Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Ömer Köseoğlu

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Meet Ömer Köseoğlu, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! Ömer is a never-give-up trainer who is battling Motor Neuron Disease whilst coaching his clients exclusively online these days. We recently had the chance to chat with Ömer and learn about his transition from in-person training to working with clients remotely.

Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from?

Ömer: I grew up in Ankara, Turkey. My interest in health and fitness began when I was 15 years old. I started working out in a famous gym owned by a national bodybuilding champ. The idea of becoming a fitness trainer and owning a fitness facility instantly became very appealing. During my college education, I stayed in the U.S. midwest area. My roommate who was a successful baseball player inspired me to do early morning workouts and embracing a healthy lifestyle. I played tennis and worked out regularly.

After working different jobs and becoming a father, I decided to open my own gym in Ankara. It was the most enjoyable work experience I ever had. I continued to work as a group fitness instructor and personal trainer for about 12 years.

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Ömer: Throughout my 30’s and 40’s, I was heavily involved in the fitness industry as a trainer and gym owner. I remember most weeks, I had between 35 and 40 physical fitness classes, in which I was working as hard as all the attendees. As a result, I was always very fit during those years.

You have been diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease. Can you share with us more about this?

About 6 years ago, I started having muscle weakness and cramping issues. And very slowly it got worse, causing me to get tired much quicker than before. I started limping with the right side of my body, which was becoming weaker every day. After many doctors visits, screenings, and three spinal operations (one lower back and two cervical area) my condition worsened with no diagnosis. I was still able to do one-on-one coaching in my studio but it was becoming very challenging.

Two and a half years ago, my condition was finally diagnosed as MND, Motor Neuron Disease. Unfortunately, this condition has no cure and inevitably gets worse over time. In July 2021, it was a very difficult decision for me to tell my clients that I will no longer be able to continue my fitness classes.

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What motivated you to continue coaching?

Ömer: Well, I have a very dedicated group of 12 students who wanted me to find some other way to continue coaching them. At that time, I was already occasionally using Workout Trainer to send workouts to traveling students, etc.

Today, I can very rarely leave home. I can still walk but very slowly with the help of a cane. My right hand (which was my dominant side) is almost totally useless. But I can still hold a mouse with my left hand and use a computer.

So now, with the encouragement of my wonderful students, we use the Workout Trainer app on a daily basis. I sit in front of my computer at training time and vocally coach them in their own homes, while they go through a workout that I prepared using your app. This has been going on since September and my students are happy.

Being physically challenged, this situation has given me the opportunity to continue doing what I love to do and I am so thankful for that!

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What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Ömer: My health problems forced me to stop coaching in my studio since last July, and I had to exclusively train my clients online. I quickly discovered the Workout Trainer app, which was exactly what I was looking for. It has a great selection of exercises and I can easily add my own. My favorite feature of the app is the client profile feature, which has statistics and workout history. This is very handy as I do not need to keep separate workout history records. It helps me build a progressive fitness program for my clients.

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Ömer: Dumbbells, kettlebells, and barbells are a must for my workouts. I believe strength and cardiovascular training done together is the best fitness formula. I like to use rowing, skiing and biking ergometers in conjunction with strength training.

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Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Ömer: My number one fitness tip is:
– Know what motivates you, and keep the motivators close to you. –
Continuous motivation is a must for life-long heath and fitness. Every person may have different motivating factors in her/his life. If you want life long health and fitness, you have to know what motivates you and keep those motivating factors close to you. Your motivation may be to look good in a new outfit, upcoming vacation, your favorite workout gear, your commitment to your girlfriend or boyfriend, enthusiasm to learn new things, discovering great benefits of a healthy lifestyle, staying fit to enjoy the company of others, fighting diabetes or high blood pressure, keeping young to play with grandchildren, etc., etc. Whatever the reasons are, keep reminding yourself.

Thanks for sharing with us, Ömer, and all the best !

