★ 5

RJ has been my personal trainer for the past 8 years thru the pandemic. He is knowledgeable and resourceful in various fitness/athletic training methods and theories. He will gets you the most appropriate exercises to do and programs to follow from his vast knowledge to help you achieve your goals in the most effective way.

Source: Google

★ 5

I cannot speak highly enough about my experience working with RJ! His knowledge of the science behind fitness and how the body responds to different exercises to reach specific goals is unparalleled. RJ takes a comprehensive approach to training and helps make sure you see real results. I've worked with a handful of trainers, and RJ's methods really stand out, and allowed me to see the most success.

RJ always tailors everything to fit his clients unique needs and abilities, adjusting as you progress to make sure you're constantly challenged.

Thanks to his guidance, I made incredible progress and was in the best shape I'd ever been (in my life!). If you're serious about taking your fitness to the next level or even learning how to train/workout for the first time and want to work with someone who is truly invested in your success, RJ is the person you need to work with. You won’t regret it!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Training with RJ has leveled-up my fitness journey in ways I never thought possible! I was a distance runner that hated the gym for many years and was reluctant to start weight training as part of my recovery. However, after three years of working out with RJ, strength training has both improved my cardio and is something I look forward to on its own. Can recommend RJ enough to the goal oriented fitness enthusiast!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with RJ since 2016. I think the fact that I kept working with him virtually through the pandemic after our gym closed and then followed him to a new gym says a lot about what I think the quality of his training is and just what a great person he is overall. I always look forward to our sessions even though I have to wake up at an ungodly hour to make it happen.

I was in the middle of a very long recovery from a car crash when we first started working together and RJ was great about being flexible with my condition because I never knew when a back flare up would hit and we'd have to alter our workout plan. He really knows how to break things down into easily understandable parts for clients of any experience level and is happy to learn how to help you work through injuries or health issues. I've learned so much from him over the years and he's taught me how to manage my conditions outside the gym as well. You can't do better than RJ!

Source: Google

★ 5

I can't recommend Acosta Trains enough! From the very first session, RJ made a huge impact on both me and my husband. He has this incredible ability to motivate us, pushing us just enough to challenge our limits while keeping the sessions fun and engaging. His energy is contagious, and it’s clear that he genuinely cares about our progress. I've already lost 15 pounds, and I can honestly say that it's thanks to his expertly tailored workouts and constant encouragement. Every session feels fresh and exciting, never boring. If you want someone who will keep you motivated and make every workout count, RJ is the trainer you need!

Source: Google

★ 5

Before working with RJ, I felt intimidated by strength training, especially in a gym that often felt like a male-dominated space. Despite being an active person (practicing yoga, pilates, dance, biking, climbing) I had never properly learned how to lift. I tried group strength classes at various studios, including Equinox, but I was never sure if my form was correct or if I was targeting the right muscles. Movements like squats, bench presses, deadlifts, pull-ups, and hip thrusts all felt unfamiliar.

RJ completely changed that. He made strength training approachable by breaking down techniques in a way that made sense and reshaped how I thought about training and eating. Growing up I was told women should focus on cardio and “toning” rather than lifting heavy, and because of that I never understood the benefits of progressive overload or proper fueling. RJ helped me unlearn those outdated ideas and showed me that lifting heavy wouldn’t make me bulky—it would make me stronger, more capable, and help me achieve the physique I actually wanted.

He gave me the confidence to lift heavier and push toward my goals (especially glute growth) and I loved seeing my progress! I also went from zero pull-ups to three in a row. The physical gains were exciting, but the biggest transformation was in my mindset. Now, I walk into the gym knowing exactly what to do. If you want a trainer who truly knows their stuff and will help you feel stronger and confident in the gym, RJ is the one!

Source: Google

★ 5

Training with RJ has absolutely transformed my body. I am 6' 2" and it has always been difficult to gain weight and increase strength, but in a year, I grew 10lbs of muscle and went from benching and squatting half of my body weight to my full weight. RJ created a personalized workout plan to steadily and safely increase the load by using body weight to dumbbells and eventually barbells. He also emphasizes the importance of mobility exercises and my hips and shoulders feel better than ever at age 36. Most importantly, RJ is just a great dude to kick it with and our sessions have been something to look forward to every week. If you're searching for the best trainer in the city, look no further!

Source: Google

★ 5

RJ is an incredible trainer who takes the time to get to know his clients and effectively guides them to new, previously unachievable levels of sustained fitness. RJ creates tailored and varied workout routines for his clients by using his extensive knowledge of how exercises impact different muscle groups and his understanding of his client’s fitness goals and capabilities. In terms of results, he has helped me and my wife lose 20 lbs in 6 months and help keep the weight off. I feel way more healthier than I have ever been in my recent years. He coaches clients through their technique to avoid injury and maximize gains, but also positively motivates his clients to push through a workout. If you want a lotta gains, go with Acosta Trains.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you want to hit your goals, check out RJ. It took awhile for me to find the right personal trainer in the Bay, but that eventually led me to Acosta Trains. RJ is not only super knowledgeable but also very patient and knows when to push you further. Not to mention, a great guy who treats you like a friend each session. I was able to build the lbs. of muscle I was aiming for, and feel all around stronger/healthier. 100% recommend working with RJ.

