Body Composition: A Comprehensive Snapshot

by | Oct 11, 2023 | Body Composition, Health, Uncategorized

Adding Conditioning To Your Strength Training Program

 

Although the number on the scale is commonly relied upon to assess health and fitness levels, it is crucial to understand the importance of focusing on body composition rather than just weight. Body composition refers to the proportions of lean body mass, such as bones, organs, skin, and muscle, in relation to body fat.

You might recall from your Baseline Assessment that you were given these measurements based on your SECA scan results. The SECA is a machine that  provides detailed information about an individual’s body composition, and other related metrics. It’s one of the most accurate forms of measuring body composition and will give you an idea on how your muscle mass is distributed and how much body fat you carry overall as well as an index for visceral adipose tissue (belly fat) which is crucial when indicating potential health risks. 

 

Here is a breakdown of the key body composition metrics provided by the SECA scan:

 

  1. Body Fat Percentage: This metric indicates the proportion of body weight that is composed of fat tissue. It is a useful indicator of overall body composition and can help assess the risk of certain health conditions.

 

  1. Fat Mass: Fat mass represents the total weight of fat tissue in the body. Monitoring changes in fat mass can be helpful for individuals looking to manage weight or track progress during weight loss programs.

 

  1. Muscle Mass: Muscle mass refers to the weight of muscle tissue in the body. This metric is important for assessing overall strength, physical performance, and the effectiveness of resistance training or muscle-building programs.

 

  1. Lean Body Mass: Lean body mass represents the weight of all non-fat components in the body, including muscles, bones, organs, and fluids. It is an essential component for evaluating overall body composition.

 

  1. Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): BMR (or RMR, resting metabolic rate) is an estimate of the number of calories your body needs at rest to maintain basic physiological functions. These are the minimum amount of calories to sustain basic physiological functions such as sleep, walking, and even brain function.  It is influenced by factors such as muscle mass and can help in determining appropriate calorie intake for weight management.

 

By regularly tracking these metrics this information can assist in setting and adjusting fitness goals, evaluating the effectiveness of exercise and nutrition plans, and providing insights into overall health and wellness. It is worth noting that the accuracy of BIA-based measurements can be influenced by factors such as hydration levels, menstrual cycle status, exercise activity, caffeine intake, and food intake. Do not be discouraged if the results aren’t exactly what you’re expecting – body composition fluctuates over time and this is just one snapshot in time to collect data for long-term progress. You’re putting in the work and making conscious health decisions – that’s what matters the most!

 

Another measurement used to assess health and fitness of an individual is the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a common term used in a medical setting, typically when doing an annual physical.  This is a simple numerical measure derived from an individual’s weight and height and is quite limiting in overall analysis of health and progress. It is applicable to both men and women and can be useful for tracking changes in body composition over time, though not ideal when assessing someone’s health and fitness. BMI does differentiate between muscle mass and fat, and since muscle tissue is denser than fat tissue, assessing an individual’s body fat is more important than tracking their BMI because two people who are at the same height and same body weight may have different presentations based on their body composition. 

 

While both body composition and BMI provide insights into an individual’s physical state, body composition is considered a more comprehensive and informative measurement, especially when it comes to weight management goals. Here’s why:

Differentiating between Muscle and Fat: BMI does not distinguish between fat mass and lean muscle mass. It treats all weight the same, whether it’s fat or muscle. Body composition, however, provides a clearer understanding of how much of your weight comes from muscle and how much comes from fat. This distinction is crucial because muscle is metabolically active tissue that burns more calories at rest, contributing to a higher metabolic rate, while excess fat can lead to health issues.

Health Risks: BMI is often used as a general indicator of whether an individual falls within a healthy weight range. However, it does not account for differences in fat distribution and doesn’t consider the location of fat deposits. People with a higher proportion of visceral fat (fat stored around internal organs) are at a greater risk of metabolic disorders and chronic diseases, even if their BMI falls within a normal range. Body composition assessment can identify these risks more accurately.

