Meet Our Team

Scott Norton

Please visit the AXIS History page for the original inspiration for AXIS. As we marked our 20th year anniversary in 2016, Scott shared the Untold Story of the first 20 years of AXIS:

“Thursday, October 6th, 2016 marked the 20th year anniversary of the start of AXIS. It was 1996 and I opened the doors, all alone, scared to death but as excited as I could be since this was my dream coming to fruition. I had envisioned opening a beautiful facility where trainers could learn, share, and create a career for themselves, a career which did not exist at the time. I saw a gathering spot for clients to be engaged, motivated, and taken care of as if they were at a 5 star resort.

Several years earlier I had gotten my start at a personal trainer up on Sand Hill Road, working/hustling 60 hours/week training some of the “movers and shakers” of the Silicon Valley. My first client was Joe Horowitz, who continues to train with me at AXIS today. Since he was my very first, I have a soft spot in my heart for Joe (which is why he gets to do whatever he wants at AXIS!). Joe introduced me to Louis Borders who became a client, a mentor, and a friend. We trained together for many years, even increased his vertical jump by 7 inches (which admittedly was not too difficult as he started from zero). I trained Louis’ entire staff as well and it was during this time that he saw the value in what I offered. The trust and strong relationship that we built brought us to opening AXIS on October 6th, 1996. Louis funded the start of AXIS for which I will be forever grateful.

Within a few months we had hired more trainers and we were a profitable business, focused on a scientific training methodology, teamwork, and exceptional service for our clients. Three years later, during the dot com boom, we were able to secure funding from Sequoia Capital which was to get us started on our path to opening AXIS facilities nationwide. I thought I knew it all at that time and there was nothing I couldn’t do!

The company grew quickly from there, starting with a New York City CEO from Louis Vuitton, the first of a few CEO’s that would come and go…This was the start of a crazy rollercoaster ride and to this day, I don’t know how AXIS survived it all. As Alli reminds me often, AXIS didn’t die, although it should’ve many times over, because I wouldn’t let it, because I always knew if we stayed true to our beliefs and cared about our trainers and clients, it would all workout (no pun intended) in the end! Maybe I was too young and stupid to know better.

Over the course of the next 8 years, we opened facilities in Los Gatos and Mountain View, and had our sights set on Southern California next. With the excitement of a growing company, came with it more people, more bureaucracy, more challenges, and more chaos. There was never a dull moment! We had an IT staff and a server room that probably could’ve handled the entire Silicon Valley. We promoted from within and created more layers of management. I’d venture to say, we had too many cooks in the kitchen, but it was great to see trainers have such opportunities.

Several times a new CEO was brought in, and several times I was asked to step down from the board, only to be asked back again. At one point I owned only 1% of AXIS. Losing control of the company I started was one of the hardest things to endure, yet I continued training my clients, giving them an amazing experience, and kept the trainers excited about their careers. That’s all I could do.

There were times during those years where we struggled to keep the doors open, barely making payroll at the lowest points, even not paying bills on time because we had no cash left. I can remember meeting with Alli, who was a newer trainer at the time, and she expressed her frustration with how we were not growing fast enough. She believed in what we did at AXIS, she believed in giving our clients the gift of health and longevity, and she wanted people all over to be able to benefit from it. I did everything I could at the time, to keep that passion burning in the trainers, and to shelter them from the scary truth of a business that might not make it.

The economic downturn in 2007 was a blessing in disguise. Our Los Gatos facility had closed a few years earlier, as it never really took off to begin with, and we made an extremely difficult decision to close the Mountain View location in 2008, in order to save the company. Our investors were no longer willing to take the risk on a small personal training business and I was able to buy back 100% of the company that I had started over 10 years earlier with love, passion, knowledge, and not to mention, blind optimism.

The last 8 years have been progressively our most successful years as a business to date. We are 100% committed to giving our team and our clients the best possible experience day to day and for many years to come. We know we would not be here today if it weren’t for the many trainers, leaders, investors, clients, and everyone who has touched AXIS in some way over the years. I am grateful to all of you! The successes and failures have made us stronger and we appreciate every step along the road. As scary as it was, I would not change a thing.

20 years ago I started AXIS but we, as a community, have built it to what it is today. We knew with grit, love, and constant growth and improvement, we would not only survive, but thrive. Thank you for sharing 20 years of ups, downs, happy and sad times, successes and failures. We have loved every moment of this journey which has given us the path to continue our dream.”

Allison Allen

Alli, originally from Connecticut, moved to the Bay Area in May of 2000, after being offered a position as a personal trainer with AXIS. She was excited about the focus on education, palpable positive environment, and the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. She was also intrigued by the opportunity to be a part of a growing business. Throughout her career at AXIS she worked as a personal trainer, a team leader, facility manager and managing partner. As an owner and Chief Operating Officer, she and Scott work together to ensure that AXIS continues to evolve and improve every day. “We believe each client should have a life changing experience through their training at AXIS. We want every client who walks in the door to feel welcomed and encouraged that they can do what they set out to do and more! We are committed to always having a fun and positive community, where our trainers can continue to learn and be challenged, where they feel valued and supported, and where they can grow as individuals.”

