All Out Effort Personal Training

What People Are Saying

“I came down from the SF Bay Area for a weekend of personal training because I was feeling stuck in life and my martial arts journey.

Sam and Michelle are amazing trainers who recognize that we are the experts of our own lives and bodies. I came to them because my old ways of training were unsustainable and just not making me happy anymore.

They helped me rediscover the joy of movement and martial arts.

I learned more about my body and safe playful movement in one weekend than I have in over a decade of training in fight gyms and fitness boot camps/HIIT gyms. I also learned a lot about keeping others safe and building an inclusive, participant-led martial arts training community.

I have over a decade of combat sports experience including training and fighting in Thailand. I am also in my 30s with bad knees and I felt safe the whole time I was with Michelle and Sam.

This is the most body positive and inclusive training I have ever experienced. This is also the most effective martial arts training I have seen because the participants have developed skills within hours that would take months to years at other gyms.

They also provide a refreshing respite from prescriptive workout programs and the grindset of living in a big city, where you feel like you must constantly produce some type of output for validation. This is personal training that centers you and your body, your time, your space.

The location offers privacy, with showers and gated parking, and their rates are extremely reasonable for the Hollywood area (or any big city for that matter). I can't highly recommend them enough no matter where you are in your training journey.” – Jimmy P.

“Came down from the Bay Area to undergo 3 martial arts session in one weekend and I can say without a doubt that this was the most I've learned in a short period as well as the most fun I've ever had training martial arts. For context, I have previously trained Muay Thai, kickboxing, sanda, and Brazilian jiu jitsu on and off for the past 5 years.

Michelle and Sam are wonderful guides that helped me learn to listen and feel my body in order to move in a natural, energy efficient, and non-destructive way. They also helped me understand how to exercise my vision in a way I've never done before. The experience was eye opening (pun intended) and the their guidance has altered how I approach not just martial arts but movement in general.

I highly recommend a consultation with them whether you're a beginner looking to start your martial arts journey, you train casually on occasion, or you have extensive training experience. No matter your level, their approach meets your training needs and makes the experience enjoyable in a safe, clean, and welcoming environment.” – Michael A.

“This was my first session with Sam and Michelle. I've trained martial arts since my early 20s and as a 35yr-old today I had to unlearn and realize a lot of things today during my hour with them. Everything Sam explained was well put and simplified he was patient in his explanation I wish I knew about his method of training in my early 20s who knows where I would've been. The space is clean and well kept with a clean bathroom. I will be coming by again. Thanks again!” – Erik J.

“I've been training martial arts on and off for nearly two decades. I can fairly confidently say that I've made more progress in the past week of training than any single year of that time. Sam graciously offered to allow me to get some training sessions in while visiting from out of town - if I lived in LA, I can't see myself bothering to train anywhere else. Sam's training style is personalized to the students in front of him and uses a different method than I've experienced from any other gym that emphasizes live practice and teaches you to control your attention where it's most needed in any fighting situation (competitive or otherwise). I also got the opportunity to train with a bunch of other students he trained: Sam's insistent on building a positive culture throughout the whole gym and not just the instructor-student relationship, which means that you can show up with the certainty that every round will be productive and controlled no matter who you're training with that day - which means that everyone gets quality work even with (and partially because of!) huge diversity in training experience, body size, and comfort level. Easily the best money I've spent in years and years of martial arts training. An easy decision if you live anywhere remotely near Hollywood.” – Olufemi T.

“I've been training with Sam and Michelle since August 2022, and am super grateful for their compassionate approach to personal training. As someone with limited gym experience, I was intimidated by the idea of entering a weight room, but both Sam and Michelle have made the 1.5 years an enjoyable and fulfilling training experience.

They truly care about their clients, and it shows in their level of patience and investment in every individual they train. I'm finding that over the course of time that I've spent with them, I feel substantially stronger and agile when it comes to daily movement. Most importantly, training with them has established a genuine enjoyment in getting my body moving! I'll find myself casually doing the conditioning movements they've taught me at home, which has really enhanced the level of energy I have these days. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone I know, and feel that Sam and Michelle have created a uniquely approachable environment for their clients that is free from judgement or shaming. They truly know the value of creating community, and it shows in the trust and strong relationships with all the fellow clients I've met coming in/out of their training!” – Nina P.

“I've been seeing Sam and Michelle for a little over a year now, and I cannot recommend them enough. As a plus size gal, I'm always weary of trying new gyms or fitness classes because I find that not all instructors are knowledgeable about offering modified workouts for different skill levels or body types. I came in looking to improve my overall health and well-being, and they've helped me do that in a safe and welcoming space.

Training sessions are personalized for each person. I started out doing mobility and strength training, and we've transitioned into more martial-arts based training, but every step of the way, I've felt cared for and supported and stronger every day! I've had some sporadic back pain and knee issues, and anytime there's a flare up, they've thoughtfully helped me work through it.

