Empower. Transform. Connect. Thrive.

Diagnosed in 2010 with Intervertebral Disc Syndrome, I have lived with severe lower back pain that would surprise me with a jolt limiting my mobility and overall functionality. I would live in pain and walk leaning to the right for days. I was called “Crooked Man” by family and friends. In July 2022 two options existed for long term pain relief. Surgery to install a spinal cord stimulator to send low levels of electricity into my spine to relieve the pain and weekly personal training with Nick Bates at San Diego Elite Training. After talking with him and agreeing the goal was avoiding surgery, I chose Nick. Nick provided simple, quick exercises to perform at home and genuinely cared about my health. Nick is an expert. After three months (Aug-Nov) with Nick, the pain is reduced and I understand how to manage the pain without medication. My goal is to complete my first Spartan Race in 2023 and I know that I can thanks to Nick.

SDET is East County’s hidden gem! The classes are small and you get the attention of the trainers which helps you accomplish the goal you set for your workouts. SDET has THE BEST trainers. They are super knowledgeable and are always pushing you to do your best and they know how to help you get the most out of your workout. SDET is a no judgement gym! They welcome everyone no matter what your fitness level is.

I was in the market for a personal trainer for multiple reasons. I needed someone to hold me accountable, motivate, ensure proper form to prevent injuries and help me to create and reach goals. I’ve been training with Chris for a year now and he has met my expectations, and then some! I would recommend Chris to anyone who has fitness goals, but perhaps, has areas of limitations or concerns. For example, my profession requires me to do a lot of typing. So, one of my concerns is hurting, my hands, wrist, and elbows. Chris creates workouts for me that put less strain on these areas while still being able to reach my goals.

I have been working with Chris consistently for 7 months now and I chose Chris to be my trainer after watching how he interacts with clients, hearing about his weight loss journey, and seeing how open he his with his own mental health battles. Struggling myself, I needed a trainer who could relate firsthand. Chris genuinely cares about his clients overall fitness which includes your physical as well as mental health. He always makes himself available for check-ins, questions, or those tough days when you’re feeling down. Chris knows my strength and capabilities better than I know my own and encourages me to push harder and lift heavier. Chris also tailored my nutrition plan which helped me take my fitness journey to the level. I would recommend Chris to anyone who is looking to make significant changes to their overall health. You will see yourself transform in other ways beyond just the physical part. Chris has not just become my trainer but a friend along the way.

Chris is honestly one of the best and most supportive trainers I’ve ever worked with! He’s realistic about a routine that not only works in my everyday life but is sustainable long term. Any minor set back he makes sure it’s a learning opportunity and never makes me feel discouraged on weeks I’m not hit my macros or reps. All of my goals turn into OUR goals and he’s constantly pushing me to use my full potential.