★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are considering getting a trainer, skip the inexperienced trainers at the gym and go straight to Nathan.

Nathan is an uncommonly good personal trainer for so many reasons.

First, he’s really knowledgeable about proper form. Where previous trainers adapted my exercises to compensate for prior injuries, Nathan instead made sure my form was correct first. I was able to make much bigger gains using correct form with Nathan’s guidance.

Second, he’s supportive while still pushing you. If you need someone who is direct but still will listen empathetically to your whinging, Nathan is your man.

Third, Nathan is constantly learning new techniques and science behind it all. He distills really difficult information down to what you need.

Source: Google

★ 5

We have been very impressed with Nathan. My wife and I have worked with him for 9 weeks and have achieved great results. We credit Nathan with our progress. We are a midlife couple, working with him twice per week, together. He has brought us along at the perfect pace without injury or excessive soreness. Even though we have different workouts, Nathan is a master at coaching us both at the same time. I highly recommend him if you are a couple wanting to do something together that has major health benefits. Nathan is a natural teacher, always explaining how to do the exercises and “the why.” His gym is very organized and a perfect environment to get a great workout. I highly recommended using Nathan to achieve your fitness goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

We are so happy to have found Nathan. We signed up for a 3-month couples training program this summer and have experienced significant muscle and mobility gains (hard to achieve at midlife). His physiology knowledge and strength training experience, not to mention his natural teaching ability, are best in class. We are on different plans and have different strengths and weaknesses, yet Nathan keeps us on track, makes sure our form is on point, all while knowing exactly how many reps we’ve done, or when we need to reset. He is hyper-organized in his gym allowing him to really focus on the technical aspects of our lifts. We live in Texas and have been so impressed with Nathan that we signed up to have him write monthly programs for us to do on our own back home. You will get strong with Nathan—he’s a total pro.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is the man! I’ve been working with since December after recovering from surgery, and he’s been amazing. He’s flexible, responsive, and always makes sure the sessions are focused and I never feel rushed. His rates are very fair for one-on-one training. I’ve worked with other personal trainers before, but I’ve seen the most progress by far with Nathan.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are looking for a great personal trainer, look no further. Nathan consistently brings upbeat energy to each session and is always prepared.
He has great depth of knowledge on weight training and various fitness and health topics and he is always very willing to share. His focus during a training session is directly on his clients.

I am very satisfied with Nathan’s skill and level of competency. I have made a lot of progress since I began training with him.

Nathan and Stone Dragon Strength Training will continue getting my business. I highly recommend him!!

-Tim

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is the BEST personal trainer ever. I’ve seen many personal trainers and physical therapists, but I’ve experienced more pain relief, stress reduction, and strength gains with Nathan than with anyone else.

I’m a short and tiny deep tissue massage therapist with hyper mobility. To do my career for a long time, I knew I would need to balance my job with strength training. I see him weekly, and each session I get stronger. I’m 126lbs currently deadlifting 145lbs and I’ve had no injuries or exacerbating muscle soreness that I’ve experienced with other trainers or working out by myself in the past. I have more energy to get through work and take care of my family. Mentally, it has been great to manage my anxiety. I feel like other places were obsessively focused on having me use a “perfect” lifting form, not realizing that all bodies are built differently via genetics, past injuries, health conditions, etc. Nathan knows this and modifies to where the exercise is safe and comfortable yet effective for you.

As a petite woman with trauma experiences, it’s very challenging for me to see a male provider for health and wellness services, but I feel at ease training with Nathan in his clean and organized garage studio. He’s very knowledgeable, humorous, easy-going, and motivating. I highly recommend everyone to see him regularly and schedule your preferred time slot in advance. His expertise at Stone Dragon Strength Training in Tacoma is absolutely worth it!

Sidenote: Parking is easily accessible along 6th ave. It’s stair-free access and sometimes Nathan’s sweet and sassy little dog named Lyla is there to greet you in the garden, but she stays outside the studio.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Nathan since November of 2024 and it has been life changing. Partnering with Stone Dragon Strength Training has been instrumental in helping me lose 40 pounds of fat, enhancing my mobility and increasing my strength. I cannot recommend his services enough!