Two big plusses for me also include the affordability of their sessions as well as easy and safe parking. Parking in Hollywood can be a nightmare, but their gym is located inside a building with a big parking lot and parking attendant. I never have to deal with the drama of looking for parking!!

If you're looking to build lifelong habits and improve your quality of life, train with Sam and Michelle!” – Diana L.

“I've trained at several different gyms with long breaks in-between and by far training here with Sam has been the best experience. Their entire approach to training pedagogy is different. They're all about learning martial arts through play in a friendly environment that makes it safe for practitioners to make mistakes and try new things without fear of getting injured by the sparring partner.

If it's a group class everyone is given a set of clear instructions on how hard to spar and the specifics of the drill. Ahead of time you're given instructions on what safety gear to bring. Everything is very clearly communicated.

The student energy is friendly and welcoming as well as the result.

I would highly recommend this for everyone looking to develop new skills, get in shape or just learn more about martial arts. They have students of all levels.

Also students wear masks during training so it's a safe place to train during the flu season or new outbreaks of COVID.” – Yuliy D.

“Before coming to Sam for martial arts training, I had not done any real focused physical exercise for almost two years due to my own work-related restrictions and apprehensiveness during the Covid 19 pandemic. I never played sports growing up but had enjoyed going to jiu jitsu classes before the pandemic and had a brief stint training in amateur boxing in college, which was cut short due to other respiratory illness. I came to Sam without ever having learned how to kick properly, with terrible cardio and endurance from my years working at a desk and frankly having never really improved beyond an extremely beginner level in the previous two arts I had studied.

From the first day on, Sam took extreme care to take note of all of my personal limitations and emphasized that whatever I could do on that any given day was good enough. This set the tone for the next six months of training in which I would see massive improvement going from quickly learning the fundamentals of kicking and movement to now being able to engage in full contact sparring for multiple hour-long sessions. Sam's great attitude and practice rooted in compassion has really helped me to avoid burnout or frustration at all stages of my training from the very beginning to the occasional off day when not all pistons are firing correctly. At All Out Effort, a safe training environment is intrinsically linked with rapid improvement - not only have I never been injured in our sparring sessions, I would say I've improved to a level on par with kickboxing students who have been training at commercial gyms for 2 years or more. My sessions with Sam are the best part of my week, and I couldn't recommend All Out Effort enough for anyone interested in addressing their own fitness goals or training martial arts in a safe, non-toxic environment.” – Alexander U.

“I have LOVED my experience with Sam and Michelle! They are so attentive, caring, knowledgeable, and encouraging. I hate going to gyms and working out in general, and yet I felt so safe and confident with them. I came to them dealing with back pain/issues that wound up landing me in the hospital a few months before I booked my first session. I felt like I was in such great hands with them during my recovery process. They taught me very valuable information, worked at my pace, and challenged me when appropriate. They really seem to view health from a holistic perspective and got to know me as a person too. 10/10 recommend.” – Cassie D.

“I've been working with Sam for a few years and he's helped improve my overall wellness, balance, and awareness of my body. Highly recommend for those who are looking for long term body work. I have fibromyalgia and plates/pins in my ankle, chronic pain is an issue I deal with. Working with Sam has definitely helped with my symptoms, and he always let's me move at my own pace. Bonus- Sam can talk about pretty much anything and the conversation is always fun.” – Jill S.

“All Out Effort has been one of the best resources to add to me toolkit of rebuilding myself in so many ways.

One of the most impactful ways All Out Effort has benefited me the past several years, since 2019-2020 has been the emotional and mental influence that's shaped my current form of physical training.

Striving and searching for gentleness and joy in reshaping my well being has been a consistent message I receive from All Effort and prior to creating this yelp review, I have highly and repeatedly recommend their video tutorials and posts, as a way for my friends who aspire to reshape themselves to explore the message and teachings.

Along with the online resources, I had a great 1 on 1 training with Sam, earlier this year, and am looking forward to further 1 on 1 sessions with Sam. One of the unique and fundamental experiences with Sam has been the focus of having fun, first and foremost. One life long lasting message alongside the experience I'm grateful to have received from Sam, is also from an old Taoist teaching, "How you do one thing, is how you do all things." It's an important lesson I’ve continued to strive for as I’ve strived to apply my physical training into my everyday life and Vice-versa.

All Effort has presented and benefited me, a working-class, cis-masculine son of Chinese/Viet 80s boat refugees and I hope Michelle and Sam, a great Korean couple continue to benefit many who are exploring a mentally, and emotionally healthier approach to their journey of life.” – David D.

