My son’s experience at SFT has been nothing short of transformative. From the very first session, Sam has been an incredible source of motivation, encouragement, and expertise. It’s been amazing to watch our son grow—not just physically, but in confidence and discipline as well. The workouts are tailored to challenge him in the best ways, and Sam’s ability to connect and inspire has made all the difference, especially in helping Jake qualify for the state meet.  We’re so grateful to have found a place that truly invests in its athletes and helps them thrive.

-Martha Metzger, SFT Parent

Jake Metzger - Crown Point XC, T&F

Sam does a great job of talking over my goals and developing my individual plan each month.  It's much more quick and efficient for me to walk into SFT and know exactly what I'm doing and that what I'm doing is going to be effective.  I used to just show up at Planet Fitness and wander around trying to figure out what I'm going to do that day.  Sam has corrected my form on many different exercises and has given me tips and tricks along the way.  Sam is exactly what you are looking for in a trainer. 

-Steve Mitchuson, SFT Client

Steve Mitchuson

My 9-year-old needed speed training and strength workouts, and Sam delivered exactly what we were looking for! He created a personalized schedule that focused on building the right skills to help my son get stronger and perform better. I couldn’t be more grateful for this amazing program! What I appreciate most is how Sam identified and targeted the areas where my son needed the most support. Thanks to those specific sessions, my son has become noticeably stronger, and his speed has improved so much. I highly encourage any parent to give this program a try—it’s been such a positive experience for us!

-Wildalys Vazquez, SFT Parent

Dylan Vazquez - McArthur Elementary Wrestling

Working out with Sam at Strength for Today has been just what I needed to gain confidence and strength. He is incredibly encouraging, takes the time to explain new exercises clearly, and always knows how to tweak things when I’m experiencing any discomfort. Sam seems to know exactly what I need at just the right time. Thanks to his expertise and dedication, I’ve gotten stronger with weights and bands and achieved results I never thought possible. 

-Kim VanRoekel, SFT Client

Kim VanRoekel

My daughter Abigail is a competitive swimmer.  She is a two time State Champion and her next goal was to qualify to compete at a National level.  Her commitment to training and technique were solid, but based on what we knew other athletes were doing in terms of training we knew the area that she needed additional support in was conditioning.  This began our search for a program in our area.  I found Strength for Today in a Google search.  I had not heard of them, but was pleasantly surprised as I read about the program on Sam’s website.  It seemed to be exactly what we were looking for.  I reached out and we set up an appointment to meet with Sam and discuss Abigail’s goals.  Abby began training with Sam in January and in March, she qualified for Junior Nationals!  Within a few weeks we began noticing small changes.  Abigail’s goal was to increase upper body strength and that definitely has happened.  Sam tailors workouts to each athlete's needs, based on their sport and individual goals.  He is encouraging,  outgoing and supportive.  He definitely works at building positive relationships with his athletes.  Sam is willing to work around the crazy schedules of elite athletes and their parents which is amazing!  Abigail loves going to SFT, she has seen the results from the work she has done. She appreciates Sam’s positivity and support.  I would highly recommend Sam and Strength for Today if your athlete is seeking to take their performance to the next level. It certainly has been a contributing factor in Abigail’s swimming success!

-Kelly Campbell, SFT Parent

Abigail Campbell - Lake Central Swimming

Bob Guiden

I recently retired and was tired of the way I looked and felt.I saw too many people my age that retired, sat all day, and were miserable.I made a promise to myself that this was not going to be me.I had never really worked out before, but found out about Sam and decided to give it a try.That was the hardest part...making the commitment to start. Sam has developed a strength training program for me that pushes me just enough. He carefully listens to my feedback and makes adjustments when necessary.In three months I am down over 15 pounds, love the way I'm feeling and actually look forward to going every week. Oh and the music is awesome!!

-Bob Guiden, SFT Client

SFT has held me accountable to my lifting and has gotten me in the best basketball shape I’ve ever been in. The thing I appreciate the most about SFt is the feedback it gives me and the motivation it gives me to do better every time I go in. 

