Reviews of Cornell Performance Academy (Gym)

Kristy Kelly

Upbeat environment, great people and fantastic strength training facility. The flexibility of this gym allows me to come at different hours that suit my schedule. Am currently counting the minutes until I can return!

Jenny Bersinic

The trainers really get to know you and your needs. I rehabbed an IT band injury which left me believing I would never run again. I was back to running in about 6 months after I began training, with a personal best finish time in a race. The group classes are a lot of fun as well. Highly reco - great homegrown facility in Hamilton much like boutique facilities in Toronto!

Lino Di Julio

Excellent atmosphere, very knowledgeable trainers, you'd be hard pressed to find a better place.

Nick

I started going to Cornell because I wasn't seeing any results in physio or chiropractor after my accident which caused severe neck issues. In the beginning we focused on strengthening key muscles. Throughout my journey I have seen incredible results and haven't stopped there!!!! Having Mike be my personal trainer has changed my life for the better, If you are looking to change yourself and want direction and longevity, I suggest and promise that you will find the results at Cornell! Looking forward to get back to the gym after this is all over.

Marina Monahar

I’ve been lifting on and off for about 8 years now, so I’ve been to tons of different gyms. CPA is hands down the BEST gym I’ve ever been to. The facility is beautiful, the people are so nice, and the overall environment is just so wonderful and welcoming. It’s unlike any gym I’ve ever been to - it’s 100x better. As long as I live in Hamilton I will never go anywhere else!

Daniel McKinnon

Mike and Cornell Performance Academy has truly been a game changer for me in my life in finally feeling as though im on the path to realizing my athletic potentially; physically, mentally and emotionally. The attention to detail in both the training regimen and specific focus in each exercise has me feeling excited for each and every one of my workouts. As a football player, Mike has been a true difference maker in his incredible communication and coordination with helping me get to heights I've never experienced before with my lifts, body composition, and mental mindset. I honestly recommend Cornell Performance Academy to anyone out there who feels as though they have yet to reach their true athletic potential; from personal experience I can definitively say that Cornell Academy has helped engage me on my path to do so.

Matthew Stollmeyer

This is top notch. Highly recommend for injury rehab as well as general strength and fitness

David T

Highly recommended to check out this gym, everyone here really friendly. Michael and Requel really motivation and professional, they really motivate and they know how to help you be better, I will 100% return to this gym in future

Steve MacLeod

I’ve been training with CPA for over 6 years+ The knowledge I have gained over the years from training with Micheal Cornell has been priceless and this has pushed me and keeps pushing me to be the best athlete and person I can be. CPA taught me whatever adversity we go through in life we have two choices, stay down, give up or get up and get to work, never surrender to life’s challenges! I couldn’t be more grateful for CPA and I have no clue where I’d be without y’all! #BreakTheMoldRiseAbove

Learning with Lexi

I was one of Cornell Performance Academy’s first clients and from that moment on I have made incredible leaps and bounds in my physical health. With the support of the team and Michaels continued dedication, resourcefulness, talent and patient guiding hand he has even helped me overcome serious injury. I love how my body feels, I wish I would have had him as my conditioning coach growing up!!!! I would have been unstoppable!!! It’s 5 years later celebrating Raquel and Michael who continue to reflect, rise and have major breakthroughs. What a team and what an accomplishment. I highly recommend this fitness academy to anyone. If you are looking to have your own TRUE breakthroughs which supports all areas of your life...this is the place to be. #breakthemoldandriseabove with the greatest team in town....Although I would say the world...❤️????????????????????????????????????

Kristen Constans

I have looked for a gym for a long time where I didn’t feel intimidated, I felt welcomed and had a supportive community. Michael and Raquel have done it. They are truly amazing individuals who care immensely about their clients and business. They have created an amazing community under their roof filled with inspiring and motivated individuals. Everyone knows each other and it creates an extremely welcoming vibe. I have pretty bad back issues (spinal stenosis, scoliosis (with spinal fusion) and 2 herniated discs). Since I have started here I feel like I have my life back. I was always in pain and I felt hopeless. Michael customized a program for me to rebuild my core and fix my posture. I see improvement every day with my flexibility and my pain has severely decreased. I am so happy I decided to come here and I truly recommend them to anyone!!! 11/10 ⭐️ ☺️

Catherine Condello

Our son has been a part of the Cornell Performance Academy family for a few years. Mike has changed the game for Nathan, mentally and physically. Mike has motivated Nathan to push past his limits, achieving the highest honour as team captain of Team Canada and Team Ontario. Physically Mike has given Nathan a road map to becoming an elite athlete, he is stronger, faster and smarter about his training. Recently Nathan signed with Guelph University as a linebacker, and we are so excited to see all this hard work and dreams come true! Thanks for everything, Mike.