In the past I was very physically active but because of a series of life and career changes as well as arthritis from two hip surgeries, I found myself 100 pounds heavier than my ideal weight. I wanted to make a change but was struggling to get back into the gym.

When evaluating personal training options it was important for me to work with someone that is knowledgeable in exercise mechanics and programming so that I can minimize hip pain. I also want a fitness and nutrition regimen tailored to my specific goals. It was clear from our first meeting that Nathan was a perfect fit for my needs. He took the time to understand where I was at physically, he asked thoughtful questions about my injury history and took the time to understand what I was hoping to accomplish through personal training. His programming keeps me engaged, keeps me free from pain, maintains a focus on mobility and is structured in such a way that I see improvement every week. He offers a range of personal training and programming packages which allowed me to find something that would fit my busy work schedule. I really appreciate the flexibility in scheduling he is able to offer as an independent gym owner.

I appreciate Nathan's approach to training and the results I have seen but maybe more importantly I appreciate that he is a genuinely good person that cares about me as a client and as a person. If you're on the fence about investing in yourself I would encourage you to schedule an introductory conversation. I promise you won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Working with Nate has been the best investment in my personal health by far!

Plagued with shoulder mobility issues and low back pain I was hesitant to start lifting. However, Nate is incredible with structuring lifting programs that help support a safe lift, while focusing on improving strength.

It has now been a year since my initial session and I can honestly say I am pain free and stronger than ever!

I highly recommend training at Stone Dragon Strength Training to anyone looking to improve their strength, mobility, and overall fitness!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is amazing. It took me a while to find a trainer who I could trust to help me with some very specific strength goals, and I’m so glad I stumbled upon Stone Dragon. I feel super safe and comfortable as a queer/trans person, which is definitely not always true in big gyms, and I have seen amazing results backed up by DEXA scans (yay data). Really highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is extremely knowledgeable, about many things, but especially fitness. He creates great personalized programs to help you reach all of your goals. He checks your form to ensure safety. He's also enjoyable to workout with. You'll laugh and have fun while tearing through any fitness goal you set for yourself!! He's also extremely respectful and has created a great and welcoming fitness space. I can't recommend him enough!! His training is a great investment in yourself!!! Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Nathan at Stone Dragon Strength for a while now and it's been fantastic. He is both a great trainer and teacher that helps curate custom workouts inside and outside of our sessions that build results above expectations. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nate listened to all of my goals & was also very aware of my disabilities, so he came up with great adaptive workouts that fit my needs! Hopefully I will be able to see him consistently again in the future!

Source: Google

★ 5

I enthusiastically recommend Stone Dragon Strength Training. Nathan stands out from any trainer I've encountered. His genuine care for his clients and commitment to their success are unmatched. He takes the time to grasp personal goals and customizes each workout to ensure progress towards achieving them. Nathan goes beyond expectations by educating on body metabolism, the science of calorie management, and setting SMART goals. Professional, engaging, knowledgeable—he's your ultimate advocate for strength and health.

Source: Google

★ 5

I highly recommend Nathan at stone dragon. I have been working out with Nathan for about a year. When I first started, I was the weakest I’d ever been due to illness. I could only deadlift the bar back then but now I’m dead lifting 205lbs and feeling so much stronger over all from last year. Even though I don’t do much outside working with him once a week, I still see gains every week! Nathan is willing and excited to find specific workouts and discuss eating plans around my individual needs. He's very encouraging and very knowledgeable about what he teaches. Nathan provides a very friendly and motivating environment that I look forward to every week.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan’s strength training program from me has been miraculous.
I was active: walked 5 miles most days, did a gym workout 3 days a week…. Then, for 3 years I was brought full stop with chemo, followed by a long bout of plantar fasciitis and a knee injury. My PT had given up on my knee. My doc diagnosed arthritis.
Desperate, I followed my power-lifting daughter’s recommendation to try Stone Dragon. Nathan’s careful, safe, and incremental strengthening program has brought my strength back to pre chemo level. One day a week - I’m still incredulous. I’m bounding up stairs without pain. I’m so stoked, I’m looking forward to more workouts. It’s well worth the drive from Seattle to Tacoma!
Can’t thank you enough, Nathan.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is a great instructor (and listener) he understands the connection you need to know between muscle, bone and nutritional needs to achieve your goals… definitely will be back 👍🏋🏼

