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Personal trainerAbout the Club
Our Vision is to use Fitness as a catalyst of training that empowers each individual to know who they are.
Knowing who we are INTENTIONALLY builds joyful, connected, confident, and disciplined people within thriving families across GLOBAL COMMUNITIES
Karacter Beyond Fitness is a private training facility. We serve the communities of San Juan Capistrano and surrounding areas.
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Reviews
Mickey Wilson Ph.D.
★ 5
Dedicated coaches who know their stuff
Source: Google
Lori Loyd
★ 5
Kamal and team at Karacter Beyond Fitness are amazing! I was new to strength training when I began the program. Kamal and team are amazing at teaching all levels and helping with form as well as encouragement. The small group setting and personalized programs make all the difference! I highly recommend!
Source: Google
Ivy Viola
★ 5
Thank you Kamal! Your attention to details and movement always keeps me coming back to see you! You’re incredibly focused on each of your clients health and proper movement to reach their goals so thank YOU! Ian - you always know when to correct me but more importantly you always know when it’s time to dance! Thank you for the weekly encouragements and chatter! 2025 consistency…LFG!
Source: Google
Nicole Heineken
★ 5
I wanted to thank Kamal for helping me with my view of discipline and balance. I'm physically and mentally in a better space, the best part is that it feels sustainable!
Source: Google
Teagan Barnes
★ 5
Karacter has been a game-changer for my fitness journey! Since joining, I’ve become much more consistent in my workouts, and it’s all thanks to Kamal and his team. They are incredibly attentive and take the time to create a personalized plan tailored to my goals and needs. Karacter has been instrumental in helping me gain confidence with weightlifting and perfecting my form, which has led to amazing results. The supportive community here with the team and the gym members makes each session enjoyable, and I always leave feeling motivated. I couldn’t be happier with my progress and am so grateful to be a part of this gym.
Source: Google
Brittany Ortiz
★ 5
It is incredibly difficult to find a gym that focuses on body awareness and functional movements over trying to do as much as possible, as fast as possible, and at risk of injury. Karacter is that diamond in the rough. I was looking for a place that really focused on the "micro" aspects of strength training that are often ignored--slight changes to movement that feel small, but actually make the biggest difference. More importantly, I was also looking for a place that would focus on the level I am at while also helping me to level up at a reasonable pace. You WILL build muscle here, no doubt, but the emphasis is on making sure you are moving correctly and with intention. If you're looking for long term stability instead of fast, unsustainable results, then this is the place for you. Much love to Coach K and Coach Ian!
Source: Google
Kimberly Tulo
★ 5
I highly recommend Karacter Beyond Fitness. Kamal and Ian are excellent trainers, energetic and really know what they are doing. I have been training here for 4 months now after not working out in over a year and I am more mobile and stronger than before. I love that it is small group training and we each have our own individualized plan for fitness.
Source: Google
Karin Nielson
★ 5
I love my work outs with Kamal, he keeps me motivated and always with a smile, Big Thanks Kamal!!!
Source: Google
Julie Denault
★ 5
Source: Google
Mary Pluff
★ 5
I have been working with Kamal, owner of Karacter, for 3 years. A few years ago, I was feeling lost in my health and weight loss journey. After 40, it seemed so much harder to stay fit. I knew what I should have been doing but could not muster the motivation and discipline needed to do. I reflected on what worked in the past and decided I needed scheduled classes that worked around my family's schedule (3 kids and husband) and full time job. I needed the workout to be mapped out for me and a class time to do it. I found exactly what I needed with Karacter!! I've lost about 15 pounds and over 10% body fat. I feel healthy and happy.
Karacter is a place that looks at you as the whole person you are and develops a program based on your needs. I am so happy to recommend Karacter. I love this place and know you will too!
