★ 5

I had a recurring back injury that I was unable to fully recover from. I stopped squatting entirely, but despite that, I continued to sustain injuries. After consulting with Cindy, we spent several weeks working through different movements and exercises, which helped me realize I had been neglecting so many different muscles. Since incorporating these movements into my routine, my back pain has improved drastically. Also Cindy is incredibly attentive and informative, I highly recommend working with her.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is my first time writing a review for anything, but I felt compelled to share my experience. I’m a 50+ male who used to lead a very active lifestyle—running marathons and playing sports multiple times a week. Unfortunately, chronic back problems that developed into sciatica brought all of that to a halt, even making simple activities like walking was a challenge at the beginning of the year. The impact wasn’t just physical; it affected my mood, daily performance, and overall quality of work and home life.
I tried everything to heal—strength training, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and more—but nothing seemed to work. Then I found Cindy, and everything changed.
Cindy is truly exceptional. She combines compassion, attentiveness, and an incredible understanding of individual needs with a warm and motivating personality. She’s not just a trainer or a coach—she’s a partner in my journey, someone I feel I can genuinely rely on.
After just a couple of months of working with her, I’ve seen remarkable progress. I’m getting stronger, breathing better both during training and throughout the day, and I’ve even avoided needing a spinal injection for my sciatica. Beyond the physical improvements, Cindy has helped me build positive habits and regain a sense of mindfulness and control over my life.
I can’t thank Cindy enough and am excited for what lies ahead. With her support, the sky truly is the limit.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is an amazing personal trainer. She is an expert on the best workout for everyone, especially women. We have worked on getting stronger, achieving my first pull up and increasing my mobility for longevity. She is knowledgable, kind and always accessible, especially for questions between sessions. I'm a huge fan!

Source: Google

★ 5

Got my first ever surfing lesson from Cindy and it was truly worth it! Cindy was always motivating and attentive, looking out for ways I could improve and made sure to teach proper form as well as how to stretch to avoid injury before starting. Would recommend Cindy to anyone looking to start surfing

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is amazing - so sweet and encouraging, full of laughs and smiles, and a total badass. I took my first ever surf lesson with her and it was a blast! I had so much fun and was actually able to stand up and ride some waves with her help and coaching! She also showed me some exercises to help me loosen up my hips and back which helped a lot. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for a fitness or surfing coach!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Cindy for a month and can attest how awesome she has been! She knows her stuff inside out and makes learning new exercises super easy. What I love most is her patience, she takes the time to make sure I get everything right, no matter how many times I need it explained.

Plus, she's got this great vibe that makes workouts fun. It's not just about sweating; she makes each session enjoyable. And her focus on mobility and easing pain? Game-changer. I've seen a huge improvement in how I move and way less discomfort since I started working with her.

I definitely recommend her for anyone who wants to invest in their health. She's made a real difference in my fitness journey!

Source: Google

★ 5

I did a Strength training foundations for women class in El Salvador with Cindy, the class was amazing and Cindy explained and demostrated why strenght training is so important for us as womens. thanks a lot Cindy !

Source: Google

★ 5

Best coach I ever met, she is so good and have lot of patience, a full experience to grown and keep healthy

Source: Google

★ 5

I can’t wait to workout with her again! So motivated and ready to get the job done 🏋️‍♀️

Source: Google

★ 5

True professional, passionate about helping others to achieve their goals. World-class!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy’s a very knowledgeable Fitness Coach for Pain Relief and Golf Performance Improvement! As someone who spends long hours behind a desk, I was plagued with chronic back and shoulder pain. Thanks to Cindy, I've experienced a remarkable transformation. Her tailored fitness program targeted my specific issues, alleviating my discomfort and strengthening my body for golfing. With her expertise, I've not only found relief from pain but also witnessed a significant enhancement in my golf performance. The workouts are dynamic and adaptive, focusing on core strength and mobility- essential elements for a powerful swing and injury prevention on the course.

Cindy possesses an exceptional understanding of biomechanics and functional movement, which has been instrumental in my progress. Her personalized approach ensures that every session is productive and aligned with my goals. Whether you're a desk-bound professional or a golf enthusiast, Cindy is the ultimate solution for achieving a pain-free, stronger body, and elevating your game. I can’t recommend Cindy enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome fitness instructor! Great energy, very positive and knowledgable. She brings out the best in you + helps you believe you CAN do it!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Couldn’t be happier. Cindy is knowledgable and has an impressive command of fitness, across various dimensions such as strength, flexibility, mobility, and pain management. Unlike other trainers, she focuses on sustainable, multi-dimensional results.