Source: Google

★ 5

RJ is a tremendous trainer. I actively train and compete in Brazilian jiu jitsu and was recommended to work with RJ. I have had several trainers in the past that were fine, but RJ completely changed my game. Very knowledgeable, great to work with, and focuses a plan around goals and milestones that demonstrate progress. Can’t recommend enough

Source: Google

★ 5

Working with RJ for the past couple of months has been a hugely rewarding and interesting experience. His deep knowledge of fitness and body mechanics is truly impressive, and evident in his personalized routines tailored to my goals. His easy going personality has made every session enjoyable and low stress. He has a sharp eye for improvement, pushing me to find my limits while ensuring proper form and technique. If you’re looking for a top-tier trainer who combines expertise with an easy approach and killer playlist, look no further!

Source: Google

★ 5

I cannot recommend training with RJ enough!! I’ve been training with RJ and my best friend since the beginning of the Pandemic (first virtually and now in person) and it has been the absolute highlight of my fitness journey. When I first started I had absolutely 0 experience weight lifting or even going to the gym for anything other than cardio but training with RJ has helped me fall in love with weight training.

In a few years I went from using my flip flop for Turkish Get Ups to regularly hip thrusting 205lbs, PRing deadlifts at 205lbs, and 185lbs in squats!! (It would have been a shorter journey without Pandemic restrictions, but I’m still very excited to only get stronger from here 💪🏼)

RJ is such an incredibly well rounded and informed physical trainer that I’ve never felt anything but 100% confident in every exercise, he really focuses on form and injury prevention and helps you think about your body and it’s positioning in ways I’ve never given much mind to, he really makes sense of physical training in a way I’ve never experienced before. He’s also well versed in mobility and stretching which was really important when recovering from grade II ankle sprain last summer.

I absolutely adore RJ as a trainer and now friend, he’s such a wonderful person to spend time with that I come out of every session with him rejuvenated and confident, if you’re looking for a trainer please do yourself a favor and book a session with RJ ASAP!! If I could, I'd give him 500 stars/5!

Source: Google

★ 5

RJ is an amazing trainer and the only person that I trust to train and motivate my loved ones!

I've known RJ since 2016 and my training sessions haven't just improved my physical and mental well-being, they've also gotten me through some of the toughest periods of my life. With him, I have a regular practice that enables me to focus on building strength, increasing mobility, and improving my overall wellbeing.

RJ continually pushes his clients while also always prioritizing safety. He asks you about your goals and helps you get there. I remember telling him a couple of years ago that I wanted to grow my glutes, I can now easily hip thrust 205 Ibs without any qualms!

I've trusted RJ to train my closest friends (they wanted to increase strength), partner (he wanted to improve mobility & complement his running practice), and my mom (over 60 years old/wanted to prioritize mobility). With each person, RJ assesses their needs, asks them about their goals, and recommends challenging, realistic, and safe routines.

100/10 trainer and person! I'm so thankful for him. Take your fitness journey to the next level by training with RJ.

Source: Google

★ 5

RJ has been an exceptional trainer since I've been training with him. I appreciate his positive attitude and knowledge to tailor specific workouts for my personal strength training goals. He has helped me accomplish strength goals that I did not think were possible for me to achieve. I have gone from barely being able to lift a 40 pound kettlebell to deadlifting twice my body weight and bench pressing my body weight. RJ's training has helped me achieve my goals and maintain proper form for strength training.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with RJ for many years now, starting when I was in my 50s and gravely out of shape. He is thoughtful and observant and through the years has helped me build great (& I hope lifelong) fitness habits, increasing my personal strength and flexibility, sometimes beyond what I’d personally dreamed I could be capable of, and having fun while doing it. I highly recommend him!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with RJ for several years now. Always accommodating, always flexible. He is positive and supportive. He adapts his training regimen for the individual needs of his clients. For me, my given sport is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He trains BJJ as well so knows the demands and specific needs. He emphasizes the entire package of fitness and can adapt the training to whatever current state of injury I am in. I always come out the other end stronger and more functional. From, mobility exercises, prehab exercises to prevent injury, and big compound lifts to keep you stronger and functioning at an optimal level no matter what you do in life. Workouts are progressive, efficient and tailored to the individual. I can't say enough good things about RJ. He is also a nice person which is also a plus when you're spending a lot of time with someone. The gym he trains out of is excellent. The people are cool, the gym is clean and has all the equipment you need to train. Thanks RJ!

Source: Google

★ 5

RJ is really great! I started training with him as a pre-hab for my totally hip replacement. I wanted to gain strength before the surgery to make sure the recovery is smooth. RJ helped me do exactly that! I was back to exercising in just 6 weeks. I still work out with him today.

Source: Google

★ 5

RJ Acosta is a fabulous trainer. My wife and I have been training with RJ for 5 years now. He has helped me lose (and maintain the loss of) over 60 pounds while setting new personal bests (165 pound deadlift!) and eliminating back pain. He is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of training (e.g. mobility work, weight training etc.), very patient and flexible and a wonderful coach.I highly recommend RJ and urge you to work with him.

Source: Google