Hailey Friedman
Hey San Francisco residents — we know you like to work out. More than half of you guys hit the gym at least three times a week, and you spend more on fitness than almost any other city in the country. But if you’re serious about your fitness goals? You’ll need a personal trainer.
We’ll help you sift through all your options with this roundup of the best personal trainers in San Francisco.
What makes us experts? We’re local to the Bay area, and we know fitness. Live Fit Gym stands out with 8 fully equipped locations in the Bay area and a solid roster of certified personal trainers to give you a holistic wellness experience. Originally breaking ground as a chiropractic office over two decades ago, we’re proud to call ourselves the only doctor-owned gym in the city.
Best Personal Trainers in San Francisco: The Mission
The Mission is arguably one of San Fran’s trendiest districts, colorful with local cocktail hotspots and diverse cuisines. Think colorful murals, aromatic taquerias, and stylish thrift shops galore.
But before you visit that new cocktail bar? Take time for a quick workout with any of these Mission personal trainers!
1. Juan Ruelas
Juan Ruelas is more than a personal trainer; he’s a certified good dude. Specializing in post-rehabilitation and muscle-building, Juan’s passion for teaching goes far outside the gym. He counseled at-risk youth as a Group Leader for CAVE (Community Action Volunteers in Education) in 2017.
Juan lives by the mantra that personal fitness means exceeding limits. And with diverse experiences in folkstyle wrestling, weightlifting, and physical therapy under his belt? We can see why.
Certifications:
- B.S. Exercise Physiology
- NASM, Certified Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength and conditioning
- Corrective exercise
- Bodybuilding and weight loss
- Functional training
If character is what you’re after, book with Juan today.
2. Santiago Ramirez
“Your health is your wealth” Santiago Ramirez’s Instagram bio proclaims. Ramirez, who already holds a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology, is currently in the final stages of Chiropractic school. He effortlessly combines his knowledge of both to offer his clients comprehensive fitness and wellness support.
Certifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science
Areas of Specialty:
- Weight Loss
- Muscle Development
- Nutritional Guidance
- Bodybuilding
- Powerlifting
Invest in your health and book with Santiago now!
3. Rachael Alvarado
Originally from South Florida, Rachael brought her kickboxing and weightlifting skills to San Francisco’s LiveFitGym in September 2023. If you’re looking for someone to show you the ropes when it comes to strength and circuit training, look no further than this avid hiker and explorer.
On a more personal note Rahael’s family has started a GoFundMe for one of their members MAC Dance Class of 2023 Alumni Ingela Alvarado. If you can, please donate.
Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- CPR/AED
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength Training
- Circuit Training
- HIIT
- Weight Loss
Book with Rachael and watch your progress explode.
Best Personal Trainers in San Francisco: The Castro
The Castro was one of the first LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods in the US. Today, it buzzes with diverse and welcoming residents, an inviting art scene, and a wide selection of local festivals and community gatherings.
Keep reading for personal trainers in the Castro area.
1. TJ Everette
Let’s face it: working out can be as dull as watching paint dry — that is, if you trudge through the same 45-minute exercise routine over and over again. Enter TJ Everette, a 12-year fitness veteran of the Bay Area known for his fun and functional workouts that’ll get you out of your slump and back into your body.
Sports fans will no doubt find solace in talking shop with TJ, who competed in multiple sports at the college level. Plus, he still incorporates golf into his fitness journey with weekend rounds of golf!
Certifications:
- NCSF, Personal Training Certification
- NASM, Performance Enhancements Certification
- TRX Suspension Training Certification
- Hyperice Movement Certification
- Jillian Michaels GF Body Shred Certification
- CPR/AED Certification
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength and Conditioning
- Functional
- Weight Gain and Loss
- Improved Mobility
Book with TJ now and say goodbye to bulking boredom.