With Cindy, I worked on all the major lifts, and made incredible progress. I also successfully managed my back pain, and improved my shoulder and hip mobility.

My overall health was impacted by poor posture, low back and glute pain from years of prolonged sitting at a desk job. Cindy worked closely with me to address muscle imbalances, improve postural patterns and to build a stronger body from head to toe, and from inside out.

Highly recommend her!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is a great personal trainer. She helped me with my strength training for over half a year and the results were amazing. I was a skinny guy who did not know how to improve my strength. Compound exercises like back squat, deadlift, pull up and bench press used to be dangerous to me where I can easily get injured. Cindy taught me how to activate the right muscles for those exercises. She pointed me to some regressions in case those were not intuitive for me. She also helped me improve mobility and flexibility to prevent injuries. She built a balanced training program for me which I am still using most of it today. With her help, I was able to achieve a 70%-100% weight increases in all those exercises in 18 months without injuring myself.

Source: Google

★ 5

A sedentary lifestyle and working long hours at a desk job got my body feeling really tight in places - hamstrings, back, neck. Found Cindy after going through the profiles of many fitness trainers in NYC. Taking private training sessions with her has been single handedly the best decision I have made for my health. She effortlessly caters every session and the workouts to suit where you are in the fitness journey. We started building my fitness level from scratch and she has been super encouraging. She is a 2-in-1: Trainer and physical therapist. She watches to make sure my form is good, emphasizes quality over quantity and most importantly progresses the workouts in a safe manner that doesn’t risk injury in the back, spine, knees etc.

Always look forward to her sessions. My friends and family have noticed the difference. Cindy always says “We are only as strong as our spine”. I’ve learned to focus on strength, mobility and overall health. Can’t thank her enough! The 5 stars are real. Just call her pronto! :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is an amazing personal trainer! I worked with her for the past 6 months and she really uplevelled my fitness! I had some knee issues when I first started working with her and she showed me how to to activate my glutes and incorporate other foundational and mobility exercises - which greatly reduced the knee pain. She is extremely knowledgeable and experienced and such a positive and patient person, always motivating me and giving me personalised "homework" workout plans to do on my own on the days we don't meet. Working with Cindy has been one of the best investments in my health and fitness. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Very caring. Pain relief expert! Friendly and fun to work with!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is an awesome beginner surf instructor. She was super clear and tailored the lesson well, while always keeping an eye out for safety. She is a great community builder and introduced us to all the local food & folks - didn’t even know there was such a rich surf culture in NYC before meeting her! Will definitely go surfing with her again :)

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with Cindy for over a year, starting as the pandemic emerged and evolved. Her initial assessment focused on my 'core' which was in much need of repair and strengthening. Adding increased daily walking, daily stretch and exercises eliminated, emphasis ELIMINATED, all my left sided sciatica for first time in over 20 years. Upper body work is work in progress, but use of chin-up/pull-up bar ($30 from Amazon) makes amazing difference. Cindy's expertise is in many domains for health (mental and physical) and fitness. I'm a senior citizen too -- so, this becomes a life-enhancing process. I recommend at highest level.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is a wonderful personal trainer, health coach, and person. I was hesitant to work with a trainer due to my low back pain, but I knew that I needed to work on my core strength and flexibility if I wanted to prevent further injury. Cindy helped me develop an exercise routine coupled with a healthy eating plan. We also began working on mental health which is just as important as good exercise and eating habits. Cindy has been very understanding and motivating. She is always available for any questions or concerns. Most importantly, I can tell that she truly cares about her clients and will go above and beyond to help them. I truly can’t say enough good things about her and am very happy to be on this health journey with her.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is an amazing online personal trainer and fitness coach! I had no background in working out and the little that I was doing she was able to show me how to do it right so I don't hurt myself and build core strength. I learned more about my fitness journey and living a healthy lifestyle in the 4 weeks working with her than I have doing my own research for years! She is great at working with people at all ages and levels.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I took my first Surf Fit private class with instructor Cindy Lai and had a blast! The class included warm up, safety instruction, and more than an hour of bliss on the board in the ocean. This class was the most fun workout I have ever had. I will definitely be back! I also appreciate fitness and stretching tips Cindy shares on her social media, it has been a very helpful resource in my fitness journey. Her knowledge and passion for fitness are truly remarkable.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is a knowledgeable, positive, and amazing surf instructor. The classes I took with her were super fun. It helps me develop a love for surfing.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is awesome! Have trained with her & also took a super fun surf lesson from her. I had surf before but want to get re-accquainted! She's a wonderful surf instructor & Fitness coach. In the past she gave me great workout home tips, Warmup tips & stretching advice that I have continued to use! Highly recommend her!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is hands down the best. Her approach to fitness is so refreshing. She really focuses on mobility and the way you move versus just making you do a bunch of exercises. If you're into learning how to move correctly, longevity/injury prevention, and building lean muscle then definitely take one of her classes in Central Park. She's also just a nice person who will give you advice on anything fitness/wellness related!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is an incredibly dedicated fitness instructor and personal trainer. Her high energy and positivity can get your through any movement! I started with quarantine workouts via social media and it truly helped me survive the lockdown with her upbeat and precise home workouts. I also enjoy Cindy's surf warmup and surf fit classes.
Her mobility training is a MUST. See for yourself, you won't be disappointed!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is an incredible, highly knowledge instructor who will make your surfing lesson or fitness class awesome. I’ve taken two surfing lessons and one boot camp class with her so far and I can’t wait to do more! Cindy is a master of her craft and takes the time to teach you the basics before you get on your surfboard or try a new exercise. I’ve consistently been impressed with how closely she pays attention to everyone’s body movements and adjusts and provides recommendations accordingly. She’s a cool, kind and motivating instructor, so take a lesson! 🏄‍♀️💪🏼😊