Fun Fact: Lambert Adolph Jacques Quetlet created the Quetlet Index or the weight to height ratio to determine the “ideal” based on white European men. While this index was intended to be used to measure a person’s health and wellness, it’s important to recognize that this index was based solely on white males. This leads to BMI inaccuracy and doesn’t consider other groups that may have different body compositions determined by sex, ethnicity, menstruation status, and many other factors. 

Athletes and Active Individuals: Athletes and individuals who engage in regular exercise may have higher muscle mass, which can result in an elevated BMI that does not accurately reflect their health. Since muscle is denser than fat, someone with a significant amount of muscle mass could be classified as overweight or obese based on BMI, even though they have a low body fat percentage and are in excellent health.

Weight Loss and Maintenance Goals: When aiming for weight management or weight loss goals, focusing solely on BMI might lead to misconceptions. People may adopt restrictive diets that cause them to lose muscle mass along with fat, which is counterproductive for long-term weight management and overall health. By monitoring body composition, individuals can track changes in muscle and fat mass separately, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their nutrition and exercise routines.

Individual Variability: Everyone’s body is unique, and two individuals with the same BMI might have vastly different body compositions. Genetic factors, age, sex, and other variables can influence how fat and muscle are distributed in the body. Body composition assessments can take these factors into account, providing personalized insights into an individual’s health and weight management needs.

Fat Loss vs. Muscle Gain: Traditional weight loss methods that focus solely on reducing overall body weight can lead to the loss of both fat and muscle. This can result in a lower number on the scale but a higher body fat percentage, which is not ideal for long-term health. By tracking body composition changes, individuals can determine whether they are losing primarily fat or muscle, and adjust their strategies accordingly. Successful weight management should involve preserving or increasing muscle mass while reducing excess fat.

Metabolic Rate: Muscle is metabolically active tissue that requires more energy to maintain compared to fat. As individuals lose muscle mass, their resting metabolic rate decreases, making it harder to sustain weight loss over time. By monitoring body composition, individuals can ensure that their weight loss efforts are not negatively impacting their metabolism. If muscle mass is being preserved or increased, it can contribute to a higher metabolic rate and improved weight maintenance.

Long-Term Health: Successful weight management isn’t just about achieving short-term weight loss; it’s about promoting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Changes in body composition play a significant role in achieving these goals. A reduction in body fat percentage, especially visceral fat, is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other obesity-related health issues. Monitoring body composition can provide insights into how well an individual is progressing towards these health objectives.

Motivation and Accountability: Seeing positive changes in body composition over time can serve as a powerful motivator. Unlike changes in BMI, which might not be as visually noticeable, changes in muscle definition and reductions in body fat percentage are tangible and observable. This can help individuals stay motivated and committed to their weight management journey, especially during plateaus or periods of slow progress.

Personalized Approach: Everyone’s body responds differently to various diet and exercise strategies. By tracking body composition changes, individuals can identify which approaches are working best for them. For example, someone might notice that a certain workout routine is helping them gain muscle while reducing fat, leading them to adjust their plan to focus on those types of activities.

Holistic Progress Evaluation: Weight loss is just one aspect of health improvement. Body composition tracking allows for a more holistic evaluation of progress. Positive changes might include increased energy levels, improved physical performance, enhanced mood, and better sleep quality – all of which contribute to an improved overall quality of life.

Summary

Body composition is a more informative measurement for weight management goals compared to BMI because it considers the distribution of muscle and fat, provides insights into health risks associated with fat deposits, accommodates variations in muscle mass due to physical activity, is better suited for athletes and individuals with higher muscle mass, and supports personalized approaches to weight loss and maintenance. While BMI has its uses, it should be complemented with body composition assessments for a more accurate understanding of one’s physical state and health risks. Consulting with healthcare professionals or fitness experts who can perform body composition measurements can be valuable in setting and achieving weight management goals effectively.



