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Personal trainer Health consultant Physical fitness program Women's personal trainerAbout the Club
Vanessa Carlson Fitness is now proudly based in Portland, Maine, offering premium 1-on-1 and small-group personal training to high-achieving women who want lasting results and a fun-first approach to wellness.
Founded by Dr. Vanessa Carlson, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master Trainer with over a decade of experience, our programs are designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and transform your health — both in-person at our Portland locations and virtually from anywhere.
Now serving clients from Scarborough to Freeport, including Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth, Cumberland, Yarmouth, Brunswick, and beyond.
Book a free consultation today and discover how fitness can be fun, personalized, and powerfully effective.
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Reviews
Kathy Johnson
★ 5
Vanessa is amazing! In just a short time she showed me how to be aware of my own body. I have had 4 appointments with her and I am walking taller, finding my balance and feeling confident. Thank you Vanessa for all you do! I highly recommend Vanessa!
Source: Google
Debbie Gursslin
★ 5
Vanessa Carlson Fitness is great! Vanessa is amazing. She teaches proper techniques, but makes it fun. Workouts change so you don't get bored and they are challenging, but not too much so. There are modifications to use if needed. I've been working out virtually with Vanessa for 5 months and I've lost 20 pounds & 19 inches so far. Try it & see!
Source: Google
Malinda Denman
★ 5
Vanessa Carlson is truly one of the best in the industry! I had the privilege of working with her, and she was the one who taught me how to be a personal trainer. Her background as a physical therapist gave me an entirely new appreciation for how the body moves and functions. Vanessa truly cares about each individual she works with — not just focusing on fitness, but on long-term health and sustainable strength. Her knowledge, patience, and passion for helping others are unmatched. I’m so grateful for everything I learned from her. If you're looking for someone who genuinely understands the body and is dedicated to helping you succeed, I can’t recommend Vanessa enough!
Source: Google
Kendra Kearns
★ 5
I have worked with Vanessa in the past and she is great! Her experience in personal training, physical therapy, and massage therapy allow her to bring a holistic approach to wellness. She is super knowledgeable and does a great job of sharing that knowledge. She has worked with people of all backgrounds, abilities and goals, and she does a wonderful job of teaching and guiding you through the process of reaching those goals. Whether you are new to fitness or maybe you haven’t started yet or maybe you’ve been in it for a while, she can help get you where you want to be.
Source: Google
Lillian Burns
★ 5
These videos are helpful in having the access towards creating a timeframe that works for the individual. The exercises mixed with music and a playful mindset help me to think about fun and not just a workout. The dedication and support are phenomenal! Thank you for striving to help others reach an attainable goal. Our Health!
Source: Google
Lara Hayes
★ 5
Vanessa is an amazing fitness instructor. She is very knowledgeable about what exercises to do for problemed areas. She brings a wonderful and kind energy to her workouts.
Source: Google
laura yount
★ 5
I have enjoyed working with Vanessa. She has a passion for fitness, helping people and encouraging people to do their best.
Vanessa is very knowledgeable about the body, muscles and how to get the most out of each exercise and movement.
She is a caring, supportive and extremely encouraging person, who makes you feel like you are #1 and can accomplish everything you put your mind to.
I highly recommend working with Vanessa if you are in need of a great and motivating trainer.
Source: Google
Christopher Kuehl
★ 5
We love FITMom.. they are fantastic.
Source: Google
Rachel Newman
★ 5
I just wanna start by saying I trained with Vanessa in her gym eight years ago and she helped change my life and help me become a better me after a hard battle with a divorce being married for 20 years. It was a difficult time in my life and I walked into her gym and she was so welcoming her and her husband. It became one of my happy places 3 to 4 days a week and not only helped me physically, but mentally and emotionally. Her workouts are amazing and she’s even more amazing. I highly recommend her. She helped me change my life to for the better and I will always be grateful for her for that season of my life. She came in eight years ago thank you Vanessa for being an amazing mentor and personal trainer forever grateful. Rachel Newman Boso.
Source: Google
Amanda Baum
★ 5
I can’t begin to say how grateful I am that this opportunity came in to my life when I was struggling to find any type of motivation to start taking better care of myself. Vanessa is an answer to prayers and I receive so much joy and victory in watching her videos, and the quick dopamine fixes for checking off my wins helps keep me engaging!
