#1 - Alex Folacci (Manhattan)
For Highly Successful Men Over 35 and Celebrities
In 2023, Alex Folacci has emerged as the number one Personal Trainer in New York City. His expertise lies in coaching highly successful men over 35 in the heart of Manhattan. With a prestigious clientele that includes A-list celebrities, members of royal families, and billionaires, Alex caters primarily to individuals with exceptional standards.
Alex's remarkable accomplishments extend beyond the realm of personal training. As a two-time Track & Field national champion in France and an Olympic hopeful in the Decathlon, he has secured international medals, further enhancing his reputation. Notably, he has been honored with the New York Award for Personal Training on three occasions.
Coaching is second nature for Alex, and he often jokes that he could do it even in his sleep. What truly irks him, though, is witnessing other trainers engrossed in their phones, scarcely paying attention to their clients. Alex, on the other hand, prides himself on always offering his undivided attention to those who entrust him with their fitness journey.
While many trainers specialize in specific areas such as yoga or bodybuilding, Alex stands out by excelling in nine different coaching methods. Widely recognized as the premier private trainer for men in Manhattan, Alex has garnered acclaim from numerous sources. Having coached over 400 clients, he boasts an outstanding five-star reputation across various platforms with over hundred combined reviews.
Furthermore, Alex offers longevity coaching, a specialized service aimed at helping clients lead longer and healthier lives. Through recalibrating their lifestyles and training programs, he employs scientifically proven methods.
For clients who may not have the means to afford his personal training services, Alex has assembled a team of trainers in Manhattan who can execute programs under his guidance at a lower cost.
Alex's expertise has garnered media attention, and he has been featured in renowned publications such as Business Insider, Sports Illustrated and the DailyMail, sharing insights on fitness and strategies for aging gracefully.
Contact:
@Alex_Folacci
Alex Folacci elected best personal trainer in New York City in 2023.
#2 - Reggie Macena (Manhattan & LI)
For Weight Loss and Mental Training
With a career spanning over 20 years, Reggie Macena has established himself as an amazing certified personal trainer. His journey began fueled by a passion for maintaining fitness and embracing a wholesome lifestyle. Translating that same fervor into his profession, Reggie started as a personal trainer and eventually ascended to the esteemed position of Head Personal Trainer at Lucille Roberts.
In 2006, Reggie took a leap and founded Good For Life Personal Training, allowing him to wholeheartedly dedicate himself to delivering his distinctive approach to personal training to a wider audience. Over time, Good For Life has flourished and now encompasses a team of trainers and instructors who strive to provide a first-class experience in personal training and weight management.
The essence of the Good For Life philosophy lies in harmonizing physical and mental aspects of personal training, recognizing that this synergy is the key to lasting health and overall well-being. The trainers at Good For Life take immense pride in empowering their clients, propelling them to surpass their fitness goals and harness their newfound strength to conquer challenges both within and beyond the gym.
Through their unwavering commitment, Reggie and his team have successfully instilled a sense of empowerment and elevated fitness levels in their clientele. Good For Life continues to inspire individuals to embark on a transformative fitness journey and unlock their full potential.
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Reggie Macena, elected 2nd best personal trainer in New York City in 2023.
#3 - Marc Miller (Manhattan)
For Anybody Ready to Work Hard
With an impressive track record spanning over 20 years, Marc Miller has emerged as a distinguished leader in the fitness industry in New York. Every morning, he awakens with a singular purpose: to enhance the lives of his clients and himself through unwavering focus, commitment, and exceptional performance.
Marc approaches his craft with unparalleled passion, ensuring that each client receives a personalized experience tailored to their unique goals. In the gym, Marc practices what he preaches, pushing himself alongside his clients to help them surpass their limits.
To truly elevate his clients' achievements, Marc incorporates his signature brand of sports psychology, and has a "no-nonsense" attitude about never making excuses or backing down from a challenge. This resolute attitude resonates with his loyal clientele, who have become an extended fitness family.
In addition to his coaching endeavors, Marc has co-created "Independent Training Spots," consisting of four private gyms exclusively for certified personal trainers in Manhattan. This collaborative effort provides a supportive and conducive environment for trainers to thrive and deliver exceptional results.
Marc's coaching method seamlessly integrates various disciplines, including Bodybuilding, Powerlifting, Crossfit, and cardiovascular exercises. By combining elements from these diverse realms, he ensures a holistic and comprehensive approach to training that yields remarkable outcomes.
Through his relentless dedication and innovative training techniques, Marc Miller has made an indelible impact in the fitness community in New York City. His unwavering commitment to his clients' success sets him apart as a true industry leader, inspiring individuals to unleash their full potential and achieve extraordinary results.
Contact:
@marcmiller1980
Marc Miller, elected 3rd best personal trainer in New York City in 2023.
#4 - Courtne Orona (Manhattan)
For Brides, Postpartum, and Women of New York
Courtne Orona possesses specialized expertise in coaching brides, prenatal, and postpartum clients. Her primary objective is to educate and empower individuals, equipping them with the tools and skills necessary to sustain their success independently, even beyond their time with her.