Professional Details

• BS, Athletic Training, Northeastern University
• MA, Athletic Training, Western Michigan University
• Certified Athletic Trainer, National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA BOC)
• Performance Enhancement Specialist, NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine)
• ACE Pre/Post Natal Certificate
• Certified Mat Pilates Instructor, PhysicalMind Institute
• Pilates Reformer Certificate (Balanced Body University)
• Power Plate Level 1 & Level 2 Certificates
• TRX Instructor

Client Testimonials

“Allison Allen is the best trainer EVER! First of all, I am 73 years old and I HATE to exercise. Alli makes my time at AXIS fun. She is caring, sharp, funny, and great with the whip. She knows all my avoidance tricks and she doesn’t let me get away with anything. She makes me toe the line. When it is time to leave I am still happy to be finished, yet I always return.”

~Judy M.

“During my 30 years as a software engineer at Hewlett-Packard, I stayed in shape by running three to five miles a day and using the company’s fitness center. I first learned about AXIS when I retired and began looking for a new place to work out. I had some arthritis pain and the beginnings of osteoporosis. One of my friends suggested that I work with a trainer and specifically recommended Allison. Getting back into regular exercise helped me to lose twelve pounds and a dress size. I’m standing up straighter, and my balance has improved tremendously. At 84 years old I am proud to be able to do a chest press with 20 pound dumbbells, which has helped keep my arms in shape for sleeveless shirts! I’ve been absolutely delighted with Alli. She’s a very nice person, and we’ve become friends over the last 14 years that we’ve been working together.”

~Barbara P.

Adrian Lara

Adrian grew up in Redwood City, started his career as a personal trainer in 2013 after graduating Foothill community college. He started at a commercial gym in 2013. Adrian’s passion is to inspire, motivate and educate. His focus is strength building, functional training and Olympic training. His attention to detail to correct form and technique along with his passion to help clients achieve their goals is what makes Adrian unique. He has strong family values and was raised with a great work ethic that drives him to continue becoming a better person. “When I’m not training clients or working out, I love to hang out with my family and teaching my daughter how to beat up boys.”

Professional Details

• Certified Olympic Trainer
• A.A Physical Education
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Post and Pre natal Training 
• Pain – Free Performance Training 

Alfred Louchard

I’m Redwood City born and raised, and discovered fitness through football in high school. I was a really shy kid, and my passion for the gym was a good way to connect to my teammates through teaching them about good form/programming. 

I feel the mark of a great trainer is one’s ability to adapt to and understand their client’s goals and needs. I have always maintained a focus on helping my clients overcome the challenges they face in the gym whether it be an injury, imbalance, or just a need to be heard. This has led me to help out a diverse clientele that spreads from young men or women that are brand new to weight lifting, to experienced lifters recovering from surgery, to older clients with chronic conditions such as arthritis. No matter what it is that’s holding you back, we can overcome it, together!

Outside of the gym I like playing guitar, cooking at home, and hanging out with my daughter. She is definitely my biggest motivation to stay in shape. I refuse to be a lazy dad and have dreams of being her first and best coach. 

Specialties

• General Fitness
• Strength Training
• Injury Recovery
• Active Aging

Professional Details

• NASM – CPT
• Bilingual (Spanish)

Alysa Madrigal

Alysa was born and raised in Palo Alto, CA. She is a student at Foothill College, working toward her degree in Business Administration. She’s always had a passion for helping others, and creating a welcoming environment. She believes something as small as a smile can make someone’s day, which is why she loves being a part of the AXIS team and the welcoming environment they’ve created.

April Shea

I’ve been a licensed esthetician for 35+ years and have performed more than 10,000 treatments.

I’m the owner of Shea Clinical Skin Care and offer both in-clinic facial treatments as well as virtual consulting for those who need off-site support or live far away.

My goal is for my clients to be able to see their skin in a new way and love what they see.

I work with clients to address the common causes, prevention and treatment of dark spots (hyper-pigmentation) and aging.  Together we evaluate and treat skin issues thru state of the art home care regimens as well as physician and other provider referrals as needed.

I am a passionate educator about skin, health and wellness.  When I’m not working with clients I’m often hiking, gardening or cooking.  You may learn more about me by visiting my website at https://yourskinmatters.co.

Courtnie Steeves

Courtnie believes it is imperative that you do something active every day. Consistency is the key. If you put hard work and dedication into your training, you will get the results you deserve. Her specialties include sports medicine techniques, pre and post operative rehabilitation, and pre and post natal training.

