Testimonials

What athletes say

Kourtney Rathke’s Story

Track & Field

My experience at In The Core has been nothing short of transformative. When I first started training here, I was an 8th grader just starting to take pole vaulting more seriously but was struggling to get better. I was looking for a gym that could take me to the next level while also keeping me healthy and balanced. In The Core exceeded all of my expectations. From the moment I walked through the doors, I felt welcomed and immediately a part of the community. Not only, is Aaron incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, but he genuinely cared about me as a person and has been there for me through my greatest success and disappointments. He took the time to understand my individual needs and goals and created a tailored program that pushed me to my limits while keeping me healthy and helping me towards my goals.

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The training is top notch, it is set apart by its focus on brain-body connections and sport specific training. No day of training at In The Core is ever the same. It is always a fun new challenge that builds athleticism in a unique and effective way.

Because of In The Core, I have been able to not only reach my goals, but exceed them. I walked into the gym for the first time five years ago, as an un-athletic 13 year old who had no idea what I would be able to accomplish. Reflecting on my HS career, I have won seven Colorado Track and Field State Championships in the pole vault, long jump, and triple jump, been a multi time All American in the pole vault, and committed to the University of Michigan to pole vault on their D1 track team. None of this would have been possible without Aaron and the community he has built at In The Core. Beyond physical performance, I’ve gained mental toughness, discipline, and confidence in my abilities. This gym is my second home, a place where I can push myself, learn, grow, and thrive alongside other focused athletes like myself.

If you are an athlete wanting to take your athletic performance to the next level. I wholeheartedly recommend In The Core. It is not just a gym, it is an investment in yourself and your future. In The Core creates champions and I am grateful to be one of them.

Hayden Sock’s Story

Lacrosse

My name is Hayden Sock. I am currently a senior at York College of Pennsylvania, and I am on the Men’s Lacrosse Team. I have had the opportunity to play all four years at York and have been training with Aaron and Ryan at In The Core for around eight years, and I feel that I can honestly attribute the majority of my success to Aaron and Ryan at In The Core. The Core, for me, was not just a trainer that I went to a couple of times a week, but rather, it was a place in which I could grow as a person, athlete, and student. I believe the message portrayed at ITC is not just one of growth in athletic training but rather an improvement in aspects such as confidence, faith, and work ethic.

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Another aspect of ITC that I truly believe is essential in growth as an athlete and person is the relationships that are built with Aaron and Ryan. For me, these relationships have become long-term friendships and fellowships. They are great mentors and trainers, but most importantly, they are good people and good friends. I believe that these relationships and types of relationships are essential in my growth as an athlete, student, and person. ITC has provided a place for me to improve in all aspects, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that opportunity and the people who made that opportunity possible.

Zachery Dibella’s Story

Football

I have been training with In The Core since 7th grade, and now I am a sophomore in college. I played football at Mead High School and now I am playing for Colorado Mesa University. I am the right tackle for CMU and ITC has helped me become a more athletic lineman including making my feet and mind work much faster. My speed and quickness
as a lineman put me at the top in high school and not only prepared me for college athletics but was one of the biggest difference makers for being recruited. During my breaks and over the summers, I still train with Aaron. My speed has increased dramatically in the conditioning tests and drills I need to do. In the weight room, ITC has increased my ability to perform lifts like cleans, squats, and bench press.

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In season, ITC has helped me work to become a starter. After getting injured early in the season, I recovered quickly because of my strength training and will be able to start for the remaining ten games this season. I believe ITC has helped me to become a better and smarter player, especially on the offensive line. Overall, I highly recommend In The Core and am grateful for everything that they have helped me with, and I look forward to continuing my training with them in the future.

Lizzy Kaus’ Story

Volleyball

In The Core has been so helpful towards making me the athlete I am today, and they have had a huge role in my accomplishment of being recruited to play volleyball at the collegiate level. I’ve been training at ITC for two years, and every session has pushed me to be the best volleyball player I can be with creative and challenging workouts. They also have played a huge role in growing my passion for Exercise Science. I am so grateful for both Aaron’s and Ryan’s contributions to my development not only as an athlete, but also as an individual. I know that I can take all that I have learned from ITC with me when I continue my volleyball journey at Cornell College. Thank you, In The Core, for your dedication to my success as an athlete!

