Hometown: I grew up in NYC
When and why did you come to Austin?
I moved to Austin seven years ago after living in Costa Rica for three years. At the time, my first daughter had just been born, and I wanted to find a place that offered a safe, family-friendly environment to raise her. Austin felt like the perfect fit—it’s a vibrant city with warm weather, a strong sense of community, and a culture that values fitness and healthy living. It’s been the best decision for both my family and my career.
What is your background? How did you get into personal training?
My passion for fitness began in high school, where I wrestled competitively and discovered how much I enjoyed pushing my physical limits. That experience inspired me to start working as a trainer the summer after graduating. Over the past 20+ years, I’ve built a career dedicated to helping people transform their lives through fitness. What I love most is witnessing the ripple effect that training has—not just on physical health but on confidence, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.
Tell us about your current fitness goals and training.
As a lifelong martial artist, my training is rooted in my passion for jiu-jitsu, which I continue to practice and compete in. My personal fitness philosophy focuses on building strength and resilience. I believe fitness should be about more than just aesthetics; it’s about preparing your body to meet the demands of life so you can pursue what you love with energy and confidence.
What is the most common fitness myth you work through with your clients?
The biggest myth I encounter is the idea of a “quick fix.” Many people believe there’s a magic solution or shortcut to getting in shape, but fitness is like anything else in life—it requires a well thought-out plan and consistent effort over time, to see lasting results. I focus on teaching clients a sustainable, science-backed approach to fitness that builds good habits and creates a strong foundation for long-term success.
What do you want your clients to take away from each training session with you?
My goal for every session is to help clients feel empowered—both physically and mentally. I want them to walk out feeling stronger, heads held high, inspired by the progress they’re making. Each session is an opportunity not just to work on fitness but to build a mindset of perseverance and self-belief.
What sets you apart from other fitness professionals?
With more than two decades as a trainer under my belt, I have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience. Additionally, what sets me apart is my personalized approach to each client’s specific needs. I’ve helped hundreds of people become stronger, healthier, and happier versions of themselves. I see everyone’s journey as unique, and I’m committed to providing the tools, motivation, and guidance you need to achieve your goals.
How do you, personally, define success?
I define success as living in alignment with your values, feeling proud of the person you are, and having the confidence to pursue anything you set your mind to. For me, it’s about growth—both for myself and for the people I have the privilege of coaching.
Favorite quote and who said it?
One of my favorite quotes is from The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: “When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” This quote resonates deeply with me because it captures the transformative power of self-improvement—not just for yourself but for the world around you as well.