TAKE IT PERSONAL
When it comes to working out, we take it personal, because exercise is not one-size-fits-all. Your goals are different from the person next to you, and we want to make sure you meet them in a customizable way that works for you.
What Doesn’t Challenge You Doesn’t Change You
Whether you’re new to the gym and need guidance on your fitness regimen or want to fine tune your routine, our certified personal trainers can help you set your goals with an introductory fitness assessment, and will help you reach them with a customized program tailored to your unique needs.
OUR TRAINING OPTIONS
We offer training packages for individuals 10 years and older, in a personal, pairs, or small group setting. Choose from 30, 45, or 60-minute sessions. If you’re new to personal training, you can try our introductory Tri-Pack package to get you started on your path to better health. Whatever fitness package you choose, our dedicated trainers are here ready to challenge your limits and cheer you on as you reach your goals.
- Tri-Pack Personal Training Introductory Offer* – Three-session starter pack – try the Y!
- Traditional One-on-One Personal Training – One-on-one guidance from a certified personal trainer tailored to you.
- FitCommit One-on-one Personal Training – One-on-one guidance from a certified personal trainer tailored to you.
- Nutrition Counseling – Work with our certified nutrition coach to reach your goals.
- Pairs Personal Training – Enables you and a partner to work with a certified personal trainer to optimize your health.
- Small-Group Training – Personal training for groups of 4 to 6 people is a great way to get results, be held accountable and have fun. Ask about our specialty small group trainings.
- Virtual Training – Our expert personal trainers come to YOU through our Y’s Virtual Personal Training program. Trainers help you achieve your personal wellness goals through real-time feedback on form and progress.
- Water Personal Training – Take your fitness to the water for a unique low-impact training experience!
- Pilates Personal Training* – Enables you to work one‐on‐one or in a small group with a Pilates trainer on a Pilates Reformer.
- InBody* – In just 30 seconds, you’ll receive a detailed result sheet revealing your body fat, muscle mass, and water levels, providing deeper insights into your weight and overall health.
*At select Locations, must purchase and use at home branch location.
PERSONAL TRAINERS @ HILLSBOROUGH YMCA
MEET Fidel
Fidel is a recent college graduate with an aspiration to enter the field of physical therapy. When he isn’t training clients, he enjoys learning new recipes, practicing his soccer skills, and most recently picked up rock climbing as a hobby.
SPECIALTIES
- Strength & Conditioning
- Functional Movement
- Training with older populations
PHILOSOPHY
Work smarter, not harder.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Deadlifting
CERTIFICATIONS
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
- Bachelors of Health Science (Pre-PT) with a minor in Behavioral Neuroscience
MEET Kelly
Kelly discovered her passion for fitness after the birth of her first child in 2006. She began teaching body sculpting, boot camp-style, and aqua exercise classes along with motivating many to live a healthier lifestyle. She later studied yoga at Princeton center for Yoga and Health, expanding her skill set and knowledge of movement, breath and meditation. Kelly’s personal fitness achievements included several half-marathons, a full marathon, and many triathlons (including a half Ironman).
SPECIALTIES
- Yoga
- Strength training
- Functional movement & mobility
PHILOSOPHY
Kelly believes that strength training and yoga keep her balanced both inside and out. She enjoys sharing her passion with her clients.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Sculpt yoga
CERTIFICATIONS
- ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
- Yoga (Vinyasa, Yin, Prenatal, Chair)
MEET Kevin
Kevin has a B.S. in Biological Sciences from Cornell University. Kevin has been working in the fitness industry for 7 years. His style is very holistic, focusing on helping clients to get their exercise program, diet, and overall lifestyle in balance.
SPECIALTIES
- Muscle building
- Functional strength •
- General nutrition education for busy adults
PHILOSOPHY
Work smarter, not harder.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- A little sprinkle of everything is the best way to establish and maintain good health and optimal fitness.