-Noah Sons, SFT Athlete

Noah Sons - Illiana Christian Basketball

The thing that prompted me to join SFT is my desire to increase strength, muscle mass and energy. My favorite part about the program is the personalized attention and tailored work-outs that keeps me challenged. I would recommend this gym to anyone who prefers a small setting and personalized attention…a true gem right here in Northwest Indiana, unlike any other I am aware of.  Don't hesitate, Join today, you won't be sorry!

-Kelly Arndt, SFT Client

Kelly Arndt

We're so glad we found Coach Sam and SFT. We were looking for a gym and a trainer who would be willing to work with our daughter as a young athlete. It has been very clear from the beginning of Reagan's training that Coach Sam is a master at his craft. He's fun, compassionate, and motivational which is the perfect combination to allow a coach to really push his athletes to get to the next level. You can tell that he really cares about helping his athletes succeed, and Reagan has enjoyed her time at the gym. We have seen a huge increase in Reagan's strength and control while tackling new and difficult steps and choreography in her pre-professional dance program.

-Denise Pienias, SFT Parent

Reagan Pienias - Homeschool Pre-Professional Dance

Working out with Sam at Strength For Today has significantly improved my strength in long runs for marathon training - so much so that I would rather lift weights than run. I really like having a personal program while working out with others and having Sam’s patience and expertise all at the same time!  

-Rachel Davids, SFT Client

Rachel Davids

The reason why I joined Strength For Today is that my old gym closed, due to the other owner getting a full time teaching job. No other gym would take me due to my age. I’m enjoying my time here, especially the improvement I’ve gotten since I’ve been here. I’m going into my first season at Pop Warner football and it shows out on the field with the conditioning I’ve received.  

-Michael Kacmar, SFT Athlete

Michael Kacmar - Pop Warner Football

I joined Strength For Today because I wanted an effective training program that I could stick with.  I had been going to a local gym where you just show up and do your own thing.  That wasn’t working for me.  Because I was on my own, I didn’t go faithfully on a regular schedule.  When I did go, I had to wait for others to finish with the equipment I wanted to use.  And as it turns out I wasn’t getting a good all around workout because I just did what I felt like doing that day.

At Strength for Today, I show up faithfully because my trainer is expecting me.  He designed a program that works every part of my body and makes sure I am doing everything correctly.  I enjoy attending with only a few others so the gym environment is friendly and uncrowded. He also plays some pretty good music!  It’s just a far better experience than I have had anywhere else. -Bill Vree, SFT Client

Bill Vree

Matthew Davids - Illiana Christian Soccer, Golf

SFT has made me into a better athlete. I have gotten stronger and faster in the year and a half that I’ve been training here. Sam keep me disciplined with the workouts he provides. Samuel is a great coach that encourages and brings joy to everyone at SFT. 

-Matt Davids, SFT Client

I moved out to the region a little over a year ago and struggled finding consistency after grad school and residency. I came across SFT and Sam’s semi-private training while looking for accountability, structure and a clean gym environment and it exceeded all of that for me. This is the most consistent I have been with training since graduating and retiring as an athlete, and I finally feel like myself again. Sam keeps things real and educational and is intentional with individualized programming. Not only have I seen physical gains, but also built consistency that carries outside the gym.

-Alianna Madrigal, SFT Client

Alianna Madrigal

We were looking for a structured program that was going to push Leo to get stronger, faster, and grow in agility with a consistent, hands-on coach to build a relationship with. We also appreciate the flexibility during all the sports seasons. Sam is knowledgeable on how to do exercises with proper form - he’s stronger and more agile. SFT’s monthly workout program regularly adjusts, the progress reports have really helped push Leo to work harder to reach further with his strength and agility. Leo looks forward to his SFT sessions every time and really enjoys being coached and led by Sam. He has a lot of fun with Sam while also working hard, and he enjoys working out with peers he has met.