Source: Google
Jennifer Parker
★ 5
I'd like to pause and reflect on the last 6 months of my fitness journey, 6 months ago I looked in the mirror and thought to my self, who is this? Where was the little athletic gymnast that I always was? Then the wake up call hit....2 kids, Working Career Mom, Desk Work, Brain Fog, poor energy levels and before I knew it my health came last. I was embarrassed to even move my body it had been so long. Then my good friend introduced me to Coach Kamal and said I had to give Karacter Beyond Fitness a try! I was hesitant to go to what I thought was 'another cross fit gym', I didn't want to get injured or intimidated. But the minute I heard Kamals voicemail calling out my name and encouraging me to set my first assessment, I was instantly inspired. Coach Kamal was vibrant full of energy and welcomed me so warmly. Him and Coach Ian took his time to analyze my strengths and weakness both physically and mentally and thoughtfully curated a program customized to my needs. 6 months later I am mentally & physically in a place I never thought I would get too. Kamal ignited a flame in me that had only been dimmed and launched me into a healthy fitness & nutrition routine that have become daily habits without thinking twice. Coach Ian & Kamal do not let me slack off, they hold me accountable and are the reasons I stay motivated to keep coming back, if this has only been the 1st 6 months I cannot imagine what Karacter Fitness will do for my health by the end of the year! God bless both you for getting me where I am today, forever grateful and could not recommend this Fitness Studio more than to those who need that extra push to get started.
Source: Google
Dustin Hancock
★ 5
If you are looking for a movement specialist and a team that jjust gets it, it is here at Karacter. Kamal understands how to push you to an Elite level or just a doable workout focused on function or preservation. I am a doctor and only trust a few people out there, but Kamal and Ian have a passion and are smart dudes.
I promise the time and investment with a team like this is worth every cent.
Thank you again guys getting me back to a healthy head space.
Source: Google
Ramona Montiero
★ 5
Kamal and the team @Karacter are amazing. His infectious personality and passion makes me want to work out even as a sedentary 65 year old. He will modify the workouts to fit your needs. He truly cares about your well being.
Source: Google
Juaneice Munoz
★ 5
I have worked with Kamal at Karacter fitness for the last 2.5 years and I could not be more pleased. I have struggled through a number of health challenges over the last few years and Coach Kamal and his team were pivotal in helping overcome several challenges. Kamal takes a special interest into each one of his clients and their overall well being. I am a very busy working professional and working with Karacter fitness has allowed me to incorporate a complete lifestyle change. I would highly recommend working with Karacter Fitness. You will not regret it!
Source: Google
Pam Zedick
★ 5
Having spent 3 months training at Invictus, it has been instrumental in my fitness journey. Each workout continues to challenge me to be stronger, faster, better! What a confidence booster that has been! Coach K and Ian are expert in their patience and ability to teach you movements and exercises designed with your fitness goals in mind that get results. So much more than a gym...it's a community of like-minded, goal-oriented warriors who get things done!
Source: Google
emma bernstein
★ 5
I only trained at Invictus for 3 months to prepare for my upcoming collegiate soccer season, but in those 3 months I was constantly supported and surrounded by a positive community. I was able to achieve my goals in such a short amount of time and now feel so much stronger than I did before.
Source: Google
Blaine Tanner
★ 5
Thank you Kamal and Ian
Your scientific approach to fitness has taken me further than I had hoped for.
I will be back next summer to improve again. I will incorporate some of your methods into my regular routine
Best
Blaine
Source: Google
Eileen Medrano
★ 5
Invictus has been a game changer. I am stronger. I have more energy and just feel better overall. My coaches offer the support and guidance I need to do the exercise correctly without getting hurt! Great energy and motivation!
Source: Google
Stefan Pastor
★ 5
It was a great experience being a member. Truly kind and caring group of people who want to improve you physical and mental lives.
Source: Google
Michaela M.
★ 5
Starting at Invictus I had no clue how to incorporate heavier weights into my workout and use the correct form. Through the small group personal training I not only feel more confident working out but I have also gained a wonderful supportive community. Kamal is the absolute best - his coaching sessions have gotten me through tough weeks and he is always there to support us all. He makes sure to monitor form and modifies workouts based on your needs and health concerns. Prior to working out at Invictus I struggled with tons of soreness in my calves after workouts that prevented me from going on long walks and running and now I can run multiple times a week and not have anywhere near the same soreness. Very happy to have joined Invictus!