2. Sandra Negron
Sandra Negron’s approach to personal training is remarkably empathetic, yet still delivers results every time. . Proof? She has plenty. Sarah recently harnessed the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) technique to vastly improve a trainee’s limited mobility and perform a variety of lower body exercises again in only 10 sessions. She also served as Coach Support Trainer at the Community of Adidas Runners in Lima back in 2018. and actively participates in calisthenics competitions.
Certifications:
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Personal Trainer
- Sports Nutrition from Innovation Hub Barcelona Certified
- FMS – Functional Movement Systems from The Functional Movement System Certified
- FMS – Functional Movement Systems LEVEL II Certified Professional
- CPR/AED Certified
Areas of Specialty:
- Corrective Exercise
- Functional Movement System
- Calisthenics
Struggling with mobility? Book with Sandra now.
3. Eshan Dandekar
Eshan Dandekar brings a long list of certifications to the mat, including a kinesiology degree, RD designation, and nutrition Master’s–all paired with his prowess as a clinical exercise physiologist. Rehabilitation, results, and enhanced sports performance are promises for all clients who work with Eshan, even those struggling with ailments like cardiovascular disease or other chronic illnesses.
And on those rainy days that leave you stuck at home? Eshan posts home fitness routines on his social media and has worked with everyone from kids to professional athletes. You can also work with him online with LiveFitGym’s virtual personal training sessions.
Certifications:
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) – Clinical Exercise Physiologist
- Registered Dietitian
- M.S. Kinesiology
- M.S. Nutrition
Areas of Specialty:
- Olympic Lifting
- Rehabilitation
- Diabetes – Nutrition and Exercise
- Body Composition
- Sports Performance
- Injury Prevention
- Sports Nutrition
- Cardiac Nutrition and Rehabilitation
Book with Eshan and work with a pro.
4. Louie Gorshe
Born and raised in Gustine, CA, Louie Gorshe grew up playing every sport his parents could fit into his adolescent schedule. His love of athletics eventually led him into a thriving career as a personal trainer, where he strives to help people return to the sports and activities they love.
Backed by over a decade of experience in strength training, Louie has made a career out of getting people to feel confident in their bodies again. His formula? A healthy mindset and sustainability by making each personalized fitness journey fun for each client.
Certifications:
- National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Areas of Specialty:
- Weightlifting
- HIIT Training
- Pre/Post-Op Rehab
- Weight Loss/ Muscle Gain
- Corrective Exercise
Book with Louie and you’ll be flexing in the mirror in no time.
Best Personal Trainers in San Francisco: Cole Valley
Brushing Golden Gate Park, Cole Valley invites wholesomeness and family vibes with its local mom-and-pop shops and many parks for sports and connecting.
And if you need to find some me-time in between the school pickups and extra-curriculars? You can find it with any of these Cole Valley personal trainers:
1. Lonnie Phounsavath
If you’re looking to train with someone who’s regularly getting after it themselves, then look no further than Lonnie Phounsavath. Celebrated for his ability to expertly tailor exercise programs to each client’s needs, goals, and limitations, Lonnie regularly posts about his fitness journey, including his recent return to powerlifting, on his social media to inspire and motivate his clients.
Certifications:
- ISSA Personal Trainer Certification
Areas of Specialty:
- Calisthenics
- Strength Training
- Powerlifting
- Lean Muscle Building
- Athlete Periodization
- Muscular Endurance
- Trigger Point Therapy
- Exercise Recovery
- Body fat loss
- Posture
- Corrective Exercise
- Functional Training
Book with Lonnie. You’ll stay accountable.
2. Charles Soriano
Seeking a holistic approach to exercising? Meet Charles Soriano, a driven and passionate personal trainer with extensive experience in physical therapy and wellness. He relishes engaging, personalized fitness plans for each client that make for memorable and motivating aiming to make each session memorable and motivating experiences.
With a commitment to lifelong learning, Charles continually enhances his approach, ensuring your journey is enjoyable and effective.