Aiden Abram’s Story

Lacrosse

Starting In The Core in 8th grade, I was weighing in at 100 pounds and was getting beat by every athlete in the gym. I was at a point in my life where I really had to decide who I was going to be. Over the course of 5 years, the In The Core staff guided me to be stronger in my faith, a better person, and a better athlete. Athletically they haven’t just taught me to lift the heaviest weights but have taught me better nutrition habits, brain activation, and how to stay “In The Core”. Today I am playing Lacrosse at the University of Denver. Without In The Core, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I highly recommend In The Core to anyone, whether you are looking to play collegiate athletics or you are looking just to get in shape, In The Core is the place to do so.

Megan Kelleghan’s Story

Track & Field

Training with Aaron over the past 5 years has helped my journey to become a D1 athlete in college. Aaron and Ryan are knowledgeable, motivating, and genuinely care about their athletes. They always ensure that I am using the correct form and push me to achieve my best without ever making me feel overwhelmed. The workouts are challenging but enjoyable, and I have seen significant improvements over the years in my strength, endurance, and overall health. When I return home from college for breaks or during the summer, I still train at In The Core! Highly recommend!

Emma Gibbs’ Story

Soccer

I was first introduced to In The Core by my brother. He and his soccer team had group sessions, with In The Core, during the summers. Having an older brother to compete against pushed me to always be the better, which drove me to work hard in order to be better than my brother and the player next to me. Once I heard how Aaron was helping my brother and his team, I begged my parents to let me go train at In The Core. During my initial visit with Aaron, he made some minor changed to my running form, which immediately improved my speed, which was something that I had always struggled with growing up. It has now been about 6 years since I started training with Aaron and I honestly do not believe that I would be the athlete that I am today, if I wasn’t training at In The Core.

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In The Core has not only improved my physical abilities and sports performance, but the trainers have also helped me grow mentally as a person. During my freshman year of high school, I had been working with Aaron for about 3 years, had switched soccer clubs, was driving an hour each way four times a week for practice, was continuing to grow as a player and chasing my dream of playing D1 soccer when I broke my leg at a National ODP camp. I had committed my life to playing soccer and found myself lost with thoughts of not being able to get back to the level that I had been. About three days after my surgery, my mom took me to the In The Core gym to get me out of the house and see Aaron. I still remember one of the first things that Aaron told me when he saw me was, “You will come back so much stronger from this.” I had learned to trust Aaron but was still doubtful if I would be able to return to the level I was at, let alone be stronger. I was missing important recruiting opportunities and almost all of my leg muscle had disappeared. Once I was able to start moving around a little better, I resumed working out at In The Core multiple times a week and working with Aaron on strength, range of motion, stability, and confidence. During this time, Aaron helped me relearn confidence in not only my leg and what it could do, but also that I deserved to be where I was in my sport because of all of the hard work that I had put in. Now a few years later, Aaron’s statement has come to fruition, I have come back as a stronger and more confident person than I was before. With the help of In The Core I was able to return to playing at the highest level of soccer in the country and fulfill my dream of playing Division 1 soccer.

The strength, foot speed, and power that I have developed at In The Core are skills that directly translate into my sport and have helped me continue to reach my goals. While all of these things will continue to help me in college, what will continue to help me through my entire life is the character qualities that Aaron and Johnny have helped me develop. Coming out of my injury I had a renewed sense of confidence in myself, on the field and knowing what my body was capable of doing, but the confidence that Aaron helped me build translated off the field as well. I am now confident in myself in school, social situations, and when making decisions that aren’t popular with my peers. One of the cool things about being involved with In The Core for so long is that I have seen them help numerous other athletes with their confidence and how they believe in all of their athletes, even when the athlete might not believe in themselves. In The Core has helped me achieve my athletic goals and has also helped me grow as an individual and for that I will be forever grateful!

Kael Pacaro’s Story

Soccer

Training at In The Core is something that has greatly contributed to my success as an athlete, soccer player, and a person. Since starting, I have seen tremendous improvement in all parts of my game. From a huge increase in my speed and shot power, to more muscle mass and a stronger base through my core, and mental things like discipline and determination. Mainly, I have learned how to be an athlete and not just a soccer player. At In The Core, it’s about having the right things, in the right place, at the right time. It’s training with a purpose and with intent to get better every time you step into the gym. It’s knowing how to take care of yourself and making sure your body is ready to go the next time it needs to perform. It’s knowing how to be disciplined and find that one percent improvement that sets you apart from the rest.

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Training at In The Core makes you improve in everything it takes to be the best while also practicing humility and respect. The Warrior mentality. Aaron and Ryan really know how to not only coach these values but get you to implement these values as an In The Core athlete and in turn, make you a dominant player. In The Core is THE best place for an athlete that wants to put their head down and achieve their goals. It’s the best place for someone that is willing to make sacrifices and chase what they have been dreaming about.