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with Nathan for over a year now and hope to continue indefinitely as he is awesome! I have seen significant gains in strength, muscle tone and my aches and pains have improved as well! Highly recommend him for all levels and personal work out goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan took the time to really understand my goals and concerns and to formulate challenging, engaging workouts that work with my busy life. I had been stuck in a plateau for months, but now I've seen significant gains in only 3 weeks time while working with Nathan. I can't recommend him highly enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This guy is a strength whisperer. I was initially quite nervous to visit Nathan because of my age, especially considering he trains my beastly strong son. However, I quickly discovered that he is an exceptional teacher suitable for all levels! He made an immediate and noticeable difference in my everyday life. Walking up the stairs, lifting the dogs and groceries, all of these have become more thoughtful and powerful after working with him. His expertise is truly remarkable.

What sets Nathan apart is his ability to understand his clients and help them progress right from where they are. With me, there was no pressure to be amazing, just to improve. I like that. It doesn't matter where you are in your journey; he has the knowledge and skills to guide you effectively to the next level and beyond!

I'm planning to continue working with Nathan to maintain and improve my health because he's an essential element! If you're searching for a top-notch trainer who delivers results, Nathan at Stone Dragon is the one.

Source: Google

★ 5

Working with Nathan, has been one of the best decisions. I’ve had trainers before and have never been as satisfied with the results as I have with Stone Dragon strength Training. Not only have I noticed changes in body, I’m noticeably stronger than I have ever been.

Along with the fact that Nathan provides an encouraging atmosphere. Pushing me to my limits in a way that still makes me feel comfortable and educates me on fitness while doing it.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training for awhile with Nathan starting with no experience working out and having the dreaded lock down wine binge muffin top body. My goal with seeking a trainer was to have understanding of how to actually work out, target muscle groups, push myself, and most importantly no hurt myself. As a hairstylist I’m constantly using my hands/arms and standing for 6-12 hours a day, so it was important that I was not pushed in certain ways to ensure I was without down time that prevented me from doing my job. Nathan is excellent with taking limitations into account, and making adjustments to routines on the fly if I expressed an exercise wasn’t feeling like it was comfortable. He’s extremely attentive and cares that you are reaching your progress with health in mind. Since working with him and building my strength, I was able to stop sleeping with my wrist braces for Carpal tunnel which was a huge benefit. He works with you on diet recommendations for reaching goals. I also reached my goal of gaining 10 pounds of muscle, and going up a shirt size. On top of it all, I was able to establish a routine of working out on my own, something I struggled to do- especially without the confidence of doing workouts correctly. I would 10/10 recommend for value, experience, and results.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you want the TL; DR: I'm 35, never lifted weights, here is my "before" and "after" of 24 weeks of training with Nathan.

I've been working with Nathan since April - about 6 months to the day. I'm a casual runner who had never touched weights before starting our program - first for 1 hour a week, then 2 hours a week. I can't say enough great things about Nathan - he:

-Is a calm, supportive, motivating teacher: he's great at ensuring you execute movements with the right technique, especially tricky compound movements like deadlifts. He helped me progress from the trap bar to stiff-legged deadlifts to Romanian deadlifts and show me how all of the muscle groups are connected. Nathan makes sure that when you're working out you're working *efficiently* and maximizing the amount of gains for the energy you expend.
-Keeps things interesting: I've learned the major compound barbell movements and a ton of accessory movements with cable machines and dumbbells. He's a wealth of information, is at your service for questions during the session (and over text if you need), and challenges you while also being flexible if certain weights or reps or movements don't agree with you (e.g. if you need to build more mobility first, he'll do that with you)
-Is science-based: Nathan is NSCA-certified and knows his stuff when it comes to exercise science. There's no pushing weird supplements, or "too good to be true" routines, just rock solid, evidence-based training. He'll program your nutrition, too!