CERTIFICATIONS
- ACE Certified Personal Trainer
- ACE Nutrition Specialist
- ACE Weight Management Specialist
MEET Darren
Darren believes we need challenges to overcome each day, and the hardest thing we do each day should be self-induced. His favorite hour or two of each day is his own time in the gym. He’s driven to help people connect or re-connect with their bodies, and those who just want someone to steer the ship for them.
Darren’s loves are rock climbing, strength training, outdoor cycling, and racket sports. A proud husband and father of two, he’s a firm believer that building strength builds confidence, but is quick to remind people that getting where you want to be does take time, and the same effort it takes to achieve your goals is usually the same effort required to maintain those goals.
SPECIALTIES
- Strength & Conditioning
- Interval Training
PHILOSOPHY
Fitness is a habit and your habits usually determine your outcome.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Strength training with pace, core & mobility
CERTIFICATIONS
- ACE Certified Personal Trainer
MEET John
John Brecko’s fitness journey began with playing football in high school and continued after. He continued to learn more about working out and fitness and continued to become stronger overtime.
He became a Swim Instructor in 2021 and has had success teaching many clients of different ages how to swim, become comfortable with water and learn new skills. He obtained his ISSA Certified Personal Trainer certifications in March of 2024.
SPECIALTIES
- Strength & Conditioning
- Explosive strength (power)
- Strongman lifts/ training
PHILOSOPHY
Effort and consistency are the two biggest reasons for success at anything. The more you show up and leave everything out there, the harder it becomes to fail, especially if you have people guiding you.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Chest and shoulders
CERTIFICATIONS
- ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
- ISSA Corrective Exercise
- ISSA Bodybuilding
- Lifeguard/Water Safety Instructor
MEET Ali 
Ali is a NETA Certified Personal Trainer and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor and has been with the Y since 2015. She specializes in resistance training, with an emphasis on building foundational movements and personalized corrective exercises. She is a USATF Level 1 Certified Coach and has helped numerous clients achieve various running goals, from improving their 5k race time to preparing for a marathon. Ali is also an ADA Lifestyle Coach and works with clients at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Her favorite part of personal training is helping clients master the equipment in the wellness center and take ownership of their own fitness journey.
SPECIALTIES
- Strength training
- Strength training for runners
- Women-specific coaching
- Corrective exercise
PHILOSOPHY
All people belong in the gym and benefit from strength training, regardless of their fitness goals.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Running and yoga
CERTIFICATIONS
- NETA Personal Trainer
- AFAA Group Exercise Instructor
- USATF Level 1 Coach
- ADA Lifestyle Coach
MEET Nikki
Wellness Director 
Nikki is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She is passionate about the integration of physical and mental health for overall wellbeing. Nikki believes that the best exercise is the one that you enjoy doing and that keeps you excited and motivated to keep moving. Wherever you are in your health and wellness journey, Nikki strives to meet you there and encourage you along the way. Nikki’s hobbies include rock climbing, skiing, hiking, and doing Spartan races.
SPECIALTIES
- Functional Movement
- Active older adults
- Obstacle Course Race (OCR) Training
PHILOSOPHY
Health is wealth.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Rock climbing
CERTIFICATIONS
- ACE Certified Personal Trainer
- ACE Functional Aging Specialist
- Les Mills BODYPUMP Instructor
MEET Steve
Steve has over 35 years of experience in the personal training and fitness industry. He has a passion for working out and keeping fit. He works with clients of all ages.
Steve wants you to achieve your short and long term fitness and nutrition goals, and to live your healthiest life. Steve is a retired firefighter, retired professional bodybuilder and a 5x class winner in the World Powerlifting Federation World Championships.
SPECIALTIES
- Strength Training
- Nutrition and healthy weight loss
PHILOSOPHY
Set small achievable goals and never give up.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- A healthy combination of free weights, barbells, and machines.
