“For the last three years I’ve been training with Omar at the West End YMCA. It may seem like an exaggeration but it’s not — he has truly changed my world. All my life I’ve struggled with back pain and poor posture from scoliosis. Through strength training, Omar helped me transform my posture, which led to a new level of self-confidence and allows me to enjoy movement like I’ve never been able to before. Not only is he knowledgeable, but he’s always trying to learn and improve, both for himself and his clients. Week after week, he’s pushed me to be better through his encouragement and his belief in me. He’s not just a great trainer, he’s also a great person.”

 – Julia Rinaldi

“It’s really rewarding to see my clients be able to do things they weren’t able to when we first met or even just a few months back — like one of my senior clients being able to do a deadlift with proper form. As a trainer, I feel really proud of them — it’s very rewarding. I watch my clients gain confidence and emotional well-being, along with physical improvements. I strive to keep our training sessions positive and encourage my clients to challenge themselves. They’re able to explore their potential in a safe and uplifting environment.”

 – Savreen Grewal, Personal Trainer at the West End YMCA

“Before starting personal training at the Y, I didn’t feel that I was reaching my full potential or learning all I wanted to learn about my body and my health. I was also dealing with a shoulder injury and was nervous to dive into training without someone to guide me towards proper form and exercises that wouldn’t further my injury but rather make me stronger. I’ve developed a wonderful friendship with my trainer — she pushes me when she knows I can handle it and is gentle and encouraging when I need a different approach. She’s incredibly empathetic, non-judgmental and kind. I just reached my goal of bench pressing 100 pounds! When I reach my goals, it’s a reminder that I can do hard things if I put my mind to it and have the proper support around me. I enjoy connecting with my personal trainer about my week and decompressing physically and emotionally. Working with her has allowed me to gain confidence and more knowledge about my body’s abilities and overall health. I have a more holistic approach to fitness now. And I feel proud that I show up day to day. That was the most important goal for me — consistently showing up.”

– Wendy M.

“Before I started working with a personal trainer, I just felt soft, like a bag of milk. I felt uncomfortable and not very confident in my body or in the gym. I wanted to get in shape but I’m not motivated enough to do it on my own — I needed someone to hold me accountable. The most important part was finding the right person, someone who was going to keep me interested and coming back. The head trainer at the West End YMCA worked really hard to find the right fit for me. My trainer, John, is fun but strict and really personable and motivating. He provides feedback with care, in a way that is positive and encouraging. And I’m making great progress! After a workout, I feel good — more confident — and that stays with me for a couple of days. Having a trainer is a step in the right direction for me.”

 – Trevor Pirri