-Shaina Rudolph, SFT Parent

Leo Rudolph - Illiana Christian Baseball

After I retired, I realized that if I wanted to travel and enjoy life after work, I needed to make some lifestyle changes, some of which included healthier eating and regular exercise. I found SFT by chance. From the beginning, I shared my specific goals with Sam and he came up with a plan to help me achieve them. He has been encouraging, positive and realistic throughout my good days and my arm/shoulder issue days. He modifies my program when necessary and even offered to talk with my PT to assure that my workouts would not interfere with my healing. The workouts are interesting, challenging, and selected for my needs. Sam is always there, motivating, correcting or modifying to ensure everyone gets the most out of their workout. I highly recommend SFT to those of all ages who are looking for small group training with personalized attention in a supportive environment. 

-Kim Webb, SFT Client

Kim Webb

Mason showed up to SFT with a few goals in mind—and he’s been working hard on them ever since. After sitting down with Sam, he set his sights on building upper-body strength and cranking up his speed.

Fast-forward a few months and the results are EVIDENT! Sam’s assessment tests keep proving it: Mason is leveling up every time he steps in the gym. Strength up. Speed up. Confidence WAY up.

This is what happens when dedication meets great coaching. Mason isn’t just making progress—he’s making a statement. And he’s only getting started!

-Tom Kuiper, SFT Parent

Mason Kuiper - Lake Central Baseball

I primarily joined SFT because I wanted to focus on increasing muscle mass; but didn’t feel like I had the time or knowledge to effectively create training plans. My favorite part has been the sense of support I feel. I feel supported by Sam in creating plans aligned with my goals. I also feel a huge sense of support from those I workout alongside of. Since joining SFT, I definitely feel stronger. It’s so worthwhile to me to not have to think about workouts - I literally just need to show up and put the work in.There are a lot of gyms, facilities, and at-home ways to help you get strong. Sam’s approach at SFT has given me the confidence that I will continue to make progress without wondering if I am wasting my time with yet another generic gym session.

-Teri Danner, SFT Client

Teri Danner

Noah Davids - Illiana Christian Soccer, Golf

SFT has given me a good schedule to keep. This help me stay disciplined which has caused tremendous growth. The year and a half I have been training here has brought me great job, all while bringing real results. Sam is a great coach.

-Noah Davids, SFT Client

I’m not a “gym guy”, but I’ve been fairly faithful at exercising for twenty years. I continue to perform exercises I’ve learned from a couple of stints with physical therapy over the years, and I’ve done a lot of walking and biking (outdoors and stationary), so I understand the need for exercise and the benefits. I signed up primarily to show support and to join with a special group of 55+ guys looking to improve their health, maybe lose a few pounds. I didn’t know the first thing about properly warming up or what exercises were appropriate for my needs, how challenging and vigorous the routines should be, etc. Sam, you taught me this very effectively with personal instructions, patience, encouragement, and good humor sprinkled in. I always highly recommend your gym and instruction to others, because I’ve found it to be effective, rewarding, and fun. I’ve lost weight and I feel like I’m more fit, less sluggish, and more resistant to the aging process that we all want to postpone. -Kevin Botma, SFT Client

Kevin Botma

We chose to send Emmitt to Strength for Today because of the detailed training he would receive specific to his goals to become quicker, stronger, faster. Emmitt has added muscle and his overall numbers continue to improve. He is quicker and more explosive. SFT communicates well with Emmitt to determine how his body is feeling/responding to the workouts, especially during in season training. We appreciate that the workouts are tailored to his needs at any given time while still continuing to help Emmitt reach his goals.

Emmitt enjoys going to his workouts! He looks forward to his time with Sam, Head Trainer, because Sam not only challenges and leads Emmitt well, but he also makes training fun through conversation and fun banter. The atmosphere at SFT is professional, clean, organized, fun and designed to challenge and grow every person who sets foot inside its walls.