Source: Google
Marissa
★ 5
Vanessa is an awesome coach to work with! I’ve had the pleasure to participate in her workouts before and they are just the right amount of intensity to get moving, have fun, and feel good!
Source: Google
Ashley Brooker
★ 5
I am enjoying this 21 day workout program and am doing workouts I normally wouldn’t. In just a week I have a lot more energy.
Source: Google
Khara Dennison
★ 5
I’ve been so fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Vanessa in the gym which was truly life changing. The way she is able to motivate and inspire others is exceptional. She will meet you where you’re at in your fitness journey whether you’re a novice or more advanced. I really can’t say enough good things! You won’t be disappointed!
Source: Google
Summer Arnold
★ 5
Vanessa is an awesome person to workout with! So motivating and uplifting!! Best of the best!!
Source: Google
Stacy Yocum
★ 5
Vanessa is an experienced professional. She has orchestrated her program to get me going after a tough recovery from surgery last year. I feel safe that I won’t over do it yet I will be consistent in building muscle and stamina. Plus it’s been fun to incorporate easy dance routines too. Using the app makes it super easy to track my progress and keep me motivated not to skip a workout. She is a blessing to those who are ready to get back at it. Love her!
Source: Google
Christina Broyles
★ 5
Vanessa is a powerhouse of knowledge! She is very passionate about helping woman achieve their best not only physically but holistically. I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to be instructed by her and know you will benefit from her instruction. And she has the cutest family!
Source: Google
Alexis
★ 5
I honestly can’t say enough good things about Vanessa! She makes everything so approachable and easy to follow. Her workouts are fun and perfect for any fitness level. Plus, she always throws in modifications, so you never feel left behind.
What I really love is how she is a “no excuses” kind of vibe, just genuine encouragement and support. She celebrates progress big and small!
If you’re thinking about trying her program, do it! Seriously. Total game changer :)
Source: Google
Danna Smith
★ 5
Vanessa is an exceptional fitness coach. Her guidance has taught me so much, and for the first time, I genuinely enjoy working out. I highly recommend her training programs to anyone looking to improve their fitness in a positive and motivating environment.
Source: Google
Patti Barb
★ 5
makes working out fun. Easy to follow instructions.
Source: Google
Ron Carlson
★ 5
I can’t say enough good things about Vanessa! Knowing she’s a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Master Trainer will instantly give you peace of mind—you are in expert hands from the very beginning. That combination of deep clinical knowledge and fitness expertise is rare, and it really shows in the way she personalizes everything to your body’s needs and goals. You will leave every session not just feeling physically better, but also feel more confident in how you move. It’s such a good feeling to trust the person guiding your progress. Highly recommend!
Source: Google
Stephanie Kerrick
★ 5
I can honestly say I look forward to my morning workouts with Vanessa...it's a good jump start to my day. I never get bored as with other workouts. I feel energized throughout my day. I will continue to seek her fitness knowledge to guide me on my health journey. Forever grateful for you Vanessa.
Source: Google
Stephanie
★ 5
Vanessa is a great fitness trainer. She listens and helps you every step of the way.
Source: Google
Vinka Chadsey
★ 5
Vanessa is great! She is very knowledgeable on all things fitness due to her educational background and experience in the industry. I highly recommend Vanessa for anyone who is looking for help achieving their fitness goals.
Source: Google
Cary Baker
★ 5
Vanessa is one of the most knowledgeable fitness experts I have ever met. Not only that, she is kind, generous, and knows how to make a workout an enjoyable experience. She will help you be a better you!!
Source: Google
Kathryn Cowan
★ 5
Vanessa is an absolute force—in the best way. She brings so much heart, depth, and expertise to her work, and it shows in how she supports people. As a physical therapist, gym owner, and coach to both men and women in so many different types of fitness, she sees the whole person, not just the physical. That’s rare. She’s helped people virtually and in person, and she just gets it—how bodies work, how to motivate sustainably, and how to guide people through real transformation. If you have a chance to work with her, do it. You won’t regret it.
Source: Google
Christi Frase
★ 5
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Vanessa for over a year now, and I can confidently say she is an outstanding trainer! From our very first session, it was clear that she truly knows her stuff. Her expertise in fitness and wellness shines through in every workout making each session both effective and enjoyable.