Clients who have been under Courtne's guidance for years place unwavering trust in her, confident that she always has their best interests at heart. They appreciate her commitment to keeping them injury-free and know that they are more than a paycheck to her.
Prior to venturing into private coaching, Courtne earned recognition as the top trainer at her Equinox location. Her passion for fitness and weightlifting dates back to her college years at Texas A&M, where she was actively involved in dance. Throughout her journey, she has acquired extensive knowledge in areas such as flexibility, stretching, bodybuilding, bodyweight exercises, as well as specialized programs designed to guide brides through weight loss prior to their wedding and assist individuals in regaining their shape after giving birth.
In addition to her in-person coaching, Courtne also offers online coaching services, ensuring accessibility to a wider range of clients. Her qualifications include certifications from NASM, including NASM Women's Fitness Specialist and NASM Certified Nutrition Coach, as well as a Precision Nutrition certification. These credentials solidify her expertise and enable her to provide comprehensive support to her clients.
Courtne Orona's dedication to her craft and extensive range of qualifications position her as a trusted and knowledgeable coach in her field. Her commitment to the well-being and success of her clients shines through, making her a valued resource for many women in New York!
Contact:
@CoachCourtne
#5 - Miguel Mota (Manhattan)
For Athletes and Out of Shape Clients
For over 5 years, Miguel Mota has been making a significant impact on the NYC community, going beyond providing his clients with mere 60-minute workouts. With a background in health and wellness, Miguel is a certified strength and conditioning coach who goes the extra mile by incorporating sports performance, posture correction, and wellness nutrition education into his teaching.
Miguel's qualifications include certifications in NCSF, SFG 1, SFG 2 NCSA, and precision nutrition, enabling him to adopt a holistic approach when assisting others. His empowerment stems from a comprehensive methodology encompassing personal development, consistent habitual exercise, good nutrition, improving daily habits, and achieving exceptional strength.
Driven by an unwavering passion for helping others, Miguel is dedicated to supporting individuals in reaching their goals and surpassing them. He firmly believes in unlocking the limitless potential of the human body, pushing his clients to realize that they are capable of far more than they can imagine.
Miguel recognizes that the journey of learning is boundless, and he embraces the mindset of being a perpetual student. He understands that there will always be an unlimited amount of knowledge to acquire, fueling his continuous growth and development as a coach.
Miguel's unwavering commitment to empowering others and his insatiable thirst for knowledge solidify his position as an exceptional coach. Through his holistic approach and dedication to helping clients surpass their potential, he continues to make a positive impact within the NYC community.
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#6 - Cindy Lai (5 boroughs)
For Beginners, Experienced Athletes, and Celebrities
With over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry, Cindy Lai brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help individuals grow both physically and emotionally, paving the way for their success.
Cindy's clientele includes esteemed celebrities like Brooke Shields, demonstrating her ability to coach and guide individuals from various backgrounds and with diverse goals. Whether your aim is weight loss, body toning, or acquiring tools for a healthy and balanced life, Cindy is dedicated to accompanying you every step of the way.
In addition to her private training services, Cindy offers a range of exciting options to cater to different preferences. This includes "Summer group workouts" conducted in Central Park, invigorating surf lessons in Rockaway Beach, and convenient Zoom/Skype sessions for those seeking virtual guidance.
Cindy's expertise has gained recognition, as she has been featured on prominent platforms such as Good Morning America, The New York Times, and HERS magazine. These appearances highlight her credibility and contributions to the fitness industry.
Cindy's extensive list of certifications further solidifies her qualifications. With certifications including NASM Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Surf Fit Instructor, Crossfit L1, Kettlebell Concepts L1 & 2, USAW Sports Performance Coach, Pre and Postnatal training, Pole Fitness, Yoga, and Pilates, she possesses a diverse skill set to cater to a wide range of client needs.
By harnessing her extensive experience, Cindy is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals and lead healthier lives. Her passion for fitness and commitment to her clients make her a trusted and sought-after coach in the industry.
Contact:
@CindyLaiFitness
#7 - Roman Hnidan (Brooklyn)
For Men Looking to Get Stronger
Roman Hnidan, a renowned Strongman competitor hailing from Ukraine, has established himself as one of the strongest men in New York City. With remarkable achievements in Powerlifting and Strongman competitions, Roman's expertise and skills are second to none. Based in Brooklyn, he specializes in coaching men in strength and power, making him the go-to trainer for those seeking to gain solid muscle mass and enhance their performance in powerlifting and other strength-related movements.
Beyond his exceptional coaching abilities, Roman is known for his larger-than-life personality and his ability to captivate and entertain his audience. Clients who have worked with Roman speak highly of his extensive knowledge, exceptional motivation skills, friendly demeanor, and outgoing nature.
In addition to his coaching endeavors, Roman also serves as a bodyguard for VIPs, demonstrating his commitment to security and protection.
Roman Hnidan's remarkable strength and expertise, coupled with his captivating personality, have made him a sought-after figure in the fitness industry. Whether you aspire to achieve impressive physical strength or require professional security services, Roman's diverse skill set and dedication are sure to make a significant impact on your journey.
