Testimonials

When I got to 60 to 70 pitches, I started to feel tired, just worn out trying to get the ball to the plate.  I started coming to the Cantrell Center three times a week.  I've changed so much since I came here.  We tested my velocity and I gained 4 miles an hour because of all the exercises I was doing.  I gained a lot of agility. I made plays that I would have never made before I came here. My 60 time dropped four tenths of a second. I'm a totally different person. I would definitely recommend the Cantrell Center to others.

How do I thank you for your ability to ascertain the exact cause and effect relationships in a person and then to provide specific exercises that correct the problems? Your help has allowed my body to go back as least 10 years, if not 15. This is a TRUE statement. My wife, Johnnie, noticed within two days of performing the initial exercises that I was sleeping much better. Then in Church, I noticed a voice with the ability to carry a note that I have not had in years and years. this one brings tears to my eyes as I write this. now I'm using 100% of my diaphragm and it's amazing that even stress is easier to deal with...Now move weeks later and I'm going from an initial evaluation of a "0" to a "4" (strength test) was very rewarding and I was very surprised that I could do that without much effort...Your abilities and the "Leadership" I saw and personally experienced with at Cantrell has provided "HOPE" when I had little inspiration when I learned to accept my limits not knowing I could overcome them. May God bless you and your business as, for me, you were a person God used to change and impact my life.

I keep improving, growing stronger in all the right places, and continue to be amazed at how the pain in my shoulders continues to go down. Thank you so much for seeing me back in April, and thank you for all that you have done/taught me. I cannot express how much I truly appreciate it. During and after my visit, my optimism and hope to fixing all my bodily issues was restored. Thank you so incredibly much! I can't wait for next high school season to finally swim with no pain and faster than ever.

[After Athletic Performance Enhancement training at the Cantrell Center], I PR’d all with very minimal training.  The intensity level was much lower than I was used to at GT and I was excelling beyond my wildest dream. I was just crazy about PRI at that point.  It was truly a godsend.  They gave me the ability to compete and to run fast. I thought I would never have that again. Now, I’m running and it’s easy, my stride feels great. Postural Restoration has certainly changed my life.  I wouldn’t be running if not for them.

From the first time I arrived at the Cantrell Center, I could tell it was a very personable facility. As soon as any member or patient would walk in, they would be greeted by the front desk and addressed by their name – which you don’t get most places. The Cantrell Center makes it their mission to know their members and patients to the best of their ability. Along with knowing the members, the wellness memberships include follow-ups, where the members get to meet with their trainer. I loved being able to check-in with my members to make sure they were happy with their fitness program and making the progress they wanted to make. To me, this is incredibly helpful when it comes to any fitness center because most of the time, members are not completely confident when it comes to working out in a gym, especially if they are starting a new journey. I was able to expand my knowledge by working with all different types of individuals at the Cantrell Center, whether they had a certain injury or a specific goal they wanted to achieve. Having Physical Therapists and Physical Therapy Assistants, the wellness trainers were able to make sure a certain exercise was safe for a member. Also, if a new member finished Physical Therapy, the trainers would talk to their therapist to ensure an easy transition to wellness.

"Last June I began working out and trying to lose weight. I wanted to do things I had never done before, and I set certain goals for myself. One of my big goals was to be able to complete a 5k before the year was over. My brother, Justin Nolen (14), who is always been active, decided he wanted to run with me. We came out together and our relationship grew even stronger. He floored me by completing the race in a little over 26 minutes! I, on the other hand, knew I would be a little slower since my fastest practice time was over 49 minutes...But I surprised even myself by finishing in 46:53! It was the encouraging words of all the supporters that made me push myself and keep on when giving up seemed like the easy thing to do. I have currently lost 53 pounds and will continue on in my personal journey to fight obesity. Now I am training for my second 5k that will take place in April, and I thank all of the people who put this together and inspired me to continue to fight!" [Image: Jessica posing for a picture with younger brother, Justin.]