Professional Details

• Humboldt State University, MS Sports Medicine/Athletic Training (2007)
• NATA (National Athletic Trainer’s Association) Certified Athletic Trainer (2001)
• American Red Cross, Certified Instructor for CPR, First Aid, and CPR for the Professional Rescuer with AED (1999)
• Certified Functional Movement Screener (2009)
• CranioSacral Level 1
• USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach
• Pre/Post Natal (ACE)

Client Testimonials

“I’ve trained with Courtnie for over 15 years. She keeps me motivated, challenged, and rewarded. My wife and I started at Axis in 2006 when we finally committed to get ourselves in better shape.  It was hard work, but so much fun. The transformation of my body and spirit amazes me.  In 2008 I completed my first triathlon and, thanks to Courtnie’s encouragement and training skills, I’ve completed over three dozen more triathlons including two Ironman races, several marathons, and a few century rides. The strength and flexibility work has been key to avoiding serious injury, and Courtnie is super-smart about recovery from the inevitable stresses and strains that come with training.  All this has made my athletic journey a thoroughly enjoyable experience.”

~Rick S.

David Shan

David grew up in Los Altos, California and graduated from San Diego State University with a B.S. in Kinesiology and emphasis in pre-physical therapy. During his time in school, David found his passion for helping others reach their fitness goals and decided to become a personal trainer by obtaining his ACE certification. He loves to share his passion for fitness with others and help them reach their goals through strength training and corrective exercises as he believes the best investment anyone can make is taking care of their own health.

Growing up, David played a variety of sports but ultimately fell in love with basketball and swimming. Now, basketball is his primary passion as he enjoys playing, coaching, and watching the sport. Outside of fitness related activities, David enjoys playing video games, reading, and getting food or boba with his friends. 

Specialties

• General fitness
• Strength training 
• Sport specific training (Basketball) 

Professional Details

• B.S. Kinesiology (emphasis in pre-physical therapy), San Diego State University
• ACE Certified Personal Trainer 
• CPR/AED Certified 

Doug Michael

Doug, originally from Bayard, Nebraska, has always enjoyed an active lifestyle. He became a trainer so he could help others to find the same enjoyment. Doug’s specialties include strength & conditioning, functional training, core & stability training, and tennis training. He believes exercise is only 40% of good health, the other 60% is what you do the rest of the day!

Professional Details

• NSCA Certified Sports and Conditioning Specialist, (CSCS)
• B.A., Sports Medicine, Dakota Wesleyan University
• B.A., Psychology, Dakota Wesleyan University
• TFW 1 & 2
• FR Lower Body
• FR Spine
• Certified ACE Pre/post Natal
• Cancer Exercise Specialist
• Onnit Steel Mace Certified

Client Testimonials

“I think Doug is excellent. He is not only very well trained, but he is also very intuitive when working with me. When I first started with him I was quite out of shape, many areas in pain and quite weak (right knee, right shoulder, hips). I feel I have made progress both in healing areas that were in pain as well as gaining strength in those areas. Basically, I feel very encouraged that I can actually get stronger and more fit and back to my previous level of fitness (something I did not believe before working with Doug.) Thanks Doug, you’re a life-saver! And fun to work with too.”

~Lynn G.

“We have been training with Doug for about four years now. We see great improvement in posture, flexibility and general well being. Even though we are… less young 🙂 we constantly make progress in physical abilities, strength and balance. Most importantly we have learned to listen to our bodies to understand how hard we can push and when to stop. And last but not least, Doug makes it pleasant to workout.”

~Catherine and Christian L.

Drew Doan

Drew grew up in San Mateo, CA and graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Kinesiology. Drew has participated in all kinds of athletic activities, including rock climbing, football, and soccer. Through these experiences he has grown to appreciate the importance of health and fitness.

Drew’s training philosophy is to educate, encourage, and inspire clients to lead  healthy lifestyle. He believes fitness should be fun yet still effective to improve the overall quality of life.

Drew has worked with many different clients, including those looking to lose weight, increase strength, and be fit.  He also has helped clients who had injuries to build up their strength and continue to progress post rehabilitation.

Specialties

• Fat loss (metabolic training/circuit training)
• Functional training
• Strength and conditioning
• Pre/post-rehabilitation
• General fitness
• Golf Training

Professional Details

• B.S. Kinesiology
• EMS Safety Services AED/CPR/ First Aid for adults, children and infant
• Pre/post natal certificate (ACE)
• Level 1 & Level 2 Training for Warriors Certificate
• USAW Level 1 & 2 Sports Performance Coach
• Functional Movement Screen Certification
• Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification
• Functional Range Conditioning Certification (FRC)
• TPI Level 1 Certification

Client Testimonials

“Drew quickly assessed my strong and weak points and has guided me through a program that has greatly increased my overall strength, fitness, and flexibility. He has gently and successfully encouraged me to do new exercises that I did not think I would be able to do. He is very attentive to his clients and is a true pleasure to work with.”

~Deirdre D.

