professional and knowledgeable. If you want great results and you’re willing to put in the time and effort, this is definitely the best place to be.

Fantastic experience: Great place!!! Michael is the best coach! Totally recommend! You won’t find a better place in town. Want to have nice looking body - that’s the place to be!

Fantastic experience: Michael is one of the best trainers.

Fantastic experience: Low cost guest pass when I was in town visiting. Solid facility for strength training and very friendly staff!

Fantastic experience: After many years of avoiding the gym due to fear of injuries, I am so glad I made the choice to start my journey here. I have had multiple surgeries (knee, shoulder, arm) and Michael has tailored workouts to my needs and goals. I have only been going here for a short time but I feel myself getting stronger which is giving me more confidence to be more active in my everyday life.

Fantastic experience: Yesterday was my first time at Elite Fitness. I was very impressed by the equipment and facility. Michael focused on evaluating my strength and capabilities to create a workout plan best for me. I have not had a set workout plan since I ran track in college, therefore I am excited to start working out in a gym with such a knowledgeable trainer. I highly recommend Elite Fitness!

Fantastic experience: New facility has everything and gets you ready to work just walking in. Great atmosphere for people with goals!

Fantastic experience: Mike will meet you exactly where you are and build from there. Strength training has made a huge difference in my life and Mike's dedication to my success and knowledge of what my WHOLE self needs is unprecedented.

Fantastic experience: Michael is the best coach I have ever had! He is very professional and tracks my personal improvement to design better plans for me. I have been training with him for more than a year and gotten A LOT stronger- all thanks to Michael! He is very fun to work with and he's also quite knowledgeable. I learned a lot in addition to my training, such as good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle. MICHAEL IS THE BEST!

Fantastic experience: If you haven't contacted Michael...what are you waiting for??! Come see the facility for yourself and talk to him. He is incredibly knowledgeable and knows how to create workout programs to meet your needs. He'll teach you how to train safely and effectively. You will look better, and more importantly , feel better. The facility is amazing as well. Contact him and get started!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been working out with Michael for over 2 years. I’m completely amazed at the things I can do now, my body is so much stronger than I ever thought possible. Michael is a wealth of knowledge and plans each exercise specifically for you. If you want to improve your fitness level call Michael!!!

Fantastic experience: I have been working out with Michael at Elite Fitness for just over 1 year now. I have worked with two different personal trainers in the past, and Michael is, by far, the most experienced and knowledgeable. The equipment and facility are top notch. If you’re looking for a trainer, Michael is the way to go!

Fantastic experience: After working at a high stress job all day it is a relief to walk in the door at Elite Fitness and be able to turn the day off while Michael runs me through an individualized training program. I've been training with Michael for almost three years and have made gains I would never have made on my own.

Fantastic experience: High school football was the last organized lifting I did. For the last decade I putzed around in college gyms, a little in mall gyms, and in my garage and didn’t really get anywhere. I started training with Michael Giesler four months ago and I am kicking myself for not having started sooner. I’m already noticing big changes in my body and how my strength is increasing. My coworkers have noticed too and when they ask I fully recommend them all to go see Michael. He is definitely not a fluff or shallow personal trainer running in auto-pilot. He is no-nonsense and his goal is to actively apply his expertise of a career in fitness and college sports to get each of his clients to their goals whether it is to get stronger or faster or build muscle to lose weight or recover from an injury/surgery. He watches you lift and focuses your activities on your weak spots and what will improve your form and continually build strength. No two sessions are the same and I don’t mean that in a gimmick way. Often you don’t realize how he’s constantly challenging and pushing you. There are typically 2-10 people going at the same time. It’s primarily lifts and variations on them with all sorts of specialized equipment, with other exercises like medicine balls, resistance bands, and occasionally things like weighted sleds and wheelbarrows. Lifting always seemed like more of a chore. Now the evenings when I have a session are a highlight of my week and I find myself actually looking forward to it. The atmosphere is positive and fantastic. The other people are friendly and great to work out around. There are people at all ages and fitness levels from college students/athletes to older adults, regular people to already big people to people just starting their fitness journeys. If you are on the fence at all or wondering if this is right for you, I totally recommend to contact him and observe a session.