Be sure to follow Ömer and other great trainers for inspiration and motivation in the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Ömer and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Fiona McCann

Skimble's Trainer Spotlight: Fiona McCann

Meet Fiona McCann, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! Having discovered her own passion for exercise later on in life, it didn’t take Fiona long to become addicted to the rush we all know and love. As an active Skimble member and trainer, she has created over 300 workouts and completed nearly 1,000 workouts to boot. We recently had the chance to chat with Fiona and learn about how she left the corporate world behind to help others feel great about themselves on the inside and out.

Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from?

Fiona: I am originally from Dublin, Ireland, where I spent most of my career working in a corporate environment with large fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies. I’m the eldest in my family of three, with two younger brothers and I have two children of my own – Rachel who is 15 and Cormac who is 10. We relocated to Copenhagen in 2013 where we lived for 3 years before moving to New Delhi for 2 years, before returning home to Ireland in 2018. My two children and I live on the Northside of Dublin, close to the city centre in a very community-based neighbourhood. I love to travel so the last couple of years of lockdown have been challenging for me!

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Fiona: I was always really intimidated by gyms and only started exercising a little at home – on the recommendation of a physiotherapist – to deal with lower back pain following the birth of my second child. In 2012, I joined a local class-based gym, where I found I really enjoyed exercising in a group. Upon moving to Copenhagen, I made friends who asked me to help them to get fit. I started training with a group of six friends in my garden and I found I really enjoyed helping people achieve their goals. This quickly developed into five classes a week with a regular group of up to 80 people attending 2-3 classes per week. We worked out in all weather in a local park after school drop-off and only moved to an indoor facility when the snow was too deep on the ground for burpees! I was studying with Train Fitness in London online throughout my time in Copenhagen to become a qualified Personal Trainer as I had found my passion.Skimble's Trainer Spotlight: Fiona McCannWhat are your training specialties?

Fiona: I specialise in bodyweight training and especially enjoy creating HIIT workouts. I also love creating workouts using kettlebells and TRX and am massively passionate about nutrition and mental wellness. I offer my clients an holistic approach to their health and wellness – maintaining a balance in their busy lives.

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Fiona: I find the ease with which I can create workouts and get them to my clients quickly, giving them realtime instruction with coaching cues, really effective. The feedback features of the app, in which we can all interact and encourage each other gives a lovely community feel to training in Workout Trainer – you really feel like part of a family.

Who are your heroes?

Fiona: I am passionate about lifelong learning and access to education so I greatly admire the bravery of Ruby Bridges in pioneering access to education for all. I also look at Katie Taylor as one of the greatest sportspeople that our country has ever produced, bringing boxing to the forefront of young people’s minds as an accessible sport, especially for young girls.

Skimble's Trainer Spotlight: Fiona McCannWhat keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?

Fiona: Exercise helps keep me sane! I found exercise late in life – I was 31 when I first got into exercise properly – however, I quickly became addicted. I love the rush I get from a fast moving AMRAP or heavy lifting session and I love inspiring people to become the best version of themselves. My kids motivate me every day and I feel very proud when my son tells me he wants to be strong and have muscles like me!

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Fiona: I LOVE red wine! There’s nothing to beat curling up with a glass of good red in front of a roaring open fire while the wind and rain beats off the windows in the depths of winter. I try to live by the 80-20 rule, with everything in moderation, so red wine fits very nicely into the 20% of my life I use for treating myself.

What are your hidden talents?

Fiona: I used to be an Irish Dancer so if you catch me at a weak moment I could give you a quick jig!

Skimble's Trainer Spotlight: Fiona McCann

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Fiona: I cannot recommend a better piece of equipment for an all-round body workout than the TRX and I have yet to find a better core workout that can be done than on those straps.

With regard to my favourite brand of workout clothing, I love the fit of Nike’s high-waisted leggings.  Adidas also has a great range of workout bras with fixed pads – game changer!

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Fiona: My favourite tip is around sleeping. A great night’s sleep is key for all-round health and wellness and it’s important to have a fantastic sleep routine to ensure you feel as rested and mentally strong as possible to face your day. A regular bedtime, a silk pillowcase and eye mask, some lavender and a great book or podcast to fall asleep to are my favourite ways to ensure you fall asleep easily. If you’re prone to disturbed sleep – avoid the phone and go back to the book. It’s a great way to get those eyes closing again!

