You’re ready to make the commitment. We’re here to offer support every step of the way. No matter your fitness level, limitations, or goals, our Personal Trainers have the expertise, knowledge and enthusiasm to help you on your fitness journey. Stop by for a single Fitness Assessment—just to get you started —or opt for a package plan that delivers long-term results. Whatever your need, we’ll help you stay focused, safe and motivated.
To begin working with a personal trainer, please submit the following registration form. Within a few days of completing the form, you can expect an email from our program manager to discuss your goals and to begin the trainer match process. Once you’ve been matched, your new hand-selected personal trainer will reach out to you to discuss your specific goals, barriers, and needs, and will schedule an assessment session with you.
Services
Body Composition Analysis
We use the three-site skinfold test to measure your body fat percentage. The trainer will explain your results and discuss next steps. Please wear shorts and a t-shirt. Allow 15 to 30 minutes for the analysis.
Fitness Assessment and Program Design
This one-hour assessment includes an evaluation of your movement patterns, cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, balance and overall health. Assessments are made while you are exercising and while you are at rest. This information will help to establish a fitness baseline and will be useful in setting goals and monitoring your progress.
Based on the completed assessment, your personal trainer will develop a comprehensive training program for you and will review it with you so you are prepared to undertake your own fitness regimen or to begin one-on-one sessions with your trainer. Wear comfortable clothing and gym shoes.
Starter Package
This package includes the Fitness Assessment & Program Development module plus one 60-minute training session.
Training Sessions
Use these 60-minute one-on-one training sessions to stay motivated and accountable, and to help you establish a top-notch exercise routine. Working with a trainer on a regular basis will help you to push beyond your normal boundaries, monitor your exercise to be sure you understand and use the correct form, and provide constructive feedback on your use of exercise machines, free weights and other fitness tools. Sold in packages of 2, 4, 6 or 12 sessions. Sessions may be used anytime within four months of the purchase date.
Prerequisites: Fitness Assessment & Program Development or Starter Package.
Partner Training Sessions
Train with your friend, spouse or partner when each of you purchase a package of training sessions at the partner rate and meet with your trainer together. Each session is 60 minutes. Sessions may be used anytime within four months of the purchase date.
Prerequisite: Both partners must complete either the Fitness Assessment & Program Development or the Starter Package.
Rates
Package
Students
Recreational Sports Members
Body Composition
$30
$30
Fitness Assessment and Program Design
$55
$60
Starter Package
$90
$100
2 Training Sessions
$95
$105
4 Training Sessions
$175
$195
6 Training Sessions
$245
$275
12 Training Sessions
$455
$500
2 Partner Training Sessions
$50/person
$55/person
4 Partner Training Sessions
$85/person
$95/person
6 Partner Training Sessions
$120/person
$135/person
12 Partner Training Sessions
$215/person
$245/person
Become a Trainer
For New Trainers
Apply for a mentoring position. Our Mentoring program offers a paid position with Recreational Sports and practical experience. The mentoring program is highly recommended for newly certified trainers, and required for those who do not have a nationally accredited certification.
Become certified by a nationally accredited organization. Our top four preferred certifications are ACE, ACSM,NASM, and NSCA. If you are not currently certified, a requirement is to schedule your certification exam before you complete the mentoring program.
Mentorship Program
The mentoring program is a paid position that provides practical experience for University of Michigan students. The program consists of group workshops, shadow sessions, mock assessments, mock programming, and mock training sessions. This is a requirement for aspiring trainers to complete prior to working with clients.
Please see the dates below for the Spring 2025 mentoring process. Applications are due April 11. Apply here.
Mandatory Workshop Dates: Every Wednesday from 3:30 pm-6:30 pm starting April 30-June 18.
Enrolled U‑M students can register for a session with a Physical Therapist and Personal Trainer who will assess your shoes, flexibility, strength, and movement patterns; analyze your running biomechanics using video taken on your smartphone, and provide personalized recommendations to improve your stride. Provided by University Health Service in collaboration with Recreational Sports. Registration opens two (2) weeks in advance of upcoming clinics.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: Going to the gym has done so much for my mental health and my confidence. I am really grateful to have grown up in an athletic family. My dad and my sister are really into the gym and they served as my teachers and biggest cheerleaders. But I know not everyone has that and I wanted the opportunity to be that person and help bring out the confidence in others.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): My ideal client is looking for more of a long term partnership whether it’s for accountability or the social aspect. I love incorporating exercises which not only challenge strength but also challenge balance or coordination. I like trying new things and I believe in prioritizing having fun in a workout.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…cooking for friends and family
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I’ve learned the importance between physical and mental health, and I want to help people feel better about themselves in all areas, just as weightlifting and exercise did for me.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): People looking to become more comfortable in the gym, and are interested in improving their physique and/or physical performance.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… learning guitar, listening to vinyl, playing story games, and hiking.
Fun fact: I have a completely healthy obsession with collecting LEGO.