"Me run?  On purpose? Why would any sane, 40-something female begin running at this stage of life? And yet, this was part of the Cantrell Center Boot Camp program for which I had volunteered.  Was I crazy?  Perhaps; however, I survived Boot Camp and started running 5Ks.  Although scheduling issues forced me to put my running shoes away for a while, eventually I was able to pull them back out and fit regular running into my schedule. Fast forward to 2011... Not only do I look forward to running, but I also plan other activities around it.  Running has helped me lose 40+ pounds.  It also helps me destress and keep sane.  I have begun running longer distances and, two weeks ago, ran my first 12K.  And this past Saturday, at the 3rd Annual Cantrell Center 5K, I set a new personal 5K record! My future plans include participating in a Warrior Dahs and I am hoping to start training for a half-marathon soon followed by training for a full marathon! Me run now?  Yes!  On purpose!

"The 2011 5K at Cantrell was my first 5K! I was nervous, but I trained every day. On race day I couldn't sleep the night before and got up early.  I was excited and nervous- not knowing what to expect.  I knew I wasn't going to run the entire race but I WAS going to run as much as possible.  Walking up to the check-in area with a large crowd of people, there was an excitement in the air.  There is an energy any time you get a group of like-minded people together that's palpable.  I totally loved it!  I was with my 14-year-old daughter and my mother who is also a member at the Cantrell Center.  When they said to line up at the start line and then the gun went off to start, everyone around me started running.  I wasn't going to take off running, but I couldn't help myself.  I looked back at my mom and she waved me on, she would walk with my daughter.  I have to say it was one of the most rewarding experiences I've had in years!  I plan to continue my journey into the wonderful world of racing and train every day even when there isn't a race because the reward isn't only in the winning but also finishing!!  Thank You, Cantrell, for reminding me how much fun life can be again and helping me on the road to a much healthier lifestyle! You guys are the best!

"On February 22nd, 2014, I ran my first 5K ever with the Cantrell Center.  Before this race, I've always been afraid to participate in public activities involving fitness.  In my mind, I felt as if my efforts would be a joke to everyone.  Due to my weight, I thought nobody would take me seriously.  During the Cantrell Run to Lose the employees made me feel welcome and excited.  I felt as if I belonged regardless of my appearance.  Since the Run to lose with the Cantrell Center, my mindset has changed.  I've lost 60lbs and come completely off blood pressure medication.  I eat healthier than I ever have in my life.  I feel more alive than ever.  Thanks so much Cantrell Center Warner Robins for embracing me and encouraging me in my fight against obesity!!!! - Danielle Finney, First Timer in 2014 Cantrell Center 5K, Beat PR in 2015 Cantrell Center 5K

On February 28, 2015, I ran my first Cantrell Center 5k.It’s impossible for me to describe the emotion, exuberance, and adrenalin that I experienced that morning but I’m looking forward to that same experience over & over again. I’m in fact living life in lieu of just existing……. Thanks, Cantrell Center, for your engagement in the world of obesity!

The Cantrell Center 5k changed my life. For my entire life, weight and self-esteem have been a challenge. I wanted to lose weight and love myself, but just like many people: I didn’t know how.  I was 201 pounds and 13 years old when I started my journey. It was made clear from the very beginning that running that 5k was an ultimate goal. It terrified me. I couldn’t even run one lap on the track in P.E. without wheezing and feeling like I was going to die! A 5k seemed impossible.  I never believed I could do something like that. We kept our food logs, we were strict, and we were determined. By the summer before I started high school, I weighed 150 pounds. I crossed the [Cantrell Center 5K] finish line at 50 minutes. . I could have never finished the 5k if I didn’t start it. And the same goes for my weight loss journey. If I had never started and done that first 5k 4 years ago, I would not be here pushing myself to do another one and finally finish losing weight.

Is there a more wonderful way to spend a beautiful Saturday than with your family, of course, there is, by participating in a 5k.  My husband, 17-year-old son and myself all participated in the 2015 Cantrell Center 5k.  I bet my son I would finish before him, of course, this was my inspiration to get him in the race. He beat me by 6 min and my husband beat me by 7 secs! We had so much fun Saturday, and are already planning our next one. We just wanted to say Thank You to everyone that helped make our Family 5k so much FUN!!!!!  We are looking forward to next year. Taking steps to make our health better!!