CERTIFICATIONS
- AAAI/ISMA Certified Personal Trainer
- AAAI/ISMA Sports Nutrition Consultant
MEET Stephanie
Stephanie is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, AFAA Group Fitness Instructor, and Spin® Instructor with a lifelong passion for fitness. A former D1 track & field runner at St. John’s University, she continued her running career as a professional runner sponsored by Hoka, training for the Summer Olympics in the mile. After overcoming numerous injuries, Stephanie embraced a new chapter beyond track. She explored staying active as a Spin® instructor and then expanded her expertise to include various group fitness disciplines. Years later, after welcoming her daughter, she pursued a career in personal training.
Stephanie is dedicated to helping others find their love for fitness and believes gym workouts can positively impact daily life. Stephanie’s hobbies include spending time with her family, going for walks with her dog Rocky, and hiking.
SPECIALTIES
- Spin®
- HIIT
- Interval Training
- Cardio/running
- Functional Movement
PHILOSOPHY
Be comfortable with being uncomfortable.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Spin®
- Interval Training
CERTIFICATIONS
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
- AFAA Group Fitness
- Mad Dogg Athletics® Spinning® Instructor
PERSONAL TRAINERS @ PRINCETON YMCA
PERSONAL TRAINERS @ SOMERSET HILLS YMCA
MEET Sarah
Sarah is an ACE-certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Spin and Spin Power Instructor, as well as a Les Mills Bodypump Instructor. She is also a qualified ‘LiveStrong at the YMCA’ Coach. After earning her degree in European Languages and Business in the UK, Sarah worked in Marketing before relocating to the United States with her husband and two sons in 2013. This move sparked her passion for fitness and led her to pursue it as a career.
Sarah is dedicated to inspiring, motivating, and encouraging individuals to reach their fitness goals. As she puts it, “I love helping others on their fitness journey. There’s something incredibly special and rewarding about supporting people as they become stronger, fitter, and more energized.” Regardless of where you are in your health journey, Sarah is committed to helping you achieve your goals and reach your full potential.
SPECIALITIES
- HIIT Training, Bootcamp style workouts
- Spin
- Active Older Adults
- Strength & Conditioning
PHILOSOPHY
- Motion is Lotion!
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Spin Bootcamp
CERTIFICATIONS
- ACE Personal Trainer
- ACE Group Exercise
- Maddog Spin Instructor & Spin Power
- Les Mills Body Pump
MEET Nimika
I have had a passion for health and fitness my entire life. I’ve struggled with weight management all throughout my adolescence and young adult life. I chose this career path as an Exercise Physiologist and Health Coach so that I can educate and guide people on how to live a healthier lifestyle by eating healthier, exercising, and coping with external stress factors. I love helping people achieve their optimum goals.
SPECIALITIES
- Core Strength, stability & mobility.
- Pre & Post natal training
- Stretching-active & dynamic
- Strength Training-Special Populations.
- HIIT Training
- Post Rehabilitation Training
- Health Coaching
PHILOSOPHY
- Use a whole-person approach when it comes to taking care of your health, physically, mentally, and emotionally. That’s when you’ll succeed.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- HIIT
CERTIFICATIONS
- ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
- ACE Lifestyle & Weight Management Coach
- CDC Certified Diabetes Coach
- ACE Certified Pre & Post Natal Specialist
MEET Malcolm
It all started with my kids. I can honestly say I blame them for kicking off my personal training journey. My 12-year-old son wanted to become stronger and faster for his sport, TaeKwonDo, and that set me on a deep dive into performance athletics. My passion to help my son soon expanded to my daughter, and before long, I found myself training other young athletes.
Alongside my work with young athletes, I opened my own gym and began training a wide variety of individuals. What began as a desire to be the best coach for my children quickly transformed into a focus on building agility and strength in everyone I trained.
I truly believe that no matter your age or ability, with the right exercises, anyone can become stronger and more agile. A body that is both strong and nimble can do more and, ultimately, enjoy life more.
SPECIALITIES
- Adaptive Exercises to improve quality of life.