Thanks for sharing with us, Fiona! We’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Fiona is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let her help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal Training

Want to follow Fiona and other great trainers for inspiration and motivation? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Fiona and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Lauren Smithson

Skimble Trainer Lauren Smithson from Atlanta, Georgia

Meet Lauren SmithsonSkimble‘s featured Trainer! Throughout her career in the healthcare industry, Lauren witnessed the detrimental effects of poor diet combined with a lack of exercise in many of her patients. We recently had the chance to chat with Lauren and learn about how she transitioned from rehab to prevention and shifted her focus towards proactive strategies to help keep people active, for longer. 

Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from?

Lauren: I was born and raised in Georgia. I grew up in Snellville but moved to the Kennesaw area around middle school age and have remained in that area ever since. I have been married for three years and have two fur babies (a cat; Milo and a dog; Max) and we are hoping to have some real kiddos in the near future. I enjoy hiking, relaxing in our hot tub, traveling, trying fun new workouts, dancing, and spending time with my husband, family, pets, and friends. I have a Bachelors in Exercise & Health Science, an Associates as a Physical Therapist Assistant, and I am a Certified Personal Trainer. I will be sitting for my board’s exam to be a NBHWC Health Coach in May 2022.Skimble Trainer Lauren Smithson from Atlanta, Georgia

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Lauren: I have been in the healthcare industry for over nine years so I’ve seen first hand the detrimental effects of poor diet and lack of exercise. It’s scary! I soon realized that rehabilitation might not have been the best way to help people… prevention IS the best medicine! So I switched my focus to a more preventative approach when it comes to helping others live their best life.

What are your training specialties?

Lauren: I focus a lot on hip strength and mobility, injury prevention and rehab, HIIT workouts and kickboxing.

Skimble Trainer Lauren Smithson from Atlanta, Georgia

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Lauren: I like that you can customize your workouts so you can switch up the intensity, the time, the type, etc. It’s so easy to create unique and fun workouts! The possibilities are endless.

Who are your heroes?

Lauren: My Grandma – she has lived through so much, including the great depression. She has cared for my sick grandpa and outlived him by many years after being married most of her life. She still lives an active lifestyle, including waking up and feeling inspired to paint artwork every single day. She is 93 years old and still finds joy in each and every day! She says that staying moving is the KEY to a long and healthy life, and I couldn’t agree more 🙂

Skimble Trainer Lauren Smithson from Atlanta, Georgia

What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?

Lauren: I always say that exercise is like my “therapy”. I tend to get stressed really easily and have a Type A mentality, so it’s easy for me to get worked up. Exercise helps me burn off any of that negative or unwanted energy and truly makes me feel my best.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Lauren: Binge watching shows on Netflix and the Bachelor/Bachelorette.

Skimble Trainer Laura Smithson from Atlanta, Georgia

What are your hidden talents?

Lauren: I used to play the violin and the piano and hardly ever practiced, yet was pretty good at it!

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Lauren: I have a heavy bag and boxing gloves at home. It’s so easy to get in a quick, yet effective workout on the bag and burn off stress really quickly!Skimble Trainer Lauren Smithson from Atlanta, Georgia

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Lauren: There really is no one size fits all. You have to find what works best for you and whatever you do now should be sustainable for the long term. In other words, what you’re doing now to get in shape and/or lose weight – do you see yourself doing the same thing a year from now? Five years from now? 20 years from now? If not, it’s important to think about why and re-evaluate your plan to come up with something doable that you can stick to for the long run – something you really enjoy. Eating right and exercising can be tough at times, but it shouldn’t feel impossible. Set yourself up to win!

Thanks for sharing with us, Lauren! We’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Lauren is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let her help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal Training

Want to follow Lauren and other great trainers for inspiration and motivation? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Lauren and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Kiele Briscoe

Skimble Trainer Spotlight: Kiele Biscoe from Colorado

Meet Kiele BriscoeSkimble‘s featured Trainer! After going through her own weight loss journey several years ago and feeling like she was in it alone, Kiele is now excited to be able to support and guide others who are embarking on a healthier lifestyle. We recently had the chance to chat with Kiele and learn about her own transformation and what motivates her to stay active these days.

Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from?

Kiele: I was born and raised in Colorado. I was always involved in sports growing up. My high school wrestling coach got me into weight lifting and I instantly fell in love with it.

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Kiele: I went through a time of being obese. I had weight loss surgery in 2015 and kind of had to do things all by myself. During that time, I rediscovered my love of weight lifting and fitness. I wanted to help others so they wouldn’t have to go at it alone like I did.

Skimble Trainer Spotlight: Kiele Briscoe from Colorado

What are your training specialties?
 
Kiele: I like to help other people who have had weight loss surgery and people who are new to discovering a healthier lifestyle.
 
What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?
 
Kiele: Remembering what I felt like when I was 250lbs… Now, I love the rewarding feeling of working hard and getting stronger.
 
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
 
Kiele: Does making TikToks count?! 🙂
 
Who are your heroes?
 
Kiele: Anyone who puts themselves out there to better themselves. It’s scary to ask for help – trust me, I know! Those kinds of people will always be my kind of people.

Skimble Trainer Spotlight: Kiele Briscoe from Colorado

What are your hidden talents?

Kiele: I’m good at decorating cakes and cookies for special occasions.

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Kiele: I love the ability to create my own workouts and share them with the community.

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Kiele: I’m a huge fan of free weights, but honestly, nothing beats a good pair of cross trainers.

Skimble Trainer Spotlight: Kiele Briscoe from Colorado

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Kiele: Don’t eat food that makes your mouth sad. Don’t just jump on whatever diet is trending. Do your homework, talk to professionals, and find foods that are best alligned with your goals.

Thanks for sharing with us, Kiele, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Want to follow Kiele and other great trainers for inspiration and motivation? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Kiele and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Chris Sumo

Skimble Trainer Chris Sumo

Meet Chris Sumo, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! His all-around approach to personal training has enabled him to help his clients with everything from strength training to mobility work, as well as nutrional guidance to help them achieve their goals even faster. We recently had the chance to chat with Chris and learn about how he got into the fitness world himself and what inspires him to continue helping others on a daily basis.

Tell us a bit about your background and where you’re from?

Chris: I was born in Baltimore, Maryland. I’ve been a certified coach since 2007 and have trained in many different places over the years; Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Washington DC. I’m currently living and working in Delaware.

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Chris: I realized it first when working at a local YMCA and giving fitness orientations. I gained this great appreciation for seeing a person take steps to inquire about their future fitness plans.

What are your training specialties?
 
Chris: I specialize in functional training, strength training, and adult/youth sports performance (speed and agility).
Skimble Trainer Chris Sumo
What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?
 
Chris: I appreciate my clients and seeing them go through the process. It gives me energy to take ownership over my own health and fitness choices.
 
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
 
Chris: I don’t know if I should feel guilty about this – guess it depends who you’re talking to – but I am a huge Anime fan.
 
Who are your heroes?
 
Chris: My parents. They are both teachers and they’ve always believed that if you know something, then you should eventually teach it to others.
 
What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?
 
Chris: The ability to attach likes and comments to workouts, is one of my favorite features. I love how it allows the whole community to see, discuss, and appreciate the hard work of each trainee.

Skimble Trainer Chris SumoDo you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Chris: Sandbags and TRX are my go-to pieces of equipment. They are great for adding more versatility to your exercise routine.

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Chris: I always recommend incorporating foam rolling and recovery workouts. They are very effective for muscle toning and posture adjustments. Try adding some simple recovery movements to your daily routine for a week and you’ll really notice the benefits.

Thanks for sharing with us, Chris, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Chris is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let him help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal Training

Want to follow Chris Sumo and other great trainers for inspiration and motivation? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Chris and have access to our Android and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Matthew Vinzant

Skimble Trainer Matthew VinzantMeet Matthew VinzantSkimble‘s featured Trainer! After witnessing firsthand the positive impacts of exercise on people’s physical and mental health, Matt knew he wanted to focus on helping people feel good about themselves. We recently had the chance to chat with Matt and learn about how he ended up where he is today.

