★ 5

UPDATED. I have now been training with Brad for 16 months, and remain deeply impressed by his extraordinary abilities as a personal trainer. When Brad designs workout programs for our sessions, they are always 100% appropriate for my own unique circumstances and goals. His approach to training, for me, is the perfect mix of challenging me to work hard and make progress, while always providing encouragement and reassuring direction. I've never particularly enjoyed weight training in the past, but Brad has helped me actually begin to like it and feel confident engaging in it. I hope to continue working with him well into the future, and remain grateful for having found him. I could not recommend Brad more highly.

Source: Google

★ 5

HBR personal training has been good for me. My coach DaShawn is very knowledgeable and flexible that training with him often feels as therapeutic as a physical therapy in a way that he assesses and adjusts exercises according to how my body is doing on the day of training all the while you are getting the intensity of the personal training. I think it would be especially important and beneficial for those who have previous injuries. DaShawn is also so understanding of my work schedule and has been so accommodating, for which I'm so grateful.

Lastly, if you're looking to train together as a couple, I strongly recommend HBR personal training. It is a great fun way to spend time together and it promotes healthy conversations and life style changes at home. I'd recommend it over getting couples massage!

Source: Google

★ 5

Testimonial for HBR – Holistic Bodyweight Resistance Personal Training
On April 15, 2024, I was in so much pain that I randomly started calling personal trainers, desperately seeking help. What stood out about HBR (Holistic Bodyweight Resistance) was that I got to speak directly with the owner, Mr. Bradley. From the very first call, he showed genuine concern about my situation. I explained that I was suffering from severe lower back pain—my back felt tight and I had a burning sensation that extended from the middle to the lower part of my back.
Brad confidently told me that he believed the issue might not be my lower back, but my hips. He offered me a complimentary visit to assess the problem in person. When I walked into the gym, my back was on fire with pain. During the assessment, he applied pressure to different points in my back and hips, and to my surprise, I felt some relief almost immediately. The pain wasn’t gone, but it was noticeably reduced.
After about six months of consistent pain management sessions with Brad, focusing on pressure point therapy and holistic methods, my quality of life improved tremendously.
Now that my pain is under control, Brad has taken me to a whole new level of training. I used to be terrified of exercising because of my back issues. Every time I tried, I’d suffer setbacks. But that fear is gone. I now look forward to my weekly sessions at HBR and embracing new challenges. Each visit starts with a check-in on my pain level. If it's a 3 or higher, Brad adjusts my hips before we begin any workout. Once adjusted, I’m ready for any challenge he throws my way.
I truly believe God led me to call HBR. They don’t just train your body—they take a holistic approach to wellness. I call Brad “The Healing Hand”—he is a true gift from God.
Brad and his staff are warm, professional, and easy to work with. The gym environment is clean, well-maintained, and welcoming. Equipment is always sanitized, fresh water is provided, and sessions start on time.
I’ve worked with other personal trainers before, but none compare to the HBR team. Their focus on pain management and holistic wellness has helped me achieve goals I never thought possible. I’ve lost weight, built strength and endurance, and most importantly, I’ve gained confidence and control over my body.
Thanks to HBR’s program, my:
• Health has improved through fitness and nutritional guidance tailored to my unique needs and goals.
• Strength has increased significantly—with weight loss, better posture, and reduced pain, I feel stronger and more energetic than ever.
• Sanity and emotional well-being have been supported through their encouragement, helping me stay positive and motivated even on difficult days.
Brad and his team bring the complete package: knowledge, professionalism, motivation, and a willingness to meet you where you are. They create a positive, empowering, and transformative environment.
If you're looking for a place to improve your health, manage pain, and enjoy your fitness journey, I highly recommend the HBR personal training team. Working with them has truly changed my life.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training with Dashawn Grady for the past few months, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience. He is knowledgeable, motivating, and genuinely invested in helping me reach my goals. What stands out the most is his attention to form and personalized approach; he takes the time to understand what works best for my body and mindset. Every session feels purposeful, and I’ve seen real progress both physically and mentally. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a trainer who truly cares!