Mikayla Gaffney’s Story

College graduate

Before In The Core, I was plagued with constant aches, muscular imbalances, and injuries. But after my time training within In The Core, I was the strongest I had ever been and it’s the first time that I was pain-free. Training met the physical aspects of my life that needed strengthening, but it goes deeper—what I found to be even more important were the lessons I learned through constant practice at In The Core. I learned how to fight and silence my insecurities. To refocus the physical symptoms that point back to the emotional and spiritual symptoms.

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Lessons you learn through In The Core sessions translate to any and every pursuit that you will chase after in life. In The Core provides a positive, competitive environment which I had never previously experienced. I learned to look forward to difficulties and challenges with eagerness because every sore day meant I was stronger than the day before. Nonetheless, it is an exciting experience to see yourself faster, stronger, and quicker than you ever have been and can do new activities without your previous restrictions. It is liberating. I was also connected to a community filled with caring strong individuals who are great role models. I wouldn’t trade my experience at the gym for anything else.

What parents say

Geno’s Story

Athlete father

My son Dante has been training at In The Core since 2019 and my daughter Ava has been training there since 2023. They are both year-round athletes that put a lot of stress demand on their bodies through their respective sports and consequently they put stress on their minds through school, sports, social life, etc. With that said, when we found ITC we were drawn to not only the physical athletic training but also the mind/brain work and encompassing everything all into one. Simply put, training the full body not only for competition but also the life of a teenage student-athlete and the preparation into adult hood. There are many options in the market if you’re looking to just get bigger, faster, stronger but if you are like us, and you were looking for more than that, ITC is the place to come.

Robin Lee’s Story

Athlete mother

My son, James, started training with Aaron at In The Core in the 7th grade. He heard about Aaron from a couple boys on his soccer team and wondered if Aaron could help him “learn how to run faster.” He gave it a try and was immediately hooked. The training sessions were fun, intense, and different every time he went. Aaron did help him improve his speed. The In The Core method helped him excel at soccer, as well as at cross country and track (which at that time he considered his secondary sport). After managing both soccer and running through his sophomore year in high school, he decided to quit soccer and focus on running. He just completed his senior year in high school and has been recruited for a D1 Cross Country and Track team. His current mile time is 4:12.13. He has come a long way since the day he asked if Aaron could help him run faster! Aaron has been a steady and trusted influence on James for six years. We highly recommend his program for anyone who wants to improve their athletic ability.

Jen & Grady Huff’s Story

Athlete parents

Our 3 kids have grown-up training at In The Core, and they were some of Aaron’s first clients. Competing in such demanding sports (competitive skiing and D-1 soccer) the correct workout techniques and mindsets instilled in them through the ITC program has been pivotal, without it we don’t think they would be as healthy and prepared as they are today. Training at ITC consistently in and out of sports seasons year after year insures that their bodies develop properly avoiding major injuries, always stronger, and with an edge. All of our kids remain this way both physically and mentally and have hit their stride at the top of their sports thanks to ITC.

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Our oldest child Ellie is about to graduate from college, and we have had the pleasure of witnessing the strength and mental fortitude she gained at ITC translate into discipline and success in her professional endeavors. Morgan was not only ready for the demands of D1 soccer at UND but she started and was an impact player as a freshman! Our son Porter continues to work closely with Aaron receiving programming and guidance even though he lives and trains in Vail where he pursues his dreams as a top mogul skier. The best thing is our kids know they can take what Aaron says to heart. They not only have a trainer but also a friend and mentor for life.

Emma Gibbs’ Parents

Athlete parents

As parents of an In The Core student, we have seen the improvement in skill and confidence mentioned above. We were grateful for Aaron and his team to work with our daughter during her recovery from her broken leg. It was a long process, but they were there from day 1 helping her maintain as much muscle strength as possible. In addition, they encouraged her on the days that were hard to help keep her motivated. She enjoys working with the trainers at In The Core and looks forward to each opportunity she has to attend a session.

Kimberli Kelleghan

Athlete parents

My daughter has been training with Aaron from In The Core, for over 5 years, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. From the very first session, when she was in middle school to now as a college D1 athlete, Aaron had a unique perspective and insight. He is incredibly knowledgeable about fitness and nutrition, to tailor a program specifically for his athlete’s goals and needs.