Tell us a bit about your background and where you’re from.

Matt: I’m from Cleveland, Ohio. I’m a loving husband and father of two, a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Performance Enhancement Specialist, and Boxing Coach.Skimble Trainer Matthew VinzantWhat inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Matt: My love of fitness combined with my love of helping others. I used to coach a friend of mine, mostly just at home in my living room. It resulted in him losing 27lbs! I saw shifts not only in his weight but also in his mood and personality. This filled me with a sense of pride and made me feel good. That’s when I realized that I could be a Trainer – and a good one.

What are your training specialties?

Matt: I specialize in bodyweight workouts; high-intensity interval training, boxing, and combat conditioning workouts.

Skimble Trainer Matthew Vinzant

What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?

Matt: Honestly, I just want to be ready for anything that comes my way. My number one motivation for staying fit is that I never know when I’ll have to use my body for something important, and when that time comes, I want to make sure my body is in the right condition. I also want to have optimal health so that I can remain active as I age.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Matt: Yes, of course! I love chocolate and more chocolate 🙂 and red wine.

Who are your heroes?

Matt: Fredrick Douglas, Barack Obama, and Malcolm X.

Skimble Trainer Matthew Vinzant

What are your hidden talents?

Matt: I love writing, making music, and public speaking.

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Matt: The “create your own workout” feature is my favorite because I love the fact that I can design a workout or program and everything is perfectly timed, in the correct order, and accompanied by voice cues. It makes workouts easy and accessible to everyone. I’m able to create workouts for my clients the night before their session and this helps me keep my workouts flowing and on time.

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Matt: Resistance bands, speed ladders, and the Bosu ball. I use one of these items in just about every workout.

Skimble Trainer Matthew Vinzant

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Matt: Any activity is better than no activity. A lot of times what stops my clients from being active is the thought that they have to have at least an hour or two to get in an effective workout. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Even if you only have a few minutes, you can still get in a tough, effective workout. One of my favorites is a quick and intense 4-minute Tabata. Pick four exercises and alternate between them; 20 seconds on and 10 seconds off, for 4 minutes.

Thanks for sharing with us, Matt, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Want to follow Matt and other great trainers for inspiration and motivation? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Matt and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: CaSondra LeBlanc

 

Skimble Trainer Casondra Leblanc paddling in a kayak

Meet CaSondra LeBlanc, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! Passionate about preserving her own mobility way past retirement, she’s dedicated her career to helping others join her on this journey. We recently had the chance to chat with CaSondra and learn about her biggest motivators and why she loves helping others achieve their personal fitness goals.

Tell us a bit about your background and where you’re from.

CaSondra: I grew up in a small town in Michigan. In college, I knew that my purpose was to help people to keep moving, so I completed my Associate’s Degree in Health Promotions & Management and didn’t stop until I had my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. My dream goals are to keep seniors and mommies moving while being safe for as long as possible.

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

CaSondra: Seeing our aging population forget their life’s purpose and really just deteriorate by the lack of something to do aside from watching TV on a daily basis. Wanting to create a shift and encourage change for the next generations, that’s been my biggest driver, for sure!

Skimble Trainer Casondra Leblanc on a bike ride in Goose Creek

What are your training specialties?

CaSondra: I’m an ACE-Certified Health & Wellness Coach and hold an ACSM-Exercise is Movement specialization cert. I also teach Water Aerobics, practice the importance of Brain Health & Exercise, and most recently became a Registered Yoga Teacher by completing 200 hours of yoga teacher training.

What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?

CaSondra: I want to stay moving for as long as possible and keep myself away from medicine as best as I can. In retirement, I would also like to be healthy enough to travel and continue to enjoy getting around.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

CaSondra: Who doesn’t?! Mine would have to be CHOCOLATE 🙂

Skimble Trainer Casondra Leblanc teaching a Yoga Class in her home

Who are your heroes?