Source: Google
Nicole Fly
★ 5
Atmosphere is fun and friendly. Josh and Kamal are great trainers. The workouts are progressive, personally geared toward your goals, and easily fit into a busy schedule. I have loved my time here!
Source: Google
Trisha Eveler
★ 5
What a great workout option… fantastic coaching, physically and mentally. This group knows how to build custom tailored plans that are realistically sustainable. The small group classes feel like personalized training. Kamal is FANTASTIC!!
Source: Google
Stephanie Flora
★ 5
I started Invictus over 3 months ago and have already seen such a difference in my body and thought process. This is more than just a workout. It’s a comprehensive personal workout catered to your bodies needs. The trainers are motivating and friendly. The weekly coaching calls have changed my outlook on the way I think about food, my body and my outlook on life. Highly recommend for anyone looking to improve their overall health.
Source: Google
Rod Morales
★ 5
Source: Google
Rob Wagner
★ 5
It's one thing to be a competent fitness coach and personal trainer. But it's quite another to sense that your trainers really, truly care about your health, welfare and success. In Josh and Kamal at Invictus Fitness Solutions, you'll have both. They are as patient as they are professional. They know how to push you to your limits without pushing you over the edge. Oh, and bonus points: They are really fun to be around. The positive energy in their studio is shared by trainers and clients alike. If you are looking for a caring, encouraging, individualized approach on your quest for better health and fitness, I can't think of a better place to be.
Source: Google
Victor Santana Jr.
★ 5
The best gym ever with the best trainers and team. The members here are people who want to incorporate Fitness into their lifestyle and increase their strength and Mobility.
Source: Google
Grace Emmerton
★ 5
After many months of DIY fitness programs and arbitrary nutrition plans, I decided to put my health and fitness into the hands of professionals. I thoroughly researched all of the options in my area and, after a really great phone call with Josh, I was sold on Invictus. This being my first foray into the world of personal training, my only point of reference for what this experience would be like are your archetypical gym-buffs. You know, the over-zealous, high-intensity gym rats who promote their own line of pre-workout and exclusively wear tank tops. The type of personality that may make one wary of walking through the door.
However, Josh and Kamal could not be more different. They're educated, kind, motivating trainers and coaches who understand how your body works and truly take the time to get to know your wants, needs and goals. I knew that I would receive coaching on my physical fitness and nutrition, but had no idea that they would also help me work through an old injury, effects of which were still negatively impacting my ability to exercise correctly.
The workouts are challenging, but the fun, motivational energy at Invictus is infectious and makes every session something to look forward to. I couldn't be happier with my decision, and each week of progress and sore muscles reminds me that I made the right choice. If you're looking for a place where you can get stronger mentally and physically and still share a mid-squat laugh, this is the place to be.
Source: Google
Kristin Solomon
★ 5
FINALLY found my home for health. I've tried sooooo many gyms, trainers, plans and classes. I'm not only making this an everyday part of my life it's home. Kamal and Josh really have found something that is unique to other places in the area and believe me, I've tried them all. So happy to be making the change to be FIT!!!
Source: Google
laura krzywicki
★ 5
Kamal at Invictus is one of the most amazing persons I know. He is so professional and on time and knowledgeable but his real talent is connecting with his clients. My daughter saw him 3x a week for classes during the pandemic when we home-schooled and she never complained (If anyone else has a 15-year-old girl you can relate to how much this means 😂). My daughter gained invaluable experience not just working out but true life skills. I am so thankful we meet Kamal! He trained her to be a competitive athlete. And she made her high school sports team. Honestly I can’t say enough good things about Kamal we had such a positive experience training with him. He is professional, knowledgeable, kind and smart. You can’t go wrong with Invictus!!!
Source: Google
Rosie Christensen
★ 5
Great guys!
Source: Google
tiffany stocking
★ 5
Update: 1 year later still loving all that invictus stands for! Through the crazy world right now, invictus has given me sanity. Can’t thank these guys enough! As long as I’m alive, and living in south OC, I will be an invictus member for life!