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Kristin Pampeyan

Trainer

Spirit Animal: Bumblebee

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Growing up, Kristin swam competitively and played competitive softball. Her journey to strength and conditioning started when she decided to not pursue sports within college.  Instead, she did strength and conditioning for a variety of collegiate athletes.  This led her to specialize in sports performance and eventually acquire her NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach certificate.
After moving back to the Bay Area, she’s worked with a variety of clients ranging from high school to over 80 years old. She’s found that her background transfers well to functional fitness as she aligns work done in the gym to daily activities enjoyed by her clients. Her training style emphasizes learning because she wants her clients to understand why each exercise is important to them and their goals.
Beyond the gym, Kristin is currently pursuing her Master’s in Exercise Physiology and in her free time enjoys exploring new places and activities.  Her favorite activities currently revolve around the circus arts particularly those in the air and those with fire!

What I love about FiT: That everyone is invested in the community whether it’s by hosting additional activities or sharing knowledge. It’s all to make each other better and help out the clients.

Favorite sports: Swimming and Softball

Dae-Von Bishop

Personal Trainer Spirit Animal: Wolf
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All the way from East Palo Alto, Dae-Von was an avid basketball player and fan since the age of 10. From Eastside College Prep to Sonoma State to Foothill where he received his AA in psychology. Dae-Von developed a passion for training and helping others stay active and healthy after a bad ankle sprain in high school that occurred during the basketball season. Dae-Von received training the following summer at The Riekes Center, leading him to have a healthy senior year season as well as making 2nd team all league.This is what inspired him to become a trainer and help other athletes stay in great shape. At 20 years old, Dae-Von’s personal training journey began at The Riekes Center, and he hasn’t looked back since.

Dae-Von holds certifications in personal training through NASM, archery, as well as speed and agility and weightlifting both through NSPA. He even will do some basketball skill development on the side for young hoopers. His goal is to help people stay as fit and active as possible with little to no complications. I love training groups of athletes in either middle or high school. Those age groups tend to be the best time for athletes to get faster and stronger, as well as they begin to understand movement patterns which allow them to perform at an elite level. There is also a natural competitive aspect of training in groups that pushes kids to go harder during drills.

In his free time, you can find Dae-Von shooting hoops, working out, playing video games, spending time with friends, trying new foods(as long as there is no avocado), or hanging out with his frenchie, Trouble.

What I love about FiT: The embodiment of teamwork that is displayed on a regular basis, as well as the encouragement to constantly get better as trainers. ​ Favorite sport: Basketball and Football
  • Personal Trainer (NASM)
  • Certified Speed and Agility Coach (National Sports Performance Association)
  • Certified Weightlifting Coach (National Sports Performance Association)
  • Archery Lvl. 2 (USA Archery)

Megan Justice

Trainer Spirit Animal: Grizzly Bear
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Megan grew up in the Sierras, enjoying all the activities found in the mountains as well as 11 years of basketball and 4 years varsity golf. After graduating high school, she studied Integrated Human Biology at Bastyr University and worked in physical therapy for 4 years following school while also getting her Master’s in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine. After learning so much from her doctor counterpart in the PT practice, she decided to open her own business as a personal trainer and health coach. She loved helping clients and teaching them about all the fascinating intricacies within their own body. She values client education and holistic health and wellness, prioritizing the many facets of health with each of her clients.

When she isn’t kicking client’s butts in the gym, you can usually find her hanging out with her partner and two dogs Bubba and Moose. She enjoys hiking and backpacking, golf, yoga, weightlifting, and can always appreciate any televised sports.

 

Jon Angeles

Trainer Spirit Animal: Leopard
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Jon is from San Jose, CA and has always considered himself an athlete. After playing soccer at West Valley College he began working at Stanford University as a personal trainer.  Jon went on to pursue a Masters degree in Kinesiology, multiple certifications and now has over 7 years of experience. When it comes to his training philosophy, he likes taking a strength approach. In his experience, when clients focus on getting stronger and increasing muscle mass, other aspects of their fitness journey fall into place. Helping the general population find their confidence through this type of exercise is truly rewarding. Outside of the gym, he enjoys spending time with his wife and dog wherever that may be. He makes sure there’s always a travel vacation booked or being planned for the future.  
What I love about FiT: FiT’s philosophy around the 5 tenets of optimal health aligns well with my beliefs surrounding how best to care for my clients and myself.  When clients subscribe to FiT’s services, they are signing up for a training program that includes learning about how to live better for longer.  Who wouldn’t love that?