Fantastic experience: I've been working out with Michael for about a year now, and it was one of the best decisions I made for myself. At the end of each workout I feel stronger and empowered. I was worried that getting back into shape would mean an endless amount of cardio, however Michael has taught me a ton about weight lifting. I now love lifting and look forward to lifting every week. Michael is very knowledgeable and also answers any questions that I may have for him. He will also discuss any nutrition questions or issues.

Fantastic experience: People are great always learning new exercises I’m stronger than I have ever been and have a better understanding of how to eat and treatments you can do for sore muscles having mike for a trainer has been one of the best decisions made in changing the way I lived

Fantastic experience: I have been working out with Micheal for almost a year and a half and in this time, I have seen my strength and endurance drastically improve. Micheal's knowledge and experience are priceless. Micheal pushes me to lift weights that I never imagined I could but I trust him to know what I can do, so if he thinks I can, then I can! I also have a work schedule that can be very unpredictable and he works around it. I cannot recommend Micheal enough. Come meet him and check out his facility! You won't regret it!

Fantastic experience: Health and fitness have always played an important role in my life, and I’ve been fortunate to have trained with many talented individuals, at well equipped gyms, throughout the years. But nothing compares to training with Michael Giesler. His level of experience and knowledge transcend anything I’ve experienced in the past. Simply walking into his gym gives you a peek into how your training experience will go. Just like Michael’s training style, the atmosphere he has created in his gym is extremely professional, high quality and intentional. He has the knowledge and tools to create a plan that offers you ultimate success - no matter what your goals.

Fantastic experience: Working with Michael has been one of the best ideas I have ever had. He has both great knowledge of personal training and an excellent gym with an amazing set of equipment. I had a broken arm shortly before joining Michael over a year ago, and since then I have regained all of my previous strength in that arm and even more. I enjoy working with Michael and am grateful for the simultaneously exciting and challenging workouts that he offers. Michael is an amazing coach that truly understands his clients, and I am glad my wife and I are able to train under him.

Fantastic experience: Michael at Elite Fitness and Training has been a game changer for me! I have worked with many personal trainers (4 to be exact) and he is by far the most skilled. About two months ago I started looking for a trainer to help me prepare for my first powerlifting competition. I just competed yesterday, and got second place! I’m excited to keep working with Michael for future competitions as the gains I have made with him in just two months have been unbelievable. He works with me on nutrition as well and my performance has improved greatly. He is a wealth of knowledge with many years of experience, but also keeps up to date on current health and fitness related research. Michael is a serious trainer for those with serious goals. I am challenged every single training session and am constantly impressed by his ability to know exactly how much weight to tell me to pick up and how many reps to do to push me but still allow me to complete the sets. I appreciate the majority of the people who go to this gym are there for a purpose, but everyone is also very friendly and I have made friends with several people from the gym. The gym facility is very well equipped and Michael maintains the equipment to a tee.

Fantastic experience: I can rely on Michael for result driven training that pushes me to new levels of fitness. I am well versed in the nuances of the fitness industry, and Michael is one of the few people I would ever entrust with creating and administering my personal fitness regimen.

Fantastic experience: I came to Elite because I was having difficulty with lower back pain & increasing my deadlift strength. Michael was able to diagnose my strength deficits and program accessory work that specifically targets my underdeveloped muscle groups. He has been instrumental in building my strength and always provides a challenging workout. Michael has also been a great help in keeping me on track and able to safely work through injuries. His professionalism and expertise are unmatched. Additionally, the facility is always clean and the equipment is top of the line. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!

