Structured, Guided, and Personal

Founded in 2006, Changes for Life Inc. is a personal training and wellness company. 

We create client-specific training programs to assist clients in reaching their goals in a safe, effective, and efficient exercise program, to enhance strength, endurance, functional abilities, physiological and cosmetic changes. We motivate and encourage clients to enjoy a healthier lifestyle by educating and advocating for natural methods to living while promoting small changes that can be sustained for life.  

Our mission is to educate and empower our clients to improve their quality of life through fun, motivational, and support-driven programming. 

Our philosophy centers around the idea of “change" for the better with continuous improvement. No matter how small the change or the improvement, they add up over time. 

No matter where you are on your health and fitness journey, our services will focus on guiding you toward a balanced and healthy lifestyle that allows you to reach your wellness goals. 

Wellness is not short term it's a long-term goal and commitment that takes dedication and small changes that can be sustained for life.  

 Theresa Cordova is a driven professional with over 20 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry, serving as a leader, educator, and advocate for exercise science and personalized training. She is the President and Founder of Changes for Life (CFL), an integrated health and wellness service delivering tailored, client-defined personal training, coaching, and education.

Since founding CFL in 2006, Theresa has worked with individuals across all levels of fitness and ability, including those with chronic health conditions, pre- and post-surgical needs, neuromuscular and musculoskeletal dysfunctions, and balance and aging challenges. Her approach is rooted in science, individualized programming, and a deep commitment to helping clients achieve meaningful, lasting results.

Theresa is also the Founder and Owner of GEM Fitness, where she pioneered the Guided Exercise Membership (GEM) program—an innovative model that provides structured support and expert exercise prescription tailored to each individual. In 2016, she founded Fit for Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting lifelong wellness through accessible, engaging fitness programs for all ages and abilities.

An exercise physiologist, movement educator, and resistance training specialist, Theresa’s expertise spans resistance training biomechanics, neuromechanics, and applied exercise physiology. She has served as a Partner and Director of Certification at the Academy of Applied Personal Training Education (AAPTE), where she played a key role in achieving and maintaining national accreditation for personal trainers. Over her 12-year tenure, she contributed as Managing Director, curriculum creator, educator, and operations leader.

Her work is grounded in a mission to empower individuals to lead healthier, more active lives through movement, education, and community engagement.

Theresa holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science and Kinesiology from Hofstra University and a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology from Adelphi University.