What sets Vanessa apart is her incredible ability to encourage and motivate. She always knows how to push me just enough to challenge my limits, while also providing the support I need to keep going. Her positive energy is contagious, and I always leave our sessions feeling inspired and accomplished.
If you're looking for a trainer who is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about your progress, Vanessa is the one! She is simply amazing and you won't be disappointed!
Source: Google
Chris Peters
★ 5
I've known Vanessa for many years when she lived in PA. Her classes were always well balanced to every level but also took into.condideration our individual needs. I especially liked her Pilates classes...they were a great workout and I always felt like a wet noodle by the time we were finished. Vanessa also provided stretching and flexibility, as well as individual massage sessions.
Source: Google
sherry patrie
★ 5
Vanessa is extremely knowledgeable about exercise as a Doctor of Physical Therapy. And paired with that knowledgeable is a desire to encourage you and see you grow and succeed. You will be blessed by her expertise!
Source: Google
Adam Ortiz
★ 5
I have had the opportunity to work out with Vanessa in her gym. She has a way of pushing you in just the way you need while still being encouraged. Her background and knowledge is a plus and I really enjoy her therapeutic stretches and massages.
Source: Google
AES
★ 5
Vanessa is an empathetic, ambitious caring leader. Her goal is to enhance the lives of others through fitness and wellness ultimately helping you live your best life. Plus, her videos are tailored to all types of skill levels as well, very encouraging.
Source: Google
Liz Willemin
★ 5
Vanessa is incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and motivating. She curates workouts to your body and needs. She has helped me meet my goals when I’ve been at my fittest and also when I was pregnant and wanting to stay active and strong. I would highly recommend her to anyone at any fitness level.
Source: Google
Sylvia Rosado
★ 5
I have worked with Vanessa online and in person. I feel safe working out with her. She helps tailors the workouts to my needs and I always have fun even when I don’t feel like working out. I also really enjoy her massages and therapeutic stretches.
Source: Google
Elizabeth Fulop
★ 5
I highly recommend Vanessa Carlson Fitness!! I like her morning workouts.They are up beat and so fun to follow . Vanessa’s energy is so contagious that she immediately put you in a good mood!
As a Massage Therapist and physical therapist myself, I highly respect Vanessa’s educational background also as a physical therapist and personal trainer. She’s such a blessing to watch and I have learned so much from her.
Source: Google
Nanci Adams
★ 5
I've had the privilege of knowing and training with Vanessa for many years, and she is truly exceptional. Her dedication to her craft and passion for helping others shine through in everything she does. Not only is she an incredible fitness instructor/therapist, but she is also a woman of faith, a devoted family woman, and an inspiration to so many.
Her energy is always on point—motivating, uplifting, and exactly what you need to push through a tough workout. She has created a user-friendly platform that makes it easy to stay engaged and on track, and her social media presence is both encouraging and educational. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to level up, Vanessa is the one to follow. Highly recommend! Be blessed!
Source: Google
Cara DeNapoli
★ 5
Vanessa Carlson Fitness is more than just an online fitness platform; it’s a transformative experience for anyone seeking to improve their health and fitness journey. From the moment you join, it’s clear that this platform is crafted with heart and soul. Vanessa, Physical Therapist and an expert in the fitness industry with years of experience, doesn’t just offer training—she offers a sense of community, support, and genuine care.
What truly sets Vanessa Carlson Fitness apart is the personal touch. Vanessa isn’t just a coach; she’s a mentor who understands that every person’s journey is unique. The workouts are accessible to all fitness levels, and they’re thoughtfully designed to challenge and motivate, but never overwhelm.
Vanessa’s servant spirit shines through every aspect of the platform. She’s constantly engaged with her community, offering personalized advice, checking in with her clients, and making sure they feel seen and heard. Her infectious positivity makes each workout feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity to grow and thrive.
The platform itself is user-friendly and full of variety—there’s something for everyone, no matter your schedule or preferences. The convenience of being able to work out from home, at your own pace, but still feel part of a supportive community is priceless.
If you're looking for a fitness program that goes beyond physical results and nurtures your mind, body, and spirit, Vanessa Carlson Fitness is it. You won’t just get stronger—you’ll be inspired to live your best, healthiest life!
Source: Google