Fantastic experience: In March of 2017 I was looking for a change and doing it on my own wasn't happening. I had never lifted weights or done strength training but Elite Fitness came recommended by a friend. My only regret is not working with Michael sooner! Since stepping in the gym, I have never felt intimidated by what he put in front of me as he always makes sure I understand the movement and continues to push me. My motto now is that if he thinks I can do it, I can! When I look back 9 months ago, I can't believe the things I'm doing today! I've leaned out and I'm putting up numbers and doing lifts I never even imagined I could. For the first time in my life, I feel strong and I care more about the number on the bar than on the scale! The group dynamic is just an added bonus as the people working out alongside me are of all levels but no matter what we encourage each other, help each other get better, and cheer each others accomplishments.

Fantastic experience: Excellent equipment and all kinds. Michael is extremely knowledgeable about each person's goals and how to obtain them. He uses a variety of ways to train muscles, big and small, so you never get bored doing the same thing. Atmosphere is clean and people are nice to work out with. Also, Michael plans your workout so you just show up ready to work.

Fantastic experience: In June 2015, I was searching online for a trainer who was in the Champaign-Urbana community who could help me get in shape. I was at a point where I was not satisfied with who I was, or how far I had let myself go. Life happens, and other things became more of a priority for my time and attention. I read many reviews of local gyms and felt I wanted to give Elite Fitness Training and Coaching a try. Since the first email that was sent, I have seen how Michael goes above and beyond for his clients, and his gym is truly a top-notch place. He has a very clean facility with amazing equipment that is always changing. Besides being extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of training and fitness, he is well-versed on nutrition and overall health and wellness. He works with clients specifically to customize a plan for your exact needs and is innovative in using targeted exercises to improve your strength. As long as you put in the effort and work required, you will see the results. Since beginning with Michael, I am 40 pounds lighter and my strength has increased exponentially. I have never felt intimidated at Elite because Michael breaks it down so that you can feel successful and do the exercises, and there are people of all fitness levels training together. We encourage and support each other. I would highly recommend anyone feeling the need to make a life transformation to head to Elite Fitness Training and Coaching. Send the email, you've got nothing to lose, I'm so glad I did.

Fantastic experience: Michael is the most experienced and knowledgeable strength coach I have ever had the pleasure to work with. His facility is first class (including a reverse hyper, chains, bands, specialty bars, and an inverse curl machine!) and his workouts are always interesting and challenging. The atmosphere is excellent, and he combines both workouts inside the gym as well as outside (sled pulls, etc.). I would recommend working with Michael to anyone looking for the next step in strength, mobility and over all health.

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Elite Fitness for about two years now and have made great progress in my strength and conditioning there. The techniques used by the owner (Michael) have been developed through his lifetime of experience in coaching. Having Michael as a strength coach is an invaluable resource to get you to your fitness/athletic goals. EFTC has a dynamic environment that is constantly changing and challenging. The equipment is amazing, and the facility is very clean. People of all ages and body compositions are part of the gym. It is a great atmosphere as everybody is there to work hard and get results. I strongly recommend this facility for athletes looking to supplement their standard (school) program to unlock more performance. I also recommend for anyone that wants to increase their level of fitness, strength, conditioning, or lose weight in a healthy method. It's a great gym and a great crowd. It is non-gimmick, or fad driven. I'd describe the method as more of a 'coach' approach vs. 1-on-1 personal training - it works and you should give it a try in a free 'no-strings-attached' trial session!

Fantastic experience: I do not like working out and could come up with excuse after excuse as to why I didn't have time. It all changed for me back in November 2016 when I purchased a month worth of sessions with Michael for me and my significant other! We both decided that if we wanted to feel better and increase our energy that we would need to hire someone to not only get us in shape but also keep us motivated! We found out that having a personal trainer has helped us stay motivated and even want to exercise! Michael has exceeded our expectations and has given us a wealth of nutritional information to help with our diets. Michael pushes us during our workouts and we can honestly say that we both have increase energy and strength! I highly recommend Michael to anyone that is starting to workout to those who are experts!

Fantastic experience: I have been working out with Michael for awhile now. My mom and husband also work out with him. Michael is an amazing trainer and is great with everyone's individual needs and goals, and plans out routines that are specific to each person. I wouldn't go to anyone else!!!

Fantastic experience: I have not felt this good in YEARS!! Amazing trainer. I recommend him to any and all ages!