Walking into Invictus Fitness Solutions was the best decision I have made this whole year. I have a few friends who work out here and have been asking me to come see what they’re about for months. Finally 7 weeks ago, I walked in handed my card over and signed up. Honestly, so happy I did. I haven’t been in shape for most of my life and for that reason gyms frighten me. Invictus isn’t like that, the coaches all take into consideration of your fitness level, injures, and accommodate and modify accordingly. I love the class base structure, typically the same people go to the same classes which helps hold for accountability. I started this journey by just jumping into it and haven’t looked back. I can truly see and feel a difference in my appearance, strength, wellbeing, and over all mental health. Each class is Fun and I actually look forward to it after work. Most classes are filled with camaraderie and laughter, followed by a lot of sweat and stretching. I highly recommend Josh, Kamal, and DJ at invictus if you’re looking to better yourself mentally and physical, also if you want squeeze in some laughter in the midst of your hard work! Thanks guys for making me realize the gym isn’t a scary place.
Source: Google
Susan Kinsey
★ 5
I have trained at many gyms throughout the years but no place like Invictus. Josh and Kamal are passionate, enthusiastic, dedicated, knowledgeable, and motivating fitness coaches. The workouts are well thought-out and fun; and both of these amazing guys go above and beyond to to ensure one reaches their personal goals and, more importantly, maintains it by making it a sustainable lifestyle. They are helping me lose weight, get stronger, and build muscle so that I can reach my goal of fitting into the LBD. My only regret is that I didn't discover Invictus sooner.
Source: Google
Mr. T
★ 5
fantastic people and classes. Very helpful and attentive.
Source: Google
Sylvia HASSARD-JOHNSON
★ 5
Love love love this place. I workout with both Josh and Kamal, different styles but both great at their craft achieving a varied, never boring workout experience.
I always leave with a smile on my face and feel I have given my body what it needs.
Source: Google
Maria Torres
★ 5
I strongly recommend this gym- it’s amazing! The trainers here are exceptional- so energetic, welcoming, knowledgeable, helpful, and motivating. They focus on the whole body- including rest and recovery & nutrition guidance. The workouts range in variety- all of them are high energy and challenging but fun! The gym is clean is clean and the equipment is new. There are also lots of options for workout class slot times and open gym. Overall, very impressed with this gym and you’re guaranteed to feel great after each workout!
Source: Google
Ailicec
★ 5
Love invictus for the community they build with their members! From motivating informative coaches, member outings, and personal goal setting to opportunities to give back and be out in nature while in our fitness journey, there are so many ways to benefit from being part of invictus!
Source: Google
Kristine Holliday
★ 5
This gym is amazing. A little over a year ago, I was a part of another gym, a very impersonal gym. I wasn't getting the results I needed. When I was working for a company, some of them were a part of Invictus. I decided to give it a try. I am happy to say, they have changed my life. I not only feel better, I look better. I get up very early in the morning to go to this class, happily. The three of them, Josh, DJ and Kamal are truly amazing. They are with us 100% of the time and in every aspect of our lives and transformations. I would gladly recommend Invictus Fitness Solutions to everyone and anyone who wants to better there lives and reach their fitness goals. Thank you guys from the bottom of my heart. Hers to many more years of successful fitness goals met!!!!
Source: Google
Sue Neve
★ 5
Invictus is the BEST gym in South Orange County!
What do I love about it??
The small classes
They watch your form with each excercise you do
They provide food and nutrition counseling
They encourage you to do your best
We are a family
Source: Google
Bill Hebebrand
★ 5
Are you looking for a workout that is catered to you? Invictus takes a hands on approach and works with you as if you hired a personal trainer. They truly care about you as a client. I’ve been with Invictus for 2 1/2 years. In the past my gym memberships have lasted 90 days or less. No thought required as to what you need to do at Invictus. Just show up! 45 minutes later you’re on your way to the rest of your day
Kamal and the team are here for you. Carpe Diem People!
Source: Google
Michelle Takata
★ 5
For those of you who don't like the intimidating and impersonal big gyms, Invictus Fitness is the place for you!! The trainers are very friendly, knowledgeable, and motivated to help you reach your fitness goals. And if you have any physical limitations, they can modify the workout and teach you proper technique to avoid further injury. Give Invictus Fitness a try!!! You won't be disappointed!!!!