- Variations to fit each person’s needs
- Building explosive power & Strength for aspiring athlete
PHILOSOPHY
- Everyone can be stronger and feel better without super muscles.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- The one you did not know existed
CERTIFICATIONS
- NASM Personal Trainer
- ACE Fitness Personal Trainer
- Krav Maga Instructor
MEET Liz
I have had 6 years as a Naval officer and have learned what the body can do and how we can push past what our mind says. I believe that being strong will help you live a long & healthy life.
SPECIALITIES
- Strength Training
- Kids Training
- Spin/Bootcamp classes
PHILOSOPHY
- You are stronger than you think.
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Bootcamps
CERTIFICATIONS
- NSAM Personal Training
- Spin Certification
- Groupex Certification
MEET Lauren
I received my NASM Personal Trainer certification during my freshman year of college. I am pursuing a degree in Radiology at the County College of Morris. My fitness journey has evolved greatly over the years, beginning with hiking with my family, playing soccer in High School, and doing home workouts. I joined the Y to further my passion for fitness.
SPECIALITIES
- Strength Conditioning
- Bootcamp Style workouts
- Muscle Hypertrophy
PHILOSOPHY
- Give it your all!
FAVORITE WORKOUT
- Planks
CERTIFICATIONS
- NASM Personal Trainer
- BLS Certified
MEET Kevin
My Fitness journey began at a young age when my parents enrolled me into sports. They both worked, so I needed a place to go after school and to help burn off my excess energy. From there my desire to be the best led me into the gym where I began to really push myself. After High School I knew this is what I wanted to make my career, so I have now dedicated my career to work in a field where I get to help people achieve their goals.
SPECIALITIES
- Circuit Training
- Special Population
- Strength & Conditioning
- Weight Management
- Bodybuilding
- Nutrition
- Health Coaching
PHILOSOPHY
- Motivation is what gets you started. Determination is what keeps you going.
CERTIFICATIONS
- A.S Exercise Science
- AFPA Certified Personal Trainer
- dotFIT Nutrition Certified
- AHA CPR/AED Certified
MEET Thomas
Thomas is an ISSA-certified personal trainer and is currently studying exercise science with a clinical focus at Montclair State University. My main passion regarding health and fitness is distance running. I’ve been running half marathons for seven years and just recently finished my first Spartan race.
Although most of my training is endurance-oriented, I’m also interested in the science–based aspects of training for hypertrophy and strength.
SPECIALITIES
- Running long distances
- Strength & Conditioning
PHILOSOPHY
- How can the sky be the limit when there are footprints on the moon.
CERTIFICATIONS
- IISSA- Certified Trainer
MEET Michael
Michael is a NASM-certified Trainer who is currently in his final year at Montclair State University studying Exercise Science with a focus on Sports Conditioning.
Michael’s fitness journey began initially in preparation for the US Army, as being a part of the artillery unit requires a great deal of physical fitness. Michael loves to train for strength as well as muscular hypertrophy but does acknowledge the importance of implementing a proper stretch routine as well.
SPECIALITIES
- Strength & Muscular Development
PHILOSOPHY
- I can accept failure, everyone fails at something, but I cannot accept not trying.
CERTIFICATIONS
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
MEET Owen
Owen is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science with a clinical focus. After graduating from Montclair State, Owen concentrated on helping people increase their flexibility by working as a stretch and mobility professional. He enjoys helping others reach their health & fitness goals.
SPECIALITIES
- Fat Loss
- HIIT Training
- Post Rehab Training
- Assisted Stretching
- Functional Training
PHILOSOPHY
- Well done is better than well said.
CERTIFICATIONS
- B.S. Exercise Science
- NASM CPT
PERSONAL TRAINERS @ SOMERVILLE YMCA
MEET Marcelo
Make Them Both Strong!
Marcelo is a personal trainer certified through NETA and has been with the Y since 2022. Apart from personal training, he is also a floor supervisor in the Wellness Center and a basketball coach for youth players.
He enjoys seeing the growth and progress that is experienced throughout the fitness journey. With an AS degree in Exercise Science, Marcelo can provide various training styles that can help his clients reach their goals. He enjoys promoting a healthy lifestyle that goes beyond the weight room. Along with physical strength, he also promotes having a strong mentality.
