Fireside Fitness is a private, personal training studio dedicated to providing safe and effective one-on-one fitness training. It is the perfect studio for someone wanting the advantages of a facility fully-loaded with a vast array of gym equipment but who prefers to work in a private setting under the skilled guidance of a dedicated professional.
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54 customer reviews
shaun alamo
i would like to say thank you Kirk for helping me for last couple months, amazing person, friendly, full of life and knowledge. for last 10 years i HAD high blood pressure, been on 3 different medications for last 10 years, last 3months I've been working with him and for the first time i DO NOT have to take ant blood pressure pills, amazing how someone could care so much from the start and know how to help.....working in a clean environment with good conversation and good schedule make working out so much easy and smooth and clearly with amazing results. i would recommend him and his training for everyone who like to do better in life and health. thank you again More...
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Patel Doreen
The trainers are extremely knowledgeable and they each take the time to make sure that you are doing the exercises correctly. The small group classes are great for any fitness level. More...
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Mareena Khan
I have been training with Kirk for a while now. My experience with him has been nothing but pleasant. Being a Police Officer, my work schedule is very unpredictable and Kirk have been very accommodating and understanding. He tries his best to accommodate my schedule according to my work week and convenience. Kirk works very hard with you to get you the best results using his years of experience and knowledge. More...
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Christopher Flynn
Awesome equipment, great service, very clean environment!"
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Wojciech Ciszewski
After 6 months of workouts and talking to Kirk you can tell he has a great knowledge of body mechanics and anatomy and how they all go hand and hand. They say trust the process and I did with Kirk. I have seen significant physical changes while being injury free. I have learned techniques that provide similar results as my previous workouts at other gyms while being taught how to prevent unnecessary injuries. Kirk scales to your abilities and physical capabilities. He provides and is trained in many disciplines such as weight lifting, kettle bells, KAATSU, and much more. This for me has been beneficial as it provides me a larger range of training options and helps target muscle groups I previously may have taken for granted. I will continue my journey at Fireside and can’t wait to see the results in another 6 months! More...
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Darin Daniels
Ive known Kirk for years. His dedication to the fitness industry and his clients is unmatched. Hes a strict disciplinarian in his approach and methods of training. He never stops learning and applying his education in the training of his clients. To this day hes my first recommendation. More...
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RadiantRaid
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Ade Carrington
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Jeff Linger
Great Workout, very professional training, learned lots of new corrective lifting techniques.
Reviewed on Facebook
Karen O'Connor
Kirk is professional, reliable, knowledgeable, and caring. I’m an older female with some joint issues and Kirk was completely appropriate in every aspect of training. I don’t hesitate to recommend him. More...
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malcolm x
Great trainer. He cares about the well-being of the individual. His fees are competitive and the environment is private.
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Regina Cerquone
Kirk is an excellent trainer and he offers valuable nutritional advice, as well. His workouts are challenging for your specific level of fitness, but leave you energized. I also enjoy the the variety of exercises that I have learned in my sessions. After 5 months, my muscle tone, form, and strength have substantially improved. I am very impressed with Kirk's fitness training and advice. And...his studio is a great place to privately train. More...
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Regina Cerquone
Kirk is an excellent trainer and he offers valuable nutritional advice, as well. His workouts are challenging for your specific level of fitness, but leave you energized. I also enjoy the the variety of exercises that I have learned in my sessions. After 5 months, my muscle tone, form, and strength have substantially improved. I am very impressed with Kirk's fitness training and advice. And...his studio is a great place to privately train. More...
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Jeff Haroldson
I am 36 years old and I have been a client of Kirk's on and off over the last 3 years. When I first met Kirk I was living the typical unhealthy fast food no exercise lifestyle. Kirk really helped me see the forest through the trees by being patient and working on not only strength but "Functional Fitness." He helped me just literally move and feel better all around because he teaches you more than just the exercises but a healthier lifestyle. This last weekend I went to a birthday party with my kids and had the chance to do some obstacles you see on the American Ninja Warrior type shows and much to my surprise I was able to do quite a few of them; run up the 12' wall, leap with my hands from one parallel bar to another, shimmy up the walls in a skinny pathway . Things that I never thought I'd be able to do ever again really, and this was after rocking the new Grayslake Sledding Hill with my kids (hadn't gone sledding in years either!)I am so grateful for the time Kirk has put into listening to me and training me and working with my own unique set of exercising needs. He really has given me some good quality years back that I was pretty certain I had lost.Jeff Haroldson More...
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Patrick Taylor
Kirk is a knowledgeable and experienced fitness expert with decades of insight in many different avenues and techniques. He tailors training to the individual for the best results. I highly recommend Kirk! More...