Ryan O'Neill

I have had many trainers in the past, but I can honestly say none as passionate and engaging as Mike and Raquel they want you to succeed and give you all of the support, motivation and skills to attain your goals. I was able to build muscle and be proud of who was looking back at me in the mirror inside and out. Thanks Mike and Raquel!

Emma Daughton

Best bootcamps! Trainers are extremely knowledgeable and were great helping me come back to fitness after an injury. Highly recommended!

Liona Muller

I’ve been going to Cornell since February and training since June and from day 1 its been the most positive gym experience I’ve ever had. The culture and community that exists here is rare in the fitness world. Michael and Raquel genuinely care about their clients and it shows. Would highly recommend this facility no matter what phase of your fitness journey you’re in.

Mary Clements

They have taught me very much about proper form and nutrition! Extremely knowledgeable!

Kristian Borghesan

Amazing facility, atmosphere and trainers! Michael and Raquel are extremely knowledgable and are always willing to go above and beyond, making sure that you achieve your fitness and lifestyle goals, while being comfortable. I would highly recommend checking out their bootcamp classes if you're for something fun, new, challenging, and fast paced!

C LynnXO

I started my fitness journey with Mike at Cornell's Performance so I could get into better shape both mentally and physically. The programs he made for me were perfectly aligned with my fitness goals and helped me become very successful!!! The gym itself is very clean, good quality equipment and is a place where you can feel comfortable. Mike's support and positive attitude was greatly appreciated and his advice and experience he gave me will stay with me throughout the rest of my journey. Highly, highly recommend!!

Omar Baqa

I had a sciatic nerve issue in my right leg for about 6 plus months. I had tried absolutely EVERYTHING to tackle this problem to get some relief. Including acupuncture, physio, massage, electric muscle stimulation, and osteopathy. All of those methods just masked/relived the pain. When I joined Cornell I was referred to Coach Sara by a friend. Before I decided to sign up, I followed her posts on social media as to how she has helped previous clients correct their bodies to alleviate pains. With all of my other options exhausted I decided to give Sara a try, all the while being skeptical that anything could help me. Sara was thorough, precise, and focused. After literally three weeks, I know seems too good to be true, I started noticing a difference. We had a deal to try out the program for three months and during that time COVID hit and we had to cut the plan short. Sara took it upon herself to put together an at home workout instructional video that she shared with me. By staying committed and honing in on the teachings of Sara, mostly making sure my form was to the letter. I started to feel that my pain was depreciating consistently. The root cause of my problem was strength in my core and lower back areas. This hindered my range of movement and my flexibility. That was I think the most important lesson I learned from Sara. If you have an injury or chronic pain that is not allowing you to live your life to the fullest, I would definitely give Sara a call and try her program out. It a a fully custom based plan built around your specific situation.

DeAna Tulett

Cornell Performance Academy (CPA) is the best gym I have ever trained at! The trainers are so informative and helpful, the atmosphere is easy to get into and everyone is so welcoming of each other, regardless of experience or appearance! I have attended bootcamp classes at CPA (pre-COVID) and always left feeling exhausted yet empowered. I’ve also been working with one of CPA’s trainers, Sara Stein, since Sept 2019 and even through both lockdown’s Sara was committed to my progress as much as I was and we were able to keep a regular training schedule with virtual training or at home workouts. With the help of Sara, I’ve not only transformed my body, but I’ve transformed the way I SEE my body and FEEL in my body. I have gone from treating my workout as a punishment for what I have eaten, to a celebration of what I can do physically and overcome mentally. I feel like a real athlete, as everyone who trains should!

Alexandria DiFazio

I have known Raquel and Michael for a few years now and pre-lockdown I was receiving one-on-one training with Raquel. Raquel and Michael are such lovely people with a strong passion and drive for what they do. They work very hard to ensure they are providing their clients with a great experience and the best possible results. I love the environment when at the training gym. Always a fun, positive, and friendly experience. The gym is very large, yet still an intimate, private space at the same time. There are many different areas/rooms that allow all trainees to focus on every part of the body and on many different types of physical activity. I never feel uncomfortable or nervous that other people are staring at or judging me because of the more intimate atmosphere. All staff is professional, kind, and well-qualified, and never hesitate to offer guidance and help when needed. They will also provide custom nutritional programs along with training when working with trainers one-on-one. I love being a part of Cornell Performance Academy and I can't wait to get back to training once safe to do so!