Eli Spivak

Eli is a San Mateo native and graduate from the University of Nevada Reno, with a B.S. in Kinesiology. Growing up Eli competed in many sports mainly water polo, and wrestling. His current training for the last several years has been focused on his main passion, powerlifting, and recently added strongman events into his routine. Before joining AXIS, Eli worked as a high school strength & conditioning head coach, where he trained many different athletes helping them reach their goals. Eli is excited to be a part of the AXIS team and to share his expertise, and passion for training with his clients.

Professional Details

• B.S. Kinesiology

Specialties

• Powerlifting
• Strength & Conditioning
• Athletic Performance
• General Fitness

Jackie Moran

Jackie, born and raised in Redwood City, grew up playing sports through high school. That led to a love of fitness and a career as a personal trainer. Certified since 2004, Jackie’s experience includes working as a personal trainer at gyms in Menlo Park and Los Gatos, as well as internships at Foothill College. Jackie gained a lot of experience working in large fitness clubs but really enjoys the one-on-one attention she can give her clients in a more intimate setting. This allows Jackie to get to know her clients on a much deeper level, so she can support them in making more lifestyle changes as well as physical changes.

Jackie believes it is essential to incorporate exercise into our daily routine in order to lead a healthy life. Exercise raises self-esteem and the result is a better overall quality of life. She emphasizes functional training in order to compete in daily activities, as well as sport specific training for people looking to improve athletic performance. Jackie strives to teach people easy and fun approaches to fitness that helps incorporate exercise into daily life.

As a trainer, Jackie enjoys working with a wide range of people with varying experience in exercise. Jackie’s personal experiences include weight training, marathon running, and cross training.

When not training clients you can usually find Jackie doing something active. She especially enjoys running and hiking.

Specialties

• General Health and Fitness
• Flexibility Training
• Weight Loss
• Muscle Toning
• Core Strength
• Pre and Post Natal Training
• Healthy Behavior Change
• Cardiovascular Training

Professional Details

• ACE Certified Personal Trainer
• Foothill College Personal Training/Internship program
• BS in Health Sciences  
• ACE Pre/Post Natal Certificate
• Precision Nutrition Certified Practitioner
• Certified Health Coach
• Youth Fitness Specialist (ACE)
• Behavior Change Specialist (ACE)

James Ladden

James Ladden grew up in San Jose and started his career as a personal trainer after graduating from high school. He first began training clients while he was enrolled in the Kinesiology Program at San Jose State University.

“I was drawn to personal training because I like being able to make a difference in people’s lives,” he says. “It’s very rewarding to help someone get back to enjoying activities that they’ve missed due to an injury or surgery.”

James joined AXIS in August 2004 and soon established himself among colleagues and clients as a courteous and hard-working team player.

Outside of work, James plays softball at Twin Creeks and surfs in Santa Cruz. His black lab Shou-hey, which translated from Chinese means ‘little black,’ is usually not far behind!

Professional Details

• BS, Kinesiology, San Jose State University with an emphasis in Movement Science
• American Council on Exercise (ACE) Pre and Post Natal certificate
• Functional Movement Screen certified
• Training for Warriors Level 1
• Leadership Training Muster 003 & 006

Client Testimonials

“James is the best! In addition to being a super nice guy, he is very encouraging and has helped me tremendously. I can now do lots of things I couldn’t when I started. He makes exercise fun, and I’ve never felt that way before.”

~Leah R.

“James is one of the best trainers at AXIS. Patient, polite, personable, persistent, perspiration-inducing!”

~Claude A.

Jeremy Fernandez

Jeremy has been working at Axis since 2005. His client ages range from 16-87 years old. He specializes in a variety of fitness goals ranging from weight loss to injury rehabilitation and prevention. He believes that nutrition, stress reduction, and recovery are just as important as cardiovascular and muscular training.

Training Philosophy

No matter what your fitness goals are (weight loss, weight gain, injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, health improvement, strength and conditioning, or sports specific) we always start with an assessment to check for any muscular strength imbalances, flexibility imbalances, injuries, postural deviations, or asymmetries in the walking gait, before starting an exercise program. We will also briefly discuss how eating habits affect 60%-65% of your fitness goal. Speaking of goals, your exercise program should be goal oriented, especially for new exercisers. Fitness goals must be realistic and measurable in a way that you see your progress. Fitness programs are tailored to your fitness goals because everyone is different.

