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July 2025 by Mel G
If you have a teen athlete or even a teen looking to learn about safe weight lighting and exercise, the team at The Proving Grounds are amazing. My son is working with trainer Alen Halilovic and loving the sessions. We wanted our teen to begin weight training with a focus on a solid foundation centered around proper form and technique. Alen is creating this positive experience of not only teaching our young athlete about form and safety, but also the combination of body weight exercises, use of light weights, injury prevention and recovery. All the while making the sessions fun and challenging. Highly recommend.
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April 2025 by Konstantin
I highly recommend Alen as a personal trainer! I came to him with a back pain issue, and he tailored a specific exercise plan to help address it. He was extremely attentive to my form and technique, ensuring that I wouldn't aggravate the pain. His vast knowledge of different exercises kept each session interesting and engaging, so it never felt monotonous. After starting training with him, I haven't had any issues with my back pain returning, and I genuinely feel stronger and more energetic. Alen is professional, knowledgeable, and truly cares about his clients' progress. I'm grateful for the improvements I've made under his guidance!
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April 2025 by Muamer Brkic
Alen is an amazing trainer, he has helped take me to the next level in my Muay Thai and kickboxing career even being there in my corner for my last 3 fights and helping me with a championship belt. Alen has been a huge part of every fight camp and has helped me tremendously through each fight. If there were any problems like injuries, diet and time management, Alen always had a solution and continuously proved why he’s the best of the best. If you’re an athlete looking to level up in any sport Alen is your guy.
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April 2025 by David Dorey
So far the Proving Grounds has proved to be an ideal fit for this gym-averse 40-something wanting to up his game and look good at the beach. The classes are welcoming, challenging and adaptive, with organized instructors offering lots of guidance and instruction. Personal training is similarly thoughtful and productive. For each session Alen builds a dedicated workout plan with multiple opportunities for adaptation to meet personal needs and to accommodate particular weaknesses or strengths. He explains each exercise and guides me through proper form to maximize benefits and reduce the potential of injury. Alen is forever encouraging but patient and expresses a depth of knowledge beyond his years. Like all the trainers there, he is a fun guy and obviously enjoys working with others. While his taste in music varies from the sublime to the questionable, his sessions are always rewarding, albeit usually exhausting.
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March 2025 by Zack Reckzin
Alen has helped my Athletic performance with his Workout program he has made me, geared towards Muay Thai and BJJ/Wrestling in my personal weak spots in my body , Very glad I’ve chosen him and will continue to work with him
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March 2025 by Alper Cicek
I can't believe I didn't find out about TPG earlier. Semir is just the best. He is super knowledgeable about the specific needs of his clients and he goes above and beyond to make sure that his clients are happy and content with the service they receive.
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March 2025 by Claude
What a pleasure it is working with my trainer Alen Halilovic. He is prepared with different exercises (despite my shortcomings, senior with a heart condition and an artificial knee ) He is always positive and fun to be with. He keeps things interesting with lively discussions about music, construction and ethnic dishes. He always demonstrates the activity and explains it's purpose. I always look forward to my workout.
Claude
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March 2025 by Dionysios Gosselin
These guys are simply the best! For those looking for training at the highest level with staff that care about gains, health and long-term development there is no better place than TPG. Semir and Alen are absolutely awesome!
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February 2025 by Michael Gass
I’m grateful for The Proving Grounds (TPG). I’ve done group classes, personal training, and private events at TPG and it is simply a positive experience every time. The owner, Semir, has created an inviting, motivating, and growth oriented environment.
Specifically, Alen has been great to me so far as a personal trainer. I signed up for personal training to improve my VO2 Max. He is always prepared and has our sessions completely planned and written out on a whiteboard.
Additionally, Alen takes time to explain the science behind the workouts, which I appreciate. He pushes me further than I would push myself, and he’s a very well rounded health professional with knowledge on a broad set of topics. His laser focus on my goals is amazing.
Highly recommend!
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February 2025 by Tracie Fisher
This gym is a gem! Perfect place with all the equipment you need and constantly adding more. Semir trains our boys hockey teams and get them in great shape and improves their athleticism. Semir has built a community and is so good at keeping you motivated and focused on your goals. Love this place!
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January 2025 by J M
The atmosphere at TPG is fantastic, fun and inviting... The trainers ... SUPERB with a wide breadth of trustworthy knowledge and experience. I've been working with Allan, who is fitness obsessed. The training progressions are logical and effective. I am very happy with the results. So are the people around me. Thank you very much TPG family!
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January 2025 by Christopher Lord
First time visiting this gym and it was a fantastic work out!
The owner Samir was actually there and I got to meet him, and what a great dude! Very clean gym, very welcoming members. I had a really good time. I would recommend this gym to anyone who wants to have a great workout surrounded by awesome people.
I’ll be back!
Thanks Guys
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December 2024 by Shannon Gorman
I can’t say enough good things about TPG! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the owner, Semir, who is not only engaging and personable but also deeply committed to providing the best fitness experience for everyone. The community that Semir has cultivated is truly special. It promotes teamwork and growth in a friendly, fun atmosphere that makes every workout enjoyable. The trainers, including Semir, are incredibly supportive and will push you to meet and exceed your fitness goals, ensuring that you stay motivated and challenged. I could not be happier to have found this gym, and I genuinely enjoy every minute I spend there. If you’re looking for a place to work out that feels like a second home, I highly recommend TPG!
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November 2024 by Kaan AKGUL
TPG is a solid choice for anyone looking to stay fit in Ottawa. More than a typical gym. TPG trainers more focus on your fitness as well as they encourage you to have a healthy life. The facility is clean and well-maintained. Semir is very friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer assistance. The atmosphere is motivating without being overwhelming, making it a comfortable space for both beginners and experienced gym-goers. Class offerings are varied and we always have fun when working out. Overall, it's a great local gym with a strong sense of community and a commitment to helping members reach their fitness goals.This place is more than a gym for me. Family and friendship. You can find all in here. This is the place I feel happy..
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November 2024 by Noah Crayon
Best gym in Ottawa great value, I really enjoy coming here. Semir is so nice and really makes the workouts taylormade to your skill set and goals. Very friendly and great community. Thank you Semir