Major/Area of Study: Applied Exercise Science, Pre-PT
PT Certification: ACE
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I’ve always been very passionate about health and fitness and want to share this passion with others so they can experience the benefits, along with helping them gain confidence in the gym as they start or evolve their fitness journey.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): strength / hypertrophy training, general fitness
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… lifting, being outdoors, watching sports, and movie nights with friends
Fun fact: I was a swimmer elementary through high school and also did CrossFit!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I remember feeling lost surrounded by all of the gym equipment, but with consistency and friends who made the gym feel like home, I eventually learned more and more and gained so much confidence. Now, I want to be that friend to help others find confidence and joy in fitness and walk with them in their journey to improving all areas of their lives.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): strength/hypertrophy or anyone new to the gym
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… recreational volleyball, spending time with friends, working out, and listening to music
Fun fact: I broke my arm while arm wrestling (for fun)
Major/Area of Study: Movement Science/Intraoperative Neuromonitoring
PT Certification: NASM
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: To share the importance of movement and make it approachable and enjoyable to anyone!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): General fitness, resistance training, or functional fitness. I love to work with any client looking to learn something new!
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…working out, trying new AA restaurants, and walking with friends!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I had awesome experiences with a couple of personal trainers who helped get me back to sports after injuries in high school. I fell in love with fitness through their mentorship, and decided I wanted to help others in the same way!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Endurance Training (runners, cyclists), Athletic Performance
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… running, lifting, watching sports w/ friends, and listening to country music
Fun fact: I love all things outdoors, especially hiking and rock climbing!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: My aspiration to become a physician led me to merge my foundation in movement science with my practical fitness experience to empower others towards better health.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): I specialize in helping individuals embrace the journey of running and strength training. Drawing from my personal accomplishments of completing two marathons and years of weightlifting since my high school days, I’m well-equipped to guide clients eager to rediscover the joy of exercise.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…immersing myself in a good book, maintaining my running regimen, and savoring ice cream during quality moments with loved ones.
Fun fact: Although I originate from California and have resided in Hawaii for five years, I still don’t know how to surf
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I have gone through periods of athletic training, weight loss, marathon training, and clean muscle gain throughout the last several years. I believe my personal experiences can greatly assist those looking to achieve their fitness goals.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Clients looking to increase their strength or begin working out.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy working on projects for my consulting group, and my other club involvements.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: When embarking on my journey into weight training, I faced the challenge of finding a mentor to provide guidance, forced to learn all on my own. Now, as someone experienced in the realm of lifting, I aspire to be that go-to person for newcomers, offering direct guidance to help them reach their fitness goals.
Specialty area/preferred client: Possessing a specialized certification in bodybuilding, coupled with my personal commitment to hypertrophy training, equips me with immense knowledge in physique building and aesthetic training.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…hitting my own training sessions, calling my family back home, and getting myself involved with my other passions on campus.
Fun fact: I serve as a volunteer firefighter in my hometown!
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…Soccer/Volleyball/Golf, watching football (lions SB run inbound), spending time with friends, and Legos
Fun fact: I have an mildly concerning obsession with cars and can usually tell the engine type from just the sound
Major/Area of Study: Psychology Major; Stats Minor
Certification: ACE
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I love fitness and going to the gym with my friends. I’ve always had my best lifts when a friend is supporting or watching, and I am excited to motivate others.
Specialty area/preferred client: Strength/hypertrophy training, flexibility, and agility.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…going out with my friends, swimming at the NCRB, and playing for the club frisbee team at Michigan.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I absolutely love working out and being active. Although I have always done my own workouts, I wanted to become more knowledgeable about exercising to the point I could help others with their fitness journey :)
Specialty area/preferred client: Strength and Conditioning
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… I enjoy weightlifting, watching anime, or crocheting.
Fun fact: When I went to Spain in the summer of ‘23 and I met Machine Gun Kelly in the airport!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I wanted to be a trainer to teach more people about the benefits of exercising and spread the love of exercise further.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Prefer clients on the younger side beginning their fitness journey.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…breakdancing and playing video games
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: Going to the gym regularly has helped me mentally, and has allowed me to participate in more of my interests. I want to help others feel more confident in the gym and more motivated to exercise regularly, so that they can also enjoy the benefits of working out.
Specialty area: Anyone who wants to gain confidence in the gym, or wants to learn more about lifting!
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… reading, baking, and watching any game with a Boston team playing.
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I grew up figure skating and playing volleyball.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I started taking fitness seriously around 2020, and I eventually started making workout plans for my friends and family. I got so much fulfillment from seeing them achieve their fitness goals, and I knew this was what I wanted to do aside from musical theater.
Major/Area of Study: Nutritional Sciences with Dietetics
Certification: NASM-CPT
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: My “why” when it comes to personal training is to create an environment in which one can become confident in stepping into a gym or weight room. I am inspired by the growth of individuals and in having an impact on someone’s journey. I aim to help improve the sense of belonging for those who may otherwise be uncomfortable or nervous to enter a weight room alone.
