★ 5

UPDATED: I just finished training for my first ever race (10k) and I’m so thankful for the support I received to achieve my goal from the team at The Study. Manny tailored my sessions in the gym to keep me injury-free throughout, created a customized training plan that worked for my schedule, and offered practical nutrition recommendations, all of which set me up for success. Now I’m excited to build on this base and partner with The Study to keep unlocking new challenges!
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I’ve been training at The Study for two years and I’m extremely happy with the results. I’ve gained mobility and strength, and I feel great. The space and equipment are well planned and super clean. The trainers are true professionals with a wealth of knowledge and the ability to customize the training to your goals and work with your individual idiosyncrasies and past injuries.

That same care and customization are brought to the wrap around services offered. Whether it’s sauna and cold plunge for after workouts, nutrition advice or massage, or even alternative training modalities like electrostym, the focus is always on making your fitness journey a success.

I look forward to going, which is not something I ever thought I’d say about exercise.

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience at The Study working with Alexander Bruce was incredible.

Background:

My wife was looking for personal coaching to improve her fitness. I joined her for an initial consultation with studio owner, Alexander Bruce which was fantastic. Alexander's approach to training and fitness resonated and we signed up for one semester.

Alexander is a kind, patient coach who has deep knowledge, and vast tool kit and would surprise in a great way for reach of our training sessions with him.

Over the semester, I learned invaluable ways to build strength, agility and flexibility which I can implement and use for the rest of my life.

Over the semester I was able to make gains in adding muscle and greatly improving strength in one of my lower extremities. That latter gave me confidence to lift more weight and challenge myself.

Our semester also included calls with a dietician (Gabby )along with access to sauna, cold plunge and massage therapy appointments.

The facility is exceptionally clean and equipped.

My meetings with Gabby shared useful insights which were terrific.

My wife and I both had a sub one day training with Julian who was outstanding.

Once we wrapped up our semester, Alexander provided us extremely useful "Study Abroad" materials which I am using daily.

I'm incredibly grateful to have been able to train under Alexander's exemplary guidance and looking forward to being able to train in the future at The Study.

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I just completed a semester at The Study with Alexander as our trainer and it has been life changing.

The training we received from Alexander was completely customized to what our strengths, weaknesses, & goals were and it was FUN. He didn’t just train us, but educated us in a way that set us on a path to continue our health & fitness journey outside of our session. The coaching extended into more than just fitness but into our personal lives. Alexander is really dedicated to his clients success- even checking in post semester. This paired with the awesome nutrition coaching w Gabby has been invaluable! The nutrition guidance has been such a key element missing in my life. I feel so much better, more energized, focused, & my recovery after diving is much quicker!! We did regular in house body comp scans and we both saw great results without being overly invested in the results. The education and sustainability of our workouts was priority and we really appreciated that focus! Facilities are impeccably clean w/shower, sauna, cold plunge- everything you’d need. Plus easy parking lot.

Alexander, Gabby, Julian, & the rest of the team are great trainers/coaches who know their stuff… I feel truly grateful to have found such a top notch team and I look forward to another semester in the future!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Alexander is a miracle worker! He was able to help me restore full mobility in my shoulders and we eliminated my knee pain. Between the strength training and nutrition plan, I haven't felt this good in years. The facility and equipment are top notch.

I'll see you next semester!

Source: Google

★ 5

5 Stars - Highly Recommend The Study!

I've been training for my first fitness race, and I'm so glad I found The Study! I signed up for 6 private EMS training sessions with Karen, and it's been an incredible experience. The facility is spotless, and the atmosphere is welcoming. It includes everything you need to recover after a tough session - cold plunge, sauna, and showers. The staff is knowledgeable and really takes the time to ensure you're getting the most out of your training.

Karen is an absolute professional. Every session with her feels focused and personalized, and it's like the world disappears while we're training - she's that good at keeping you engaged and pushing you to reach your potential. I'm already noticing amazing results and can't wait for my next session!

I highly recommend The Study to anyone looking for top-notch one-on-one personal training. Whether you're new to fitness or training for a race like me, this place is the real deal!

Source: Google

★ 5

Earlier this year, I decided to start taking my health more seriously. Like many out there with demanding jobs, I often find myself feeling too exhausted after work to work out. I finally decided to invest in private training sessions at The Study and I am so glad that I did!