- Nicole Wondaal, SFT Parent

Emmitt Wondaal - Illiana Christian Basketball, Baseball

I have been with SFT for six months.  SFT and Sam added discipline, accountability, and a better progression to my work outs.  The facility is well equipped with great equipment, and the app makes booking and billing seamless.  Since joining I have reached new PRs in multiple exercises.  If it wasn’t for Sam’s terrible sport takes and questionable music choices, I would give it five stars.  I would encourage anyone who is serious about adding discipline and structure to their strength goals to join.

- Ryan Davids, SFT Client

Ryan Davids

Strength For Today has been nothing but a positive experience for my son. The owner Sam is incredible with all of the kids he works with. Even though they’re working hard, it’s nothing but smiles and laughs each class. Sam really helps blend fun in with the work, and my son looks forward to every session with him. There is no question that the work is paying off either. My son has gotten noticeably stronger and quicker since he started at Strength For Today, but Sam also tests each client so they can see for themselves the progress they are making. I really cannot say enough good things about what Sam is building at Strength For Today. If you have an athlete that’s ready to take it to the next level, this is the place to go.

- Joshua Hooker, SFT Parent

Griffin Hooker - Clark Middle School Football, Basketball, Baseball

I have strength trained intermittently throughout my adult life, but rarely with a real plan. I joined Strength for Today to have accountability and structure for my strength program that I could not do by myself at home or with a basic gym membership. Sam listened to my list of past injuries, goals, and current fitness level and designed a personalized program to meet those needs.

The small class sizes allow Sam to give everyone individual attention. He is able to correct my form or just make sure I’m doing the right exercise (ha!). When an exercise is too difficult for me, Sam offers alternatives so I am able to continue towards my goals. Classes have a nice mix of ages, fitness levels, and genders so I never feel uncomfortable. Everyone is doing their own program so there is not competition or comparison, just genuine encouragement to show up and do your best.

SFT is different than other group gyms or classes because it’s personalized while still allowing group camaraderie. Sam is a knowledgeable and encouraging trainer that cares about your journey. He gives ample opportunity for feedback before planning each 4-week program. Sam always has a smile and makes each session a positive experience. 

- Brittany Hausmann, SFT Client

Brittany Hausmann

Sam joined SFT for the extra edge needed to be the best he can be on the baseball diamond and football field. He has noticed improved speed and quickness, as well as greater confidence in his abilities. His training helped him see significant playing time on the football field this past fall, and he was one of the leaders in touchdowns on his team. He says he looks forward to his time at SFT because it is fun, and he enjoys the positive, encouraging coaching. 

- Nick Metros, SFT Parent

Sam Metros - Crown Point High School Football, Baseball

We joined SFT to help Caleb become faster and stronger. Since starting the program, we’ve seen significant growth—both physically and mentally. He is stronger, more confident, and takes pride in the progress he makes each week.

SFT has done an excellent job supporting his goals by challenging him, encouraging him, and helping him track his improvements. Seeing these results has kept him motivated to continue working hard.

“I love seeing how much stronger I’m getting and watching my progress. It makes me want to keep pushing myself and improving every time I train.” -Caleb Cafarella

- Jennifer Cafarella, SFT Parent

Caleb Cafarella - Crown Point High School Football, Track, Wrestling

I was looking for a trainer in my area, someone who was easy to work with but still efficient and focused. SFT fit exactly what I needed. My favorite part about SFT is the warm, welcoming feel every time I walk in. It truly feels like a supportive community. I’ve made major strides in my health, especially in building muscle mass. I feel stronger, more confident, and overall just good about moving my body again. Sam and his team are more than trainers they are the leading example of balanced, intentional training.

-Renee Muhammad, SFT Client

Renee Muhammad

Training with Coach Sam has been an absolute game changer for my fitness journey.  The sessions are always well structured, challenging, and tailored perfectly to my goals.  Coach Sam is incredibly knowledgeable and pays close attention to proper form to ensure I stay injury free.  

Beyond the great workouts, the trainers here create a welcoming, supportive, and non judgemental environment that keeps me motivated. I actually look forward to my sessions and highly recommend them to anyone looking for real results.