Certifications:
- Masters in Science-Sport Management, University of San Francisco
- Bachelors in Science- Kinesiology, San Francisco State University
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), Certified Personal Trainer
- TRX, Certified Training Professional
- CPR/AED
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength Training
- Mobility Training
- HIIT and Circuit Training
- Body Fat Loss
- Core Strengthening
- Injury Recovery
- Corrective Exercise
- Work Conditioning
- Functional Training
- Therapeutic Exercise and Aquatic Therapy
Stop putting your health on hold, and book with Charles now!
3. Anthony Silva
Workout injuries are the worst; not only do they halt progress, but they can also have a lasting impact on your health. Anthony Silva knows this struggle all too well. With over 300 hours of prehab and rehabilitation clinic experience, he’s ready to help you achieve your fitness goals while remaining pain-free.
Anthony also keeps himself accountable on his social media, regularly posting his fitness goals and achievements. Talk about inspo! He knows what it’s like to put in 19 months of intense work and commitment, and he’s got the photos to prove it.
Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- Functional Kettlebell Specialist (FKT)
- Kinesiology Movement & Exercise Science, Bachelor’s (San Francisco State)
Areas of Specialty:
- Posture exercises
- Prehab
- Weight Loss
- Bodybuilding
- High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
- Functional Kettlebell Training
Fear injury no more, and book with Anthony today.
4. Leo Kaiser
With a specialization in weightlifting and an extensive athletic background, Leo prioritizes an engaging and safe approach to fitness training. Clients praise him for integrating game-like elements into his workouts while ensuring all sessions are both fun and injury-free.
Having undergone a significant body transformation, Leo understands the importance of fitness on a personal level. He strives to create flexible plans that fit seamlessly into his clients’ daily routines.
Certifications:
- International Sports Science Association (ISSA)
- Certified Personal Trainer
- CPR/AED First Aid
Areas of Specialty:
- Weightlifting
- Bodybuilding
- PNF Stretching
Book with Leo to put the fun back into fitness fundamentals.
Best Personal Trainers in San Francisco: Hayes Valley
Fancy a craft beer on a sun-soaked patio? Hayes Valley is the place for it, full of a-la-mode boutiques, snazzy wine bars, and ample walking space nestled between the city’s historic districts.
Another pro for the neighborhood? The seriously talented personal trainers!
1. Elijah Lucy
Elijah Lucy isn’t just one of Hayes Valley’s top trainers; he’s an accomplished athlete with an incredible track record in track and field and Division 1 Football. He won a whopping ten championships during his tenure at the University of Nebraska!
Elijah transitioned from athletics to personal training out of a passion for promoting healthier lifestyles. He founded his own training enterprise in 2021.
Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
Areas of Specialty:
- Plyometrics
- Speed enhancement
- Weight management (gain/loss)
- Core strengthening
- Corrective exercise
- Sprint mechanics
Feel the need for speed? Book with Elijah now.
2. Javier De la Barrera
A devoted family man and a driven personal trainer, Javier De la Barrera has served clients at LiveFit Gym since 2016. The seasoned veteran holds a physical education degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he graduated in 1988.
Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, Javier and his family have proudly made San Francisco their home.
Certifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education & Recreation
- TRX Suspension Trainer
- NASM, Certified Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Injury Recovery
- Kickboxing
- HIIT & Circuit Training
- Muscle Development
Book with Javier. His experience speaks for itself.
3. Simon Goldsmith
Simon Goldsmith breaks down his fitness philosophy into three simple adjectives: purposeful, functional, and enjoyable. This triad has earned his training methods glowing reviews from LiveFitGym members, with many praising Simon for his personalized advice and significant results.
He does all that and manages to help oversee the gym’s day-to-day operations, working closely alongside its manager, wellness co-workers, and clients.
Did we mention that he’s also a licensed realtor? The guy does it all!