“Sam's ability to distill the complexity of martial arts to its basics is unique, unparalleled, and most importantly applicable to my 15+ years of striking experience and my new hobby of BJJ. He creates a playful environment that brings out the joy of martial arts and returns it back to a way of being, rather than just monotonous drills and empty combinations. I enjoyed this play-based approach to learning in a safe, judgement-free environment. AOE is refreshing for someone who has trained for most of their life since Sam can teach his approach in a way that still feels new while honoring your personal style.” – Tina Z.

“Sam and Michelle are fantastic trainers and mentors. I had been put off by personal trainers before. I am a 300+ lb man and I had worked with folks at LA Fitness who had a "no pain, no gain" mentality and had me do burpees and pushups until I threw up. No good. Sam and Michelle are the complete opposite of that experience. I remember that one of the first things Sam told me during our evaluation was along the lines of "You don't need to work out to be a worthwhile person. You already are. If you want to be a healthier person, though, I can definitely help you out with that." It's such an important message to hear when most of the physical fitness industry seems to want to focus on "fixing what's wrong with you."

The workouts themselves are thoughtfully constructed. My workouts consisted of work improving mobility and balance. It might not be as sexy as bench pressing 500 lbs, but the feeling of moving with less pain in my body did wonders for my mood and outlook. The big one was my hips opening up more and more. I forgot they could move like that!

Sam and Michelle alternate days they work with clients. Sam is a trained martial artist and after a few weeks of work we started working with kicks and light sparring. I've always been fascinated with martial arts but thought it was out of the picture at my weight. Sam taught me that it's mostly about balance and it felt great to move my body in new ways. Michelle and I would usually work with the equipment in the room, like dumbbells, kettlebells, cable machine, etc. Unlike the LA Fitness crew, she paid attention to how I was and never let me sacrifice my form for more weight all while making sure I was sufficiently challenged. I always liked when I could get one session with each of them every week. They're a great team and you can trust that they're looking out for your safety and well-being while working with you on your goals.

Sessions are scheduled every Sunday with a text from Sam. They'll work with your schedule to fit you in throughout the week (I was doing twice a week). Sam and Michelle train out of the gym inside the Hollywood Production Center on Santa Monica. It's a great location, with easy parking in an enclosed lot and restrooms equipped with lockers and showers, if you need them.

I'm currently taking a break from AOE due to some life changes, but I hope to return to working with them again soon. Sam and Michelle are the gold standard of body-positive trainers and I highly recommend you give them a shot.” – Edwin Z.

“I had a great experience training with Sam. His innovative concept-driven, play-based approach to martial arts made learning and training not only intuitive but also really fun. I appreciated that he doesn't focus on individual techniques or moves but rather on guiding you towards finding what works for you through experimentation. I walked away from my lesson with ideas that I could apply to other aspects of my life which is something I did not expect from a personal training session. I highly recommend training with Sam for anyone interested in martial arts and looking to gain a better understanding of creatively expressing yourself through movement.” – Steve K.

“I'm so thankful to have worked with Sam and Michelle for the past few months. With their help, I was able to reach my goal of getting stronger and having more energy throughout the day which made a big difference in my quality of life. I appreciated that they personalized each session and created a comfortable environment, focusing on overall well-being. I really enjoyed working with them, and I highly recommend!” – Sophia H.

“Sam is the best. I've been seeing Sam twice a week for about five months, learning kickboxing from scratch, and in five months my health and flexibility is like night and day. I don't feel bad being a novice because he's really patient and honestly just a fun and interesting person to be training with, I'm never bored and always have a great time. It's clear he's been doing this for years and has perfected a system that emphasizes not just form, but safety. He's really aware of pushing just the right amount. Best of all is my flexibility...after two years of work from home my back was killing me, hamstrings so tight, I could barely bend over past my knees. Now I can touch my toes. It's awesome to be looking great in the mirror, feeling healthier... and I can do a roundhouse kick haha! Feeling confident and excited to keep getting better and better. If you're reading this and you want a personal trainer but not sure if it's worth it, I was in the same spot. Just book a consultation, I can't recommend Sam enough.” – Greg M.

“Sam and Michelle are incredible trainers that go beyond typical fitness. They helped me come back from a reoccurring knee injury after three different physical therapy stints didn't do the job. Haven't had a knee injury since. In addition they got me in the best shape of my life. Cannot recommend them enough.” – Adam R.

“I have struggled with maintaining good exercise habits my entire life. Often times when I would try to get back into working out, I'd become overwhelmed with shame about how much my physical shape had degraded and then give up again. The best part about working with Sam is that he created goals for me that allowed me to emphasize consistency over numbers, so that way I could stop competing with my mental image of where I should be and just focus on where I'm at now. It helps a lot that Sam's a super sweet and encouraging guy, but that's just the cherry on top with such a competent and thoughtful approach to fitness training. Can't recommend him more.” – Angel C.