Specialties

• Golf Specific Training to effectively develop power, strength, flexibility, and mobility in the golf swing, and to reduce and or correct swing faults and injuries.
• Myofascial Release-a specialized stretching technique to treat patients with a variety of soft tissue problems. Put simply, it is stretching of the fascia.
• Stick Mobility Exercises
• Functional Range Conditioning Exercises
• Titleist Performance (TPI) assessments
• Strength & Conditioning
• Speed & Agility Training
• Weight Gain/Weight Loss
• Core & Stability Training
• Total Body Conditioning
• Circuit Training
• General Health and Wellness

Professional Details

• Titleist Performance Institute Level 3 Golf Fitness Professional
• Titleist Performance Institute Level 2 Power
• Super Speed Golf Certified Level 3
• Myofascial Decompression Therapy (Cupping) Practitioner
• B.S. Kinesiology, Athletic Training, San Jose State University (2000)
• A.A. Physical Education, College of the Sequoias (1997)
• Certified Athletic Trainer, National Athletic Trainers Association (2000)
• Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach, National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) (2000)
• Health Fitness Instructor, American College of Sports Medicine (2001)
• TRX Sports Medicine Level 1- Care and Rehabilitation of Athletic Injuries
• USAW Level 1
• FRC Certified
• Stick Mobility Level 2
• Ace Pre/Post Natal Certificate

Client Testimonials

“This coming September, Jeremy Fernandez and I will celebrate our tenth anniversary together as trainer and client! These years with Jeremy have changed my life-a thirty pound weight reduction; ‘wanting’ to exercise not ‘having’ to exercise; and constant compliments about how much younger I look. I owe this all to Jeremy who has made exercising a crucial dimension in my life.”

~Elizabeth B.

“He makes me laugh – and gets me fit – never gets me ‘off balance’.”

~Colleen B.

“Jeremy is a great trainer because he makes you work hard but never over your limit. This is especially helpful for people with injuries or restrictions. Jeremy works with you to get you healthier and stronger and you will see those improvements in no time!”

~Tina S.

Jodie Aguilar

Jodie was born and raised in San Mateo, CA. She attended the University of Oregon where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She believes attitude single-handedly has the power to completely transform your life, and she is grateful to the AXIS community for creating such a positive and uplifting atmosphere every single day. 

Jordan Casasos

Jordan is a Bay Area native and an aspiring Physician Assistant specializing in Sports Medicine Orthopedics. He has played a variety of sports from volleyball, football, and track. However, his unconditional love and passion for the game of basketball is what ultimately led him where he is today. 

His career first began as an Athletic Trainer intern at James Logan High School. Now, he has graduated from the University of San Francisco in 2020 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Over the past 3 years, he was a Physical Therapy Aide at Ace Physical Therapy in San Francisco. Under the direction of two physical therapists, he assisted patients with daily activities, instructed patients through their prescribed exercises, communicated treatment plans for patients with the therapeutic team, and assisted with therapeutic modalities and manual stretches. Currently, he is also working under the direction of an Orthopedic Surgeon at Dr. J Ting Sports Medicine and Orthopedics in Fremont as a Rehabilitation Specialist performing similar duties. Over the course of his career, he has trained and rehabilitated a wide variety of individuals. 

Specialities

• Sport-Specific Training and Performance
• Strength Training
• Core and Stability Training
• Functional Training
• Pre-Post Rehabilitation
• General Fitness

Professional Details

• B.S in Kinesiology
• BLS (CPR/AED) Certification
• EMT Certification (In progress)
• Certified Personal Trainer (In progress) 

Joseph Wong

Joseph was raised a majority of his life here in the Bay Area. Sports were not a huge interest for Joseph, but the aspects of fitness were something that he prioritized early into his college life. He currently works as a physical therapy aide as well as a personal trainer, two careers that compliment each other very well. He aspires to one day become an exercise physiologist and get his doctorate in physical therapy.

Joseph got his associates degree in kinesiology from Chabot College in May 2020 and obtained his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from CSU East Bay in May of 2023. Joseph spends his free time working on his own personal fitness and helping many of his friends reach their fitness goals. This inspired him to go into a field that could help people build healthy ideas with their personal fitness goals and expand his knowledge of exercise science. 

Some other interests of Joseph include painting, traveling, and spending quality time with his friends and family. 

Specialties

• Weight Training
• Balance/Gait Training
• General Fitness

Professional Details

• A.S Kinesiology
• B.S Kinesiology 

Lania Harris

Lania is someone who never thought she would find a family in the gym. She loves the family dynamic and the inclusivity that AXIS provides. Lania especially loves how welcoming everyone was to her when she joined the community. After working in and out of restaurants with the dream of being a private chef, she realized that wasn’t for her. Being part of the AXIS team has made her remember how much she truly loves helping people and making people smile. This has given Lania a renewed excitement about pursuing her associate’s degree in Human Resource Management at the City College of San Francisco. She believes anything is possible with the right support system!

Melodie Gutierrez

Growing up in John Steinbeck’s scenic Monterey County, Melodie had a very active upbringing, playing multiple sports, cycling, hiking, and swimming in hot springs and lakes. In high school she played tennis, basketball, softball and did various martial arts. During her senior year she suffered an MCL injury that halted her active lifestyle and taught her the importance of teamwork and being a part of something bigger than oneself. 

Attending college in the winter-stricken city of Boston, she lived in the gym, visiting it three times a day (morning workout, intramural basketball, dance class or Brazilian jiu jitsu). The gym brought her serenity and peace leading to her eventually changing her degree from international relations to kinesiology, exercise science. 