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy Lai is a holistic, effective and very knowledgeable fitness  trainer. She helped me to take my mindset about fitness to the next "power-upgraded" level.
I am naturally hyperactive and working out in the late afternoons/evenings most of the times would keep me up at night. To help me partially correct this issue, she asked me to keep a diet journal and guided me to identify "when" to eat and "what" to eat at different times of the day, so my body would absorb the nutrients more efficiently and it would be more at ease by bedtime. Happy sleeping and sexier muscles since then. She is very very very pleasant to work with!

Source: Google

★ 5

I first started taking Cindy’s kettlebell workouts in the park years ago to help with shoulder issues, as well as joining her boot camps in the park. She brings a wonderful playful and positive energy to the workouts and they are dynamic and tough but also with good attention to form and mobility. Groups tend to be small with a good amount of personal attention. Cindy also supports people to achieve their own goals and to be functionally fit; she got me into both hiking and surfing so that I could see how fitness could help me to do things I never thought about before.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a client of Cindy's for over 5 years now, and she's phenomenal!! It's really fantastic working with her. Not only is she amazingly knowledgable of so many types of fitness already (from kettlebells to strength training to mobility to stretching to martial arts to core workouts to HITs to cardio etc.), but something that is really admirable is that she is constantly learning and sharpening her skills as well, whether it be exploring new exercises and sports, or attending workshops to deepen her knowledge in specialized skills.

I highly recommend working with her!

Source: Google

★ 5

I took Cindy's surf class in Rockaway, and it was amazing. It was my first time and she was super friendly, helpful and encouraging. Would take again!

Source: Google

★ 5

Surf Fit is the way to go if you want to learn to surf with no pressure, and a leave the beach with a ton of confidence, having dominated those waves! First of all, a woman who teaches surfing is just a badass. Period. I wasn't initially part of her surfing class, but I was watching closely. I was so impressed by how quickly her beginner surf students were paddling for their own waves and catching them that I signed up for the following weekend! I was not disappointed. Cindy led these awesome warm ups which really helped prep me for the water and the paddle out. I had a blast and was encouraged to paddle for every wave which was a great arm and shoulder workout. Cindy is really fun and personable and extremely positive surf instructor.

Source: Google

★ 5

The SurFit class is so much fun! Very informing to walk you step by step. If you’ve never surfed before this class will help you get out of your comfort zone!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy’s Surf Fit class is awesome, so much fun and a great workout! Cindy has a great attitude and makes it super fun regardless of your fitness level. Whether it’s surfing, kettle bells, weight lifting, shredding in Central Park, Cindy’s the personal trainer you need! Highly recommend all of her classes!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been taking "Fitness in the Park" with Cindy since the beginning of the summer and I LOVE IT. She is an attentive and knowledgeable trainer who is in tune with her individual class members' needs at all times. Her exercises are innovative and challenging - I've made so much progress since starting her class. If you EVER have the chance to work out with Cindy Lai - don't miss it!!! She is a rare find.