I'd highly recommend Nathan to anyone looking for high quality strength training from a supportive coach at reasonable rates. Even though I've moved to Seattle I'm continuing to get my programming from him - he's that good!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is professional and very positive. I saw Nathan for six sessions to get me back on track- after some injuries and neglect had derailed my fitness. He emphasized safety and an organized approach to work outs. Now I have a routine that is doable on my tight schedule, and I am confident in that routine. I look forward to returning to Nathan in a bit to push my workouts to the next level. Thank you Nathan!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with Nathan since June and I couldn't be happier with the results. Nathan has been the ultimate professional, at the same time infusing my sessions with humor and motivation. He is knowledgeable not only about strength training, but also nutrition and self care. Everything he planned in my sessions was well thought out and catered to my specific needs. He is patient, thorough and an excellent listener. If you need just a refresher, or a well laid out fitness plan, Nathan is who you need. I would recommend his personal expertise over any gym in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan was AWESOME. I came to him as a former athlete, but out of shape. Asked him to help tailor a workout plan to kickstart me back into a routine. He gave me a personalized plan for 6 weeks, then a different one for the next 6 weeks. I absolutely saw results after 3 months. I went to him once a week, and to the gym three times per week on my own. I’m now back in decent shape, much stronger and have a workout plan to fall back on. I was extremely impressed with Nathan - really nice space to workout in, all the knowledge you could ask for from a trainer and just a generally cool dude. Highly recommend him, and am more than happy to support him!

Source: Google

★ 5

I can’t recommend Nathan highly enough! When we started working together just four months ago, my goal was simply learning how to strength train with a barbell—something that felt way too intimidating to figure out on my own. Today, I can confidently squat, bench press, and deadlift thanks to the work we’ve done together, and I’m now empowered to set some new performance goals! More than just providing accountability and an awesome workout during our sessions, Nathan has educated me on the finer points of form, technique, programming, and nutrition—all of which have helped me progress faster than I thought possible. So: if you want rocket fuel for your own health and fitness journey, I’d wholeheartedly recommend working with Nathan.

Source: Google

★ 5

I would just echo what others are saying. Nathan is a real professional and conveys real concern, empathy and enthusiasm when it comes to your fitness journey. My father and I used his services to get back into shape , as my father was reitred and wished to get more fit. Nathan's studio was clean and offered a variety of options for exercise. As my father had incurred many injuries as a soldier and officer, he had some chronic pain and limitations for movement. Nathan was very helpful and knowledgeable about how to adapt training for my father and how to strengthen his body without causing more problems. Nathan is definitely not a cookie cutter PT and I would confidently recommend his brand of training to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I am 51 years old and have been an avid soccer player since I was 6. My body was getting closer and closer to not being able to play competitively anymore. I started training with Nathan in August 2020 and today I feel like I’m in my 30’s. He has a full body approach that has helped the arthritis I have in my knees. 2 separate Dr.’s basically told me to give up but I refused to and thanks to Nathan I’m back in playing shape.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nate is AMAZING. Supportive, helpful, and extremely knowledgeable. He is not only great with strength training, but even with nutrition and overall health. He really knows his stuff and is very flexible and will do whatever he can to work with and accommodate his clients. It is clear that he truly cares about his clients and their overall health/wellness. In the time I have spent training with Nate so far, I have learned a ton and have successfully broken bad habits and created a healthier lifestyle for the first time in my life. Nate’s ongoing support and encouragement has improved my quality of life and I couldn't be more thankful.

This guy wonderful! He is local, affordable, and so good at what he does! You can’t go wrong. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

This guy is AWESOME! Super down to earth and a GREAT trainer. Definitely broke down some bad habits and I felt results in just one week from working with him, my body felt stronger after every session! He’s very reasonably priced as well! If you want a trainer that’s gonna help you understand the workout and not just rush you through it, he’s your guy. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nate has been my go to for all things fitness, nutrition and recovery since my introduction to fitness. I am currently recovering from an injury, and he was able to develop a program/routine for me that keeps me on track for my goals as well as works towards healing the injury. I highly recommend him as a trainer, especially if you are recovering from an injury and are hesitant to do things without guidance.

