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
Michigan Recreation 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 Michigan Recreation 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 Fall 2026 mentoring process. Applications are due September 10. Apply here.
Mandatory Workshop Dates: Every Wednesday from 3:30 pm-6:30 pm starting September 23-November 11.
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 Michigan Recreation. Registration opens two (2) weeks in advance of upcoming clinics.
Major/Area of Study: BHS and Music Major; Anatomy & Physiology Minor; Pre-med
PT Certification: ACE
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I became a personal trainer because I love working out and wanted to stay connected to the fitness community. This lifestyle has given me so much, and becoming a trainer allows me to give back and help others experience the same benefits.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Anyone! I have a background in resistance training, pilates, yoga, circuit training, running, plyometrics, etc..
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… weight lifting and meal prepping
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: My journey in the world of fitness has allowed me to grow holistically. I could not have gotten to where I am without the support of the people around me. I have loved being that person for other people. Being a personal trainer rewards me with my clients progression as well as furthering my own understanding and passion for fitness.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): I’m especially familiar with resistance training and running! I love learning about new types of fitness, so I am happy to research further for client specific training. I love a client who is a strong communicator and who will reciprocate the trust and respect necessary for a strong client/trainer team.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… cooking, spending time outside, reading, hanging out with friends, and listening to music.
Fun fact: I have competed in a bodybuilding competition!
Major/Area of Study: School for Environmental and Sustainability: Conservation Ecology
PT Certification: ACE
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer:I resonate with feeling overwhelmed in the gym and not knowing which exercises will help me reach my fitness goals. Gaining confidence has made a difference in my own journey, and I want to help others build those same skills so they can live healthy, active lives.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Clients new to exercise and the gym.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… spending time outside and birdwatching.
Fun fact: I went to undergrad at the University of Oregon, so I am a Ducks fan first
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: Ever since high school, the gym has been a consistent outlet and source of happiness for me. I feel like the lifting community can come off as a little bit intimidating, so my goal is to help bridge that gap and show new lifters that the gym is fun, not scary. I also plan to work in the health field after I graduate (either as an orthopedist or physical therapist), so I’m excited about the opportunity to work with clients interested in health and fitness!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): The client that I feel I could best support is someone who’s new to the gym and looking to get into strength training, but I’m more than happy to work with anyone who’s hoping to get more active!
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… lifting, playing guitar, and trying new foods around AA with my friends
Fun fact: My goal for next semester is to compete in a powerlifting meet!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: When I started working out I didn’t have anyone to help me figure anything out. I want to help people realise their goals so no one has to struggle with health & wellness.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Strength training and general fitness, but all are welcome!
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… working out, club fencing, learning something new or hanging out with friends!
Fun fact: I was born in London and I’m a dual citizen of the US and UK!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: When I first started my own health and fitness journey, I remember feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. Having someone to guide me would have made all the difference, and that’s what inspired me to become a personal trainer. I hope to share the joy and confidence I’ve found in the gym, as well as be the supporter and friend alongside other fitness journeys.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): anyone new to the gym, general fitness, flexibility/mobility, strength/hypertrophy
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… baking, going to concerts, doing puzzles, and running.
Fun fact: I grew up dancing for 7 years and trained professionally on pointe.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I have a passion for exercise and its ability to be used as medicine for our physical and mental wellbeing. I want to help others find a love for exercise and its effects as well.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Body recomposition and interest in strength training
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… exercising myself, spending time with friends and family, plying guitar, watching tv, being outdoors, and eating food.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I’m passionate about providing effective training solutions, especially to students, because I believe weightlifting and fitness offer a productive and healthy break from academic life. I also love empowering others through training and watching them grow more confident and motivated as they fall in love with the process.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): clients ranging from beginners to advanced, with a focus on resistance training for strength and hypertrophy.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… exploring different bodybuilding gyms, attending shows and expos, biking, longboarding, and gaming.
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)
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: To help people experience the physical and mental benefits of exercise while finding enjoyment in the process of bettering oneself.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): athletic performance, strength & hypertrophy training
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… lifting, playing volleyball, hockey, basketball, watching Detroit/Michigan sports, and hanging out with my friends and girlfriend.
