★ 5

Doug is a fantastic trainer! I would recommend him to anyone who wants to get stronger, learn about weight lifting, and have fun while doing so. Doug is positive, patient and encouraging - not to mention super knowledgeable. I started working with him in order to prevent injury in my primary sport (tennis) and to improve overall health. I started feeling stronger after just a few weeks, and now, after 6 months of working with him, I am feeling more energetic, my tennis game has improved, and my body just feels better. Thanks Doug!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Doug at Permastrong for a while now, and I can honestly say it's been a game-changer for me. He's helped me build strength and endurance in a way that's both challenging and sustainable. What really sets him apart is how attentive he is — especially when it comes to my shoulder issues. He always makes sure my form is right, adjusts exercises when needed, and never pushes past a point that feels unsafe.

He's incredibly knowledgeable, but also down-to-earth and encouraging. I always leave a session feeling stronger, more confident, and more motivated. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a smart, supportive, and effective trainer!

Source: Google

★ 5

Doug the owner of Permastrong fitness was a great choice in my search for a fitness pro. He has an arsenal of tools that has helped me to regain my fitness of years past. Studio is private clean and well equipped. Doug keeps you moving and on task. Great interactions always. Exceptional trainer and person. 5 stars all around

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working with Doug right after Christmas, and he turned out to be exactly the accountability partner and coach I needed to get back into the gym. What stood out most was his calm demeanor and intuitive ability to know when to push me. Doug tracked each workout, exercises, reps, and sets, which gave me a reference to use on my own, even when we weren’t training together. On those days you're lost or feeling lazy at the gym those excel sheets come in handy and are very valuable. He introduced me to new exercises and provided alternatives that I could do at my gym. Beyond his expertise, Doug is approachable, has a great sense of humor, and is genuinely passionate about fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training with Doug for about a year and it has truly been a life altering experience.
I initially reached out for personal training because I needed help understanding how to work out properly. I was new to the gym and I had gone a few times on my own but felt really unsure of what to do.

From our very first session Doug was enthusiastic, positive, and encouraging which was a breath of fresh air since I felt so uncomfortable around the gym.
He is punctual, knowledgeable, reliable, supportive, encouraging, fun, silly, and really pushes my limits in the best way possible. Outside of our sessions he also gives me workouts to do at the gym by myself, which I love.

Since a year ago I have lost about 20lbs, gotten stronger than I have ever been in my life, and am so much more confident working out than I ever thought I could be.

If you’re looking for a personal trainer who is not only knowledgeable and professional but also makes working out a genuinely enjoyable experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Doug.

Source: Google

★ 5

It has been a great decision to train with Doug (owner of Permastrong Training) for the past year. I initially came in wanting to work on my overall strength and mobility so I can stay moving for my newborn kid as I get older. Now I’m feeling stronger than ever, he has really made a positive impact on my and my life.

The new facility is great too, all the equipment is brand new and it isn’t crowded like most gyms. I love our sessions together, thanks Doug!

Source: Google

★ 5

If you’re looking for a personal trainer who truly understands the importance of long-term health and fitness, look no further than Doug. His science-based approach to training has been a game-changer for me. Doug doesn’t believe in cookie-cutter programs; he takes the time to assess where you are in your fitness journey and tailors a plan that works for your unique needs and goals.

Whether you’re aiming to build strength, enhance endurance, or simply improve your overall quality of life, Doug’s expertise in strength training, mobility, and injury prevention ensures you’ll see sustainable results. What sets him apart is his ability to balance pushing you to your limits while respecting your body’s capabilities—he’s as invested in preventing injuries and managing pain as he is in helping you achieve your goals.

Since working with Doug, I’ve not only improved my strength and endurance but have also gained a deeper understanding of how to move better and feel better in everyday life. His dedication to his clients’ progress and well-being is truly inspiring, and I can’t recommend him enough for anyone looking to make meaningful, lasting changes to their fitness and health.

Source: Google

★ 5

Me and my partner were referred to Doug for couples personal training.

I had zero experience working out, let alone lifting weights, and my partner had minimal experience and minor joint problems. Our goals were to move our bodies and gain strength and we were looking for someone to teach and guide us while accommodating our needs.

While the first session was intimidating, we found Doug an extremely pleasant person. He is knowledgeable and patient, and he does not give gym bro vibes.

Our sessions with Doug since have been great, he is attentive and manages both mine and my partner’s workouts and progress well despite our unique needs. He is motivating, plays good music, and he’s funny.

The gym offers free parking validation in the near parking lot which always has plenty of spots, this is highly convenient given the busy location.

Both of us have made great progress and are no longer intimidated by strength training thanks to Doug!

Source: Google

★ 5

Can’t recommend Doug enough. He’s a great trainer and an even better person. It’s clear he truly cares. The space is also beautiful, clean, and state of the art. Also, there’s free parking which is a huge plus. If you’re looking for personal training Doug is your guy!

Source: Google

★ 5

Doug is great to work with. He is a good guy and knows his stuff.