The Study itself is situated in a clean, spacious location and is even equipped with a cold tub and sauna! As someone who spent years paying for gym memberships at major health club chains, I am thrilled to have made the switch to The Study, an independently owned and operated studio that focuses on personal, customized training.

The trainers helped keep me accountable for my fitness goals and customized a program that accommodated my work schedule. Alexander is a knowledgable and professional instructor who seems truly invested in the progress of his clients. He has a deep understanding of exercise physiology, and is skilled at developing workout plans that maximize results and gradually build in intensity over time. My sessions with him are always challenging yet fun. On top of that, he is pleasant to be around and easy to talk to. I always look forward to my sessions with him and I cannot recommend him enough!

The Study also recently expanded their offerings to include electromyostimulation (EMS) workouts, which involve wearing a suit with built-in electrodes that target and stimulate specific muscles while you exercise. I was initially reluctant to try this out, but after completing a session led by Karen, I can say it was a unique and interesting adjunct to conventional strength training. Karen was friendly & enthusiastic and I hope to have more sessions with her in the future.

I am very pleased with the progress I have made since starting at The Study. I feel stronger and more confident with each session, and give my unreserved recommendation!

Source: Google

★ 5

Where to begin…The Study is an incredible personal training gym. I’ve tried out a few on the west side, and can’t recommend Julian, Alexander, and the team at The Study enough!

A former college athlete, I had gone through a few injuries over the past couple of years that had me struggling to find a consistent/safe training regiment that focused on injury recovery/prevention and building a solid foundation. Every step of the way was catered to my deficiencies and was focused on MY goals.

Julian was attentive, supportive, fun, and pushes you just the right amount. His background in PT, and his focus on holistic physical wellbeing (strength training, nutrition, isometrics, etc) gave me the foundation I needed to reach heights I didn’t even think were achievable. The results have been incredible. Down 30 lbs, I’ve built a ton of muscle, and I’m more excited than I’ve ever been to continuing growing in my physical journey and excel in the sports i’m most passionate about (skiing, triathlon, outdoor endurance, etc).

I walked away more confident with my training plan, knowledgable on how to continue to develop/grow when we weren’t training together, and excited about the goals we put in place together. All thanks to Julian!

The training gym is the perfect set-up. Amenities/equipment is top-notch. Everything you could want (or didn’t know you wanted) in a personal training gym. Non-traditional for sure. You’ll do exercises that you’ve never learned before but yield epic results. But thats the fun that keeps it interesting and the results coming.

Julian is the man! Don’t wait any longer - go for it! Commit to the goals you’ll develop together and trust the process - you’ll be so glad you did. I sure am. 11/10.

Source: Google

★ 5

I had (and still do) the privilege of working with Julian as my personal trainer, and his dedication, knowledge, and exceptional skills have left a lasting impact on my fitness journey. Julian not only met my expectations but surpassed them in every aspect. Here's why I recommend him:

Attentive and Attuned to My Needs: Julian's ability to listen actively and understand my fitness goals and concerns were remarkable. From day one, he took the time to assess my abilities, limitations, and aspirations, tailoring our training sessions accordingly. This individualized approach created a solid foundation for progress and ensured that each workout was challenging and enjoyable.

Comprehensive Improvements in Core, Balance, and Strength: Under Julian's guidance, I witnessed remarkable improvements in my core strength, balance, and overall physical prowess. He possesses a deep understanding of the human body and its mechanics, allowing him to design exercises that effectively target and enhance these areas.

A Personable and Approachable Trainer: Beyond his expertise, Julian's personality and demeanor set him apart as an exceptional personal trainer. He exudes a genuine passion for his craft and radiates positivity, making every session a joyous experience. His friendly and approachable nature encouraged open communication, allowing me to ask questions, seek guidance, and voice any concerns throughout our training journey.

Excelling in Strength Training and Physical Therapy: Julian excels in strength and physical therapy beyond general fitness training. Whether you aim to build muscle, increase endurance, or recover from an injury, Julian has the expertise to tailor a program that meets your needs. His deep understanding of biomechanics and rehabilitation techniques ensures safe and effective training sessions for clients of all backgrounds.