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined Cindy Surf class. She makes you feel absolutely confortable. It was a great experience and definitely FUN with a amazing positive energy. I’ll do it again for sure. Thank you! 💓

Source: Google

★ 5

I had an amazing time at Surffit. Cindy is extremely welcoming, accommodating, knowledgeable, and professional. She made all the group feel comfortable since minute one, we all had different levels of experience and yet we all enjoyed our time in the water very much. Would definitely come back very soon

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy has been my personal trainer for a few months now. She is absolutely amazing. She has helped me tremendously in setting up a training program that works for me, getting into shape, and ultimately making the start to my day even better. She's very encouraging and patient when it comes time to learning a new exercise, which she teaches it so perfectly step by step, and in an incredibly safe way for your body too. I would highly recommend Cindy to anybody that asks me. She's changed my life!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is a pro fitness coach, personal trainer and an amazing surf instructor. I took her Surf Fit course at Rockaway Beach - NY two years ago which brought be back to my passion of surfing. I am back on the board ever since, and it's amazing! Thank you Cindy! Cindy's priority is safety first which is totally aligned with my approach to any extreme sport. I recommend Cindy to any newbee who's always wanted to try surfing - this is your opportunity to find a new passion! #surfinstructor #surfclass #fitness #cindylaifitness #cindylai #nycsurf #nycsurfclass #personaltrainer #bootcamp #rockawaybeach

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience working with Cindy Lai has been nothing short of excellent. When I started working with Cindy, I had some basic knowledge and decent level and of fitness. However, She has helped me to focus on my form during our sessions, which has translated to safe and effective workouts when I'm training on my own! She even created a personalized homework for me to follow throughout the week on days we weren't training together. Cindy is professional, attentive, while focused on detail and the individual needs of her clients. I'm looking forward to continuing working with her to up my fitness game and crush my goals. A+ personal trainer! I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking to advance their overall fitness. Cindy is well worth the investment!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy's an awesome person and overall great trainer and motivator!!!

I've done several Surf Fit classes with her last summer in Rockaway beach, NY, and plan to do so again this summer. Cindy is friendly, professional, and provides good mobility and stretch instructions prior to getting in the water for the surfing. In the Surf Fit class, you will get some land instructions on safety, paddling, and getting up on the board. Cindy won't be in the water pushing you but she'll be in the water instructing you on how to get up and when to catch the wave. It can be challenging but very rewarding once you're able to get up.

The HIIT classes with Cindy are also great workouts and will definitely leave you sweaty but feeling accomplished afterwards. In the class, there's a good variation of exercises so that you're not bored and muscles are burning afterwards.

I cannot wait to train with her again!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy created a very optimistic, professional, and safety oriented atmosphere that really kept people engaged while having a great time. After one surfing class I wanted to come back for more. Definitely take the opportunity to attend one of her classes, you’ll have a great time!

Source: Google

★ 5

SO...MUCH...FUN!!
My son and I had an Amazing time surfing with Cindy. She is professional, personable, knowledgeable, super patient and a sweetheart.
We’ve done it twice and we are definitely going to continue to go back.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is a next level trainer. Besides the fact that she pushes you to perform at your absolute best, her training is incredibly dynamic. She understands body movement within so many different disciplines, which makes her a chameleon when it comes to her clients’ needs/interests. Cindy also specializes in using what you have...she doesn’t need a big gym or fancy equipment to get you sweating and panting. Most importantly, while training with Cindy you always feel safe. I would highly recommend Cindy Lai Fitness!