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I have trained with DaShawn for 3 months and just signed up for 3 more. He has led us through a really solid program that works the entire body and we feel stronger than ever. He's extremely knowledgeable. He helps explain the interconnectedness of the body and how to comprehensively build strength and flexibility. We work strategically and also carefully to not injure. DaShawn is great! The gym is only used for personal training so you have the whole gym to yourself and perhaps another trainer and client. No gym phobia or pressure from spectators 🤭. This is coming from someone who hates gyms. We highly recommend HBR!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out regularly with DaShawn from HBR since last July and have been tremendously happy with progress i have made since then. I'm in better shape now in my 50s than I was decades ago. He's been able to tailor exercises to not exacerbate an old injury and I have less back pain than I used to. Highly recommend Brad and DaShawn, you'll feel better about yourself mentally and physically!

Source: Google

★ 5

HBR is a great gym to go for top-quality personal training. The location is in an office building with ample parking spaces. The gym itself is clean, well maintained, and fully equipped with everything you need for a great workout.

I’ve been training with DaShawn for the past three months, and the progress I’ve made has been incredible. He designed a tiered program that continuously challenges me while staying aligned with my goal of slimming down and getting lean. Before working with him, I thought lifting weights would make me bulky, but he completely shifted my perspective. Now, I’m lifting weights I never imagined possible and seeing real results in the areas I wanted to improve. Plus, my tennis performance has improved significantly thanks to personal training.

Beyond the workouts, both DaShawn and Brad have an impressive understanding of the human body. Whenever I’ve had discomfort in my knees, ankles, or even tennis elbow, they’ve introduced stretches and adjustments that provide almost instant relief. When I’m doing squats, DaShawn can immediately tell if I’m relying more on one side than the other, and he’ll have me do a stretch or adjustment to help open up the tighter side. Their expertise and personalized approach have made such a difference in my fitness journey.

In addition to the physical training, I’ve also gained valuable insight into nutrition and learned what my ideal macros should be for weight loss. The guidance I’ve received has helped me stay on the path to reach my ideal weight.

I’ve enjoyed my sessions so much that I’ve already extended my program for another three months! If you’re looking for knowledgeable, supportive trainers who truly care about your progress, HBR is the place to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a dedicated customer for the past four months, I wholeheartedly give HBR Personal Training a solid five-star recommendation. My wife and I have experienced remarkable improvements in our balance, flexibility, stamina, posture, endurance, and weight through their exceptional one-on-one physical training sessions.

Their facility is not only clean and convenient but also equipped with top-notch training equipment and ample parking. Brad and Dashawn, the highly qualified and professional trainers, ensure that every exercise and stretch is performed safely, controlled, and effectively, preventing any risk of injury.

Each 60-minute session is designed to challenge and elevate your fitness level, with a focus on steady progress and noticeable results week after week. They lead me through a 60-minute exercise routine that is making a difference.

The personalized training has made a significant difference in my health, and I can confidently say it's worth every penny.
I strongly encourage you to sign up for HBR Personal Training and experience the transformative benefits for yourself. You won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome trainers, highly recommend! They specialize in spotting weakness and helping you to reduce pain, increase strength and flexibility. You will improve, get stronger and feel better! At least that's been my experience with everyone on staff.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad and his HBR team are excellent. I was making good progress on getting strength and movement back and suffered a fall while on vacation that fractured my ankle in 2 places so I've had to put personal training on the back burner for the time being. Brad and his staff have been great about working around my challenges, and I look forward to returning in a few weeks to start again!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad's workout programs not only keep me in better shape, but also help keep me injury-free in my sporting activities. I'm impressed not only by his deep knowledge of fitness and the human body, but also by how he personalizes my fitness routines to meet my needs. Whether you are an athlete in your prime or a senior citizen or just someone looking to improve your level of fitness, you will find Brad to be a super resource and a great guy to work with.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is an excellent trainer.