“Highly recommend! I was looking for a PT and very drawn to All Out Effort based on their reviews and the integrity that came through their site, mission and holistic approach. I met Sam and Michelle in 2018 and have been working with them ever since, both in the gym and remotely. I loved the intimacy and privacy of the gym and the flexibility in scheduling. Sam conducted my initial assessment, which was thorough and eye opening in that it highlighted areas as simple as my walking form and daily habits contributing to some minor pains I was experiencing. I've since mainly worked with Michelle who is incredibly skilled and knowledgeable and has a knack for knowing what's on my mind and what I need to push through - which oftentimes is education and kinesiology related, as form and movement are very important to me. She knows how to inspire and challenge me in a safe and comfortable way. Beyond that, Michelle is super friendly, patient, consistent and reliable. I love the accountability, integrity and friendship formed over the years and highly recommend AOE.” – Tracy K.

“Sam and Michelle are amazing. My husband and I both see them and they've helped us so much with aches and pains, flexibility and strength. They really know anatomy and are great at adjusting an exercise to fit the individual. I work with Michelle and I can tell she's always looking for new ways to challenge me without aggravating my joint issues. I always feel so much better after a visit. Not to mention they're really nice people. Can't recommend AOE enough!” – Laura D.

“First things first, Sam makes an effort to build a safe, welcoming and Covid-free environment. Sam is essentially the only reason I still have an interest in martial arts. I thought I outgrew them, but no, Sam taught me that the world is filled with wonder and joy. Sam is super thoughtful and patient regardless of your background. He tries to meet you where you are. We bonded over Webtoons and wholesome activities. I don't think I've ever had a trainer be the kind of nerd I am and that makes me extremely happy.” – Donald B.

“Did kickboxing and general fitness training with Sam. Amazing experience; can't recommend Sam enough: Detailed, thoughtful instruction tailored to your goals and delivered in a way that makes you feel supported. Whatever your goals, Sam can help you get there.” – Jonathan C.

“I have been working with Michelle remotely for 6 months or so. She's been one of the good parts of my week during this pandemic. She knows a lot about the human body and has creative ways of helping me get stronger and healthier while working around pain points. I love having exercises planned out for my body and goals, and she comes up with great work-arounds if something isn't feeling right. I'm repeatedly impressed by how good she is at explaining things to look out for (toes pointing the wrong way, neck not aligned, etc), and how to correct my posture or where I'm holding my weight. Thanks to her diligence, I get the most out of every movement and am never worried that I may accidentally hurt myself. Her tips are so helpful that I am able to maintain good form when I work on things between sessions. Even when I'm feeling tired or stiff, Michelle makes the exercise fun and engaging. She doesn't let me slack off, but I also never feel intimidated. I look forward to our sessions and have never felt that my experience was lesser due to being remote.” – Ljótur H.

“As someone who had anxiety while going to gyms, Sam helped me build my confidence. The intimate gym setting and simple and effective workouts were perfect. Sam also provides great conversation on a number of topics as well. It was overall a great experience, I highly recommend Sam as a trainer.” – Brandon H.

“If you read all the reviews about Sam & Michelle you know that they are a power couple that have aligned & combined their knowledge to help guide you to be the most optimal, functional you. My goals will constantly evolve but I don't have a doubt that Sam & Michelle will help me get there. They didn't just give me a work out. They helped change my lifestyle completely. And for that, I am forever grateful.” – Halle J.

“Sam and Michelle are incredible trainers with a vast amount of experience and have a talent for not only being able to improve your fitness but views health and well-being holistically. You're never going to find this level of training at some box/corporate gym - I've been down that road and All Out Effort are on a totally different level. Plus they're great people, you don't come in just as a client, you make life long friends.” – Naomi P.

“I actually found Sam & Michelle from All Out Effort on Yelp. I was looking for a personal trainer who would take a holistic approach to my fitness and body - not just make me do squats and tell me to drink protein shakes to get "swoll". After an evaluation from Sam, I learned I had a lot of work to do. But there was zero judgement and 1,000% encouragement. Their first priority was to get my core stronger. This was exactly what I was looking for. Sure, 12 pack abs are great, but have you tried building your core for long-term health and stability?? The focus, for me, was never on losing weight - but rather, building muscle and getting stronger as I approach my older years. Sam & Michelle really listened to my goals and crafted a work out plan and philosophy that worked for me. They even gave me exercises and stretches to do throughout the day, as I sit at a computer all day long. One thing that I really liked about Michelle & Sam is the workouts were tough, and I felt them, but I never felt like my body was being pushed beyond what I was able to do. I never questioned my safety and never felt injured from working out with them. Michelle is particularly good about picking up on a person's pain or previous injuries (perhaps even a mild flinch) and making an immediate adjustment. M&S keep the workout serious, but with a relaxed and fun environment. Sam always has interesting things to share - whether it's a new podcast he's listening to, or his recommendations for the best pizza joints in town. In addition, Sam & Michelle would always ask how my body was feeling. How I was eating. How was my work stress, etc. They taught me that it was all related. As for the gym, it's small, intimate, clean, simple. Sometimes the hardest workouts required the simplest tools. When Michelle pulls out a yoga mat or furniture sliders, watch out. Your core is gonna burn!! I know people can be weary of a review that only has one 5-star review. But All Out Effort was worth joining Yelp for. Sam & Michelle are amazing professionals (and all around nice humans) who have really helped transform the way I treat my body and they are definitely one of the LA's best kept secrets.” – Kristi D.