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What sets Aaron apart is his attention to detail and genuine care for his clients. He is also very professional, always respecting everyone’s time and schedule. He is approachable and always willing to answer any questions, whether it’s about exercises, diet, or general wellness.

I highly recommend Aaron and his team at In The Core to anyone looking to improve their training, fitness, and health. He is not just a trainer but a true partner in every athlete’s fitness journey.

Galen Harkness

Athlete parents

In The Core Sports Performance has been a game-changer for my sons. Since training with Aaron Vogel and the team, they’ve become quicker, faster, and stronger, and their overall athletic abilities have reached new heights. Whether it’s on the court or field, the difference in their speed and strength is undeniable, and it’s helped them excel in their sports.

But what truly sets In The Core apart is how the staff, especially Aaron, has helped mold my sons into positive, hardworking, and impactful young men. It’s not just about the physical training; they’ve developed a work ethic and mindset beyond sports. They’ve become more disciplined, focused, and confident, ready to face challenges head-on.

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The improvements I’ve seen in both their athletic performance and personal growth have been incredible. They carry themselves with more confidence, show greater leadership, and have learned the value of putting in the effort every day. I couldn’t be more grateful to Aaron and the entire In The Core team for the positive influence they’ve had on my boys.

If you’re looking for a place that not only builds better athletes but also fosters character and integrity, I wholeheartedly recommend In The Core Sports Performance.

What professionals say

Rick Lizondo

Professional youth soccer coach and club director.

As a lifelong professional youth soccer club owner, director, trainer and coach, I’ve never worked with a more highly qualified and talented sports trainer than Aaron Vogel and his superb practice, In The Core. Cutting edge, state of the art techniques backed by Aaron’s unrivaled and endlessly updated scientific research serve as In The Core’s foundation. This combined with a rare genuine feel for the needs of the individual athlete, has his athletes not only flourishing from their past hard work, but inspired and consistently returning in pursuit of even higher achievements. My experience has taught me that technique alone is only half the challenge; inspiration completes the formula. For an athlete’s success and deepest sense of reward. This is what In The Core brings to our deserving young athletes. And this is why I have personally trusted Aaron above all others with my players for over 20 years.

Nathan Johnson

Program Director and Instructor, Ellerslie Training

I have never considered myself an “athlete,” but In The Core has shown me I do have athletic tendencies. The trainers started at my fitness level and continually encouraged me to find the athlete within … which has given me excitement for fitness and losing weight … and at the same time has boosted my confidence as I see continual progress in my strength, endurance, mental focus, and overall ability. In The Core is the highlight of my week!

Anne Rathke

High school track coach

As a former Stanford D1 track athlete, current high school track coach, and parent of aspiring athletes, I strongly recommend In The Core as an elite performance training facility. In The Core has been instrumental in my daughter’s journey to securing a D1 scholarship at the University of Michigan, and I’m already seeing remarkable progress in my high school son’s performance as well. I’ve even joined the adult class myself and am rediscovering my love for training and improving my own fitness.

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What sets In The Core apart is their holistic approach to training. It’s not just about physical conditioning; they emphasize the mind-body connection and the mental aspects of athletic performance. This has been invaluable for both my children, helping them develop the focus, resilience, and confidence needed to compete at their highest level. My son looks forward to his training sessions and is excited about his progress.

Training under Coach Aaron has been an immense gift. He is extremely knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely invested in developing his athletes – both physically and mentally. Alongside Coach Ryan, they both create a supportive and motivating environment that pushes athletes to reach their full potential.

If you want to see your child perform at their best, I highly recommend having them train at In The Core. The coaches have the expertise, knowledge, and commitment to help athletes achieve their individual goals. I’m grateful for the impact In The Core has had on me and my family.

EYG Basketball

Basketball training program

At EYG Basketball, we believe that to truly excel on the court, players need more than just basketball skills; they need the athleticism and physical conditioning to complement their game. That’s why we highly recommend players train with In The Core Sports Performance. Their training program focuses on making athletes quicker, faster, and stronger—key attributes for any basketball player looking to elevate their game.

When you combine the top-tier sports performance training at In The Core with the basketball skills and IQ development we provide at EYG, the results are undeniable. Players who commit to both programs see a dramatic improvement in their overall game, from better footwork and explosiveness to sharper decision-making and on-court leadership.

The partnership between athletic conditioning and basketball skill development helps players reach new heights as athletes. At EYG, we’re all about helping you become the best player you can be, and training with In The Core is a critical part of that journey.

Where to start

Tell us about your athlete, or come to an adult class.