Jullian's ability to approachable and joyful personality makes him an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a professional fitness journey.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym. I trained with Simona really nice and very professional. This gym is so worth it. Totally recommend it to anyone BEST IN LOS ANGELES

Source: Google

★ 5

They do a great job of pushing you but not overdoing it. You can trust the trainers. They change up the exercises enough so you’re body always has to compensate and can’t get used to just one routine. Super clean gym. Open air environment.

Source: Google

★ 5

Manny is the best! He creates perfect programs for exactly what you need to work on. He pushes you but also isn’t in your face about it, he is respectful, friendly, and a guy I’d like to have a beer with (low carb of course). The space is amazing, at the most you’ve got you, your trainer and another student/trainer duo maximum at any given moment.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Study is easily the best gym in Santa Monica - the space is meticulously set up, the location is convenient, and the instructors are world-class. Manny in particular is the best trainer I have ever worked with - he is highly knowledgeable, encouraging, and genuinely cares about his clients. Would recommend The Study to anyone looking for their next gym in the city.

Source: Google

★ 5

My first time in the gym and the space was so cool!! In addition to the big indoor gym area it has a nice turf space with a sled and a tire. I can't say enough great things about the trainer (Manny) - he listened intently to my goals and challenges, and built an outstanding session for me, as well as recommending recovery exercises for me to do at home. If you're looking for a pristine gym with really knowledgeable trainers, I highly recommend The Study!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I had two great sessions this week at The Study. The trainers here are very knowledgeable and I learned some new skills and techniques to help with my hip and low back issues. They are very personable and easy to communicate with. They also live the brand and are super motivated. I look forward to my sessions at The Study.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this spot, has a great overall vibe. The trainer by the name of Alex Keywood, may be the most knowledgeable trainer I’ve ever met. Not only did he take care of me at this beautiful new and clean facility, he pushed me passed where I thought my limits were with a nice grin on his face.

Facility seems minimalistic, they have EVERYTHING, you need to get a great workout.

Source: Google

★ 5

Julian is an amazing trainer. He has helped me through a number of chronic injuries, not only alleviating pain, but increasing stability, mobility, and overall strength. No matter what your goal, whether rehab, injury prevention, or increasing performance, Julian is your man. Incredibly intelligent, very attentive, and a great motivator to help you achieve all of your goals

Source: Google

★ 5

I rarely write reviews unless something exceptional catches my eyes. I am a former track and field athlete and have had experiences with various trainers and training techniques in past. I decided to try out one session with Alexander and was extremely impressed!! Within one session with Alexander I found out not only that my body was imbalanced but also discovered points in my body where movement was significantly hindered and could lead to long term issues. In just one session I felt the pain in my left neck and shoulder already better as I felt something opened up with the exercises and movements crafted for me. The trainer was patient and very diligent in his thought process. Unlike most trainers, he understands the science behind it. I was truly impressed.

Training session was all comprehensive with movements, balance, cardio and weights.

Gym has an open layout and a private/very quite outside/ooen training area. It's very clean and the shower is great as well. I will be getting more training session at The Study.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great location! The facility was super clean and perfect for one on one sessions.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym that is immaculately clean with high ceilings and great ventilation. Been working with Julian and he has such a good pulse by evaluating and strengthening your weaknesses with a very balanced and wholistic approach. Each session is customized to achieve semester long goals. Julian is an excellent and knowledgeable trainer. I’m really pleased with the results.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is awesome. I trained with Alexander and it was a much needed session. One thing I have to work at is my form and he stayed focused on keeping me in check. I am definitely to keep going back. YAY!😉💪🏼🤸🏼‍♀️☀️

Also I really loved how clean and pristine everything was!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Judy since the beginning of the year and it feels amazing to be getting back into my fitness regimen. I enjoy resistance training as opposed to classes and cardio, I tend to be a bit shy when it comes to working out, so a private environment is more suitable to my comfort level. She has diligently listened to my needs and preferences on what inspires me to workout. So its really nice to work with someone who pays close attention to those details while guiding me towards my goals. The gym is amazing. It’s kept absolutely spotless, it has an awesome vibe and I love the privacy. I felt nervous returning to the gym as I had taken a bit of a break and knew I had my work cutout for me in finally making exercise a priority in my life. Having Judy by my side, and having a dicreet, pleasant environment has made me feel incredibly comfortable and I’m enjoying my progress more than I could have ever imagined. Having the best equipment available in your own private environment really makes it an enjoyable experience and has helped me gain more confidence while being in the gym.

