Whether you are looking for a completely personalized training program to help you meet a specific goal, you want a professionally developed non-personalized plan you can do … Find Out More about our Training Plans!
Grim Reaper Fitness
Grim Reaper Fitness was born because I wanted to help people achieve success.
When I started racing I was clueless. Having a consistent knowledgeable trainer and coach would have saved me so much time and pain. Many think they can’t afford the services of a coach, but we strive to make multisport (and single sport) coaching affordable for all. We want everyone to train smart … that begins with our plans and team of dedicated athletes, coaches, and friends!
GRF has worked with athletes of all ages, shapes, sizes, and attitudes. We have a plan that’s right for you, to get you ready for your race of choice and help you achieve your goals! Contact us today. Don’t fear the Reaper … outrun him!
-Erik Rankin, Founder of Grim Reaper Fitness
Training Plans
Training Opportunities
GRF annual newcomer program coming this winter
Grim Reaper Fintess’s annual newcomer training program begins the week of Jan. 29. The program, … Continue Reading...
Current Training Schedule
Included below is a document showing current training opportunities available to GRF Club Members. … View the Current Training Schedule
GRF Club Membership
GRF Club Membership allows each member to: Participate in group workouts, including cycling trainer rides, group swims, and track sessions and group runs, all led by our coaches. Access and … Find Out More & Join Today!
GRF Race Schedule
Grim Reaper Fitness has announced its 2017 race schedule, highlighted by its drive to repeat as USAT Mideast Region Champions. Grim Reaper Fitness repeated as Division II … Read more about the GRF Race Schedule
Testimonials
In January of 2012 I was not able to run a mile without stopping… I shared the same concerns many others regarding training; limited time, travel, and my own lack of ability were serious roadblocks. Erik shared the truth, it requires commitment and dedication. Six months later, I had completed two triathlons. I lost weight and am in better shape than I have been in for 30 years. It is not easy for anyone, but it can be done. The Grim Reaper Team provides great instruction, training, and most importantly, motivation. I have a great sense of accomplishment today and owe the success to the Reaper crew. This has been a remarkable journey. If you are thinking about it, do it.
Kevin from Bloomington, IL
I decided to start training for a triathlon after retiring from a long career of gymnastics. I wanted to stay in shape, yet also needed a goal to work toward. I did have some lingering injuries from gymnastics that the coaches were able to work around and create workouts specifically for me in order to keep training. With the help and encouragement of Grim Reaper Fitness, I was able to jump into something completely new and being successful with placing second in my age group at my first race ever. Grim Reaper Fitness has helped me push myself and find a passion I never knew I had. The program is very encouraging with the support from coaches and other athletes. At first I thought to myself "What am I getting myself into?" After my first race, I was anxious to sign up for the next and continue with Grim Reaper Fitness!
Robin from Norman, OK
I trained for my very first triathlon with Erik at Grim Reaper Fitness and I could have not been more pleased. Erik was receptive to any questions or concerns that I had and was careful to prepare me for every aspect of the race. I was really nervous about the swim portion of the race, but Erik worked with me to get me ready (both physically and psychologically). His positive attitude and knowledge of the sport inspires confidence and success. I would recommend that anyone who wants to experience the greatest feeling of self-accomplishment should train with Grim Reaper Fitness. Whether you are new to the sport or looking for that added boost there is no doubt Grim Reaper Fitness can provide you with the training necessary to accomplish all of your goals! I continue to work with Grim Reaper Fitness and plan on enjoying more triathlons in the future!
Beth from Bloomington, IL
Erik Rankin and his team have absolutely helped me to not only achieve my goal of completing my first big sprint triathlon, but have inspired me to keep striving, improving, and competing! The "Never Give Up", "Believe In Yourself", and "You Can Do It" attitude that they all exude is so contagious that I couldn’t help but want to push myself to the next level every week! I can’t say enough great things about Erik and his team. THANK YOU, Grim Reaper Fitness – I can’t wait for my next Tri!!
Lynn from Lexington, IL
Race Reports

4 Reapers finish Chicago Marathon
CHICAGO – Four Grim Reaper Fitness athletes joined 40,000 other runners in competing in the 44th Bank of America Chicago Marathon Sunday. Matt … Continue Reading ...
GRF News
GRF-sponsored open-water swim begins May 19
Grim Reaper Fitness will begin hosting Wednesday Open Water Swims (WOWS) on Wednesday, May 19. Admission is open to the community for $5, to pay … Continue Reading ...