Wow, where do I start? Well at the beginning. I broke my ankle about four years ago and the weight just came out of nowhere. I always wanted to do a 5K race but nobody wanted to join me. I decided I will do it alone. Afraid that I would not make it to the end I signed up and the staff at the Cantrell Center were very helpful and got me on the right track. I started the couch to 5k and did the exercises that were given to me. Many times I wanted to quit due to the pain I was feeling in my ankle, but I continued. On the day of the race, I was worried that I would not make it to the finish line being out their alone but was I shocked when I saw a lady the lost her right leg. She took me under her wing and we limped and laugh all the way to the finish line. Although I didn't win just knowing I could do that race meant the world for me.

The water is so buoyant it supports me completely. No, I did not realize that the program was supported by the arthritis foundation, or that the instructor was trained and certified by that foundation. That fact gives me great confidence that the instruction will be correct and helpful for my osteoarthritis problems. I don’t remember worrying too much about wearing a swimsuit. I wanted the positive experience. When I got to the class, I found all kinds of shaped people with many scars. However, I have encouraged three others about coming to class, and the first thing they asked about was wearing a swimsuit.

I am enjoying being a part of the wellness center. I can’t say enough about the water walking class. The exercises are simple but make a big impact on toning and strengthening muscles. They are helping me to become more flexible and staying mobile. This class is helping to improve my balance, reach, endurance, and much more. I am 68 years old and was having joint pain and discomfort doing daily chores and moving around. I am now able to do things with no or less pain or discomfort; bending over to pick something from the floor, moving from a seated to standing position, reaching for something in the back of the refrigerator, lifting my leg to step over or in and many more. I feel a difference when I am reaching and bending to do household chores and taking care of my personal needs. I have more confidence that I can complete a task. There is less discomfort and it takes less time.

I have been in the class now a little over a year. When I began, I could not stand on my own. Donna has been an encourage and a friend. The exercises, though hard at first, are now something that I look forward to. It has given a part of my life back that the stroke took away. The doctors didn’t give me much hope of recovery, outside of a nursing home. My wife thought otherwise because she knew and believed in me. She struggled through the therapies with me and signed me up for the class. I can now walk with a walker and I am happy and mobile again. I feel connected to this class and the people. It has brought back a lot of fun and competition that I missed. Thank you Donna for all that you do. Sharing yourself with others is truly your gift.  

I have recommended the Cantrell Center to many people I did not even know and told them how the Cantrell Center could help them. Very wonderful place, all of the staff and others have always been helpful, polite, nice, courteous, and never rude to anyone since I have been going there. Thank you for allowing us to continue our exercise program during the renovation of the pool. Granted, on land it is harder and more challenging; however, it has kept us from becoming lax and we have a lot of fun. Since joining Cantrell center my personal success has been meeting a few new friends, who are encouraging, pray, and truly care for one another, and they are not judgmental. I have become stronger. Don’t walk like a penguin. My blood pressure is stable, weigh less, lost more than 40 % body fat, and lowered my A1C.

Cantrell has so many plus features- a heated pool, with handicap entrance, adequate parking, a friendly, knowledgeable staff, very clean facilities, information on upcoming events, excellent location, overall the facility is very attractive, fees per month are very reasonable, and there are so many programs and choices to meet the needs of almost everyone. Before moving to Georgia, I drove 100 miles to receive any kind of special medical service. It is such a treat to have Cantrell so close. If I come early for my therapy, I feel welcome to visit the lovely waiting room, read the paper, and Charlie (my three wheel walker) and I will have a cup of coffee. THANKS TO ALL AT CANTRELL. I LOVE CANTRELL.

I did physical/aquatic therapy, arthritis class, and water walking, which were all very nice, but it was not until I started the water aerobics class with Donna T, Jessica, and Alex that my health began to improve DRAMATICALLY. The instructors are fantastic. They would give me individual attention before and after class with exercises that gave me difficulty. After a few weeks of going 6 days per week, my 24 hours of bed rest had been reduced to 8 hours. I can do regular activities around the house and drive without pain. I feel normal. I recommend the water aerobics class because it is fun and feels like family. When I joined, all of the participants introduced themselves to me and offered encouragement. One of the guys is even teaching my how to swim. I am now doing thing that I thought were impossible just a few years ago.

My name is Logan.  I’m 14 and my mother signed my up for personal training.  At first, I did not want to go because it was taking time away from summer vacation and I didn’t want to put in the work it took.  Mr. Mark taught me proper technique.  I also love to run, but found out I was doing it wrong and he taught me to do it right. Not only did I gain the goal of muscle I wanted, but also lost 3% body fat as well.  Since my workouts there, I have been working out almost every single day since school started.  I would like to thank Mr. Mark for teaching me new skills I can use later in life.