Not only has Judy been an amazing trainer in assisting me in getting my body back but she’s shown up for me on an emotional and spiritual level as well. Making sure my head and heart is in the right place for success. For anyone who has put their health on the back burner and to be truly honest, never really made their health a priority, they know that working out can be a deeply challenging, daunting and overwhelming task. Judy has never made me feel judged for my past decisions and has inspired me and encouraged me to see the amazing gift it is to take care of myself physically. She has helped me to enjoy...yes, I said it, actually enjoy my time in the gym and working out. If you know me, that’s a miracle in itself. So with that being said, Judy is not only the best trainer but she’s also a miracle worker. ;) Thank you, Judy for showing up for all of us, your clients, in the way that you do. You are such a gift.

Source: Google

★ 5

All the reviews here are certainly accurate but I’ll tell you what I’ve found here:

1. Results. I’m down 30 lbs since I met Alexander and not done yet, but let’s get to the important stuff:

2. I show up. I always have good intentions to make it to other workouts, be it yoga, spin, or circuit training but I’m just not great at following through when it’s not scheduled. Well here, you have a schedule, and you’ve committed to it.

3. It’s a commitment but a small commitment. When I first signed up my health was in poor shape and I needed something to help me and I found the Study. I was hesitant but then I realized it’s 9 weeks of my life and I really wanted to improve my health. When I started it became apparent I had done something great for myself and I was really happy I was doing it. Its’ way different than singing up for the gym or classpass and finding a time to make it happen. Here you’re in because you decided to be and for me that changed how I approached my health and it’s ultimately what led to my results.

4. It’s not the gym! I had a trial workout with Alexander and a couple of days later he casually followed up to see if I was interested in working with him. No pressure at all, he just wanted to see if I was interested. It just felt right so I did it. The place is immaculate, and it’s all yours when you’re there. The workouts are tailored to your needs and ensure you get stronger and fit the right way. There’s no shouting or screaming, just a good session. Alexander has your workout ready, all you need to do is show up and let him guide you.

5. Results - I said it earlier but there are more results than just the weight. My health via the doctor and lab tests has improved immensely. I’ve also become stronger than I’ve ever been in my life. Alexander himself, is a great guy who genuinely cares about you and your well-being. I’m happy to share the countless text messages checking in on and encouraging me regardless of if we’re working together or not. He walks the talk - you can catch him working out when he as a free moment and he’s in incredible shape. All told I’ve picked up a healthy body, a foundation for my fitness, and a friend who I consider a brother for life. And not like the gym bro kind of brother. The brother kind of brother.
:)

Source: Google

★ 5

So many things to love about Alexander at The Study! I worked with Alexander for two semesters at the Study (roughly 4 months?). I had hit a plateau with my fitness - already working out 4-6 days a week at HIIT classes and yoga and tracking nutrition on an app on my phone. So while I didn't think I was starting from zero, I really appreciated that we started with the basics.

Things I learned that I hadn't known before:
- My kettle bell swings were all wrong!
- How to do a Turkish get-up (yes, you will look like a bada** doing this in the weight room)
- How to properly stretch and foam roll
- How effective jumping rope can actually be
- How to design a full body workout, or how to create several workouts to work different areas over the course of a week

In addition to the new skills and confidence, there were also the RESULTS (and yes, part of this will be on you in terms of changing your nutrition and what you do on days off from the Study). Over the last month at the Study, I lost 2% body fat (woohoo!). My posture improved, and my muscle tone definitely improved.

I can't recommend Alex enough. In addition to being a great trainer, he is also a lovely person to spend a few hours a week with--he's a coach, confidant (pretty sure he knows more about me than my therapist at this point), and cheerleader. He also knows what music will keep you pumped up and is a great DJ.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I had a great experience getting back in shape with Alexander at the The Study! Over the past year, my fitness had been steered off by a knee injury – I unsuccessfully tried rebuilding my strength on my own and realized I needed the expertise of a knowledgeable trainer. Enter Alexander and The Study. Upfront we talked about my main goals: to rebuild my strength, build a consistent habit, and learn the tools to exercise on my own. The Study is run in 9-week training “semesters” of three sessions a week – which was perfect for me to create the change I was looking for.

The facility: The Study operates out of a convenient and pristine private gym with 1-2 trainers and clients exercising at once. Parking is easy, nice facilities and shower, towels provided.