Source: Google

★ 5

It was such a delight joining Cindy in her Surf Fit class. She's professional, responsive, knowledgeable and a great spirit. I enjoyed how hands-on Cindy was and took time to encourage each student on their surf board. She's patient, kind and a joy to be around. I LOVED how she sent a wake up text with instructions and very useful info the day of and even enjoyed follow-up communication about how I felt the next day. Her genuine and thoughtful customer service alone is what wins me over and I look forward to getting fit with her again!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is the archetypical great trainer: always punctual, cheerful, firm and fun. My wife and I both employ Cindy and are absolutely delighted with her tutelage. We've had several other trainers before Cindy and we agree that Cindy is by far the best. We wouldn't leave her for the world. Top of the line!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been attending Cindy's bootcamps for over 5 years and I can't believe I didn't post a review before! I absolutely recommend her bootcamps in the park: it's a smaller group so she helps each and everyone get the movements just right to prevent any injury, and this is so important! I've seen too many of my friends going too hard on indoor cycling or crossfit, and get injured badly because they had no guidance and just kept pushing with bad form! Anyway, none of that at Cindy's, she guides you precisely and focuses on good form and mobility. Beside the group fitness class in Central Park she also does 1 on 1 personal training. I did a dozen session last year because I wanted to loose some fat and build some muscle and it was outstanding as well. She used a combination of bodyweight training exercises, kettlebells, and TRX to hit all the parts of the body and I felt really changed by the end of the program.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing fitness instructor. I took multiple work out classes from cindy lay fitness. It’s very personal, customized and attention to details. Highly recommend Cindy fitness trainer.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Cindy Lai Fitness for almost 8 years and she is more than a fitness instructor to me. Whether I am training for Tough Mudder or recovering from an ACL injury, she works with you to figure out your personal goals, your body type and how to use your body as part of strength training. That allows you to be able to workout wherever you go! We also go on Fitness Retreats which is such a cool way to see the world. Building a community, learning new skills and maintaining a healthy weight which means more flexibility with meals in a foreign country. Join our community and make Cindy Lai Fitness part of a lifestyle. Also, stretch! It’s good for you. :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy is super smart about everything to do with fitness and physiology. She's gifted at walking the line between tough and supportive and is an absolute professional...on time, follows up, and tailors each work out to me! Working out with her consistently has made a real and positive impact on my fitness - and life. :)

Source: Google

★ 5

100% awesome! Aside from being an outstanding physical trainer, Cindy is also an outstanding person! She tailors all her workouts to suit your needs and makes it look easy! Her classes are great for everyone from novice to experts alike, she keeps you motivated and gets you leaner, faster & stronger!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I highly recommend Cindy Lai Fitness! Cindy pushed me to achieve things I didn't know I had the strength to do - and also modified movements for me when I wasn't quite there yet. She also shares some inspiring thoughts about celebrating life while setting goals and leading a healthy lifestyle. Added perks - spending time in the beautiful outdoors, meeting great people in a welcoming environment, and having some good laughs!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've just started Cindy's kettlebell classes and they're great!  Tried a few different bootcamp places when I first moved to NYC, but the kettlebell workouts definitely take things to the next level.  Cindy does a great job of keeping class sizes manageable, and tailors the workouts to each student - keeping beginners encouraged while giving more advanced students enough to keep challenged and coming back for more.  With other training I felt like I kept hitting plateaus as I adapted, but with Cindy's workouts I'm sore every time (in a good way :o) ).  Can't wait for the next class!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy's bootcamp classes are amazing! I have been taking the Saturday kettlebell class for almost two and a half years now, and I still love it. She tailors the class to each person in there. She knows how to motivate and push you to make you work your hardest, without being overbearing like other bootcamp classes.

I get bored with workout routines very easily and have to switch to new goals, whether it's running a half marathon, doing a crazy obstacle course, doing an 8-week weight lifting program, etc. But Cindy includes new routines, workouts and exercises every week, so I never get bored. Even though it's tough to wake up early on a Saturday morning, Cindy motivates me to, and I actually look forward to it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cindy Lai is fantastic. She's not like a drill sergeant, but she pushes you to work to your potential. She can tell if you're really working or coasting. In just 9 sessions, I already have noticeably flatter abs, feel stronger and have a better idea of what I'm capable of. I highly recommend that you give her classes a chance.

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love Cindy Lai's boot camp. I started going in 2009, completely out of shape. I was really worried that boot camp might be too much for me. I was very pleased to learn that Cindy's classes are designed for all fitness levels. There were fit folks in the class AND others like me - and still even others who were overweight. Cindy is NOT a drill sergeant. She takes a very relaxed teaching approach, making you feel comfortable in class. Even more, it's almost like getting a one-one-one trainer since she focuses on each person in the class. She even texts me to check in on me and see how I'm holding up when not in class. Cindy's classes usually have around 10-15 people. We motivate each other and get really personal attention from Cindy. I just love this - I have never enjoyed working out, but this class is amazing. I highly recommend it to anyone - no matter what your fitness level.

Source: Google