About
Jim Tribolet founded Chicago In Shape in 1993 out of the desire to share his passion for helping others commit to a healthy, rewarding lifestyle. He realized that many people feel more comfortable and motivated working one-on-one in a smaller studio rather than a gym environment. Since then, Jim has helped a wide variety of individuals achieve their personal best by offering the tools, training and motivation to lose weight, build muscle, tone up, gain flexibility, increase endurance, burn fat, alleviate pain, reduce stress and shape their body.
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Jim holds a B.S. degree from Indiana University and has been certified as a Health Fitness Instructor by the American College of Sports Medicine. Jim is certified as a Personal Fitness Trainer by the American Council on Exercise (A.C.E.). He is also a certified TRX® Suspension Training Instructor. Continuing education is an essential part of being a great fitness professional; he regularly attends professional seminars and workshops to stay current with the latest developments in the fitness industry.
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Jim worked with Northwestern Memorial Hospital as a Lifestyle Coach for the Diabetes Prevention Program, a five-year national research study that proved the numerous health benefits of losing weight through improved nutrition and consistent, intelligent exercise. The results of this powerful research into the benefits of exercise and diet modification are documented in the New England Journal of Medicine.
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Jim also walks the walk! He models a healthy lifestyle by engaging in regular exercise, following a healthy diet, and working toward balance between his personal and professional life. He can often be seen riding his bike (always his preferred means of transportation!) through the streets of Chicago or along the lakefront. He encourages his clients and friends to think of themselves as ACTIVE people.
Standards of Professionalism
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Nationally certified, CPR-trained, and fully insured
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Always practices safe and effective training techniques
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Professional in dress and conduct, and maintains confidentiality
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Starts training sessions on time
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Designs a personalized program that considers the many facets of your health and fitness needs
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Regularly updates and adjusts your program as needed
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Is a caring, supportive partner who leads by example and will be there to hold you accountable to your goals
Testimonials
Barbara
I am so happy to have found James and Chicago In Shape. As a 55+ female, I wanted to change up my regular fitness routine and incorporate some balance work. During our initial consultation, James listened carefully and asked the right questions. He has since crafted some very effective workouts. The hour goes by quickly due to James' excellent balance of a just-right challenge with a wide variety of exercises. I highly recommend James and Chicago In Shape.
Meredith
Jim is the most motivational, knowledgeable and results-oriented trainer I have ever worked with. When I was preparing to get married, he designed an exercise regimen to get me into shape for my wedding. I learned exercises to focus on those "problem areas" that brides are concerned about and was able to increase my cardiovascular stamina tremendously. I highly recommend Chicago In Shape for anyone looking to enjoy their workout and see results!
Robin
I'd tried classes and a gym but always ended up discouraged and without any real results. With the personal training and attention I've received at Chicago in Shape, I have made great gains in a very short amount of time. It's the best investment I've made in a long time. Forget the designer handbag, spend your dollars on a better you. It's so worth it!
Quilin
I decided to work with Jim at Chicago In Shape to add muscle mass and definition to my body and it worked! I saw great results over the first 16 weeks, even from training just once a week! He educated me on an improved diet and the benefits of hydration and limiting caffeine. At 26, I'm bigger, stronger, more conditioned and hearing compliments from people all the time.
Tony
I started working with Jim while recovering from debilitating, chronic low back pain. I'd been advised that surgery was my only choice to relieve pain due to disc degeneration and stenosis. I used some alternative therapies and did physical therapy, but did not feel very strong or have great endurance. Unlike other trainers I have worked with, Jim has strengthened me "from the inside out"...serious core strengthening! I am mostly pain-free and my walking endurance has increased tremendously. Jim is a detail-oriented trainer who has progressed me safely and very effectively, teaching me to listen to my body and focus on meaningful movements. I highly recommend Jim and Chicago In Shape!
Paul
Ten years with Chicago In Shape and still going strong! Chicago In Shape kept me toned, lean and feeling great. I realized at almost 58 that I hadn't gained one pound of body fat in the past decade. How many people can say that? Jim Tribolet is a dedicated professional and a good friend as well.
Anita
Though my demanding work schedule leaves little time for exercise, I have still managed to train with Chicago In Shape for over 6 years. The reasons: my training sessions are fun, fast-paced and effective. Chicago In Shape keeps me looking and feeling my best. It's time and money well spent!
Ann
I was told I needed to start a fitness routine but I'd never gone to a trainer before and, being over 50, was a little nervous about the whole idea. I'm so glad my doctor recommended Jim! Knowing that he routinely works with clients both older and younger than me was reassuring. I quickly learned that he has tons of patience and a great sense of humor, and the workouts are varied and challenging while taking into account what is realistic for me. I started to see results right away and am very proud of how much stronger and more fit I've become. My husband keeps saying I've never looked better! Also, it's awesome to work out in Jim's well-equipped, plant-filled training studio. Jim is the best!