He has worked with me over several months and has helped me attain my goal of gaining strength while also reducing knee pain. My career requires hours on my feet and before seeing him, my knee would regularly swell up and limit my ability to work.

After working with him for several months I am happy to say that things have really worked out.

His team of other trainers are also excellent, and they work with my daughter. Who has also gained strength and agility in general and specifically for the sports she plays.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad helped me recover from a reoccurring hamstring injury. I came in for a quick fix, yet his knowledge has me coming back for continued fitness. The application and training direction are invaluable. Would highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is a tremendous trainer with a great understanding of the interdependencies of the body. He has provided me with a well-rounded workout routine that includes strength, corrective form, and specific at-home exercises to do in between our scheduled sessions. Have really enjoyed it, and look forward to continuing to work with Brad to achieve my fitness goals!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is a great trainer! Our son has been training with Brad for over a year and we've had a great experience. He's creative with the workouts and also incorporates mobility and stretching when necessary. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I am grateful that I found HBR and after only four visits I have seen a difference in my upper body strength, less stiffness in my hips and legs, and my attitude. I look forward to more training and hope to see more positive results.

Source: Google

★ 5

HBR is my go to trainer in Northern Virginia. My trainer is Brad, and he has worked to improve my core strength and flexibility. HBR also provides dietary recommendations to improve your health. Very happy to be a client

Source: Google

★ 5

I began looking for a personal trainer when I noticed lower back pain after my workouts in the gym. I chose Brad because of the reviews and his prompt response to my inquiry. After understanding my goals and my fitness level, he created the ideal workouts that were challenging but doable. Each workout varied, but they all built off the same fundamental skills and I could see my progression. He was quick to address my form or any pain that would come up during the workouts, and I still use these pointers in my own workout program now. I appreciate the flexibility with bookings, and training with Brad is very much worthwhile because he will challenge and ultimately improve your skillset, no matter where it is now.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've had a great experience in my time at HBR so far. DaShawn is an excellent trainer and motivator and has helped me to achieve the results I want, including more strength, muscle mass, and weight loss. I specifically like how they prioritize correct technique and strengthening all areas of the body. Would highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is an excellent personal trainer who has helped me regain strength back in my shoulder after an injury. He is very knowledgeable on stretches and tension releases in order to prevent future injury and stay out of pain. I've gotten a lot stronger since I started working with him and he has given me helpful tips to integrate into my day to day activities to keep myself engaged and active throughout my day. I think HBR is a great choice for anyone interested in getting back into strength training after an injury.

Source: Google

★ 5

Life changing. The best investment I could make to improve my quality of life. Brad is not only a trainer, he has the knowledge of a physical therapist. He diligently watches how each exercise is executed and if there is the slightest imbalance, he’ll have me stretch or release some nuanced muscle. I then feel like I have a new body part on the next round and can increase the weight to build strength. He stresses the importance of lengthening and loading my muscles and how strength prevents injuries. He assigns exercises that can be done with minimal equipment and body weight, critical for me since I travel frequently. He has profoundly helped me manage a new medical condition and push past my prior limitations. I would give 1000 stars as 5 stars if not enough for someone who can improve the trajectory of your life.

Source: Google

★ 5

I made the decision to train with Brad when I turned 60 because everything was starting to hurt – my knee when hiking, my shoulder when gardening, my back when just standing for too long. Three months in, I am amazed how much I’ve learned and how much confidence I’ve gained. Brad has an incredible grasp on body mechanics and has shown me how my pain is usually related to imbalances in musculature or flexibility. He has the knowledge and ability to identify underlying issues and craft exercises and stretches that improve my strength and flexibility while protecting the body parts that hurt. I feel fortunate to be on this path with him to better health and fitness. If you’re thinking about working with a trainer, I highly recommend you take Brad up on his offer of a free session. You’ll see right away what an extraordinarily knowledgeable and talented guy he is.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Bradley is one of the best personal trainers I’ve ever come across. He works with you on developing a plan with milestones and goals and pushes you each time to challenge yourself. He makes the workouts fun and he’s incredibly kind and just a really great person and coach. I feel so lucky to have found him at a time when I really needed to reset my life and improve my mobility,
lose weight, gain confidence - and most importantly - gain hope.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great personal experience training in person and to track progress with at home training.