Contact:
@beardofsuccess
#8 - Gayle Glenn (Manhattan)
For Aging Slower and Better
With 8 years of experience as a certified personal trainer, Gayle has established herself as one of the most well-liked trainers at Equinox. During her time at the largest franchise gym in New York City, she developed a solid reputation and a substantial customer base, which eventually led her to venture into her own private training business.
Gayle's expertise extends across diverse age groups and backgrounds, as she has worked with individuals from various walks of life. Whether it's providing support to those battling cancer, offering prenatal personal training, or focusing on enhancing balance and strength for the elderly, Gayle's versatility shines through.
By taking into account your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, Gayle designs training sessions that address the specific challenges you may be facing. She ensures that every session is not only effective but also enjoyable, encouraging, and filled with fun.
Her approach emphasizes slowing down the degenerative aging process, enabling you to enjoy activities such as walking on sand dunes, hiking mountains with loved ones, or even winning the limbo at your son's wedding, regardless of your age—whether you're in your 40s, 60s, 70s, or even 80s.
In addition to her in-person training services, Gayle also offers virtual training, providing flexibility and accessibility to her clients.
Gayle's qualifications include the prestigious NASM Certification, further validating her expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch training experiences.
With Gayle as your personal trainer, you can expect a comprehensive approach that addresses your unique needs, enabling you to achieve your fitness goals while supporting your overall well-being.
Contact:
@StrongAndFree__
#9 - Zach Moore (Manhattan)
For Athletes and Complete Beginners
Zach Moore is not only a highly skilled strength coach and movement specialist, but also a nutritionist. Driven by a passion to empower busy individuals, he founded Zach Moore Personal Training with the aim of helping people transform their bodies, boost their energy levels, and gain the confidence to live life to the fullest.
Zach's clientele includes former Division I athletes, weekend warriors, and individuals who are new to exercise. His expertise extends across a wide range of fitness backgrounds, ensuring that he can cater to the unique needs of each client. Since 2009, he has successfully guided more than 250 clients in shedding over 5,000 pounds of weight and building over 1,000 pounds of muscle.
The testimonials and reviews from Zach's clients are a testament to his professionalism and extensive knowledge in his field. His ability to provide effective guidance and support has garnered him a reputation for delivering exceptional results.
In addition to his personal training services, Zach offers a transformative eating weight loss program that spans 12 weeks. This program is specifically designed to assist clients who struggle with the diet and nutrition aspect of their fitness journey. By combining his expertise in nutrition with his comprehensive understanding of physical training, Zach provides a holistic approach that maximizes the chances of success.
Zach Moore's dedication to his clients' well-being, coupled with his expertise in nutrition and personal training, make him a standout professional in the field.
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#10 - Valerie Loei (Manhattan)
For Clients in Need of Flexibility and Hollistic Approach
For over 25 years, Valerie Loei has been a dedicated and experienced coach, serving clients in New York. Her warm and sunny personality instantly puts her clients at ease, creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere during their sessions.
Valerie's passion for health and fitness is not just a hobby but a lifelong commitment. It is her career and calling to help others lead healthier lives. Her expertise extends to working with diverse populations, including the elderly, disabled individuals, and those seeking to regain their fitness levels.
Valerie takes a holistic approach to her coaching by collaborating with integrative medical doctors. This team-based approach allows her to address a wide range of health issues that her clients may be facing, such as sports injuries, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and heart diseases. By integrating her knowledge of fitness with medical insights, Valerie ensures that her clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs.
Valerie's certifications include the Certified East Coast Instructor Training School (ECITS), Certified American Council on Exercise (ACE), Certified CPR/AED, and completion of a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training program. These qualifications highlight her commitment to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards.
If you're searching for a compassionate and experienced coach who can guide you on your fitness journey, Valerie's expertise and genuine care for her clients make her an excellent choice. With her, you can trust that you're in good hands as she supports you in achieving your health and wellness goals.
Contact:
@ValerieLoei
What makes a great Personal Trainer?
The difference between a random Trainer and a great one can have huge impact on your health and fitn
Red Flags: 🚩
-On his/her phone instead of paying attention to you.
-Never practiced any sports competitively.
-Makes you do 3 sets of 10 reps on every machine.
-Doesn't make you run and is against any other cardio.
-Doesn't ask you on the first session about your injuries, diet, and lifestyle.
-He/she makes you do the same routine again and again.
-Never takes any notes and comes unprepared.
Green flags: ✅
-Very busy and in high demand.
-Is a real athlete and competed at a serious level in at least one sport.
-Constantly adjust the intensity and challenges you in a safe way.
-Plays around with the speed of execution, time under tension, and the different muscle contraction types.
-Is personable and entertaining, you don't want to suffer physically and be bored at the same time.
-Checks on you between each workout to hold you accountable outside of the gym.
-Takes body measurements with measuring tape and scale on a regular basis to track improvements.
-Writes down your performances to see if you are improving.
PODIUM