Wendigo Moccasins

CPA is absolutely one of the best gyms I have been a member of. Whether you like the community vibe of a CrossFit box, or you prefer to put on your headphones and get to work, CPA has a fantastic, welcoming environment. Membership is extremely fair and flexible. If you love functional training, they have everything you need. Mike and Raquel have an absolute gem of a gym. I would give it 6 STARS, but there's usually too much Drake being played over the speakers!!! :)

Gregg Chiasson

professional facility with professional trainers to help people better themselves physically and mentally every time they step into the building!! I recommend this gym to people new to exercising, as well as someone who is experienced to push new goals!

Brandon Rakovac

Little hidden gem great place to get a workout in feels like and old rocky balboa grind hard vibe with its big new york style warehouse setting ...thumbs up ???? forsure

Nathan Kanya

I had the pleasure of training with Mike at CPA while playing in the CFL. Great atmosphere to train, push your limits, break the mold and rise above!

Lydia Walters

The experience I have with Cornell Performance Academy has place them to set the benchmark for any upcoming personal trainer and as a gym as a whole. From the start they work with me and my needs with helping me set up nutritional goals and different workout regime. Changing my plan as my fitness goals change. From the start of COVID they were able to easily transition to online classes. Keeping in contact with their members promoting ways to maintain positive physical and mental health. Mike, Racquel, Sarah and Lexy are genuinely interested in your overall well being and make you feel welcome with their warm greeting and also the sense of family first. Finally they are constantly updating equipment and space to include all the latest machinary.

Jennifer Novo

Best place in the city! Michael and Raquel are true lifestyle coaches and role models their approach to fitness is far superior to anything else out there. They get you real, lasting and long term results that you can maintain over time. They truly care about people and getting to know everyone that comes to their facility. They are both dedicated towards helping the client reach and develop goals monthly. Thank you for all that you do!!

JE Hardy

Raquel is absolutely amazing! She is changing my life in every way. She consistently pushes me and challenges me in each of my workouts. She's always encouraging and provides amazing advice, inspirations and constant support both in and out of the gym. Raquel is the best, and I am so happy to have her as my personal trainer!

Lisa Leder

Well when my son Ryan was in grade 11 at STM he heard about a gym downtown called Cornell Performance. He was an excellent football player looking to advance his future and wanted to train with the hope of playing in university. He met a man who would change his life when he met Michael Cornell. Ryan trained and as a committed individual with Michael’s help and Ryan’s determination he transformed his body into this strong machine. The Mauraders noticed him on the fields of STM and offered him a scholarship to become a Maurader! He was thrilled and played his first year playing 7 out of 8 games as a rookie. Michael gave him the extra training he needed to succeed. When I wanted to start some healthier habits I turned to my son Ryan. He invited me to the Cornell Performance summer Appreciation BBQ and I met Raquel there. I was immediately drawn to her. I decided to train with this beautiful individual, Raquel two to three times a week. She supported me through all the challenges both physical and mental. My food program was a constant battle for me because I have a passion for cooking and eating! She managed to help me tone and gain the energy and the confidence I needed. I wanted to go the this gym each and every time I went which was a new feeling for me. It was the people there that I liked in my life now. Happy, kind faces with professional advice I needed. They are beyond a gym! They are the one the only Cornell Performance ....let them change your life like they changed Ryan’s and mine. Trust me it works!!

Emilee Ida

My experience with Cornell Performance Academy has been absolutely wonderful. Both Raquel and Michael are very knowledgeable, professional and passionate for helping others achieve health and wellness. Their leadership, guidance and willingness to truly help clients is what sets them apart from other local gyms. I recommend CPA to any athletes, young professionals or people who seriously want to reach their goals and succeed in an environment that offers top class equipment and training.

Jason Melissa

In all of my healthy lifestyle experiences this has by far been the best one yet! There is no gym stereotype feeling here, boot camps are difficult and great workouts but not the stereotype that you think about when you hear the word "boot camp". This is a positive, encouraging environment and they are with you every step of the way even when you are slipping up! Raquel has exceeded all my expectations as my personal coach! I knew from the very first time I worked with her this was going to be an amazing experience. Her assessment was thorough, unlike any other health assessment I had done before, she was not afraid to ask questions and seek a second opinion. She collaborated with her partner in order to provide the best program for me and my safety! Being a nurse I was very IMPRESSED with this! They are knowledgable and committed to your needs. Needless to say my results are unreal and I feel like I haven't even worked that hard even though I have because I am so comfortable here and love coming to Cornell performance!! I cannot say enough...if you are looking for a positive,personal, motivational, safe, and achievable healthy lifestyle experience this is the place to be! Thank you Raquel and Cornell Performance for a life changing, amazing experience....can't wait to see what the future holds!