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Jeff Haroldson
I am 36 years old and I have been a client of Kirk's on and off over the last 3 years. When I first met Kirk I was living the typical unhealthy fast food no exercise lifestyle. Kirk really helped me see the forest through the trees by being patient and working on not only strength but "Functional Fitness." He helped me just literally move and feel better all around because he teaches you more than just the exercises but a healthier lifestyle. This last weekend I went to a birthday party with my kids and had the chance to do some obstacles you see on the American Ninja Warrior type shows and much to my surprise I was able to do quite a few of them; run up the 12' wall, leap with my hands from one parallel bar to another, shimmy up the walls in a skinny pathway . Things that I never thought I'd be able to do ever again really, and this was after rocking the new Grayslake Sledding Hill with my kids (hadn't gone sledding in years either!)I am so grateful for the time Kirk has put into listening to me and training me and working with my own unique set of exercising needs. He really has given me some good quality years back that I was pretty certain I had lost.Jeff Haroldson More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Sue Lawrence
Kirk is very knowledgeable and gives great guidance and advice.
Reviewed on Facebook
Edward Wamser
Kirk’s main goal is getting to know what you want to work on and he takes that information and comes up with excerises to help you get stronger with your weaknesses he does an amazing job and I’m glad that my parents and I chose Kirk and I strongly recommend him to everyone
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Edward Wamser
Kirk’s main goal is getting to know what you want to work on and he takes that information and comes up with excerises to help you get stronger with your weaknesses he does an amazing job and I’m glad that my parents and I chose Kirk and I strongly recommend him to everyone
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Lisa Roos
Kirk does an awesome job. He listens to his clients needs and helps them .
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Jeff Haroldson
Very happy to have met Kirk. He has helped me get back into shape when I thought I was too far gone. Helped me connect with someone to work through a shoulder injury from many years prior and designed a work out that helps prevent further pain. Thanks Kirk.
Reviewed on Facebook
Connie Catharine-Carter
If you are looking for great one on one training, Kirk is great! His studio is private and centrally located. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on Facebook
Ren Abraham
Kirk uses a holistic approach to help people change their lifestyles through movement, nutrition, sleep, etc.
Reviewed on Facebook
Kirk Orelup
What can I say but "I love my job!"
Reviewed on Facebook
Mitzi Lawrence Schwabe
Kirk is by far the most devoted trainer I have ever met. I've known Kirk for the last decade, and over the years he has proven time and again how tolerant (of me) and dedicated (to health and fitness) he really is. I look forward to seeing Kirk three days per week. I may not look forward to the actual working out, but Kirk makes it fun and worthwhile. His studio is private and his hours are flexible. He'll also tailor your workout to meet your individual goals and abilities. You can't go wrong with Kirk at Fireside Fitness. More...
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RJ Prior
Kirk does an extensive assessment of your lifestyle, your habits, and your goals. He then provides customized training to help you achieve those goals. His experience is obvious and he makes modifications with your workout as needed - for pain, for emphasis on weak areas or to focus on what YOU want to work on. You don't need to already be fit. Kirk works with all levels and all types of bodies. I highly encourage anyone to give him a try. More...
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Mitzi Lawrence
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Prasant Chandran
Kirk is an excellent trainer. He tailors the training regimen to meet the clients desired outcomes. Highly recommend!!
Reviewed on Google Maps
Prasant Chandran
Kirk is an excellent trainer. He tailors the training regimen to meet the clients desired outcomes. Highly recommend!!
Reviewed on Google Maps
RJ Prior
Kirk does an extensive assessment of your lifestyle, your habits, and your goals. He then provides customized training to help you achieve those goals. His experience is obvious and he makes modifications with your workout as needed - for pain, for emphasis on weak areas or to focus on what YOU want to work on. You don't need to already be fit. Kirk works with all levels and all types of bodies. I highly encourage anyone to give him a try. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Prasant Chandran
Kirk is an excellent trainer. He tailors the training regimen to meet the clients desired outcomes. Highly recommend!!
Reviewed on Google Maps
RJ Prior
Kirk does an extensive assessment of your lifestyle, your habits, and your goals. He then provides customized training to help you achieve those goals. His experience is obvious and he makes modifications with your workout as needed - for pain, for emphasis on weak areas or to focus on what YOU want to work on. You don't need to already be fit. Kirk works with all levels and all types of bodies. I highly encourage anyone to give him a try. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Jonathan Richards
Kirk at Firside Fitness is great!! He is perfect for those who are afraid of gyms, trainers, or exercise in general. He starts at your level of ability and ups the challenge as you adapt so that you can continue to grow. He understands what it takes to encourage growth and that excess is not ever as effective as keeping you working at a level that is achievable but challenging. And he gets results! You'll have fun, feel great, and will see your fitness improve. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Bianca Munoz
I truly believe Kirk is one of the best in the business. He is highly motivated to help YOU on your journey and will tailor to your specific needs. Kirk has a strong commitment, attitude and knowledge base to help you achieve your goals. Look no further than Fireside Fitness. More...