Melodie has worked as a strength and conditioning coach with high school, college, and professional athletes. She also has an ample amount of experience working with people of all ages, occupations, and post-rehabilitation injuries. She is passionate about bringing the best science-based practices to the general population to optimize everyone’s standard of living.

Specialties

• strength and conditioning 
• athletic development
• weight training
• muscle gain
• fat loss
• recovery and stretching
• olympic lifts
• partner workouts
• routine and program building

Professional Details

• Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise Science minor in Global Studies
• National Strength and Conditioning Association, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• CrossFit- L1
• CPR/AED Certified

Michael Erkiletian

Training Philosophy

The most important thing for me is educating my clients. I want them to be able to learn the concepts for themselves so that they can apply them when they are out of the gym. This way they can recognize the faulty movement patterns and correct them on their own.

Professional Details

• BS, Kinesiology, San Jose State University (2000)

Client Testimonials

“I have worked with Michael for ten years, and have gained in strength, flexibility, and kept my weight down under his supervision. I have had excellent attention to my aches and pains, and he has successfully and carefully monitored the exercise plan for me to avoid injury. He is also hilariously funny, enjoys life, and makes 6 am a fun time of day.”

~ Nancy M.

Nelson Manglinong

Born and raised in the Bay Area, I have always been interested in sports.  I loved playing and watching sports, but it wasn’t just the game that appealed to me; it was the science behind how our bodies evolve and even recover to achieve such great things.  

In 2012, I graduated with a degree in Kinesiology from the University of San Francisco. Prior to joining AXIS, I was a Rehabilitation Aide at VibrantCare Rehabilitation in San Carlos where I helped provide physical therapy to patients with various injuries. I also worked at the San Functional Restoration Program in San Francisco as a Trainer/Coordinator helping patients ease their work-related injuries physically, emotionally and mentally. I was also a Personal Trainer at Bally Total Fitness in South San Francisco where I coached clients with customized fitness programs specific to their goals and needs.  

To further my education as a Personal Trainer and deepen my understanding of Physical Therapy, I graduated with a Physical Therapist Assistant Degree from Ohlone College. In 2024, I officially obtained my license as a Physical Therapist Assistant.  

I am a firm believer that we are all capable of accomplishing anything we set for ourselves. Whether your goal is general fitness, rehabilitation or overall wellness, I will listen and work with you in order to provide the right tools that will lead you on your path to success. Together, we can make this experience worthwhile and fun! 

Professional Details

• Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology (University of San Francisco, 2012)
• Physical Therapist Assistant A.S. Degree (Ohlone College, 2023)
• Certified Personal Trainer (National Council of Strength & Fitness)
• Physical Therapist Assistant (Physical Therapy Board of California)
• Myofascial Decompression Certified Provider (Cup Therapy)
• Flash Reflex (FRX) Trainer (BlazePod Academy)
• FMS Level 1 (Functional Movement Screen)
• CPR/AED Certified

Specialties

• Functional Training
• Post-Rehabilitation
• Weight Loss
• Muscle Strength/Building
• Mobility
• Reaction Training

Salvador Gomez

I started training in 2015 in a commercial gym setting and have been at AXIS since 2017. I grew up playing soccer and got into training as a result of suffering a meniscus injury my senior year of high school that forced me to sit my final season out. As I went through the rehab process I instantly grew an appreciation and love for the thought behind the exercises we were doing and the results they produced. I took that same love and passion into the weight room and have since been on a never ending journey of learning and keeping up with the latest research and training methodologies. I find great joy in helping clients achieve new heights in their health, strength and level of fitness. 

Specialties

• Strength & Hypertrophy Training 
• Conditioning (for Sports/Events)
• Biomechanics (improving posture and restoring range of motion via assessment and training based protocols)
• Speed and Plyometrics (for sports and performance)

Professional Details

• NESTA- CPT
• CPR/AED Certification
• FRC- Functional Range Conditioning Mobility Specialist (FRCms)
• EBFA Global- Neurosensory Specialist
• Pinnacle Performance- 12 Week Biomechanics Course
• BioForce- Certified Conditioning Coach

Sarah Miller

Before joining AXIS in 2009, Sarah worked with Sacred Heart high school as a strength and conditioning coach for various sports teams, while doing personal training at Decathlon Club in Santa Clara. She attended NDNU on a basketball scholarship and graduated with a B.S. in kinesiology in 2007. After graduating, Sarah spent eight years working as an aide in a physical therapy office. There she learned the importance of biomechanics and that regression is crucial to long term progression. Sarah works with people of all ages and all levels using the movement systems of the body to give hard, effective workouts. “I think that posture is key to move efficiently and to maintain a balanced and structured body. I work hard to be a mentor for my clients because I firmly believe that goals are better achieved when we work together. I am here to motivate and educate my clients through tough efficient workouts that get results!”