Source: Google

★ 5

Bradley knows his stuff, and has kept this 65 year old injury free, and on a path to become healthy again. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is the trifecta of quiet peace, gentle strength and steadfastness in observing, challenging and uplifting his client each session. This is a strong motivator to continue with him and achieve strength and stamina. Thank you Brad.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad: Excellent. At once genial and professional. Clear instruction. Patience. Encouragement. Careful attention to the trainee.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad’s been really motivating and helping me get back in shape. Say goodbye to my Dad-bod!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have found Brad very helpful as I began to develop a fitness routine. He is very competent, paces the instructions very well, and always explains why we are doing particular exercises. I recommend him highly!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is far and away the best trainer I have ever worked with. He is knowledgeable, patient, and sensitive - key attributes for being able to tailor a workout to suit my needs as a 50+ client.

Brad is careful to work within the limits of what I am able to do, but also continuously challenges me to do more. We set up goals for body weight, strength, mobility and nutrition to keep me motivated. The progress we have made over the years has been remarkable. I can honestly say that Brad has helped me to get into the best shape in my life, and I can track it all with apps and physical exams. Best of all, no matter hard it is sometimes, I feel better after every session.

In short, Brad is keen to adapt a workout and nutrition plan for every period of my life. Whether it be one session a week or three; a home workout plan; a stretching routine for traveling; tips for healthier habits; or even suggestions on how to give myself a reward for hard work, Brad has been and incredible resource, friend and partner in well-being. I highly recommend him.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is amazing! Ive had posture issues for as long as I can remember and since I've started training sessions they are practically gone. I am always worried about injuring myself while working out, but thankfully Brad has taught me the correct form and mechanics behind my exercises to best ensure an effective and injury free workout. I have gotten much more confident in my ability to work out alone and have learned so much about my own body. I leave every session feeling amazing.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have only positive things to say about Brad! He’s an amazing personal trainer with knowledge about how the muscles and body works that goes beyond what I ever expected. Not only does he make accommodations based on my specific needs, he’s an all around great and fun person!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is a great personal trainer. I live in Ohio and while I was visiting my daughter in Arlington, Virginia she booked two sessions with Brad. He designed a workout for me that I do Monday through Friday. I download it on my IPad and follow him doing all the exercises. I am definitely getting stronger. It is so convenient I can do the program anytime in my day!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad has been my personal trainer for three years. He has designed a specific training regime for me that addresses my particular issues (fused big toe, right hip and lower back pain). The quality of his coaching is excellent. I now have better balance, am a stronger swimmer, and have added length to my golf shots. I highly recommend Brad as a trainer, in person or virtual, for a positive, pleasant experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

There aren’t enough positive things to say about Brad. I have had trainers over the years but Brad’s skill and professionalism are on a different level. A lot of trainers have a standard program and they tweak the program based on different clients but that is not Brad’s approach. Your program is customized to you and you alone.

Brad focuses on your individual goals. Your program (even each movement) is tailored to your body and skill depending on where you are in your fitness journey at any given time. He is an active listener and wants to know how you feel before, during, and after each workout. Based on the information you provide he adjusts the program to your needs.

I had spine surgery about 8 years ago so I was very nervous about weight lifting again but Brad put me at ease immediately. His knowledge of the human body is extensive and this was important to someone like me who has had any injury. He goes above and beyond by actively communicating with my physical therapist to ensure my program and movements are customized to what is going on with my body.

I live in DC and trained with him when he was at a gym a block away from my house but I followed him out to Alexandria when he opened his own space because I knew it was the best thing for me and my health journey–it was the right decision.