Fun fact: I went to the same high school as Lloyd Carr
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!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: Prioritizing a holistic approach to fitness has transformed my confidence and perspective on life. Training taught me discipline, resilience, and how to trust in my abilities. I want to help others experience this transformation and guide them on their journey to becoming who they aspire to be. I also remember feeling lost and unsure where to start when I first entered the vast world of fitness. That’s why I want to support others—helping them find direction and showing them how encouraging and inclusive the fitness community can be.
Specialty area: Muscular hypertrophy, 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…Filming and editing short films, playing basketball and thrifting
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I was born and raised in Japan, and I speak Japanese!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I know that the gym can seem intimidating, and I want to be able to empower people in their lifting journey and grow their love for the gym.
Specialty area:General strength and hypertrophy training
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… Rock climbing, snowboarding, camping, going out with friends, trying new food, and traveling.
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I studied abroad during a summer in Alicante, Spain
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I love sharing the “why” behind training and helping people feel confident in the gym, especially when getting started can feel so overwhelming. Coaching lets me turn what I learn in class and in my own training into real progress for others.
Specialty area:Anyone! Whether you’re new to the gym or not, I would love to work with you.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… Playing and watching sports, hanging out with friends, and relaxing with a good book or music.
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I’m also a certified surgical technologist in the U.S. Army Reserve.
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
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: To make the gym a less intimidating place and to share the knowledge I’ve gained through my own fitness journey. I want to help others feel more confident in the gym and motivated to exercise regularly so they can experience the many benefits of working out.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): General fitness and strength & conditioning
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… Hanging out with friends, listening to music, and staying active.
Fun fact: I went to state for cross country in high school.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: As I have dealt with sports injuries in the past, I have learned the importance of proper technique and physical activity as well as finding fun and motivation in exercise. In addition to helping others achieve their fitness goals and augment their exercise knowledge, I think personal training allows me to share my enjoyment towards physical activity with my clients in an energizing and uplifting environment!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Beginner clients, general fitness, strength training, and sport-specific training
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…working out, playing soccer, watching sports, trying new foods, and activities with my friends
Fun fact: I have a twin brother who goes to Purdue (Big Ten rivalry!)
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: As someone who has done the Chloe Ting workouts in 2020, I understand the importance of a sustainable fitness routine and doing forms of exercise that make you feel good rather than look good. I love learning through instruction just as much as seeing someone achieve the goals they worked hard for!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Building general fitness, functional & integrative strength training, and running.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy…listening to music, photography, or exploring new areas with friends!
Fun fact: I used to do competitive gymnastics for 6 years before doing track and field in high school!
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: Lifting has become such a crucial part o f my life by helping me feel so much more confident in myself and giving me an outlet to alleviate stress. I would love to share the benefits of lifting with others in a positive environment and help them reach their goals!
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Strength/hypertrophy, general fitness
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… lifting with friends, reading, and drinking coffee!
Fun fact: I lived in Hawaii for 5 years! Sadly I can’t surf.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I’ve always been fascinated by the human body and how it functions as a complex machine. Becoming a personal trainer allowed me to share this knowledge in an accessible, interesting, and practical way that fits everyday life. Physical activity is essential for wellbeing, and I love being a part of people’s journey as they strive for it.
Specialty area/preferred client(s): Anyone!
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… working out of course! But I also play on the Michigan Rugby team, read philosophy, and play video games.
Reason for becoming a Personal Trainer: I personally struggled to find enjoyment in weightlifting and working out when I first moved to college. Over time, I realized that my interest grew once I started learning about the science behind weightlifting and understanding its long-term benefits. Through becoming a Personal Trainer, I hope to expand my own interests in kinesiology and coaching, while connecting with others on their fitness journey
Specialty area: People interested in building a maintainable and enjoyable exercise routine focused on hypertrophy/strength training as well as general fitness.
When not studying or personal training, I enjoy… playing and watching sports, making food with friends, and playing monopoly/poker
Something that you didn’t know about me/fun fact: I have broken my nose but never gotten a bloody nose.
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!