Sarah’s Training Philosophy: Training should be a fun and challenging experience each time you step in the gym. My goal is to help you reach your goal by giving you the fight you need to make anything happen! High energy in the gym will transfer to high energy in life! I became a trainer because I want to help people feel better, physically and mentally. Success is contagious, and if my clients succeed then so do I!

Outside of AXIS, Sarah enjoys hanging out with friends and staying active. She loves snowboarding in the winter and traveling the California coast in the summer.

Professional Details

• B.S. Kinesiology NDNU
• NSCA-CPT
• NASM-CES
• NASM-PES
• Pn1
• ACE pre/post natal
• USAW Level 1
• CPR/AED/First Aid
• SFMA

Client Testimonials

“When I first began going to AXIS it was my intent to only go for about 3 months. I was just going to get a kick-start on an exercise program. It is 2 years later and I am still working out with my trainer, Sarah Miller. Sarah’s knowledge of physiology and exercise and her ability to make me feel comfortable in a gym setting are invaluable. She motivates me each and every workout to do my personal best and has even inspired me to exercise on my own outside of my time at AXIS. This is the first time in my life that I have exercised on a regular basis for this length of time and it is all because of Sarah.”

~ Sheila W.

Sarah has been my personal trainer for two and a half years now.  When I started working with her I had multiple physical ailments, was overweight, and was generally out of shape.   She developed a very specific physical training program that has been the single most important aspect of my  journey to health and fitness.  Her knowledge and skills as a Personal Trainer are only exceeded by her many personal attributes. Fun, Positive, Encouraging, Intelligent – All around a pleasure to work with.  I always look forward to my workout sessions with Sarah.

~ Daniel R.

Sergio Maldonado

I’m open for business for virtual training and wanted to use it as a platform to explain a little more of what I can do. I look forward to meeting you! Muchas gracias (that means thank you in Spanish)

I have been training clients since 2007 and working at AXIS since June of  2008, specializing mainly in fat-loss, youth training and performance training (training for sports or events). I believe fitness is different for everyone but must encompass a proper mindset, nutrition and lifestyle for the individual’s goals as well as needs. This all leads to having a more fulfilling life.

I am proud to still be with the very first client I began training 10 years ago. It’s a great feeling to have the same excitement for training that I did when I first started and love that I have so much more to learn. I feel fitness is a lifelong process that changes as we grow and develop. I am constantly working to better myself, and my training, so I can better serve my clients.

Five Non-fitness Related Facts About Sergio

• Loves the 49ers
• Puts hot sauce on everything
• Hates puzzles, less now than he used to
• Consumes hours of podcasts and audio books each week and reads real books too!
• Has claimed partial custody of his wife’s Chihuahua/Dachshund mix named Spice

Professional Details

• National Academy Sports Medicine (NASM): Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
• Precision Nutrition Level 2
• Nutrition Coach Russian Kettlebell Certified (RKC)
• Strong First Kettlbell Girya (SFG), Strong First Bodyweight (SFB)
• EXOS Rehabiliation Specialist
• International Youth Conditioning Association Certified (IYCA )
• Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) Mobility Specialist
• Athletes Performance Level 1 Certified
• Grey Cook Functional Movement Screen Certified (FMS)
• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)  Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
• CrossFit Level 1 Coach
• American College Exercise(ACE) Pre/Post Natal Certified
• San Jose State University, San Jose, CA B.S. degree in Business Administration: Management, concentration in Entrepreneurship, Minor: Kinesiology

Client Testimonials

“I have been working with Sergio for over 2 years. Even though I have always exercised regularly, I felt that something was missing from my workouts. My training with Sergio has focused on strength, conditioning and core work which has been a perfect complement to my usual cardio activities. I really notice a difference in my balance, coordination and energy level. Sergio listens to my feedback about what seems to work and what doesn’t, but also finds ways to challenge me and encourage me to try things I would not have considered without his guidance. I have been impressed with his knowledge and motivation to continuously improve his training techniques. Even though working out can feel like an arduous task, Sergio’s great personal style makes training enjoyable.”

~ Carma H.

“Since I’ve began training with Sergio, I’ve lost 20lbs and two pant sizes. He is a great trainer who is able to motivate and encourage me to push myself a bit more each time. He makes my sessions fun as well as educational. My overall stamina and endurance have greatly increased and I now know how to eat properly and exercise using proper form. I appreciate the fact that Sergio continues to further his fitness education by learning and taking classes to stay current on the latest research based techniques. Because of my sessions with Sergio, I am even more confident now when I exercise by myself outside of Axis and try different sports.”