In addition to his skill and professionalism he is also an honest, sincere, and genuine person. He is the real deal and I am so grateful to have found him.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Brad for years now, and he's the only trainer I trust with my gym health! I have a history of back problems, and Brad's approach to spinal support and connectivity helps massively with inflammation prevention and recovery when I do have flareups. Brad's training philosophy helps to keep me pain-free and gives me strength and trust in my body for day-to-day and work activity. Brad genuinely cares about helping to meet your health and fitness goals and tailors programs custom to your needs. Can't recommend him highly enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with Brad for over 4 years, and he is both experienced and committed. I began after hip replacement surgery to gain strength, flexibility, balance, stability, and coordination.

Brad is focused on my goals and tailors each session to achieve them. He makes every session challenging and fun and varies each workout, so I never get stuck in a routine. I have seen improvements in my posture, core strength, overall fitness level, and my ability to lift progressively heavier weights and push myself harder through each session. And I’m almost 70 years old!

– He ensures that my technique is always correct to avoid any injuries.

– He is reliable, punctual, and always ready to start training with an exercise routine planned.

– He is positive and encouraging, and takes a holistic, mind/body approach to training.

I would highly recommend HBR Training and Brad to anyone looking to improve their fitness for any reason.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Brad for about two months now, and he’s been fantastic. I feel stronger, have more stamina, and can lift more weight too. He’s extremely flexible and works with me at where I’m at, including accounting for my college knee injuries. There’s been no pain at all, just consistent challenge. Highly recommend training with him, it’s been one of the best things I’ve started all year. In fact, I liked it so much, I got my partner to start training with Brad as well.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training with Brad for almost 3 years, and have followed him as he’s moved from downtown DC to Alexandria. He is knowledgeable, personable, and tailors his program to each client. My goal was to get stronger and more toned, and I have been able to accomplish that with Brad. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is great! I went to the gym regularly pre-COVID and had a bit of tough time adjusting during lockdown. I tried a couple different things/programs, but it wasn’t until I started working with Brad that I enjoyed my workouts and felt that I was making progress. My weekly programs have been great and he has been able to adapt them easily as my needs have changed. And it’s just as great of an experience in person in his new gym! Would definitely recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is one of the best trainers I have ever worked with! It is clear he is passionate about exercise and kinesiology because he easily finds the weaknesses in my body that are holding me back and strengthens them so I can continue to improve towards my fitness goals.

Before I met Brad I had been working on getting a single pull up for 5 years he helped me reach my goal in less than 6 months and now I am doing multiple consecutive pull ups!

One thing I really appreciate about working with Brad is that he created a workout routine tailored just for me and my goals. He also asks everyday how I’m feeling so he can make sure every workout is meeting my needs for that day.

Source: Google

★ 5

Training with HBR has been amazing! I've learned so much about fine tuning my training. Their knowledge of how the human body works led me to focus on weak areas of my body that were holding other areas back. They've also taught me a lot about how to recover from injury well. Highly recommend training with HBR!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad has been one of the best trainers I’ve had in my life. He’s not only very knowledgeable of the human body and how to workout, but he is understanding and gets to know every single one of his trainees to create a personalised motivation technique.
He trained me in 2017 and I lost 10% body fat in 6 weeks.
Thanks Brad, you are missed in Toronto

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is thoughtful and professional, always personalizing programming to meet my specific needs, strengthening my weaknesses and imbalances. I feel accomplished after every single session, and walk out the door knowing I'm a little bit closer to reaching my goals. The space is clean, spacious, with lots of natural light!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have trained with Brad Higgins for a number of years and I would recommend him as a trainer to anyone. He has a new studio in Alexandria and I suggest anyone looking for Trainer take the time to visit and meet Brad. You will not be disappointed.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working out virtually with Bradley last year during the shut down because of the pandemic. I had gained weight because the gym was closed. Anyway, Bradley put together a virtual program for me that was age appropriate, helped me lose weight and gain muscle. It was miraculous to see the gains after only three months – working at home with bands. I even kept on with the program for six more months despite the gym re-opening.