James Frederick

Trainer

Spirit Animal: Orca

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James Frederick is a Personal Trainer at FiT and certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. His top three strengths are relationship building, executing and strategic thinking. In order to be of better service to his family, peers and clients James believes self love is the quickest way to lead a more enjoyable and productive life.
 
James has a diverse background of skills and attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has been an educator in the specialty coffee industry, practiced applied stretching theory at Stretch Lab, and as a personal trainer, he has helped people of many different backgrounds improve their quality of life through strength training and behavior change.
 
Residing in the Bay Area for over 20 years, James currently lives in Campbell with his wife and son. In his free time he enjoys cooking, reading, playing guitar, kettlebell training and going for walks with his family and dog Ziggy.

 

 
What I love about FiT: FiTs health hierarchy provides a holistic and scientifically founded model unlike any I have seen in the fitness industry. People don’t just need workouts to stay healthy, they need solutions to modern day problems. I feel like FiT provides the framework to bring about long term positive change in its members. The staff is amazing and I love the opportunities for continuing education.

 

  • Dynamic Variable Resistance Training (DVRT) Level 1 Certification
  • Certificate in Nutrition (FAB Academy)
  • Certificate in Applied Stretching Theory and Practice (FTP)
  • NASM-CPT

Jake Verhulp

Trainer Spirit Animal: Spider Monkey
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Born and raised in the Bay Area, Jake played baseball at Gunn High School and in college until a series of rotator cuff injuries abruptly ended his playing career. Inspired to help others avoid similar outcomes and help people perform at their best, Jake went on to pursue and attain a B.S in Health & Human Sciences from Loyola Marymount University. With experience in both the physical therapy and personal training settings, Jake brings a unique perspective and a passion for integrating the principles of injury prevention and human performance. His goal is to help each client unlock their body’s potential with immense value placed their individual goals. When Jake is not training or researching, he enjoys watching baseball, snowboarding and spending time with his dog, Barney.
What I love about FiT: It is a combination of great, passionate minds and an amazing community feel. Favorite sports: Baseball, Basketball, MMA

Hannah Golden

Trainer Spirit Animal: Phoenix
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Hannah has been working as a trainer since 2015.  She has a masters degree in Sport and Exercise Science, is certified through both NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) and the NATA (National Athletic Trainers Association).  Hannah has extensive experience in corrective exercise and rehabilitation having spent the better part of 5 years working within collegiate athletics. Helping clients correct movement dysfunctions and optimize how their bodies move enabling them to lead healthier lives is where Hannah leverages her expertise.  She is also a BIRTHFIT coach who supports women through the motherhood transition with education, support and fitness training. In her free time, Hannah enjoys hiking around the bay area, visiting with family, and hanging with her two cats Simba and Nala.
What I love about FiT: I love the community that FiT provides and how quick it takes to feel right at home. Favorite sports: Cheerleading

Serena Earwicker

Operations Manager

Spirit Animal: Owl

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Serena manages the day-to-day operations at FIT. If you need help with something apart from training, she is the one to get it done.

Outside of FIT you will find Serena hiking, biking and playing at the beach with her family.

What I love about FiT: FiT is welcoming and supportive to all. It feels like a hug, a sweaty one. Haha

Favorite sports: Anything I get to see live! Love the energy.

Tracey Downing

Owner

Spirit Animal: Owl

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Tracey Downing has dedicated her life’s journey to empowering individuals to discover newfound confidence in their physical abilities and take command of their long-term well-being. Together with her husband, Thom, she established FiT, a health promotion company, in 2000, impacting numerous lives by guiding them towards positive lifestyle shifts and instilling the importance of prioritizing their health.

Her academic journey at the University of Michigan, where she graduated with a degree in Kinesiology, was complemented by a vibrant period of exploration. Tracey’s adventures took her across the globe to live in places like New Zealand, Ireland, and Scotland. These enriching experiences allowed her to indulge her passion for travel while simultaneously nurturing her professional growth, with roles in clinical and professional sports settings.

Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Tracey treasures her role as a mother to two wonderful children. Outside of her business endeavors, she has completed an Ironman Triathlete, a testament to her unwavering determination, had the incredible honor of being an Olympic Torch Bearer for the Salt Lake City Olympics, and is a 20 year survivor of breast cancer.

In Tracey’s world, fostering physical wellness is not just a profession; it’s a lifelong vocation driven by a genuine desire to inspire and uplift others on their unique journeys toward lasting health and vitality.



What I love about FiT: Seeing people change: doing more than they thought they could, learning more than they thought they would, and showing up to make themselves better.

Favorite sports: Playing tennis and watching anything my kids are playing

Brett Lando

Physical Therapist

Spirit Animal: Cheetah

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Brett grew up in San Francisco and attended St. Ignatius College Preparatory where he ran cross-country and track and field. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of California, Irvine where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology. While at UC Irvine he competed on the cycling team in road and cyclo-cross races and helped manage the campus bike shop.

Brett graduated with his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of California San Francisco/San Francisco State University. He is a graduate of Agile’s yearlong Orthopedic Residency, is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and most recently completed a yearlong Fellowship in sports and manual therapy.

In his free time, Brett enjoys road cycling, the occasional triathlon, alpine skiing, surfing, backpacking, traveling and cooking with his wife.

What I love about FiT: The TEAM, Learning new exercises from the trainers, and a variety of fun, innovative exercise equipment.

Favorite sports: Cycling, Skiing, Surfing

 

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy
  • Board- Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy
  • Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists

Kendra Wagers

Massage Therapist

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Kendra Wagers has been a Massage Therapist since 2001. A native to California, she began her massage career in the Central valley working with various injury and chronic pain methods under experienced Chiropractors and physical therapists. In 2003 she relocated to Las Vegas, NV to attend the Nevada School of Massage Therapy’s accredited massage program which led to obtaining her National certification from NCBTMB. For over 13 years she worked as a licensed massage therapist in Nevada, including employment at top rated Spas on the Las Vegas strip. Receiving training in various modalities over the years including; Hawaiian Lomilomi, Thai, Sports and Shiatsu. In January of 2017 Kendra decided to return to California and is currently enrolled in the Traditional Chinese Medicine program at Five Branches University, furthering her education on overall health and wellness. With more than 17 years of experience and over 1500 hours in training Kendra has been able to hone in on her passion for healing while combining multiple techniques to provide a personalized and detailed massage to every guest. Her serene approach combined with her roots in structural techniques, offers harmony, balance, and ease to injuries or everyday stresses.

CA State Massage License #73011

Katie Deangelis

Personal Trainer Strength and Wellness Coach Spirit Animal: Hummingbird
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Originally from the Bay Area, Katie graduated from Chico State University with a Bachelors in both Exercise Physiology and Nutrition with an emphasis in Sports. While observing strength coaches during her internship at Norcal Strength and Conditioning, she became fascinated with the human body and its biomechanics. Shortly after her first year in college, Katie found that excelling her knowledge in both the foundations of functional movement and nutrition was essential in order for her to pursue her career in preventative health care. Katie enjoys training each client individually tailored to their goals and intentions by incorporating multiple training styles, thoughtful programming and relating exercise to their interests and daily lifestyle. Her mission is to help clients feel physically and emotionally powerful, strong, and pain-free by using an extensive and realistic approach to intentional movement, intuitive eating, and to encourage behavioral change rooted in nourishment for the brain, body, and soul.
What I love about FiT: FiT embodies a comprehensive approach to fitness and overall health so that you can not only envision but become the best version of you. Our priority isn’t just about what you can accomplish inside the gym, it’s about training for the life you visualize living. It’s about showing up as the healthiest, strongest, and most powerful version of you. At FiT, we don’t just workout, we train because we see the athlete in everybody. Favorite sports: Functional bodybuilding, weightlifting, swimming, boxing, biking, and volleyball  

  • American Council on Exercise
  • Crossfit Level One
  • NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, In Progress
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certified, In Progress