~ Joe C, Training Since December 2010

“I have been working out with Sergio as my personal trainer for the past two months, and in that time I have lost 7 lbs, increased my energy level and improved my overall health. Sergio has a really well rounded approach to training that is not strictly limited to challenging me with workouts, but also includes advice on diet (what to eat and how much), supplements and lifestyle habits that have been really helpful too. He knows how to push you during workouts, but he also keeps it fun, informative and interesting so you don’t burn out. Before I started training with Sergio, I found it hard to fit exercising in to my life. So Sergio suggested scheduling 2-3 regular sessions with him per week (which gave me the discipline I needed to make working out a habit) and also recommended a lot of other “quick home workouts” that I could do during my off days. Two months later, the results are great and working out is a daily priority that I look forward to. Because of Sergio’s continued training, I know my results will just get better and better.”

~ Julian H.

“A less-than-desirable bone density test first led me to seek out Sergio. In addition to wanting to improve my test results, I also wanted to work on core strength and flexibility. After working out twice a week for eight months, what I have noticed is not only increased flexibility and strength, but a much more toned body and greater muscle definition. I wasn’t expecting that. It’s an added bonus. I look forward to my workouts with Sergio. Even the occasional day when I think I don’t want to work out, I end up feeling enthusiastic and energetic as soon as I start my session. I can’t wait to take that next bone density test!”

~ Stephanie N.

Stefan Schilder

Stefan discovered his love of fitness in 2006 when he joined a martial arts school. What started
as a hobby quickly grew into a passion as he experienced the benefits of discipline and rigorous
physical effort. In time he earned the opportunity to teach and gained the satisfaction of guiding
his students to develop physical strength, technical skill, and the confidence that grows from
overcoming challenges.

The fulfillment of helping others reach their goals combined with his drive to expand his
understanding of exercise science led Stefan to pursue a career in personal training. Certified
since 2015, his programs focus on establishing a foundation of strength on which to build
toward each client’s specific goals.

Stefan is new to the Bay Area. When he’s not in the gym, you’ll find him cooking for friends,
exploring his new neighborhood, and wishing he had a dog.

Specialties

• General Fitness
• Powerlifting
• Strength Training
• Martial Arts & Self Defense

Professional Details

• ACSM Certified Personal Trainer
• AAS Fitness Technician (Salt Lake Community College)
• CPR/AED Certified
• Black Sash, 2nd Degree: Wing Chung Kung Fu

Will Marts

I began my personal training career in Ohio working in multiple studios, gyms, and racket clubs. I worked with many athletes ranging from amateur to professional in sports like baseball, basketball, tennis, golf, and boxing. I then moved to Denver and acquired training techniques in a variety of mountain sports. I have now worked at AXIS for over 11 years with clients ranging from 15 years of age to 90. I enjoy all types of training because it constantly challenges me and motivates me to become better. Some examples of this include prehab, rehab, sport performance, metabolic, flexibility, and many more. I believe in working extremely hard to accomplish various goals but also feel that having fun is a key to life which is reflected in my training style.

I workout myself 4-5 times per week, participating in different activities such as basketball, skiing, biking, strength training, and anything outdoors.

Professional Details

• B.S. In education (The Ohio State University) focusing in the areas of sport performance and Fitness
• NASM
• ISSA
• PNF stretch certified
• CPR/AED certified

Client Testimonials

“My nickname for Will is Better, Harder, Faster, Stronger, both because he is that, and also because he has made me more of all of those things than I ever have been in my life, or ever would have believed it possible for me to be. He perfectly combines incredible knowledge, personalized attention and unbelievable motivation, encouraging each person to bring their best possible self in order to become their best possible self. I absolutely feel like he wants my goals for me as much as I do. He is fast, fun, and phenomenal in every way. For the first time in my my life, I became comfortable in my own body because of Will’s skills.”

~ Rose M.

“Will’s workouts are always inventive and intense. With his expert eye, he keeps you right on the edge of your capabilities, as he creatively mixes up what he has you doing. In addition, he is a lot of fun to work with, and he enjoys seeing the positive impact his workouts have on you.”

~ Bob M.

Yusuf Rizk

Yusuf is a Palo Alto native who is very passionate about fitness and health science. Yusuf played lacrosse and football in high school, where he found his deeply rooted passion for athletics. He is currently finishing up his undergraduate degree at San Jose State University where he is studying Kinesiology with a specialization in rehabilitation science. Yusuf aspires to work in sports medicine as a physical therapist or sports physician.

 In addition to training at Axis, Yusuf also works as a research assistant in the clinical exercise physiology lab at San Jose State, and interns as an athletic training assistant at Palo Alto High School. In the past, Yusuf has interned as a strength and conditioning coach at Stanford University, and worked as a barista (ask for pictures of his latte art!). 

In his free time, Yusuf loves trail running, reading, lifting, and going to concerts and music festivals. 

Specialities

• Strength & Hypertrophy training
• General fitness
• Bodybuilding
• Biomechanical assessment
• Group fitness

Professional Details

• B.S. Kinesiology: Rehabilitation science (expected May 2024)
• NASM CPT
• CPR/AED Certification
• NASM Certified Nutrition Coach (In progress)