Physical and mental well-being starts here.

Hi, I’m Denise.

Life can be quite the adventure, filled with ups and downs. Sometimes it's a bit of a challenge, and that's where I come in – to be your partner in enhancing both your mental and physical well-being. 

I've been living with rheumatoid arthritis for most of my life, and there was a time when the doctors doubted I'd make it past 35. But I'm not one to back down from a challenge, and here I am, a few years past that milestone, still going strong. My personal fitness journey, both mentally and physically, has had its tough moments, but I've emerged stronger and more resilient. 

I genuinely believe you can do the same. So, let's embark on this fitness adventure together. I'm here to inspire and support you every step of the way. Welcome to Denise Graef Fitness, where we turn curiosity into action!

  • “Working out with Denise has been such a joy! She’s knowledgeable, fun, inspiring and encouraging! I’m constantly motivated by her athleticism, upbeat energy and positive attitude.

    Her workouts offer an attainable challenge for any fitness level-she sets the team up for success by providing excellent verbal cues, form demonstrations, modifications and opportunities to intensify certain exercises. As a result of exercising with Denise, I’ve noticed improvements in my core strength, stamina, flexibility, agility and balance. I’ve taken Denise’s fitness classes for about a year and I haven’t experienced joint pain or overuse injuries and yet I’ve been lifting the heaviest weights I’ve ever lifted in my 20 year fitness journey.”

    -Danielle G.

  • “I have so enjoyed training online. Denise’s instructions are so clear, I can even close my eyes and do the exact movement described. She cues with great descriptions that give great (and sometimes funny) mind pictures. I have seen gains. I have seen strength and balance improve. I like being offered to challenge myself as well as a “no-judgment” zone if I don’t increase my weight load. That, alone, has helped me trust my mind-body connection-which is a huge positive stride. My confidence on the mat to go -for-it has increased. Before, I may have just opted out without trying. Overall, I would highly recommend it for a beginner or seasoned enthusiast as modifications and progressions are always offered. It has been a very rewarding learning and I look forward to continued progress.”

    -Jan Parker

  • “After 40 years of working out regularly, I found the secret of Denise and her talents. She is inspirational (has serious physical issues of her own, yet is the strongest woman I know), motivating, a model of form and cueing and has outstanding interpersonal skills. She spends inordinate amounts of time expanding her knowledge of the human body. She helps me to feel strong, connected and special. What a gift to have her in my life!”

    -Marianne Moon

  • “Denise is such an inspiration to myself and so many around. Her knowledge and dedication to the craft of fitness is a true gift to all her clients. She challenges us in each and every class and no two classes are alike. What a gift to the community and a treasure to all of us that know her. Lucky us to be a part of something fun, healthy and motivating with such a wonderful coach/teacher!”

    -K. Ryan

  • “My experience with Denise as my trainer has been wonderful. Denise manages to make each session different, and she always offers a full body workout. Her optimistic and caring attitude truly exhibits a style that is contagious in her training. I have trained with Denise for over three years, and it has been a very pleasurable experience, and I am in better shape than anytime in my life!!”

    -Patty Guiberson

  • “My husband and I have taken classes and had personal sessions with Denise for a number of years. She is knowledgeable, fun, energetic and personable. She is constantly getting trained in new methods and ideas. She has increased our fitness levels immeasurably. We can’t imagine not showing up for her online classes!”

    -CM