“At All Out Effort, you don't just get some tips for exercises, you get full on life coaching. Both Sam and Michelle are extremely skilled trainers and more than that, incredibly likable people. The program starts out with a thorough assessment of your weak spots as well as a talk about your personal goals. Workout sessions are tailored not only to your overall goals, but even to how you feel any given day. Through this process you learn to read your body in ways you never have been able to before. They allow you to schedule classes fairy flexibly which is awesome for people with busy and irregular work schedules. Besides that, Sam is a passionate entrepreneur, podcast publisher and philosopher meaning you won't just walk out of classes physically challenged, but mentally inspired as well. I couldn't imagine better personal trainers and can highly recommend Sam and Michelle to anyone wanting to take their heath and fitness to the next level.” – Simon K.

“I met Sam and Michelle about 4 years ago when I lived 20 minutes from their fitness center. After an embarrassing evaluation where Sam was able to take a look at my complicated health issues and an ankle that has undergone reconstructive surgery, Sam took me on as a client. I have gone to many trainers, trying different exercise methods and I was excited to find a place that I can call home. Sam is a genius and probably one of the most intelligent person I know. Michelle is a challenging trainer/coach and her kindness, sincerity and genuineness is very rare in this city. There are many tangible things that I have learned and changed because of Sam and his suggestions. Four years ago, he challenged me to prepare more of my meals at home. As much as I had excuses for this, I started doing things slowly. He also had a list of books to read for health, philosophy, mindset...I challenged myself to make time to read them. I now make time to read more often. He also challenged me not to just follow blindly of what my doctors direct me to do. I now question my doctors and it feels liberating and empowering to have a voice and be educated...about my health. Just through that simple suggestion, it has led me to many doctors and practitioners that have changed my life. Sadly, I moved out of the city and moved 28 miles away. I tried other trainers and no one measured up to Sam and Michelle...no one. After a 2 1/2 year break, I decided to come back and make the trek to see them in their new space. It takes me about a little over an hour to see them but it's so worth it. They honored my sessions that I had on file from 2 years ago (who does that?) They also welcomed me back with open arms (no judgment about my current health issues). It felt like no time had passed. I remember why I felt like their method/theories/workouts felt like home. Sam challenges me on a physical level and he also challenges me to think. His philosophies, his way of thinking, his thought processes are something that I appreciate because of his intelligence. He is a thought leader. Beyond that, he cares about his clients. I often leave thinking about the many things that he talked about. I feel motivated and inspired to be better in the areas that we have discussed, which are many. Lol. I think I might just bring my husband one day. He needs to experience the greatness of this incredible duo. They are rare, unique and a gift to me...truly.” – Sharmila Y.

“Honestly, one of the best places I've ever been in terms of a workout. Sam is far from regular trainer. He has completely redefined my approach towards physical and mental health. After some health issues few years back was finding it very difficult to do any workout, but thanks to you guys (Sam and Michelle) I am fit and in great mental shape.” – Manjit S.

“Sam and Michelle not only change your body but change your mind. They get you strong in your weak areas. They open you up to new experiences different thoughts regarding the body. After knowing Sam for over 2 years my life has completely changed and my mental clarity is unbelievable. I have never been happier.” – Alex F.