CaSondra: My parents! It sounds cheesy but they have always been my biggest cheerleaders. They also have a great work ethic, which was important to be around growing up. I try to live by their example every day.

What are your hidden talents?

CaSondra: I don’t know if I really have any hidden talents… I love to craft, puzzle, and read in my free time. Nothing that will win me prizes in the near future, but everyone needs a hobby, right?! 

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

CaSondra: I love being able to open up the app whenever I feel like exercising and just press the start workout button to get straight to it. Simplicity is key in sticking to exercise routines!

Skimble Trainer Casondra Leblanc enjoying some exercise at the beach

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

CaSondra: I love my Manduka yoga mat – it’s not only lightweight, making it conveniently portable, but I also find that it has just enough cushioning to make any impact exercises less strenuous on your joints.

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

CaSondra: Find the fun in your fitness routine, no matter what your goals are. It’ll be much easier to stay healthy long-term if you can find some enjoyment in exercising.

Thanks for sharing with us, CaSondra, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

CaSondra is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let her help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal Training

Want to follow CaSondra LeBlanc and other great trainers? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like CaSondra and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Brian Roberts

Male Personal Trainer using the Workout Trainer app to coach his online

Meet Brian Roberts, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! After realizing his Physical Therapy patients wanted to do more than just recover from injuries, he knew he could help them continue to grow stronger in another way. We recently had the chance to chat with Brian and learn about how his path to Personal Training has developed over the years and that he’s never looked back since.

Tell us a bit about your background and where you’re from.

Brian: I’m originally from Boston, MA. I love to play basketball, travel, and spend time with friends and family. I studied Athletic Training with a concentration in Physical Therapy in undergrad. One day, I hope to earn a masters in Nutrition to become a Registered Dietitian.

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Brian: My first work experience after my bachelors degree was the catalyst for me to become a personal trainer. After undergrad, I worked at a Physical Therapy clinic. There, I met patients who finished their rehab but wanted to continue getting stronger. Since my studies in undergrad involved rehabilitation, I felt it transferred well into Personal Training and I thought I could help those graduated patients even further. Consequently, after just one month of work at the Physical Therapy clinic, I studied and earned my certificate in Personal Training to become a Personal Trainer for people who completed Physical Therapy but wanted to continue to progress beyond that.

Male Personal Trainer Brian Roberts from Boston Massachusetts

What are your training specialties?

Brian: Currently, my specialties include rehabilitation, injury preventative exercises, weight-loss and weight-management, body sculpting, and now nutrition (after earning a certificate in Precision Nutrition – I would like to keep growing in this field).

What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?

Brian: My motivation to stay fit comes from two spectrums:

1. My education: After learning how the body works, I can’t ignore that science. I want to enjoy living and live a healthy life for a long time to come. I want to spend time with my family and give back to the community. If I’m not taking care of myself, it would be hard for me to be there for my family and to give back to my community.

2. My clients: I always felt it would be hard for me to maintain clients if I was out of shape myself. You wouldn’t want to go to a dentist with bad teeth, or go to a broke financial advisor. Therefore, I need to keep learning, working, and pushing to maintain good health, especially if I can help it. All in all, my clients encourage me to stay in shape.

PT Brian Roberts looking after his health so he can look after others

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Brian: My guilty pleasure is probably wine. I occasionally enjoy a nice glass of Cabernet.

Who are your heroes?

Brian: My heroes would probably be my wife and my mom. I witness their hard work and it encourages me to do the same. I find their drive admirable and it is always appreciated. I get inspired to get uncomfortable sometimes, to finish the task at hand properly, and to simply put it, just be there for people.

What are your hidden talents?

Brian: I play the saxophone and can speak a second language – German! I’m hoping that French with be my next 🙂 I also love to laugh and was even on an Improv team back in college.

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Brian: My favorite feature on Workout Trainer is the variety of exercise videos available. I feel like it makes it easier to put together customized workouts for my clients abroad and the ones working with me online. Also, they report that it is easy for them to follow along, so it’s a win-win really.