Says Marcelo “Physical health and mental health are linked. You cannot treat them like they are completely separate. Whatever happens to one affects the other. Make them both strong.”
Meet Mark
Fitness Training for the Mind, Body, and Spirit!
Mark is a Personal Trainer at the Somerville YMCA with a certification in ACE (American Council on Exercise) Certified Trainer and a 3rd Degree Karate Black Belt.
With over 25 years of experience, Mark has expertise in various fitness disciplines. Having guided more than 150 clients, Mark’s extensive background encompasses training youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. His coaching experience spans both group settings and one-on-one personalized training.
Mark specializes in a wide array of fitness domains, including Cardio Fitness Training, Weight Training (both machine and free weights), Core Strength Training, Self-Defense Training, Martial Arts Fitness Training, Balance Training, Private Yoga instruction, Nutritional Counseling, Mental preparation for reaching and achieving fitness goals (attitude), Mind/body cohesion, breath practices, and meditation.
Says Mark “Fitness training for the mind, body, and spirit brings personal uplift-meant for optimum living”
Meet Dash
Mind and Body!
This simple yet profound principle defines my approach to health and fitness. I am deeply committed to nurturing both the physical and mental aspects of well-being, ensuring that each individual I work with experiences a holistic transformation.
Certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), my career in fitness has been diverse and fulfilling. I began my journey at LA Fitness, and, seeking a more community-focused environment, transitioned to the YMCA Somerville. Working with such a vibrant and dedicated community has been both inspiring and rewarding.
At the YMCA, I specialize in Strength Training and Hypertrophy, designing tailored programs to help clients build muscle, increase strength, and elevate their overall fitness. My approach is rooted in science, consistency, and personalized guidance to help you reach your goals effectively and sustainably.
In addition to my fitness expertise, I am also a passionate Chess Coach. I find immense satisfaction in teaching this strategic game, which sharpens the mind and complements the discipline needed for physical fitness. The mental focus required in chess aligns perfectly with the focus and determination needed to achieve physical transformation.
Says Dash “Let’s work together to unlock your full potential—whether it’s sculpting a stronger, more powerful body, mastering strategic thinking in chess, or both. I’m here to guide, support, and motivate you every step of the way.”
Meet Ello
Build a Stronger, Healthier You!
With over 7 years of experience as a certified personal trainer, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to helping clients achieve their fitness goals. In addition to my personal training certification through ISSA, I have more than 10 years of experience in amateur boxing, which has shaped my approach to fitness and discipline.
My specialties include boxing, calisthenics, aerobic exercises, weight training, kettlebell training, and a bit of Muay Thai. I focus on creating dynamic, results-driven workouts that incorporate both functional movements and conditioning, ensuring a well-rounded fitness experience.
I believe that discipline and perseverance are the key to achieving success, not just in fitness, but in all aspects of life. I am committed to helping you stay focused, motivated, and empowered on your journey toward better health.
Says Ello “Let’s work together to build a stronger, healthier you. God bless!”
Meet Kala
Unique Needs and Goals!
With a strong foundation in Exercise Science and a specialized focus in Strength Training, I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personalized, evidence-based strategies. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Lasell University in May 2022, where I also gained hands-on experience through two key internships—one at Champion Physical Therapy and Performance, and another at Brandeis University.
Building on this practical experience, I pursued a Master’s in Nutrition for Human Performance, equipping myself with a comprehensive understanding of how nutrition supports optimal physical performance. In December 2023, I earned my NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential, and since then, I’ve had the privilege of guiding clients toward lasting success in their fitness journeys.
My expertise is in strength training, and I’m passionate about designing programs that are both challenging and effective, ensuring clients feel empowered and achieve measurable results. I take a holistic approach to health, believing that true wellness encompasses a healthy body, a sound mind, and a tranquil spirit.
Says Kala “Let’s work together to create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals!”