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Jim STRACHAN
Kirk is an expert at fitness and nutrition. When I adhere to his direction, I ALWAYS have excellent results. His location and personalized instruction is superb!
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Rick Rogers
I've known Kirk for a few years now. He has a home workout center and provides great one on one training. Get what you want in fitness or strength training with the instruction and support you need. I highly recommend Kirk's training program. More...
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Dan Popa
Kirk is very knowledgeable and really has a passion for helping change people for the better. He really helped me understand different aspects about fitness that I never thought of, would recommend.
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Roseann Mace
This is the first workout regime I have been able to stick with....3 years and counting. I am stronger than ever at 52. My blood pressure has come down and is in control without medication. ..and despite gaving 2 parents with high blood pressure most of their lives. 2 years ago, I fell down some cement steps and broke my right arm badly...i needed surgery. Workout were on hold for 6 months replaced by therapy elsewhere. When the doctor was ok with it, Kirk met with my therapist and developed routines to get back my full strength and range of motion. My therapist was stunned with the full recovery.Kirk makes sure I am challenged and do not get bored, but he also is encouraging and adapts the plan for my ability. If you want to truly improve your fitness, Fireside Fitness is a great choice! More...
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Jonathan Richards
Kirk at Firside Fitness is great!! He is perfect for those who are afraid of gyms, trainers, or exercise in general. He starts at your level of ability and ups the challenge as you adapt so that you can continue to grow. He understands what it takes to encourage growth and that excess is not ever as effective as keeping you working at a level that is achievable but challenging. And he gets results! You'll have fun, feel great, and will see your fitness improve. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Bianca Munoz
I truly believe Kirk is one of the best in the business. He is highly motivated to help YOU on your journey and will tailor to your specific needs. Kirk has a strong commitment, attitude and knowledge base to help you achieve your goals. Look no further than Fireside Fitness. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Bianca Munoz
I truly believe Kirk is one of the best in the business. He is highly motivated to help YOU on your journey and will tailor to your specific needs. Kirk has a strong commitment, attitude and knowledge base to help you achieve your goals. Look no further than Fireside Fitness. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Jonathan Richards
Kirk at Firside Fitness is great!! He is perfect for those who are afraid of gyms, trainers, or exercise in general. He starts at your level of ability and ups the challenge as you adapt so that you can continue to grow. He understands what it takes to encourage growth and that excess is not ever as effective as keeping you working at a level that is achievable but challenging. And he gets results! You'll have fun, feel great, and will see your fitness improve. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Rick Rogers
I've known Kirk for a few years now. He has a home workout center and provides great one on one training. Get what you want in fitness or strength training with the instruction and support you need. I highly recommend Kirk's training program. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Rick Rogers
I've known Kirk for a few years now. He has a home workout center and provides great one on one training. Get what you want in fitness or strength training with the instruction and support you need. I highly recommend Kirk's training program. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Stacie Han
I was able to attain my three goals of building strength, increasing lean body mass and endurance with Kirk Orelup in just a few sessions. He has a way of motivating you to increase strength and endurance without pushing you too far. He knows what he’s doing and what you’re capable of. What sets him apart from other fitness trainers as that he delves deeply into nutrition and lifestyle choices. We all know that exercise isn’t the only ingredient for health. Kirk gives sound advice on a whole foods based diet as well as lifestyle choices that sets you up to be stronger, leaner and healthier. More...
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Kerri Ledman
Every session at Fireside Fitness is exhilarating. Kirk works with you to find that perfect balance of "wow-I really worked hard today" and "really? - this seems way too easy to be getting me fit". I'm always willing to try one or two more reps because he doesn't push you beyond your limits, instead he encouragingly mentions how much progress you have made. I haven't once thought about giving up on my goal under Kirk's guidance. His knowledge of all things exercise, fitness and nutrition is extensive and I recommend Fireside Fitness to anyone looking for a comprehensive training experience. More...
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Patrick Farrell
Kirk's main goal is to increase your fitness level without hurting you. I've had workouts with other trainers that I merely tried to survive. Kirk's workouts let you thrive. I go in knowing that I'll leave energized and better than when I came in. Kirk's philosophy is the opposite of "No Pain, No Gain". Kirk knows that good form makes for a more efficient workout. I get a good workout, practice good form and don't have to crawl out of the gym when it's over. As an experienced athlete exposed to many theories of fitness, I can't endorse Kirk's program highly enough. It's exactly what I was looking for. More...