The new facility is nice too, huge upgrade with the brand new equipment. I appreciate the free parking and that the lot feels secure, it makes coming to downtown Oakland easy.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with Doug for a few months now and I can't recommend him enough. He has made working out an enjoyable experience and I've seen great results under his instruction. He's given me a clear plan to follow which takes out the guess work for me. I feel stronger in my body and able to do everyday tasks with more ease. He has a great personality and good energy, so it's nice to be around him, which is very important for me. I like the facility and the parking is easy and free. I appreciate you, Doug!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been suffered from lower back pain for the last 6-8 years and have gone to doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists finding minor relief. I contacted Doug to see if personal training might help me find more sustainable results. I’m so happy to share that it has!

Within our first session Doug was able to identify what he thought the cause of my lower back pain was (he said weak glutes and core) and was able to show me a few exercises to address it. It also turned out that I was bending over in such a way that I was lifting things with just my back, which is something we have corrected through proper form and movement patterns.

From the beginning, Doug has been great to work with. He is super personable, knowledgeable, and really listened to my issues. I went from constant back pain to absolutely none in a very short period of time. Not only am I now living pain free, but I’m also feeling more confident in my newly trimmed body. I feel stronger, and look great! I can’t say enough good things about Doug, highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

Doug has been an amazing personal trainer!! He is patient and cautious when it comes to technique. He has helped me understand core principles behind fitness. He has walked me through every step of hte process of lifting, making sure to prioritize technique! I appreciate that Doug walks you through the process of working out. For a couple weeks he will work with you on on excerises that will aid future, harder excersises (as opposed to just throwing you into the fire). He is positive and optmistice, and extremely friendly Before going to Doug I was extremely clueless about working about but he has really helped me not only with my technique but also with my confidence, through is teachings I have become more comfortable working out because I feel I understand exactly what it is im doing. If I could give 10 stars, I would!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've always been a pretty fit person and super into exercise, but I felt like I had kind of stalled out on my progress and wanted someone to help me take my workouts to the next level. My friend recommended Doug and I've had so far a great experience. My main focus has really been on getting stronger and Doug is good at correcting my form and educating me about what reps and sets would work best for me. He also offers additional info about counting macros, if you're into that. So far everything has been going great, and I'm pleased with my progress, and I love Doug's sense of humor when I'm dying during my workouts.

Source: Google

★ 5

Doug is an incredible personal trainer. Over the past year, he has helped progress from 30lb dumbbell goblet squats to 135lb barbell squats, and from 15lb dumbbell chest presses to 75lb barbell bench presses, which is 75% of my body weight.

From the beginning, Doug took the time to understand my fitness level and crafted a personalized workout plan that perfectly addressed my goals and limitations. His approach is both organized and thoughtful, and I appreciate how he uses Google Sheets to track my progress—it’s a fantastic tool for keeping me motivated. Doug has been instrumental in teaching me proper techniques, helping me understand my limits, and making every session enjoyable with his fun and engaging personality. And yes, his dad jokes always bring a smile to my face!

One of Doug’s greatest strengths is his ability to motivate. Even on days when I felt I couldn’t push any further, he found a way to encourage me through to the next rep. His support and encouragement, even during my toughest days, have been invaluable. Doug’s clear communication and willingness to adjust the plan as needed have kept me on track and progressing.

While there were occasional scheduling conflicts, Doug was always quick to accommodate changes and ensure my training remained consistent. He is consistently punctual and professional. I’ve seen noticeable improvements in my strength and overall fitness, and I’m thrilled with the results.

Overall, I highly recommend Doug to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and supportive personal trainer. His dedication to his clients and genuine passion for fitness make every session worth looking forward to.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you're on the hunt for a personal trainer who doesn't just sculpt your body but also shapes your mindset towards fitness, look no further than Doug. I've had the pleasure of embarking on a transformative fitness journey under his guidance, and I can confidently say that Doug is a cut above the rest.

Source: Google

★ 5

Working with Doug is a dream! I came in with a plethora of concerns, from injury to inexperience & gym anxiety and Doug thoughtfully and thoroughly addressed them all. Doug is supportive and motivating but careful not to push you to the point of injury. Always on time, always smiling, and always elevating your workout farther than you thought you could, I would highly recommend sessions with Doug. Anyone from beginner to athlete, those who need rehab, weight loss, or just a general intro to the gym, Doug will help you meet your goals and keep you laughing along the way!

Source: Google

★ 5

Doug is a fantastic personal trainer! He takes the guess work out of fitness and creates an actionable plan for achieving your goals. I’ve been training with Doug for a few months and I can see a big difference in my body composition. I'm also hitting new PRs which is super motivating.

Source: Google

★ 5

Doug is great. I’ve been working with him for a few months now and can’t recommend him enough. I have been working on rehabbing a knee injury, and he has been really good about figuring out stuff to do to strengthen it + working around whatever limitations I might have that day. Making way more consistent progress than I ever could on my own.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Doug for several months now and have seen really great changes in my body - I feel stronger and leaner, both of which were goals I discussed with Doug during our initial training session.

It can be super intimidating to get back into the groove of working out, but Doug makes training easy, approachable, and accessible for folks at all levels. He has a really lovely training style - I appreciate that he listens to my goals and adjusts my fitness plans as needed to help me meet those goals. He also puts together super comprehensive plans to help me on my “independent training”days, along with helpful videos on how to properly do each activity.

HIGHLY recommend training with Doug!

Source: Google