Fitness Trainer Brian Robert doing yoga pose by the sea

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Brian: I can’t say I have any go-to training gear, simply because sometimes you’re faced with limited equipment. Therefore you have to improvise; and when improvising, I really enjoy the creative opportunities.

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Brian: A health tip I’d like to share with the Skimble community is probably to find a good balance of fitness/health and your day-to-day life. Never lose sight of the things that really matter in your life.

Thanks for sharing with us, Brian, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Brian Roberts is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let him help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal Training

Want to follow Brian and other great trainers? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Brian and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: John Wu

Trainer John Alsobrooks training with suspension rings at the gym

Meet John Wu, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! With his extensive knowledge of Western and Chinese Medicine, John is able to help his clients with a well-rounded approach to both physical and mental health. We recently had the chance to chat with John and learn about why he believes balance is the most important component in achieving any long-term health goals.

Tell us a bit about your background and where you’re from.

John: I traveled a lot during my youth and lived in many places including the Deep South, the Midwest, and New England. I graduated from the University of Maine with a dual major in Chinese Language (Mandarin) and Pre-medical Sciences, and a Minor in Education. I went on to attend a 5-year medical program at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine with a focus on Acupuncture and Massage.

John Alsobrooks studying Chinese Medicine at the University of Beijing

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

John: I’ve loved training ever since I could lift weights when I was about 12 or 13 years old. My two older brothers played on college sports teams and inspired me a lot. I played sports myself for a while in junior high and high school, and I joined the ROTC Physical Training team. I then began practicing martial arts when I was in college and absolutely fell in love with it. I trained in the USA for a while and then went to train in a martial arts school in Beijing, where we trained 6-8 hours a day, 6 days a week, which included a type of “inner training” through different meditation practices. That’s when I decided that I wanted to practice medicine, and Chinese Medicine in particular, so I finished my Bachelor’s degree in the USA and went back to China to complete a medical degree. With my studies in Chinese Medicine and Martial Arts, training in meditation, and a background in education, it all came together and fit really well to form a comprehensive modality of fitness and health preservation. Exercise is one of the best medicines we have, and it’s free!

What are your training specialties?

John: Fundamentally, I am a big supporter of cross-training. I believe in a well-rounded physique capable of handling anything that the world throws at us. This includes weightlifting, bodyweight training, outdoor sports training, HIIT, martial arts/kickboxing, steady-state cardio-respiratory training, and overall fitness for both healthy populations and those suffering from a disease. I also like to incorporate some breathing exercises, as well as neuromuscular and flexibility exercises that are meditative-like to keep people grounded, focused, and motivated.

Trainer John Wu Alsobrooks meditating in Beijing

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

John: I love the fact that I can see what my clients are doing through the 1:1 messaging stream, and I can immediately communicate with them and change anything in their exercise prescription that needs adjusting. I also like that they can see how I’m training, which I hope gives them some motivation to continue their own routines.

Who are your heroes?

John: My heroes are an odd mix of ancient Chinese physicians that advocated exercise for health, my martial arts teacher in Beijing – Master Wang Zhi Peng, outdoor sports pioneers like climbing pros Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell. Also survivalists like Bear Grylls and modern physical therapists, trainers, and bodyworkers – namely Tom Meyers and Jeff Cavaliere. And finally, a “body hack” specialist, Tim Ferris.

John Alsobrooks with his Martial Arts Master Wang Zhi Peng

What keeps you motivated to stay fit yourself?

John: After a lifetime of exercise, as soon as I stop training, I feel off…so that’s a major factor in staying fit for me. Also, I try to live my life by a certain set of principles, and I believe that it’s important that my clients and patients work towards similar goals for themselves. By living my life in a healthy manner, I am a living example for others to do the same.

What are your guilty pleasures?

John: Chocolate! Hands down. I love it. However, I do go for dark, bitter-sweet chocolates instead of milk chocolates now.

Personal Trainer John Wu running in the mountains outside Beijing

What are your hidden talents?

John: I suppose with social media, nothing is really hidden anymore, but I can throw knives like a ninja, not a lot of people know about that.