Specialty area: My preferred client is someone who is motivated and dedicated to improving overall strength and wellness. My areas of experience are in resistance and weight training.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…being outside in nature!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: A personal trainer was the person who introduced me to lifting and helped me love it, now I want to be that person for new gym-goers.
Specialty area: Those interested in powerlifting and hypertrophy training, as well as beginners looking to build a base of strength
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… lifting, running, playing pickup basketball, and playing on the Wii.
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I overcame a torn ACL from basketball and now can comfortably lift and hoop again.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: My main goal as a trainer is building the confidence and self-efficacy of my client in which I hope spills into other aspects of their life. I believe in supporting and promoting the health of everyone no matter what fitness or skill level a person may be.
Specialty area: I can work with all client types but I believe I’d work the best with women. The majority of people afraid of the gym are women because they feel as if they aren’t good enough or strong enough to work out in front of others. I feel that as a fitness coach, especially for women, I am both there to serve as a tool to improve one’s fitness, but I can also be a role model to show her that she too belongs on the gym floor.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…hitting the gym for a good Crossfit workout and playing/training for rugby.
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I am currently working on filling my hallway wall space with framed puzzles I’ve put together. Currently, there are two complete 1000 piece puzzles framed and hung up.
Major/Area of Study: Molecular and Cellular Biology
Certification: ISSA
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I am passionate about the subject, and want to help people on the fitness journeys
Specialty area: No preference, I would like to learn as much as possible having different clients with different goals helps. (maybe my strongest area would be hypertrophy)
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… playing sports, getting in the water, movies, cooking, just hanging with friends! (it’s not the activity it’s the company you’re with)
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I’ve broken my arm 3 different times in three different places
Major/Area of Study: Major in Computer Science, Minor in Entrepreneurship
Certification: ACE
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: When I was younger, I absolutely hated the way that I looked. I did not feel confident at all. I felt insecure in my own skin and felt terrible. But after finding the gym, and learning exercises and routines, I started to gain more confidence. I started to gain more love and more self-efficacy for myself. I learned and trained and gained more trust in myself. I would like to share that feeling with others. Teaching others about the gym, and helping others find that confidence and love for themselves inside the gym… as well as outside. I wanted to become a PT to help individuals transform themselves in all aspects of life: physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Muscular hypertrophy and strength, powerlifters, individuals that want to better themselves in all aspects.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…working out (more specifically, powerlifting), playing video games, reading, walking in the Arb, eating No Thai!, and listening to podcasts.
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I can play the: guitar, piano, violin, drums, and know how to produce music!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer:Throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, I discovered my passion for fitness, utilizing it as a means to alleviate stress and bolster my self-confidence. I hope to share this passion with others, helping them in finding a love for exercise, as it has greatly benefited me.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): General fitness and strength training, people who want to become more comfortable in the gym and improve their confidence
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…Cooking new meals, thrifting, working out and watching the Office.
Fun fact: I used to do show choir and am always down for some karaoke!
Major/Area of Study: MS Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics
PT Certification: NASM
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: Becoming a personal trainer stemmed from my passion for guiding individuals toward holistic wellness. Witnessing the transformative power of fitness in my own life inspired me to help others discover their strength and potential. It’s not just about workouts; it’s about empowering individuals to embrace a healthier lifestyle, fostering confidence and vitality in every step of their journey!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Strength training and general fitness
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…lifting or traveling new places.
Fun fact: I’ve still got a soft spot for Tom and Jerry and can dance in about 12 different forms
Major/Area of Study: Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience
Certification: ACE
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I enjoy fitness and setting different fitness goals and working to achieve them. Since the world of fitness can seem overwhelming at first, I want to help others overcome this and achieve their fitness goals in an understandable, sustainable, and enjoyable way.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): People new to the gym/people interested in strength training
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… watching sports, working out, and listening to different kinds of music.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: When I started going to the gym consistently, the biggest difference people around me noticed was my newfound confidence. It is very fulfilling for me to see others gain this confidence from the gym.
Specialty area/preferred client: clients with goals of muscular strength, hypertrophy, speed & agility, power, or bodybuilding
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… lifting, playing the piano, fishing
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I haven’t outgrown my love of Legos
Major/Area of Study: Earth & Environmental Sciences
Certification: NASM-CPT
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I am passionate about utilizing resistance training to empower people to do the things they love doing. I love sharing positive energy and helping others reach their goals.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… golfing, disc golfing, swimming, reading classic novels and listening to environmental science related podcasts.
Fun fact: My freshman year at Willamette University in Salem, OR, I led the baseball team in batting average and earned All-Conference honors as a catcher.
Major/Area of Study: Economics and Applied Exercise Science
Certification: NASM-CPT
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer:After going through an injury recovery process myself, I discovered just how much fitness and exercise can improve a person’s quality of life, however, I also understand how intimidating getting into the fitness community can be. I would love to introduce people into the community and help spread a positive message around fitness so everyone can see for themselves what they can accomplish.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Runners
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…hitting the gym myself, running in the arb, or playing soccer with friends.
Fun fact: I overcame tendonitis in my right knee and now feel like I can move even more pain free than before!