Jackie Murrell-Wright

Having Raquel as a personal trainer has been the best experience with fitness and exercise I have ever had!! She has made me feel comfortable from the very beginning and continues to motivate me and help me achieve my goals!! Without her I don't think I would be still on this journey! If you are looking for a trainer or interested in her bootcamps she's the one!!! You won't find any better!!!

Marianne Brundage

Revised: I've now been training with Sara a year now at Cornell. I have come along way in this year. Sara has worked with my previous injuries to help relieve some of the pain as well as make these areas stronger and useful again. The training mixed with some nutritional plans has gotten me to achieve goals I didn't think possible. Sara's knowledge mixed with the Cornell Preformacne facility is a recipe for success. From what I've seen since being there they are about changing lives for the better. Encouraging everyone to succeed, its a very friendly atmosphere. I'm at the beginning of my journey with my trainer Sara. 2 weeks in and I'm already seeing a difference in myself. Very knowledgeable and kind staff.

S. D.

I moved to Hamilton a year ago and was in need of a new training facility. The friendliness of the staff and members at Cornell Performance made my transition here so enjoyable and easy! Raquel and Michael are always encouraging and easily accessible when needed. The 24-hour facility is a very large space with an abundance of functional equipment that Raquel and Michael continue to add to. No matter what your goal is, you can work towards it at Cornell. The energy in the gym is always positive and members are genuinely good people who are all working towards their goals of improving their health and fitness. I highly recommend giving it a try!

Alison Nicholson

Great trainers with a postive philosophy. Individual programs including; weight training, nutrition, and boot camp classes. Encouraging coaches, with a holistic approach to fitness and well-being. Friendly atmosphere, all ages welcome.

Carla Underhill

I started personal training with Michael just over a year ago. He was highly recommended to me as I have suffered from chronic pain in my lower back for years. Michael is full of knowledge and developed a specific program tailored to my needs. He has been thorough with explaining each exercise we have done and why we are doing it. Michael is very encouraging and kept me motivated on those days where I entered the gym with not much motivation. He helps you realize what you’re capable of and expects nothing less. During our sessions, I not only gained strength but I also noticed a decrease in the low back pain I was having on a daily basis. I am currently taking a break from training due to spinal fusion surgery but I can’t wait to work on post-op rehabilitation with Michael once I’m cleared to do so.

randi mellen

CPA is my home away from home! I was intimidated to go to a gym being so out of shape, but I've never once felt judged by anyone there. The bootcamps are somehow fun while also being a great workout. Who knew tire flipping could be so fun?! Both Michael and Raquel have helped me to see the potential I have, and I look forward to continuing on my journey here!

Mikeera Dobson

After graduating University, I decided it was finally time to shed that freshman 15 (just kidding, freshman 40). I heard about CPA through friends and decided to check it out. Walking into CPA was a life-changing experience. It was the first time I had ever gone to a fitness facility and they didn't immediately ask me what I wanted to look like. Rather, the team at CPA got to the root of getting me stronger and improving my overall health and fitness. Rock Body Fit has completely taken my body and my health through an overhaul. My attitudes towards health and nutrition have done a complete 180 since starting to work with Rock Body Fit. The workouts are always challenging, but I'm always still smiling by the end. Now, working out isn't just something I do "when I have the time", it's something I miss on my days off. The CPA environment is so much fun! It is the least judgemental fitness environment I've ever encountered, everyone genuinely wants to see you improve and succeed and celebrate the small victories with you. Everyone is incredibly inviting. You definitely meet all sorts of body types and people from all walks of their fitness journey. Rock Body Fit has given me the confidence to own my body - as it is - and look forward to what my body will be able to do as I continue to get stronger. Before, I was incredibly noncommital when it came to my health and fitness, but now, I can't imagine now working out with Rock Body Fit and the team at CPA. Never have I felt so empowered in my own skin! Already looking forward to my next session!

Pradip Maheshvari

Best place and best time Of my day that I’m Spending ???????? love silent atmosphere, positive vibes and people are nicer ????

Casey L

I highly recommend CPA to anyone who is serious about training and improving their fitness. Michael and Raquel are professionals who care about their clients and go above and beyond to help them achieve their goals.