-Benjamin Oszust, SFT Client

Benjamin Oszust - Boone Grove Basketball, Baseball

My favorite part about SFT has been the encouragement and support from the coaches and my fellow classmates. They’ve created an environment where everyone feels comfortable and welcome, while still pushing you to challenge yourself to reach new goals, and learn the proper technique along the way.

I genuinely look forward to going to class and am so grateful for the motivation, support, and community felt throughout my journey so far. If you’re considering SFT, I would definitely recommend it!

-Jen Recker, SFT Client

Jen Recker

Our son expressed a desire to play the game of baseball, at the highest level. During a family discussion, it was explained to him what it takes to do anything at the highest of levels, with dedication, commitment, routine being key elements and how a "failure-to-success-to-growth" plan would need to be executed.

During an interview and workout with Sam, we knew we found the right place for what we were trying to accomplish. Overall strength and speed is where we've seen the biggest gains, in a relatively small window of time. In the past 2 months of attending SFT we've seen nothing but growth and development. Sam has created a community that encourages growth of the entire athlete...mind, body and soul. Believing that he can do it, stacking the daily wins and ultimately fully standing in the gains that he has attained, while buying into the grind to continue moving forward in his journey.

Also, bringing in a like-minded trainer like Fletcher, to help build out the community was huge. 

He's always ready to go, because he knows that SFT Training is helping him get to where he wants to be. He has seen the gains, he's witnessed the results and he knows it's a piece of the dream that he is building for himself.

-John Williams I, SFT Parent

John Williams II - Taft Middle School Baseball

I was inspired to join SFT when I was seeking accountability to stay consistent with a weight-training program.My favorite part about SFT is the way Sam pushes me to not limit myself and to lift heavier than I thought I could. Sam has helped me challenge myself, build confidence in my strength, and realize that I’m capable of more than I often give myself credit for.  

I also really enjoy the community of gym enthusiasts at SFT. We’re like family. Everyone is supportive, encouraging, and genuinely excited to see each other grow and get stronger. It makes showing up to the gym something I truly look forward to.

It’s so rewarding to reach a goal and get to move your name onto the Wall of Fame! It’s a fun way to celebrate progress, stay motivated, and remind yourself of how far you’ve come.

If I could say one thing to potential new clients about SFT, it would be that training with Sam is a wise investment in your health. His knowledge, expertise, and ability to motivate on a relational level are truly exemplary. He pushes you to challenge yourself while creating a supportive environment where you can build strength, confidence, and consistency. I’m so glad I made the decision to invest in myself and join SFT.

-Cortney Housman, SFT Client

Cortney Housman

Ben Armstrong - Illiana Christian Wrestling

Ben is a driven wrestler with some very lofty goals!  We knew that achieving those goals would involve getting stronger in the ways that count the most on the mat.  Finding Strength for Today has been such a blessing. Coach Sam has developed a specific strength training program that is built around Ben's needs and tailored specifically to his sport. In the last three months, Ben has gained quite a bit of strength, and it has shown on the mat. Beyond the strength training,  Sam has helped instill a better work ethic, a healthier diet and the confidence that comes with great training.  The coaches at SFT do a fantastic job of pushing Ben while encouraging him and helping him recognize the gains he has achieved.  Ben truly values his time at SFT and never has to be pushed to get a workout in.   

If you are on the fence about joining SFT, I would encourage you to join today.    Strength for Today has been a very positive experience for our student athlete! 

-Matt Armstrong, SFT Parent

Atley Noort - Jerry Ross Elementary Football, Basebll

Atley began a speed, strength and agility program when he was 9 at another facility. As time went on with the other facility, they seemed to have put more energy into the number of clients they could get rather than the quality of training they could offer. We ended up leaving and looking for another place. My cousin had mentioned his son, Jake Metzger, had been training with SFT and Sam for several months and was very happy! 