“I came to All Out Effort after searching high and low for a trainer that would satisfy my thirst for health/ fitness knowledge, strength/ mobility training, and could also be flexible with my hectic work schedule. Seemed like a shot in the dark at first, and I had no luck whatsoever, with every trainer I spoke to either charging insane amounts per session to mostly focusing on just strength training. At this point I gave Yelp a shot, and lo and behold I came across the #1 ranked trainer in the area, Sam & All Out Effort. The reviews were almost too good to be true, I was super hesitant, but finally emailed Sam and a few days later had our interview session scheduled. Just based off our first encounter, I was sold. Sam not only has an extensive knowledge about all things health, wellness, nutrition, and fitness training, but he also is a passionate writer, entrepreneur, investor, anime nerd, the list goes on...he's a treasure trove of experience, wisdom, and life advice. Not to mention he and his wife Michelle are super fun and have built a tight knit community around All Out Effort. From investment chat groups to board game nights to escape room events, there's something unique and special about All Out Effort that I don't think can be found anywhere else. It's an anomaly built around kind, smart, mindful people looking to make positive changes in their lives. The training varies every session, building upon mobility, flexibility, strength, and re-wiring your brain so your body moves to its fullest capacity. Both Sam and Michelle do an amazing job at training you at your own pace, while also being mindful to push you to your full capacity. I will say though, that any days you train with Michelle, she totally kicks your ass, so watch out ;) The results from just several months of training are day and night. Joining All Out Effort was the best decision I've made in the last year hands down. I've learned so much beyond the realms of fitness during my time there, I've actually made more money this year due to my extensive talks with Sam regarding investments and cryptocurrency trading :) I'm sad to be moving to a different city and away from such an amazing element of my life and my new found friends/ colleagues, but know the moment I'm back in Los Angeles, the first thing I'll be doing is signing back up with All Out Effort. Take it from someone who had extremely high requirements for finding the right affordable trainer, and was also super skeptical to use Yelp for trainer recommendations. Joining All Out Effort will be one of the best decisions you've ever made physically, mentally, and financially. It's changed my life and I'm beyond grateful for the time I spent training with Sam and Michelle and look forward to reuniting with them soon and reading all the amazing blog posts Sam posts each week.” – Kyle G.

“Sam and Michelle are quite simply the best motivators, life coaches, trainers, and all around decent human beings. And that says a lot considering it's Los Angeles. If you're looking for a quick fix, don't come here. If you're materialistic and just want to look good, don't come here. This is a mind/body experience. It's where you come when you realize that there's more to life than work and looking good. This is where you come to learn about life--the meaning of life, philosophy, love, and the true meaning of friendship. This is where you come to find balance and peace and harmony while still getting your ass kicked into shape. This is where you stop second-guessing yourself, find your confidence, and build the better you from inside and outside. My husband and I train together with Sam and Michelle and they make us a stronger team and better couple. I am very grateful I searched "personal trainer" in Yelp and read the reviews for All Out Effort. I never would have thought about coming here, if the reviews didn't intrigue me. So I tried the free consultation and knew from that meeting that I had to give it a shot. Best decision ever.” – Gita P.

“The worst part of recently moving from LA for the East Coast was leaving behind All Out Effort. The training was top quality and the style unique. Where else could you train while discussing movies, neuroscience, books, artificial intelligence, and practically anything else? And with the personal touch that made you feel like part of a family? I'm very grateful to Sam and Michelle for all their training over the years. Sorry Sam, I still owe you a shepherd's pie!” – Alan Y.

“All Out Effort is the #1 rated trainer in LA on Yelp, and it deserves the ranking. Sam's program is unique, and provides a quality that you'd expect from a serious private trainer working with athletes, but accessible to everyone. If you are an intellectual / analytical type you will love it at AOE. No loud music blaring and instructors yelling to pump you up. NPR is on the radio and there are no mirrors. The best way I could describe the atmosphere at Sam's gym is like an intellectual barber shop, with lively running discussion about every topic imaginable, from TV, books, culture, politics, and current events to relationships, philosophy, science, religion, and of course grammar (note the AOE-approved Oxford commas). From a workout perspective, Sam and his wife Michelle both provide excellent instruction, pushing you to improve but always with an emphasis on proper form and injury avoidance. When I was lifting on my own previously, following the standard internet alpha bro / Starting Strength / progressive overload protocols, I was constantly tweaking muscles and cramping up, and undoubtedly cruising toward an eventual major injury. Within a couple months of starting training at AOE, all those issues cleared up and I've since been totally injury free. I've also greatly increased my mobility and flexibility and improved my posture. Along with traditional weightlifting and cardio, AOE works on building athletic traits like balance, coordination, and muscle conditioning. Sam is a martial artist, and he and Michelle do a great job of mixing it up and keeping workouts varied and interesting. One of the first things you'll do at AOE is learn to crawl — which is much harder now than it was the first time you did it! When I started at AOE a year ago, I thought my main goal was to Get Swole. But Sam's teaching and his program opened my mind, and over time my priorities have changed. In my daily life, I actually get more enjoyment out of the improvements in posture and being light on my feet than any other gains I've made. I lost 10 pounds and cut my body fat in half within the first few months working with AOE. It's been easy and natural to maintain since. I'm 6'1, and now 160 pounds and 10-11% body fat, after starting at 173 pounds and 20% body fat. Do the math and I've dropped 17 pounds of fat while adding muscle. (Like many other "skinny fat" guys, I had no idea how much excess, unhealthy weight I was carrying around.) Sam is extremely knowledgeable about health and nutrition, and he's had a big impact on my food choices and eating habits. There is no diet related question you can stump him with. But his instruction is much broader than this. The AOE focus is really on building character and good habits to create a quality life, rather than the typical reductionist approach that tells you to eat "superfoods" and do the seven minute workout. If you are considering whether to try out All Out Effort...do it. You won't regret it and it will probably improve your life in many ways. I also recommend checking out Sam's writing at musttriumph.com (desktop version). You'll get a better sense of his philosophy (and a lot of good advice).” – Ben R.