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Mitzi Lawrence Schwabe
I've been training with Kirk for roughly 8 years. There's a reason that I've remained with Kirk so long, and it's not that I haven't met my goals. My goal is to be healthy and Kirk is far and away the best person to help you meet this kind of goal. Without Kirk, I know I would not make the time to exercise. My life, like everyone else's, is crammed full of appointments, meetings, shuffling children from place to place, and taking care of a house. Kirk makes working out enjoyable. He's a wonderful conversationalist and has a way of convincing me to eek out just a couple more reps. He not only works within your physical means, he also challenges you within those means. He is a fabulous resource for nutritional issues and makes every effort to determine what might be making your body feel less than cooperative. If a simple fix isn't able to cure what ails you, he will refer you to one of the medical and nutritional professionals within his network. Would I love to look like a model? Sure. Am I 100 percent happy being as healthy as I can possible be? YES! Without Kirk's guidance and support, I'm not sure I could do that. More...
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Jonathan Engstrom
Kirk was great! An exercise program was tailored specifically for my needs which was easy to follow. I have been to numerous gyms, trainers, and "bootcamps" that did not offer the one on one efficiency that Fireside could. I also finally learned how to CORRECTLY use kettle bells, which most cross-fit or boot camps fail to teach. Highly recommend to anyone looking for quality corrective work and/or personalized exercise! More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Patrick Farrell
Kirk's main goal is to increase your fitness level without hurting you. I've had workouts with other trainers that I merely tried to survive. Kirk's workouts let you thrive. I go in knowing that I'll leave energized and better than when I came in. Kirk's philosophy is the opposite of "No Pain, No Gain". Kirk knows that good form makes for a more efficient workout. I get a good workout, practice good form and don't have to crawl out of the gym when it's over. As an experienced athlete exposed to many theories of fitness, I can't endorse Kirk's program highly enough. It's exactly what I was looking for. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
How do you help your clients achieve their fitness goals?
Fitness is the result of the body's adaptation to environmental stressors (exercise), as long as those stressors are not greater than the body's ability to adapt. The key to effective training is knowing how to keep those stressors in the sweet spot between ineffective and overbearing. By assessing the client's abilities and limitations, designing their fitness program accordingly, and by continual monitoring and adjusting, clients are able to safely and effectively reach their fitness goals.
What’s the secret to getting the body of your dreams?
Form follows function. Focus on getting the function of your dreams, and your body will follow. Determine what you will do with that new body, new energy, new focus. These intrinsic motivators will inspire you into action. When we stop obsessing about our bodies and start living life, the body will take care of itself, adapting to the new, inspired lifestyle.
What do you love most about your job?
I enjoy witnessing lasting transformation on a daily basis.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I wanted to be able to offer clients a more wholesome and holistic approach to fitness. I didn't want them to have to worry about someone trying to sell them supplements, obligating them to lengthy training packages, or (and especially) subjecting them to the form of verbal and physical abuse that some call fitness training. I wanted to create a safe and effective environment where clients can increase their function, energy, and mood.
Why should our clients choose you?
I have a special needs client whose basketball team won their tournament in the Special Olympics. After he received his gold metal, he didn't just tell me about it. He brought the medal into the studio so that I could share his accomplishment and joy with him. He didn't just see me as a trainer. He saw me as one who is part of his life, who shares in his struggles and his success inside and outside the studio. This is an example of what I strive to be for all of my clients.
Kaatsu Training
Kaatsu is a training device that was developed in Japan over 30 years ago. It is now being practiced worldwide due to its effectiveness in developing muscle mass and strength, increasing cardiovascular health, and decreasing recovery time. It is simple to use and allows each person to use little to no weight while exercising, making it a safe and effective method of training for almost anyone to use almost anywhere.
Kettlebell Training
Kirk is one of the first trainers in this region certified to instruct proper kettlebell techniques, having received his instruction from world-champion kettlebell lifter Valery Fedorenko in 2007. Kettlebells are a dynamic training tool that places the center of gravity outside of the center of the hand holding the bell. This makes kettlebells great for functional movement exercises but not so ideal for standard weight training, such as biceps curls. However, with the right technique, kettlebells are superb at increasing muscle, tendon, and ligament strength, improving the cardiovascular system, strengthening deep core muscles, and developing the kinetic chain.
As a former master trainer for the American Kettlebell Club, Kirk also provides certification for other trainers who wish to teach proper kettlebell techniques to their own clients.
Wellness Coaching
Everyone approaches goals differently, perceives challenges differently, and measures success differently. Having a coach who understands this is vital when hiring a trainer to help you reach your end goal. As a certified wellness coach with an emphasis in weight loss, Kirk is prepared to work with you according to your personality type so that your fitness program is a success.
Corrective Exercise Coaching
Kirk received special training to identify and correct improper movement patterns and muscle imbalances and even relieve movement pain, as long as this is not due to a medical problem. This is very helpful in the prevention of injury. Should a person have pain due to a medical issue, corrective exercise is one more way Kirk is able to support doctors and physical therapists by incorporating the recommendations and restrictions of your medical provider into your fitness program and even confer with them on your progress, if the client so desires.