Kevin Martin

Strength and Wellness Coach

Personal Trainer

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

OPEX CCP

Spirit Animal: The Lorax

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Kevin graduated from Trinity University in San Antonio, TX with a B.S. in Business Administration with a focus in marketing. As a student, Kevin was a five-time conference champion in the 1-meter and 3-meter springboard diving events. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

He has a particular passion for rehabilitation and improving overall functional status. He enjoys identifying and correcting areas of the body that are not operating at their full potential so that everyone can live life to the fullest!
Kevin has completed a full ironman, multiple 70.3 triathlons, 2 full marathons, as well as several shorter distance triathlons and road races. In addition to triathlon, he has a background in gymnastics, swimming, diving, and volleyball. He enjoys helping everyone find the athlete within themselves and find a love for movement and exercise.

When Kevin isn’t training at FiT or exercising, he enjoys cooking, surfing, hiking, and spending time with his wife and dog. He especially loves being a father his young daughter Mayley.

What I love about FiT: Community, Hard work, Supportive, Fun

Favorite sport: Volleyball, Surfing, Diving, Running, Cycling, Swimming (triathlon), Weight lifting. I love watching all sports.

Tyler Pinkney

Trainer Spirit Animal: Dragon
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Tyler has had a passion for fitness and competition since he was a young boy. As he grew, his passion and competitiveness grew big enough to help him win multiple achievements as a Division I student-athlete at the University of Oregon. After his collegiate career concluded, he knew he wanted to stay connected to the fitness world leading him to pursue his Masters of Education in Coaching, Sport, Recreation, and Fitness Administration from Angelo State University. Tyler has worked for multiple universities helping athletes achieve success during their collegiate careers. Now he is excited to put his expertise to work for FiT’s clients and use his knowledge and expertise to help them reach their goals.
What I love about FiT: The people I work with and the opportunity for knowledge. Favorite sports: UFC, Boxing, Soccer, and Track  

  • 4 years of collegiate coaching experience
  • Former Division I Athlete
  • Assisted multiple athletes to the professional level
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, National Strength and
  • Conditioning Association
  • Basic Olympic Lifting Certification, Totten Training Systems
  • Bachelors of Science in Psychology
  • Masters of Education in Coaching, Sport, Recreation, and Fitness
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Juliana Oliveira

Trainer

Spirit Animal: Dolphin

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Helping people to achieve a healthy and balanced lifestyle is Juliana’s passion. Originally from Brazil, Juliana grew up playing different sports such as swimming, volleyball, and surfing. She has always had a passion for exercise.After moving to the US, she decided to turn her passion into a career and obtained her personal training certification. Juliana believes with hard work and determination anyone can achieve their goals.In her free time, she enjoys swimming, working out, hiking, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

What I love about FiT: I love the schedule flexibility.

Favorite sports: Snorkeling and swimming

Angelo de la Cruz

Orthopedic Massage Therapist & Personal Trainer

Spirit Animal: Wolf-bear-dragon-unicorn beast

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While studying biological sciences at Cal Poly SLO, it became clear that my health was suffering. I was always tired, I couldn’t sleep well, I had digestive issues, and my emotions would swing dramatically at times. The realization came that in order for me to enjoy life to its fullest, I had to get serious about improving the quality of my health.

Since then, I’ve studied with doctors, physical therapists, clinical nutritionists, physical trainers, bodyworkers, and top innovators in the field of health & wellness. Instead of chasing the symptoms of illness, the most effective approaches to well-being are those that work to eliminate things that degrade health AND instill lifestyle habits that allow the natural environment of our bodies and mind to operate as efficiently as possible. In this way, we can be lead lives with less pain & sickness.
My work aims to use the technology of the body to help you live a more vibrant & productive life.

Some of the things I have fun doing are Olympic Weightlifting, breakdancing, parkour & free-running, snowboarding, creating electronic music, digital art photography/ videography, competing in American Ninja Warrior (My competition run is here) & learning about quantum physics.