Whether your are brand new to fitness and don’t know where to start, or consider yourself more intermediate but need some help with your technique, form or eating habits, Nate can help you get to where you want to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are truly ready to take your health and fitness to the next level, do yourself a favor and work with Nathan. His knowledge is next level and passion will keep you coming back. Little changes to my form have made a huge difference in my lifting - who knew! Also, it’s been interesting to learn about the female body and fitness. Overall - Nathan is a great person, very professional, and worth every penny & minute spent. Thank you Nathan!

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm new to the idea of having a personal trainer and admittedly was hesitant to even go that route, but Nate changed that mindset after a single session. He's extremely invested in his clients on a genuine and personal level. Thanks, Nate

Source: Google

★ 5

I worked with Nathan for a solid 7 months. During that time I went from being 105lbs and not knowing a thing about working out, to 130lbs, stronger and healthier then I ever thought I could be. Nathan is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and fun person to workout with. The programs were effective and really helped with my scoliosis, and over time some of my back issues went away completely. I'm so glad I had a chance to work with him, he taught me so much and really helped me to get a healthy lifestyle on track.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is extremely knowledgeable and easy to work with. He catered a workout specific to my needs and limitations, and I felt results quickly! More importantly, he stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle and maintaining over a long period of time. Would highly recommend to anyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Highly recommend! They helped me create multiple customized workout plans based on my wants and needs. It made my workouts something to look forward to and I saw results much faster than working out on my own. Nathan is extremely knowledgeable and will set you on the right path of what YOU want. Also great for injury rehab!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Nathan for a few months and he is so amazing. He really knows the purpose and proper technique behind each exercise and can give you a weekly workout plan that is completely detailed for your own body and goals. I have an injury and Nathan has worked with me to modify the exercises and help me strengthen back the muscles. He has his own workout studio at his house so he shows you how to properly perform each exercise and get the most out of your time at the gym. I feel so much stronger and healthier since I started working with him!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is a amazing trainer. He is extremely knowledgeable about helping people reach their health and fitness goals. He actually inspired me to go back to school after losing 100 pounds in a year and get my degree in Kinesiology (Exercise Science) and become a Personal Trainer myself. I use a lot of the things he taught me with my own clients to help others. I 100% recommend him to anyone needing help in reaching their goals! One of the most fair and kind people I have ever met in the business and trust me I have met a lot.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

When I first started training with sound science athletics trainer Nathan I was just healing from a rotator cuff tear. He started me out it the basics to strengthen the small muscles in the shoulder and the body to prevent injury for the future of my weightlifting and manual labor I do for work. Within a month he had me build weight back to where I was at before my injury. And I felt stronger than ever. He strives himself for perfection in weightlifting technique. I now understand how important it actually is for proper technique. Working out at sound science was the best investment I’ve ever made. Sound science will make start you on the path to be a stronger version of your self. Whatever your goals are loosing weight, being stronger, being bigger, or rehabilitation Nathan will make it happen.

Source: Google

★ 5

Very knowledgeable, innovative, skillful, and caring. Nathan, is not your run of the mill trainer, his workouts get results!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan was by far the best trainer I’ve had. He’s super flexible with dates and times, which was nice for my busy schedule. He gives you the attention and support you need that a gym cannot give. I made excellent progress training with him and recommend to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nathan is a great coach. Very patient. With his guidance, I am now confident in my form and my ability to do exercises correctly. Thank you!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great experience! While training he pays close attention to technique. He makes you feel comfortable, motivated and not discouraged, no matter what shape you may be in. I would highly recommend him for any one who is willing and ready to make that change to a healthier lifestyle.

Source: Google

★ 5

Timely, professional, and puts you to work at a comfortable pace, yet still pushes you to get the most from your session! A trustworthy and kind trainer with your personal fitness goals in mind.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google