The strategy of their plan is ingenious. Work out 3 times a week, 30 minute strength training, 30 minutes cardio (treadmill, etc.) It's exactly what a person needs to stay or get in shape but we rarely do it because we always think we probably need to do more. Because you have to make an appointment it kept me on track knowing I had to set my things out on Sunday night (and Tuesday night and Thursday night) knowing I had appointments the following mornings, rather than going "when I felt like it" or "when it was convenient," because those two things rarely happen on their own with me. Because someone was showing me exactly what to do re: weight training I didn't have to memorize what to do, how much weight, or how many reps. Finally, the manager, Jen, is perfect for GISFM. She's extremely professional but not snooty, committed without being condescending about being fit, and truly seems to care about you individually. And it's not just me. I overheard a few long-timers discussing her and not only do they like her (and these weren't young bubbly girls or even gramas who like everybody) they were women who had been coming for a long time and appreciated how she listened to her members and "got things done."

I only have a couple things that prevented me from giving my review a solid 5 stars. Number one is the price. I was fortunate to find a great deal for a 6-week membership on Groupon. Sadly I cannot afford the membership at Shape Up Together without a discount. Secondly, the personal trainers I worked with knew their stuff and were extremely friendly, but it wasn't until Jen (the manager) filled in for one of them and I got to work with her that I saw how different the guidance could be if they all gave it 100% (i.e., tweaking my stance or position for optimal effectiveness, not eating while working with me, wandering off while I was exercising, etc.)

If I could afford it, and could request only Jen as my trainer, I would have stayed forever!