I am a 24/7 caregiver for my sister, Stacy, a person with Down syndrome and a loyal member of the Cantrell center. Since January, Stacy has lost 40 lbs. through the efforts of her water walking teacher, Donna, and her trainer, Mark. This is an amazing feat all on its own, but I have my own success story as a result of watching the Cantrell center staff work with Stacy. I have struggled with weight issues since I was 8 and have yet to find a permanent solution to my problem, until now. Mark introduced us to a wonderful, simple to use app that provides us with a daily diary of our nutritional needs. This allows us to easily make the right nutritional decisions. Donna, along with her whole water walking class, provide us both support to pursue our exercise goals. As a result of our experience with the Cantrell center, I too have lost 40 lbs. since January. I went from a size 10/12 to a size 2/4. I now feel confident that I have the skills and support to maintain this weight loss. The Cantrell Wellness Center has become a second family to us, and Stacy and I are both very grateful.  

I have had COPD a number of years and I have a numb, or as a neurosurgeon said in 1980 a dead right leg. Three months ago I started aerobics in water at the Cantrell Center. At this time, I have not used my inhaler in over a month and feeling is coming back to my leg. I believe this is due to the exercises that I have been given by Donna, our trainer in the pool.

Approximately one year ago, I noticed I felt unsure of my footing and my doctor administered a balance test. I required therapy which I underwent at his office for about three months. After that time, I took another balance test and failed it. My doctor advised another round of balance therapy, but I persuaded him to wait until I could take Donna’s balance classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays (My sister Maria was attending the classes and loved it). I joined up. The next time the doctor gave me the balance test, I passed it. Thank you Cantrell and thank you Donna. I thoroughly enjoy the classes and no longer hesitate when I walk or climb stairs.

Just a note to say how much I have enjoyed the chair and balance class. It has improved my body strength and has helped me maintain the improvement I have built up from the pool exercises. It gives me a sense of general well-being in being a part of this class.  Besides all of this, Donna always makes it fun and I love being in any project she leads.

I do so look forward to my pool days.  They keep me in good shape.  When I go on vacation, I miss the pool a lot.  I can’t wait to come back.  I have really benefited from the chair exercises. I can tell that I am stronger.  My goal is to be mobile as long as I can.  These exercises (pool and chair) are the key. Thanks, Cantrell, for making it possible.

I began outpatient Physical Therapy at the Cantrell Center. The therapists at Cantrell Center have been far, far more effective, helpful and professional. At Cantrell I have received both in-pool, land and hand therapy. Ken Smith has been my therapist at Cantrell Center. Cantrell Center has provided me with proper training to meet the challenges of everyday living both at home and at work. Ken Smith worked with me on land and in the pool and his expertise and training has enabled me walk again using a cane. I am no longer confirmed (only) to a wheelchair. Thanks to Cantrell Center and Ken Smith I can now walk about a thousand feet using only my cane. Ken’s exceptional guidance and attitude has (now) permitted me to meet goals that I once thought unattainable. Due to his professional guidance, care and unfailing faith in me I am now able to graduate to the Cantrell Center “Wellness Program.” My sincerest “Thanks” to the Cantrell Center, to Ken Smith and to all those at this wonderful place who have helped me to achieve “My Success Story” of recovery.

I recently fell on wet concrete and hit the back of my head, knocking me out very briefly. I opened my eyes & was flat on my back in a pool of blood behind my head. I was alone in my backyard & my husband was in the house where he couldn’t hear me if I tried to call him. I knew that I had to get myself up. At that moment, I heard my water aerobics Instructor (Donna Tant) saying: “when you exercise you need to work hard and get the most out of it because one day you may fall and have to be able to get yourself up!” Well, that day had come for me. I first sat up, then got to my knees & was able to get up – I had nothing to hold onto to help me. I am so grateful for the work I have done at the Cantrell exercising & strengthening my muscles. When our instructors push us to do our best to strengthen my muscles – they are preparing us to be the best we can be. Then if we find ourselves in a bad situation – like I did when I fell, we may have the strength to get ourselves up if help isn’t available. I am so grateful that my aerobics instructor pushed me to do my best. I was able to get myself up and get help. Thank you Donna Tant, form the bottom of my heart!!!!