Source: Google
Erica Hensley
★ 5
I have been working out at Invictus for the past 4 months. I absolutely love it. The trainers are super knowledgeable, and can help with any modifications to the workouts that you need. I’m so glad I made the decision to join!
Source: Google
Katie Wilkie- Hill
★ 1
I left invictus after 6 months with an injury, 8k less in my bank account, and with the same percentages of fat and muscle. They charged me $1300 on December 31st outside of my contract, after I had already left the gym and without my permission. Their billing practices are not straightforward and everyone pays a different amount. They gave me an itemized bill after repeatedly asking for it and it provided me no specifics. It was as if the owner just dropped a number onto a generic invoice. I felt like I was completely taken advantage of and that I got no response when I tried to work it out directly with the owner. Most of the trainers are gone and also most of the clients who were there when I was there are gone. This place is circling the drain and ripping off its clients to stay afloat. I would avoid them at all costs.
Source: Google
Lindsey Blake
★ 1
I specifically asked for photos to not be taken of me and used. They promised they would not. They lied. I have many reasons I left this place but the main one is because they truly do not care about you and they only care about money. Thanks guys for being even worse than I thought.
Source: Google
A P
★ 5
Fun & excellent energy, the trainers are knowledgeable and always willing to lend direction. I have yet to try the Metabolic Testing they have on site but I am excited to see what it is all about. I highly recommend you join Invictus Fitness Solutions for your fitness endeavor!
Source: Google
Jacob Penny
★ 5
Amazing. The staff are friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the exercises, physical health, and recovery. No other program even comes close to the intensity experienced here.
Source: Google
Thomas Risner
★ 5
Source: Google
Curt McGinty
★ 5
Talented and dedicated team of trainers who truly care about client success.
Source: Google
Kristie Day
★ 5
I cant thank the Invictus team enough. My results speak for themself. Smart passionate and helpful people helping othet people. What a great legacy guys. Thank you soooo much for helping me. KD
Source: Google
Rephael Inbar
★ 5
Great personal trainers and CrossFit program!
Source: Google
Mickey Wilson
★ 5
The trainers here actually make workouts fun. They foster an atmosphere of support and respect between staff and gym members. There are no drill sergeants here... You get kind and gentle encouragement to be your best, and get the most out of every workout.
Source: Google
kbw snw
★ 5
Invictis Fitness Solutions is the real deal!! Knowledgable & Caring Staff; with State of the Art Technology to monitor and measure body fat and muscle mass(the $11,000 In body 570 scale).. A scientific simple nutritional plan to follow; that will have you eating more food than you want!! No more counting calories!!! I lost 21 lbs. & 8.6% body fat without losing any muscle mass; during the 6 week challenge. I would recommend Invictus Fitness Solutions to any high level athlete & person serious about getting results to be leaner & stronger!! I worked with DJ, Kamal & Susie; they all know how to challenge or modify workouts to each individual's need!! Great Place to get work & guidance from!!
Source: Google
Danielle Snyder
★ 5
Incredible staff, one on one coaching in every workout, results that will blow you away and all in a super positive environment. If you want to get strong, drop pounds and love coming to the gym this is the place to be! Try it for 6 weeks, you will not be disappointed! I'm hooked and not looking back at the old me.
Source: Google
Russell Wallace
★ 5
Source: Google
Heather Ann Humes
★ 5
Source: Google
Tanya Crabbe
★ 5
I love this place. I have know Virginia for many years and she never ceases to amaze me with her knowledge and mostly her energy. DJ has been working one on one with me for two months now. My body doesn't hurt anymore. I'm getting stronger and most importantly he has helped me realize so much about myself. He has really developed my mental fitness!!!!
Source: Google
Anna Rivard Biss
★ 5
Love these trainers and am so excited about the new facilities they have in the works. They put their heart and soul into this business and are welcoming and inclusive.
Source: Google
Andrea Gow
★ 5
Great training, with knowledgeable trainers. Helped me work through a hip problem with appropriate strengthening exercises. The trainers enjoy helping clients work to their potential, and listens to clients to help them achieve their healthy living goals.