“Sam is truly the best trainer I've seen, heard of, or worked with. I've worked with several trainers over the years, and he really operates at a higher level and takes a highly intellectual approach to his trade. He has a distinctive philosophy that he applies to people's various levels of fitness. No gimmicks. No trends. No "workout du jour." His method is based on facts and education and have proven themselves many times over. I have found Sam profoundly motivational. That said, he is not "rah rah," typical, or cliche in any way. My experience has been that he reasons with me to identify the right buttons to push to help me motivate myself; a much more sustainable strategy for long-term health. As for results, he has thoroughly helped me transform my body, both from an optical standpoint (I look better), but perhaps more importantly, from a health standpoint. I am far stronger. I am far leaner. I am less sickly. In short, I am less feeble. Don't get me wrong, I can improve lots from here (and Sam isn't hesitant to remind me of that.) I could see results almost immediately, and have continued to make progress in the subsequent 15 months of working with Sam. I have referred my wife and friends to Sam, and they have all witnessed similar results. I am a professional. I work far too many hours and have far too many commitments. On top of that I have a heavy "wine and dine" culture associated with my trade. Not exactly a healthy lifestyle... As a result, I need a high "yield" on my dollar and hour from my trainer. With that in mind, Sam is absolutely your guy. If I could give 6 stars I would, but alas, I'm limited to 5. If you're in the market for a trainer, you'd be foolish to pass on at least giving Sam a shot. Just don't take my time slots!” – Lawrence P.

“I'm really competitive and hard on myself. And the best kind of training session now as I'm dealing with a lot of injuries and a stressful job is to help me take it down a notch but also get the most out of me. To focus on where I need to stretch, where I need to activate, where I need to get loosened up, instead of just trying to power through. And this was perfect for all of that.” – Lisa M.

“If I could give Sam and Michelle 10 stars I would. After one year there, the physical training has left me in the best shape of my life. But the psychology behind AOE is just as important -- rethinking diet, for example, or understanding the subtle effects of bad posture on the body (think: jenga). It's as stimulating mentally to be there as it is physically. And it's just damn fun. But make no mistake: You will train HARD. Maybe the best way to describe the AOE experience is that you'll never know how much you needed Sam and Michelle until after you've learned under them for a few months. Then you'll just wish you had called years ago.” – Tom P.

“First I was afraid. I was petrified. Kept thinking I could never live without him by my side. But I spent so many nights thinking how he did me wrong. I grew strong. I learned how to carry on... much with the help of Sam. Before Sam, I was going out and drinking myself to oblivion every night. Then I cried myself to sleep. Yes, what a wuss I was. I also felt like a tub of lard. After many many years of wining, dining, and partying, I was on the brink of not fitting in my precious size 24 jeans. Oh who was I kidding, I had no business in those size 24 jeans anymore. But one thing that I learned from my Taiwanese mother is to never size up. Ever. That's like accepting that you're fat. Unless it involves diamonds, houses, careers, or dicks. But I digress. Then I met Sam. Through personal training with Sam, I was able to start the healing process of my broken heart, broken soul, and broken body. Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. And happy people just don't go around being emo all day long. Now whenever I feel down, I go out and run a few miles instead of hit the bottle. And did I mention I saved a lot of money by not going out everyday anymore? Yes. That should appeal to you mercantile types. So how is Sam wonderful? Let me tell you. I can go on forever but most importantly, he actually cares about his clients. He caters each workout to my needs/goals and he will check on my progress throughout the week by instant messages, text messages, and even phone calls. If I fall off track, he WILL get on my case. Yes, tough love is the best love when it comes to personal training. Where are you going to get such personalized service like that? Sam Y is seriously a diamond in the rough. And I found him on Yelp - a foodie site. Isn't it ironic. So what results have I seen in the 2 months of weekly personal training? Actually a lot! I was able to run my first 1/2 marathon finishing 2nd in the Torrance/PV Nike running group after 2 months of training (and not hitting the pavement in 3 years) and all my clothes fit well again. Whew! But how can I be content with mediocrity now? There is still a long ways to go and Sam will help me get there. So yes, my standard of living has improved tremendously due to Sam. I'm now happier, sexier, and tougher. Thank you, Sam, for bringing me back to life.” – Liz L.