Last summer, I had an encounter that made me seek out Bradley again. He helped with self-defense that really boosted my confidence, plus the weight loss was an added bonus. When the stress of my job kicked in high gear, he was available to assist with stretching and strengthening my core and back, which was a big relief. Bradley showed me that as I age, I need to proactively stretch in the morning, and no longer take for granted my health. My back is better, as long as I keep stretching and strengthening my muscles.

I’ve stuck with Bradley for a year and a half because he has truly helped me, he listens to me, he tell me the honest truth (which I don’t want to hear sometimes), and is compassionate. Because of all those qualities, I enjoy working out with Bradley – despite the pain, stretching, pushing, and soar muscles the next day. But I love it. He motives me to work out better and smarter.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a client of Brad's for three years and his training has been transformative. From the beginning he clearly understood my goals -- physical preparedness for my quickly approaching senior years -- and he has guided me through training to achieve strength, stability and quick reflexes. I'm grateful for the results his expertise has brought me.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am well into my senior years and the lack of activity during the Covid 19 epidemic weakened my muscles and effected my balance. Training with Bradley Higgins has been a blessing. He assessed my strengths and weaknesses and developed an individualized program for me. I have improved greatly and have regained my self-confidence. Bradley is a professional fitness trainer with a deep understanding of the human body and the ability to motivate. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants to reach their fitness potential.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with Brad for about five months, and I've loved my experience! Not only do I feel stronger, but I also have noticed that my posture has improved and my running has gotten better. Brad is very positive and encouraging, and knows just the right amount to push me during a work out. I've also learned a lot about how different muscle groups work and how the exercises he gives me factor into my overall health. I would definitely recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been fortunate to have great personal trainers in several different parts of the world, so when I say Brad is the best it's with lots of experience. What I think makes him so great is his tirelessly researching new methods and assembling a team of other experts (Like Physio therapist Jesse).
Personal Training is just a job to some, but to Brad I believe it's a way of life. I might go so far as to say it's his calling.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have worked with Brad of HBR Personal Training for over three years. I was immediately drawn to his personality and expertise in resistance and cardio training and nutrition. Before I started working with him, I could not walk up a flight of stairs without being winded, and I was drinking nearly a pot of coffee a day. At that time, I received a medical diagnosis that was very fragile and knew that I needed to make changes in my life but was unsure where to begin ... I already had an unused gym membership with a chain fitness company. When I started working with him, I was unable to do pushups without modification. Since that time, I have seen huge leaps in my resistance and cardio training. I am proud of routinely deadlifting, squatting, and bench pressing heavy weight, as well as completing challenging HIIT workouts. As a bonus, he also does nutrition coaching that fits any dietary modifications, including vegan/plant-based diets that ensure your macro/nutritional needs are met. Brad has exceeded the expectations I had for a trainer. For the first time, I am now incorporating nutrition and fitness into my life rather than the other way around, which is why it never worked for me before. He has helped me create and maintain sustainable lifestyle modifications that work with my busy schedule. I have a new perspective of what health and wellness look like now that I have partnered with him. Looking back over this time, I do not rely on caffeine for energy, I am certainly not winded by a flight of stairs, and I feel as if I have regained control of my health. I have faithfully completed my workouts with Brad for over 3 years, and I have canceled my previous chain gym memberships. I would highly recommend HBR Personal Training for all fitness levels, especially for the busy professional who might have lost sight of fitness or who is looking to take their fitness to the next level.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brad is a great coach and has a vast knowledge of fitness and a fantastic ability to help you achieve your goals. I did personal training with Brad for a year, and while I had to stop because I moved he continued to help with online coaching and made keeping active easy and engaging. When my girlfriend joined sessions he was able to adapt exercises to suit her needs and abilities while also keeping up with my workout. I would recommend Brad to anyone no matter their skills or experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

After taking a break from exercise due to COVID - my partner and I were ready to get back into a routine but wanted to make sure we were maximizing our time. Brad is excellent at teaching the basics - helping to develop a nutrition plan as well as a weekly exercise routine that helped us learn and see results quickly. I’d recommend Brad to anyone who wants to get back in the swing of things. He’s responsive and very much cares about your progress.

Source: Google