Coming to the Cantrell Center has been inspiring. The people here motivate me to push forward. The water aerobics instructor, Donna, the people in the class, work so hard and encourage me to stay and be healthy. Most important reason for my dedication to improving my health is basically...I want to live. I want to live to continue to love and be loved.

“Ever since I graduated high school in ‘94 I have been running. I can remember growing up. I was a small kid and I was picked on for being small. I couldn't play sports like football ‘cause of my size and I never had a chance to venture into other sports ‘cause I was ashamed of it. Now I'm a winner of countless races from the 800 meters to the marathon. All it took was one word of encouragement from a friend and ever since then I haven't stopped. I'm looking to become one of the nations top masters runners in a couple of years. I know how words can hurt.  I would like to say:  No matter how big, tall, short, or small you are, there is an athlete inside each and everyone of us.  You just have to let it out.

"Had a great time at the 5K in Feb.  The shirts were a big hit.  The family and I ran the Cooper Bridge 10K in Charleston Saturday and I was asked several times where I got the cool shirt.  We wore them so we would stand out and be able to see each other at the finish, we stood out to a point everybody saw us.  Keep them loud, neon, and cool looking.  the fabric was awesome ,too.  Kept very cool, even on a hot morning running on a bright white bridge reflecting all that heat right back up at you."

"Me run?  On purpose? Why would any sane, 40-something female begin running at this stage of life? And yet, this was part of the Cantrell Center Boot Camp program for which I had volunteered.  Was I crazy?  Perhaps; however, I survived Boot Camp and started running 5Ks.  Although scheduling issues forced me to put my running shoes away for a while, eventually I was able to pull them back out an fit regular running into my schedule. Fast forward to 2011... Not only do I look forward to running, I plan other activities around it.  Running has helped me lose 40+ pounds.  It also helps me distress and keep sane.  I have begun running longer distances and, two weeks ago, ran my first 12K.  And this past Saturday, at the 3rd Annual Cantrell Center 5K, I set a new personal 5K record! My future plans include participating in a Warrior Dahs and I am hoping to start training for a half-marathon soon followed by training for a full marathon! Me run now?  Yes!  On purpose!

Is there a more wonderful way to spend a beautiful Saturday than with your family, of course there is, by participating in a 5k.  My husband, 17 year old son and myself all participated in the 2015 Cantrell Center 5k.  I bet my son I would finish before him, of course this was my inspiration to get him in the race. He beat me by 6 min and my husband beat me by 7 secs! We had so much fun Saturday, and are already planning our next one. We just wanted to say Thank You to everyone that helped make our Family 5k so much FUN!!!!!  We are looking forward to next year. Taking steps to make our health better!!

Wow where do I start? Well at the beginning. I broke my ankle about four years ago and the weight just came out of nowhere. I always wanted to do a 5K race but nobody wanted to join me. I decided I will do it alone. Afraid that I would not make it to the end I signed up and the staff at the Cantrell Center were very helpful and got me on the right track. I started the couch to 5k and did the exercises that was given to me. Many times I wanted to quit due to the pain I was feeling in my ankle, but I continued. The day of the race I was worried that I would not make it to the finish line being out their alone but was I shocked when I saw a lady the lost her right leg. She took me under her wing and we limped and laugh all the way to the finish line. Although I didn't win just knowing I could do that race meant the world for me.

"I keep improving, growing stronger in all the right places, and continue to be amazed at how the pain in my shoulders continues to go down. Thank you so much for seeing me back in April, and thank you for all that you have done/taught me. I cannot express how much I truly appreciate it. During and after my visit, my optimism and hope to fixing all my bodily issues was restored. Thank you so incredibly much! I can't wait for next high school season to finally swim with no pain and faster than ever."

"After six weeks of doctor prescribed Aquatic Therapy for back pain, I found it very beneficial for arthritis, lupus as well as back pain. After finishing my six weeks, I joined the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program. I enjoy going and hate to miss a class. I can tell the difference when I do miss."

The Cantrell Center consistently offers quality therapy services in a professional environment. Successful patient outcomes are my top priority, and I am confident that the team at The Cantrell Center are delivering the best care possible to ensure my patients are achieving relief and restoration.