Certifications:
- NASM CPT & CES
Areas of Specialty:
- Corrective Exercise
- Functional Strength Training
- Calisthenics
Book your personal training session
4. Dr. Katy Bailes
A proud advocate for holistic health Dr, Katy Bailes is one of Live Fit Gym’s two chiropractors. She excels in helping clients navigate their preexisting injuries, so they can maintain an active lifestyle. Katy is also deeply entrenched in the world of CrossFit and weight training, putting herself in the same fitness arena as her clientele.
Certifications:
- Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree
Areas of Specialty:
- Holistic healing
Stop letting that injury hold you back! Book with Dr. Katy now.
Best Personal Trainers in San Francisco: Nob Hill
Nob Hill residents have the luxury of gorgeous, high-class architecture on all corners with an overlooking view of San Francisco. And it’s home to many incredible personal trainers!
1. Akira Aguila
Growing up, Akira Aguila fell in love with combat sports like jiu-jitsu and muay thai. Their journey wasn’t easy, thanks to a health system so overly focused on weight. However, through powerlifting, Akira found a confidence and support system that helped her redefine her definition of “weight loss.” And, she’s ready to help you do the same.
Certifications:
- American Council on Exercise
- Certified Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Powerlifting
- Calisthenics
- Mobility
- Strength and conditioning
Struggling with self-esteem issues? Akira’s been there. Book a consultation today.
2. Dani Belli
“Health is wealth. Live your best life with me today.” Sound like the kind of invite you’ve been waiting for? Good, because that’s what personal trainer Dani Belli offers. The weight loss and accountability expert, who’s been with Live Fit Gym for over five years, is ready to get you the gains you deserve.
Certifications:
- NASM
- Certified Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Muscle Gain
- Strength Training
- Weight Loss
- Accountability
3. Jeremiah Leaupepe
You don’t have to look up Jeremiah Leaupepe on social media to know he’s a master of fitness–his track record speaks for itself. Want a trainer with a good heart? Jeremiah built his reputation helping those with injuries and disabilities regain their strength.
As much at home in his one-on-one sessions as he is in his group glasses, Jeremiah treats personal training like an art form, and he’s well-versed in his craft.
Certifications:
- NAFT
- Certified Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Muscle Gain
- HIIT
- Weight Loss
Start sculpting your dream body. Book with Jeremiah today.
4. Paul Sicsic
Paul Sicsic is a dedicated personal trainer and a University of San Francisco graduate with an undeniable talent in physical therapy. Like countless others, his fitness passion began in high school when he embarked on a stunning weight loss journey. He’s spent the last three years at Live Fit Gym crafting personalized workout plans, offering nutritional advice, and enhancing his client’s overall quality of life.
Certifications:
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
- CPR/AED Certified
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength and conditioning
- Preventative exercise and injury recovery
- Functional movement
- Circuit training
Stop settling for mediocre and book with Paul now.
5. David Lewis
Explore fitness like never before with David, a NASM-certified expert who fuses his artistic background in graphic design into his training methods. David offers a unique fitness experience, creating personalized workout plans that are visually engaging and effective. His approach goes beyond physical training, enhancing mental strength, and building confidence. David’s versatility in fitness coaching caters to various client needs.
Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Weightlifting
- Strength & Conditioning
- Weight Loss
- Mobility
All about the visuals? Book with David now!
5. Vanessa Arquero
Vanessa Arquero brings a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world fitness expertise to her practice. A nine-year Live Fit Gym veteran, she’s served as both a personal trainer and wellness coach. Her approach is rooted in academic rigor and a practical understanding of physical fitness, making her sessions as informative as they are practical.
Certifications:
- NASM
- Certified Personal Trainer
- Associate Degree in Science, Behavioral Science
Areas of Specialty:
- Postural correction
- Weight loss and maintenance
- Core strength training
- Corrective exercise
Book with our veteran Vanessa now!