The training: I have worked out with three other trainers at various points and have to say that Alexander is in a league of its own. Not only he is a great athlete and teacher, but he comes from a place of very deep understanding of the body and its physiology, and truly cares about holding you accountable to your goals inside and outside of the gym (nutrition, foam rolling, sleep, etc.). Beyond teaching me about nutrition and strength and endurance training, he provided great resources for employing new habits at home (i.e. home gym equipment recommendations, articles on nutrition, resources for building at home workouts).

The results: By the end of the semester I was down 3.5% body fat, had much higher energy and endurance, rebuilt a lot of the strength in my knee and leg, and had the tools to keep it going. I am really thrilled by my experience.

Thank you, Alexander and The Study!

Source: Google

★ 5

A+++++
Alexander Bruce is the REAL DEAL.
I've done it ALL and THE STUDY is the total package. He is encouraging, tough, educational and funny, all the while transforming your body completely.
Always leave happier than when I walked in.

Do yourself a favor and train here. I promise you will achieve all your fitness goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alexander is the best trainer I have ever worked with.
For one, he didn't sugar coat what my transformation was going to take or look like. It was going to be tough but he always maintained we were going to get there. Over the next few months we trained in various aspects, not only lifting
the most amount of weight I have ever lifted in 10 years of training, but also gaining my own confidence to do it on my own. And lo and behold we reached my goal,
I highly recommend this man for anybody looking to transform themselves. Alexander has not only made me stronger but showed me that I was capable of training and pushing my limits far beyond what I thought I was able to do!

Source: Google

★ 5

I use to workout a few years ago and then had to stop because of the priorities. Ever since wanted to start working out and get to the place where I can start lifting and running with same stamina I have before. Never thought just one semester with Zac would change this much.

I've found Zac from the yelp and impressed by the reviews, immediately email the facility and ask for the time. Before going there I thought it would be pretty similar when I used to workout, except someone will be there to support and give you different exercises, but man I was extremely wrong. Every day after my session it felt like I achieved something, you feel powerful and confident. Initially when we started my core wasn't that strong thus back pain in the end. He tailored all the exercise in a way that first strengthens my core and currently I can do all the exercise without hurting my back (to me it was something like the miracle). I wish I would've met Zac earlier.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have trained at The Study since June 2015 and this review is long overdue. I can't even count the number of semesters that I've completed with Zac, but I'll continue to train for as long as I can. Alexander and Zac have created an environment and program that is optimal for personal and physical development. They follow a core curriculum that includes training phases, but ultimately, the workouts are designed to focus on your individual goals and push your endurance further as each week passes. The Study itself is clean with minimal but top of the line equipment. The trainers are constantly wiping down the equipment and mats so I never feel like I'm going to pick up something viral from working out. Alexander and Zac are super positive and it's encouraging seeing their other clients showing up early to warm up and working out harder day after day.

My body has changed, I'm stronger and my confidence and well-being has improved so much in the past two years and I attribute a lot of it to the work I put in at The Study. Zac works me hard and although I'm not always confident that I'll get through the workout, I always feel amazing afterwards. Zac is encouraging in and outside of the gym and leverages his degree in Kinesiology along with his passion for movement and exercise to keep my workouts fresh and optimal. This is the healthiest I've been in years.

Personally, I've never been successful training on my own at gyms. Classes (Cardio Barre, Pilates, Spin, Yoga) were more my thing, but lacking in the accountability and intensity you have working out with a personal trainer. The three day a week commitment over sixty days is a game changer and if you can afford it, I wholeheartedly recommend investing in your body and well-being at The Study.

Source: Google

★ 5

Zac is the best, most professional, knowledgeable personal trainer, full of positive enthusiasm that's contagious and addicting!

In his training with me he uses free weights, ropes, kettle bells, rings and a long list of equipment that are fun & challenging, which have given me amazing results!
Zac help me shred 30 + pounds in 3 months! That' s astonishing results!

I have become leaner, stronger, his workouts are comprehensive with a combination of joint mobility, core, metabolic conditioning and pure strength. His cardio workouts are also fun, energetic, and appropriately challenging.
Zac is a special kind of trainer, he sees the potential you have and brings out the best in you, and helps you to achieve a new level of fitness.
It's a whole body and mind thing with Zac! Once you have a session no other trainer will compare!
You will become a Zac training method addict!

Sophia

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google