Source: Google
Karen Adams
★ 5
Maybe one of the best things I could say about my personal trainer is that personally I can’t say I know him very well. And maybe I shouldn’t. What I can say is that he is a very kind and attentive person. I spend an hour a week with DJ. This hour is spent entirely on my physical goals. I have a few injuries, but am concerned with the ones to my right shoulder in particular. This subject is one he is more than inspired and interested in discussing with me. The time I spend with him he is educating me both mentally and physically. Understanding the reason for the stretches and exercises I do allow my mind and body to connect with new movement. My shoulder has begun to learn how to safely move thru the regular demands I put on it. I now have confidence working on other areas of my body.
DJ has an uncanny way of getting right to the root of the problem and designing an appropriate program from that point. My sessions aren’t what I would call easy, but I’ve not yet been over worked where the next day I am over tired or over sore. We have done so many different types of exercises that I am learning something new each week. If all of DJ's clients were to gather in a room I doubt any two would be doing the same physical program.
It’s not unusual to be asked what are you fitness goals and mine are simple. I just want to be mobile. My favorite thing in life is playing with my grand-daughters. I want to safely get up and down with them in my arms and be able to carry them thru the mall.
Source: Google
Alison Davis
★ 5
A fun, energizing group of people. Definitely not you typical gym!
Source: Google
Rachel Rivard Bach
★ 5
Source: Google
Jared Rentmeester
★ 5
Invictus did a great job to help me meet my goals. I trained with Nick and he took a scientific approach to get my work outs and nutrition on track to get me ready for my tri.
Source: Google
Corissa Geer
★ 5
At the end of summer 2016, I made a decision to start competing in powerlifting again. After many years in between competing in high school and having 4 children, I really didn’t know where to start. DJ and I powerlifted together in high school and we reconnected. I knew with DJ’s experience in his career, he could get me started on this journey. Little did I know how effective and efficient he was at programming. DJ is awesome at what he does and knows when to switch things up to develop different areas needed to reach my goals. In powerlifting the 3 lifts you compete in are squat, bench and deadlift. Over the last 6 months we’ve added 130# to my combine total weight lifted, which would make that a 30% increase. Extremely satisfied, yet hungry for more gains.
Another outstanding talent DJ has is helping me focus on my nutrition and holding me accountable. Losing body fat and gaining muscle has been a success for my lifting gains. I look forward to continuing working with DJ, as we have some HUGE goals to hit in the next 5 months. I would highly recommend DJ as your trainer/coach no matter what level of fitness you’re starting at. He has so much wisdom and knowledge to offer everyone that desires to reach a fitness goal. DJ is a kind, respectful, funny, dedicated and honest leader. You’ll be in great hands with him.
Source: Google
jennifer Albright
★ 5
Invictus is a great solution for me.They push me to try new things and work harder then if I was on my own working out. The trainers are all knowledgeable and make sure you are learning how to train. They keep it fun and energetic to help pass the time. Highly recommend!!!!
Source: Google
Evangelin Eftenoiu
★ 5
I want to start by saying that I am extremely grateful that I found this place. The staff are beyond helpful and knowledgeable. I received detailed instructions to optimize my workouts as well as dedicated trainers who actually GENUINELY want to help you. Usually trainer make the client FEEL like they need them in order to see progress, but what makes this facility unlike any others is the fact that the trainers go over and above what is usually expected. From personal experience, I have been given workouts with links attached sent to me on the days I work out on my own! In addition, the trainers will record you so that you have the correct posture and can repeat on your own!! I mean what trainer really does that?! Again, I am happy that I found this place and excited to see it expand more and more! Thank you Invictus for being that unique niche in the fitness and health world!
Source: Google
Sarah Haga
★ 5
My experience is nothing short of astonishing. DJ was my trainer and introduced me to a new way of eating and has given me a new lease on life! It's been 90 days and I'm down 30lbs and counting. Invictus offers individual training as well as group sessions. This is a place where EVERYONE can feel at home, not just those that are already fit. They offer something for every fitness level and will help you attain and surpass your goals.
Source: Google