Atley is a very driven individual and loves how much he has been challenged by Sam. Every day when he gets to class he looks up at the board of record holders in his age group. He uses this for fuel to push himself to become the best he can, and Sam does everything he can to help Atley achieve his goals. I cannot speak highly enough about the level of dedication Sam puts into each and every student he takes on, and I have sent several more students his way. Thank You SFT for your dedication to Atley, and everyone who steps into your facility!

-Steve Noort, SFT Parent

Jennie Knezevic

Some of the things that drew me to SFT specifically were: programs tailored to me - As a mom and teacher, not having to make more decisions (as small as they may be!) was really appealing to me. Small class sizes - Things don’t get super busy so you aren’t left on your own and feel lost.Having someone there to correct my form -  Having coaches there to show you the smallest change can make a huge impact (and you can really feel it). 

My favorite part of SFT has been the community! With small class sizes, having Sam and Fletcher guiding my workouts, and seeing familiar faces each visit, makes it easy to find the motivation to come back each time. Another thing I value is the support I get from Sam and Fletcher each time I come, whether it be a fist bump or simply acknowledging a good job. They do a great job of watching your workout and making adjustments to things as needed. It’s really helpful to have coaches who push you when needed or switch things up if the day is proving to be too rough of one.

Bet on yourself and Sam will guide you along the way!

-Jennie Knezevic, SFT Client

Deacon Oszust - Boone Grove Basketball, Baseball

I decided to give SFT a try since other programs the boys have been in weren't successful. I was drawn to the different approach Coach Sam was offering.  Everyone is on their own fitness journey and SFT knows that and caters a program specific to that individual’s needs. The boys have become more motivated, disciplined, and eager to go to class and set higher goals.

I have noticed my boys take more interest in their fitness and see how this plays hand in hand with performance on the court and field. It is very encouraging to them when they see how much they have achieved from their evaluation.

-Marie Oszust, SFT Parent

Bethany Knight

I joined SFT after working out for about a year on my own at the YMCA.  I was at a point that I needed to be pushed harder in the gym to reach my potential, and I needed extra support to accomplish that. My favorite part of SFT is the community.  I LOVE how we push each other and celebrate victories together.  There is a great camaraderie among the clients and coaches and I love that.  I also love the personal coaching that SFT provides.  The coaching allows me to push harder while maintaining my health and safety. SFT has pushed me so far beyond what I thought was possible! SFT has continued to challenge me every day.  At the end of each workout, I am a tiny bit angry that the workout was so hard, but mostly so happy I was able to accomplish it without quitting.  It is scary to walk into a new gym and to do something outside of your comfort zone.  Choosing SFT is an excellent decision for your health, mind and body.  You will find yourself working towards, and accomplishing goals that seemed impossible at the outset. Being able to work towards those goals with a coach who is leading you and alongside other clients who are cheering you on has been tremendously fun and rewarding. 

-Bethany Knight, SFT Client

Maddie & Abby Cheranko - Crown Point High School XC, Track

When I came across Strength for Today’s social media ad it caught my attention. As a parent I was looking for an off-season workout program for my daughters and needed something with a flexible schedule but also a program that would work for each of their sports. SFT fit that criteria. Both teens look forward to their weekly workouts and after one off-season they have both seen a huge improvement. Abbie is a cross-country runner and after an off-season program with SFT she beat her previous mile run by almost 1 minute in this summer’s time trial. Maddie is a golfer and after her off-season work out routine with SFT she has added over 20yds to her club distances. As we head into the girl’s season’s we are more excited than ever to see the improvements during competition. Sam and his SFT programs have boosted the girl’s confidence too with seeing these improvements.

-Dan Cheranko, SFT Parent

Sandy Garcia

Several people recommended SFT when I was looking for a new gym.  Sam met with our gym crew, was very patient and answered all of our questions.  I enjoy the atmosphere and the camaraderie at the gym; there is no judgment.  Everyone is there doing their best and supporting one another. I have maintained my weight and created more tone and definition.  I am the fittest I have been since having my children. You will not regret joining. We have a lot of fun here while working toward goals.

-Sandy Garcia, SFT Client