“FiT’s been transformative. FiT is holistic.”
– Braden K
Susana K.
The competence of the trainers and the good vibes have kept me coming for 20+ years. Thom was my first trainer. We formed a friendship which survives to this day. At that time Thom was looking for a mate. He certainly found the right one. I have seen Thom and his family thrive, both businesswise and personally. Over the years I have had many trainers at FIT. All were good. Some fit my needs and personality better than others. Recently I have worked out with Katie and Kevin and could not be happier.
First my focus was on increasing my strength. Then, as I got older, the focus shifted to maintaining strength and balance. As the trainers concentrated on specific issues, it kept my body mobile and relatively pain free.
At the time I started at FIT I had young grandchildren. Other people’s grandchildren might have a delicate build. Mine were rock solid. I wanted to be able to lift them easily and keep up with them. I achieved that and much more.
Sudipto G.
At first I was tentative to join class as it was not ideal for my schedule, but as I got into the habit of attending in the afternoon it became more routine. I started coming to Friday afternoon to compliment my workouts with Tyler on Mondays and Wednesdays and it seemed to workout well. Now that I attend on a regular basis it feels better to have a more consistent workout routine.
David B.
When FiT training went virtual during Covid, I increased my sessions from 2x to 4x per week, assuming that this was just temporary. I found that my FiT time became my daily anchor, allowing me to reset mentally and physically. My sessions were split over two different trainers, and I focused on different, but complementary, goals with each trainer. I maintained this approach when we returned to in-person sessions. Two days a week, I focus on conditioning, range of motion, and mobility with Jeff Samson. The other two days I focus on strength, power, and speed with Jake Verhulp.
What keeps me motivated? With Jeff and Jake’s guidance, I have set specific personal goals for each year. I can see progress toward these goals almost every week and that progress keeps me hungry for more. For 2023, I achieved my goal of a three-quarter Murph a few weeks ago, and I am getting close to my goal of being able to bench 225 pounds for 5 reps. I have also been making small changes in nutrition, and have seen progress there too. Jeff and Jake have been great at encouraging me to make the kind of realistic, incremental, changes that can be sustained permanently.
I learn something new from Jeff and Jake every week and in the midst of a very hectic work schedule. FiT remains “my happy place.”
Kjersti N.
As someone that use to dread strength training, working with Jon has turned my workouts into something I look forward to. Jon keeps me accountable, and makes the workouts fun. As I trained for my marathons I had a running related injury that I was navigating. Jon helped me find strategies to heal and strengthen those muscles and tendons. As a runner I strive to have more balance across muscle groups, and that has been a major benefit of working out at FiT!
Bev S.
I started working out at FIT almost two years ago. My goal was to strengthen my severely damaged knee joints and avoid knee replacement surgery. The good news is that I was able to get them strong, however bad news was they were too badly damaged to avoid surgery.
Better news, the surgery went extremely well due to how strong all the surrounding tissues had become as a result of my training. After Physical Therapy, I began my training routine again working on whole body fitness, but emphasis on lower body strength and rehabilitation. I am now 9 months post surgery and able to play tennis 3 times per week, golf, walking all 18 holes, 3 times per week and train twice a week. Next year I will add skiing.
Thank you FIT, especially Danielle and Angelo.
Polly and Tom B.
Tom: I started coming to FIT after a mild heart attack in 2004. Regular workouts with my trainer help me stay healthy and enjoy and active life
Polly: FiT has positively impacted my life by providing wonderful trainers who understand individual needs and customize the exercise to meet those needs. My training also keeps me on a schedule – a hard thing to stick to and to be positive about! It takes a positive staff to make that happen. And I think the positive attitude starts at the top and exists on all levels!
Mandy M.
I like working out at FIT because the workouts are always different and work your entire body. I never know what to expect when I come in and don’t get bored with doing the same thing each time at the gym.
As a mom, I love the kid friendly atmosphere. I am able to take my son with me. He loves to interact with people and watch what is going on around him. At the same time I’m getting a great workout. It’s a win win situation for us all.
Matt Q.
What I get at FIT is training with a plan: my trainer has a plan for each workout, as well as a longer term plan for how the different workouts will help me in achieving personal strength, fitness, and health goals; goals that I set with input from my trainer. That longer term plan is a holistic one: the trainers are knowledgeable about body mechanics and stretching; proper exercise form, whether for Olympic lifting, pushups, Trak, kettle bells, etc. ; nutrition; injury recovery; and about the other elements of good and enduring health that can be derived from a
fitness program. A friendly, but business-like environment at FIT; no lollygagging. Also appreciate the flexibility in rescheduling workouts when those inevitable work conflicts arise. workout. It’s a win win situation for us all.
Laurie D.
When I first came to FIT, I needed to lose a lot of weight and was looking for help starting an exercise program to meet that goal. Great training and a supportive gym environment at FIT set me on a path to success for weight loss as well as improved strength and coordination. These changes have a positive impact on my life on a daily basis because I feel better, look better, have rehabilitated old injuries, and have a lot of energy. But the really interesting and possibly most important thing that I’ve learned is, when you spend a couple hours a week with a great trainer who believes that fitness may require hard work but can still be a lot of fun, that attitude starts to carry over to the rest of your life and initiates changes that extend way beyond the time in the gym. I highly recommend FIT – it’s a friendly and supportive environment where the training is tailored to the individual so it works well whether you are a beginner or an accomplished athlete.
Debra P.
FIT has provided me with a skilled and knowledgeable trainer who helps me stay focused on nutrition and strength training without injury. FIT is unique and the people who workout there are motivated to kick butt.
Jeremy T.
FIT is a place where I enjoy working out and making an impact on my life. It’s full of laughter, working hard, getting the muscles going and just really enjoying everything around you. My favorite part about coming to FIT Buddies is being part of a group of people who really care about you and help you achieve your dreams.
Carlos G.
The benefits have been in several areas. Besides improving my overall fitness and energy level another positive aspect has been stress reduction. With their knowledgeable trainers and friendly atmosphere a workout at FIT is a great way to start my day.
Dae-Von Bishop
Personal Trainer
Spirit Animal: Wolf
Contact
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
Contact
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.
Jon Angeles
Trainer
Spirit Animal: Leopard
Contact
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
Contact
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Dynamic Variable Resistance Training (DVRT) Level 1 Certification
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Certificate in Nutrition (FAB Academy)
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Certificate in Applied Stretching Theory and Practice (FTP)
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NASM-CPT
Jake Verhulp
Hannah Golden
Serena Earwicker
Operations Manager
Spirit Animal: Owl
Contact
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
Contact
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
Contact
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
Contact
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
Contact
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
Contact
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
- 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
- Administration
Juliana Oliveira
Trainer
Spirit Animal: Dolphin
Contact
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
Contact
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
- 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
Contact
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
Contact
What I love about FiT: Great space, staff, clients, ability to pursue my passions
Favorite sport: Jiujitsu