Taylor Price

I have been training at CPA for several months now and have been loving it! As an athlete, there is all the available equipment I would ever need for my training, and more! There is ample space for free weights, exercise machines, and indoor turf - truly something for every type of gym-goer and athlete. Micheal and Raquel are both amazing people that are very knowledgable and passionate about what they do. I have nothing but good things to say about CPA & will always recommend to a friend!

kiely hall

Great gym! Facility has everything one needs to have an amazing workout and staff is extremely knowledgable and welcoming!. Highly recommend.

Kathryn R

I've been going to Raquel and Michael's boot camps for over a year and they are very effective and affordable. As trainers, they are motivating and extremely knowledgeable about so many types of fitness. They have helped to correct my posture while increasing strength and make every boot camp a positive experience. The new location is great too! I highly recommend checking them out

mamu colere

I started working out with Raquel almost three years ago. I was looking for a trainer who was knowledgeable and committed to helping me reach fitness goals.I had had many other trainers at various gyms who were themselves out of shape and / or unable to communicate what they were trying to teach me. When I joined Conell Performance, I admit that I was a bit jaded: two gorgeous people running a personal training gym. Here we go again....WRONG. I was impressed by their genuine caring and deep knowledge. Having both been professional athletes, they knew what they were talking about.I was assessed through a variety of methods and a plan was drawn up for me. I started seeing results, old problems were addressed, and muscles started appearing! This gym is so much more than any other gym. Raquel and Michael care, follow up, and push you to limits you would never would have thought you could reach. Fitness coupled with nutrition work hand in hand to give you the results you are looking for. I highly recommend this place if you are serious about your health.

Lauren Crandall

I’ve never experienced a gym like this one! They have a very welcoming and energetic culture that I love being apart of. They genuinely care about your life, your health and your goals and go above and beyond to be there for you. Their knowledge of the body and fitness goes well beyond a typical personal trainer. The facility is great with all the equipment anyone might need from a beginner to an elite athlete.

Nikita Whitlock

Started working with Mike after I tore my pec he has been a big part of my journey to get back to the NFL/CFL. I have been training and training others all my life, but even with all my experience. Mike was able to find and point out deficits that have helped me get back into top tier shape. As a pro athlete your only as good as your training. I have trained with some of the best trainers all over America from Chip Smith in ATL to Michael Johnson performance in Dallas and Parises in New Jersey. At Cornell Performance Academy you get professional caliber training as well as the time and attention that is necessary for growth.

Chase Fowler-Taylor

At CPA, It's not just a gym membership, it's a lifestyle. Their knowledgeable and pleasant staff makes every workout an informative, enjoyable experience. Their world-class facilities allow anybody wanting to pursue a healthier lifestyle, from first time member to seasoned pro, to meet their goals and rise above. CPA personally helped me lose 100 lbs, through my own dedication, and theirs towards me. Come by today to see what the excitement is all about!

Ryan Leder

great facility with quality equipment and trainers are who care

Gabriella Giulietti

Michael and Raquel are two of the best in the business! If you want results in a positive, professional environment, this is where you want to be. Bootcamps are a blast and never disappoint! I would highly recommend Cornell Performance Academy for all of your fitness needs.

Jason Marik

This place is amazing and the staff is just as great highly recommend

estefania durand

I've been going to CPA since July 2020, started training one on one with Sara Stein, and it was a total game changer.. the things I've learned from her have helped me a lot that I choose to get a membership to work out on my own time as well. I love the place, the enviroment and vibe you get from the moment you walk motivates you! And the facility has the right equipment for those looking to get a real serious workout. The trainers and owners are awesome, super friendly and helpful

LEGENDARY Vlogs

I joined 3 different gyms in 4 years. There was never a place I felt at home or comfortable enough to continue. A friend recommended CPA and I’ve now been a member for a year and half. I also take part in the training program. I can tell you that I’ve learned so much about my body physically and mentally - with encouragement and without judgement. They are your biggest supporters and it’s family vibes whether for the first time or 300th. Walking through the doors of CPA is one of the best decisions I’ve made! Highly recommend!

Nathan How

Great facility with a very impressive range of equipment for all skill levels and varieties of athletes. Knowledgeable and accomodating staff who go out of their way to give you the best training experience. Never had to wait for a piece of equipment whether first thing in the morning, late at night, or during peak hours. If it was twice as expensive it would still be great value for your money.

Joe O'Brien

I am currently a football player at Mcmaster university and I have been attending Cornell performance academy for over 6 years and without my one on one training with Michael Cornell I would not be where I am today before starting my training with him I had 0 offers from university’s to play football but after a couple years of working with him I started getting offers from everywhere. He made it possible for me to play football at the university level and is now working with me to accomplish my dream of making the CFL, if you are a young athlete in Hamilton and wanna take it to the next level this is the place to be.