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

John: I think for some people not having access to a gym, or not having training equipment can be a deterrent for doing exercise. I say use what you have! I love getting creative with my equipment, and whenever I don’t have something, I see what I can use that I already have instead of running out to buy something new. For in-home training, I like using a suspension system or suspension rings, some resistance bands, and a home-made speedball using elastic bands and a tennis ball.

Trainer John Alsobrooks navigating during a hiking trip

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

John: The secret to health is balance. It’s really quite simple. Exercise is wonderful, and we can all benefit from a healthy daily dose of exercise, but there are many other aspects of health that require attention as well, such as stress management, relaxation, nutrition, and sleep. If any one of these is off, in any way, our health is going to suffer. If you’re not getting enough good quality sleep, your training will suffer. If your nutrition plan is off, many other aspects of your life will suffer. They are all interconnected. So, if you want to train like a beast, sleep like a baby.

Thanks for sharing with us, John, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

John Wu is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let him help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal TrainingWant to follow John and other great trainers? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like John and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Amazon Appstore Download Badge

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Skimble’s Trainer Spotlight: Christopher Brooks

Featured Skimble Trainer Christopher Brooks from Toledo, OhioMeet Christopher Brooks, Skimble‘s featured Trainer! Being a family man himself, Christopher understands the needs of busy parents and has tailored his training programs to include simple, easy-to-follow schedules that won’t break the bank. We recently had the chance to chat with Christopher and learn about his passion to help families lose weight, feel energized, and see real results!

Tell us a bit about your background and where you’re from.

Christopher: Hi everyone, my name is Christopher. I’m a dedicated father, loving husband, nationally certified Personal Trainer, and Corrective Exercise Specialist from Toledo, Ohio.

Personal Trainer Christopher Brooks with his family in Toledo, Ohio

Have you always been interested in health and fitness?

Christopher: My journey began over 20 years ago in the rehabilitation center after suffering an ACL injury while playing football during my junior year in high school. During rehab, my relentless passion for the game drove me to make a full recovery, play football again, and continue my short career at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

What inspired you to become a personal trainer?

Christopher: 20 years later my passion for fitness is geared towards staying strong and healthy for my family and helping others live a healthy and happy life for their families.

Trainer Christopher Brooks showing how to Deadlift a Barbell

What are your training specialties?

Christopher: I’m a versatile Personal Trainer who believes preparation and recovery are the keys to staying injury-free and getting maximum results. I implement both HIIT and Functional Training to keep my clients motivated and engaged.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Christopher: My guilty pleasures are pancakes, ice cream, and cheesecake. I know all three are loaded with carbs, but I love them deeply.

Who are your heroes?

Christopher: My heroes are Muhammad Ali, Will Smith, and Ice Cube.

Corrective Exercise Specialist Christopher Brooks using a log as a weighted alternative

What’s your favorite Workout Trainer feature?

Christopher: My favorite feature is the social community. I love connecting, chatting, and helping people from all over the globe.

Do you have any go-to training gear that you would recommend?

Christopher: My go-to training gear is hands down the jump rope. It’s a wonderful and convenient way to improve strength and endurance without having to hop on a treadmill.

Christopher Brooks keeping fit by running in a local Toledo, Ohio race

Please share a secret health/fitness tip with the Skimble community…

Christopher: My secret tip for sticking to your routine is to set a realistic goal, track everything, and be consistent. You will reach your target twice as fast!

Thanks for sharing with us, Christopher, we’re excited to see what the future will bring for you and your training biz!

Christopher Brooks is currently accepting new clients for 1:1 Online Personal Training in Workout Trainer. Get signed up today and let him help you crush your fitness goals.

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Online Personal TrainingWant to follow Christopher and other great trainers? Download the Workout Trainer app for Android & iOS, then head on over to the Trainers tab.


Are you a fitness professional? Want to become a Trainer like Christopher and have access to our online coaching tools and more? Get started for free on Skimble’s Trainer page.

Workout Trainer for Android - Google Play store downloadWorkout Trainer for iOS - iTunes App Store download

Workout Trainer by Skimble: Amazon Appstore Download Badge

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