Best Personal Trainers in San Francisco: Richmond District
Surf’s up at Ocean Beach, which borders the famous Richmond District in San Francisco. The neighborhood has the best of all worlds, from stunning buildings and cathedrals to lively music joints, and ample nature spots.
Ready to get fit, Richmond residents? Keep reading.
1. Jonathan Thomas
Jonathan Thomas’ impressive blend of culinary expertise and fitness knowledge makes him a true force to be reckoned with within the confines of Live Fit’s Richmond District location. He uses both skill sets to guide his clients toward a holistically healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
Jonathan’s sessions have received plenty of accolades from happy customers, with clients often crediting him for making a significant impact on their day-to-day lives.
Certifications:
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
- CPR/AED Certified
Areas of Specialty:
- Functional training
- HIIT
- Stability
- Circuit training
- Strength
2. Patrick (Mahesak) Kaewthong
When you train with Patrick (Mahesak) Kaewthong, you train with a former competitive bodybuilder. He made three competition appearances in Thailand before moving to San Francisco to dedicate himself to helping others reach their fitness goals. Patrick and his model physique are ready to get you the body you want, especially if you want that superhero triangle shape.
Certifications:
- NASM, Certified Personal Trainer
- CPR/AED Certified
Areas of Specialty:
- Fat loss
- Muscle building
- Strength training
- Functional training
- Body transformation
Ready to flaunt and flex that body? Book with Patrick.
3. Jaden Kramer-Melnick
An adventurer at heart, Jaden’s approach to training is deeply personal, drawing deep from the well of his own fitness journey. He emphasizes strength and conditioning, motivating clients with his transformative philosophy. Jaden’s style is all about inspiring others to achieve the same level of success and personal growth he has experienced.
Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC)
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength and functional training
- Stretching and mobility
- Weight loss
- Nutrition
Is this your year of transformation? Book with Jaden and find out.
4. Christian Cabang
Christian infuses his dance background into his fitness training, bringing a unique, rhythmic spin to your workouts. This integration offers an artistic and dynamic dimension to their fitness regime, making exercise not just effective–but also creative and engaging!
Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- Certified Personal Trainer
Areas of Specialty:
- Strength training
- Weight loss
- Fat loss
- Corrective exercise
- TRX
Get your groove on today and book with Christian!
5. Ernest Lardizabal
Ernest focuses on more than just physical fitness; his philosophy is to nurture resilience and well-being. He strives to develop both mental and physical strength in his clients, ensuring a holistic approach to fitness that caters to overall health and longevity.
Certifications:
- NCSF, Certified Personal Trainer
- PN1-NC, Certified Nutrition Coach
Areas of Specialty:
- Weight Management
- Calisthenics Expert
- Body Recomposition
- Nutrition
Find Specific Personal Trainers in San Francisco Near You
Let’s take a look at some popular personal trainer requests in SF.
Affordable Personal Trainers in the Bay Area
Did you know that Live Fit Gym offers affordable personal training options in San Francisco? We run special promotions and limited-time offers all the time, so you can take advantage of deals on the regular. Who says personal training can’t be accessible?
Get your customized personal training plan today!
Best Female Personal Trainers in San Francisco:
- Vanessa Arquero
- Rachael Alvarado
- Dr. Katy Bailes
- Sandra Negron
Book a session with a female personal trainer!
Book the Best Personal Trainer in San Francisco
If you want to transform your body and you live in San Francisco, you’re in the right place. All of these personal trainers bring stellar experiences and certified expertise to help you crush your fitness goals.
The best part? You can access them all right here at LiveFitGym. We have 8 locations across San Francisco. So no matter your neighborhood, we have a personal trainer who’s ready to work with you.
Live Fit Gym’s best and brightest personal trainers are ready to elevate your fitness journey. We’ll help you find your perfect match and develop a personalized workout plan that makes you feel healthy, happy, and confident again.
Your fitness transformation awaits. Book a personal training session today!