What I love about FiT: Uplifting, motivating, supportive

Favorite sport: Martial Arts, ninja warrior obstacle courses, break dancing

  • Former Life Science Support Scientist at NASA Ames Research Center
  • Certified High Performance Coach
  • 2nd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo
  • CrossFit – Level 1 Certification
  • USA Weightlifting Club Coach Certification
  • Intrinsic Coach Certification – Life & Health Coaching
  • BS Anatomy & Physiology
  • American Massage Therapy Association – Professional Member
  • Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork
  • Certified Hendrickson Method Instructor
  • Primal Reflex Release Instructor
  • Certified Massage Therapist
  • Certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner

Shaun Conness

Trainer Spirit Animal: Australian Shepherd
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Shaun graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a B.S. in recreational resources. Shaun is a Certified Medical Exercise Specialist with the American Academy of Health, Fitness, and Rehabilitation. Member NSCA. He is a C.H.E.K. practioner level one and a C.H.E.K. Certified Golf Biomechanic. He is a Titlist Performance Certified Golf Fitness Instructor (TPI CGFI). Shaun has also completed the BacktoGolf program in Carmel, CA. Through these courses and application, Shaun has gained extensive knowledge about the mechanics and flexibility demands of the golf swing, as well as the strength and conditioning needed to optimize one’s golf potential. Shaun has trained athletes from senior Olympic Sprinters to PGA and LPGA golfers over his career. He has worked in the home, large gym, and private studio settings. Shaun prides himself on having a strong work ethic, being positive, and enjoying life. You have to have fun.
What I love about FiT: The culture, the environment, and the team. Favorite sport: College football and basketball, pull ups  

  • USAW Club Coach
  • NASM Certified Trainer
  • TPI Golf Fitness Instructor
  • CHEK Practitioner Level 1
  • CHEK Certified Golf Biomechanics Specialist

Jennifer Mulry

Personal Trainer

Spirit Animal: Bear

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Jen graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a B.S in Psychology in 2005.  She is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a USA Weightlifting Club Coach, and is ACSM Special Populations Certified.  In October 2006, Jen started FITBuddies, a training group for individuals with autism and Down syndrome.  In 2011, Jen founded BuddiesInAction to expand FiTBuddies programs.  BuddiesInACTION now offers 1:1 training, group classes, virtual training and health & wellness consulting services for individuals of all abilities.Jen’s passion is teaching individuals to not only move properly but also learn to enjoy movement.  She enjoys teaching other professionals how to work with the special needs population and loves the creativity of building unique programs that fit every individual’s needs.Outside of FiT, Jen spends most of her time chasing after her twins. She enjoys long walks with her duo, hiking, reading, uninterrupted dinners with her husband and is always looking forward to the next east coast visit with family.

What I love about FiT: I love the family atmosphere at FiT and the collective effort to all be the healthiest version of ourselves.

Favorite Sport(s): Basketball & Swimming

Jeff Samson

Trainer
Martial Arts Trainer
Assisted Stretch Practitioner

Spirit Animal: Blue Whale

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Jeff has been working with clients in the Bay Area since 2007 and performs personal training, martial arts instruction, and assisted stretching to youth, working adults and retired seniors. Most of his youth was spent as an unathletic chubby kid who found various ways of getting into trouble. It wasn’t till he was a young adult that he began to study fitness, train himself and learn martial arts. He entered and won a fitness transformation competition in 2006 which changed his life forever. The personal training he received and positive changes he saw from the competition inspired him to teach others. Jeff went back to school and earned his Fitness Specialist certification through the Wellness and Human Performance Department of Mission College and has held certifications in Circular Strength Training, USAW Olympic Weightlifting, and Bioforce Conditioning Coach. He currently holds a BA in Humanities from The New College of California, is a Life Stretch Instructor through the Stretch to Win Institute and certified FST (Fascial Stretch Therapy) practicioner. Jeff is a longtime local having lived in California all his life from San Diego to the Bay Area. When he’s not training clients or learning new things about health and fitness he enjoys trying new restaurants, sipping specialty coffee, whiskey tasting, looking for whales in the sea and taking road trips.

What I love about FiT: Great space, staff, clients, ability to pursue my passions

Favorite sport: Jiujitsu