“I have been wanting to write a review for Sam at All Out Effort for some time now. Why Sam? In my mind, it is simple — Sam loves. What? Yes, Sam loves. He absolutely loves what he does — and it shows. Sam is not your typical trainer — far from it. Read some of the other reviews so you know what you are getting yourself into. He may schedule your first appointment at 6am the day after the 4th of July, and he may ask you during your first meeting why it is you really want to be there. I feel like Sam genuinely wants to help those who have a strong will to help themselves. Looking for an "encouragement buddy" to keep you motivated to hit the gym 3 times a week? Look elsewhere. Looking for a "coach" who tells you to load up on wheat-based carbs and stick to egg white omelettes in the mornings? Look elsewhere. Do you want someone who is so passionate, so committed — that it awakens a part of your physiological soul that you never knew existed before? Someone who encourages you to question all of the "experts," and truly listen to your body when it comes to health and nutrition? Then Sam may be a good fit for you. There's only one way to find out, and that's by scheduling a personal consultation with him. You may find it helpful to wipe yourself clean of any preconceptions you have about health and fitness, and show up as best you can as a blank slate. Come with an open mind, and get ready for one heck of a journey. Thank you Sam for allowing me to completely redefine how I approach health and fitness — I don't know if you recognize how much of an impact you've had on me over these last few years. I'm grateful that you bring your unique passion to the world, each and every day, in the way you do. It's a gift.” – Andrew B.

“Maybe, like me, you're very analytically driven. You learned how to read at an early age. You became good at researching. When prompted to tackle a problem, your instinct is to go and educate yourself on the subject before trying anything. You are the minority that actually reads the instruction manual. You went to a top college but lost the ability to do physical things you could perform as a child. Maybe, like it happened to me, this lifestyle has caught up with your body at some point in your late twenties. So you went to educate yourself on the subject, and now you know more than most on exercise and nutrition. The more you read on the subject, the more it becomes hard to start acting on it. If you recognize yourself in this description, stop right now, and send Sam a brief email to schedule your consultation. I did not obtain incredible numerical results on the scale or on my waist circumference (I did not have much weight to lose to begin with). My athletic *performance* did improve several folds. I had no idea what my baseline was or even how to measure it, but Sam did so for me. Culturally, Sam and Michelle's studio was the place where I was most comfortable being myself in LA. You will find people like yourself, starting from Sam and Michelle. Whatever text or article I had read, recent or arcane, Sam has read it. This has never been disproven. So here is a coach who will go toe to toe with you on the theory and the research, but unlike you has decades of daily practice of said research (oftentimes started before said research was codified, because of Sam's specific heritage, exposure, and traditions). Training at AOE is liberating. In front of you is a person that has more theory, more sample size, and more practice than you. A teacher. You can completely let go and just do what you're told to do, for ninety minutes each time. This is probably the opposite of what you have to do at your job. It becomes relaxing in the way you were relaxed when you were a child. Just show up. It also makes for a fast learning method. I moved to Los Angeles in June 2013. I sent an email to Sam shortly after (he was, and is, the top rated trainer in Los Angeles on Yelp). Sam scheduled my first session on July 5th, 2013, at 6am. I believe this was to test my motivation. Sam is not looking to sell you. If anything, Sam is looking for reasons why he might not be the best fit for you as a coach. He's never going to tell anything to please you or compliment you. In a country where fake appreciation is everywhere, Sam's currency knows no inflation. There is no judgment in either direction: no praise, no critique. This is hard to accept. When someone is parsimonious with praise, we can't but assume he is a ferocious critic and fear his/her wrath. Sam does not care if you do or do not do what he advises. Does not tie your worth as a human to the results he records. He is just interested in why something did work or did not work. If you learn to do the same, you will be able to stop dwelling on mistakes or frustrating yourself over anything but 100% compliance. That is when you will start the real journey of improvement. If you just show up, it's impossible to fail, even in things that you're not naturally talented for (and movement is not something I have an ounce of talent for). I ended up staying Los Angeles for a year, and trained with Sam and Michelle throughout. I haven't reached any goals, I've added systems to my toolbox. These systems have produced results and continue to do so, 1.5 years after I stopped training with Sam. Here are some: - I had never ridden a bicycle in my life. I learned how to ride at age 32. I commuted to and from my job on a bike for more than a year. I've ridden a road bike. Sam and I never talked about bicycles. I would not have taken up biking if I hadn't trained with Sam. - I crashed my bike and broke a few bones. I've recovered well ahead of my projected recovery curve because, in my physical therapist's words, I am a "star patient". I know the vocabulary, the movements, and the importance of consistency. This is thanks to All Out Effort. - I left a job that was taking a toll on me after seeing the impact the job was having on my athletic performance. The numbers produced by your body produce a deeper kind of insight. Now I have a much better job, going to work makes me happy, and my career is on a better trajectory. AOE played a sizable role in this. - I have much more grit than I used to. This applies to everything. I show up. I doubted I had this in me, but something showed me that I did, and that something is All Out Effort. - I added a friend, and intellectual companion, and a person I admire in Sam. Sam is as sparse in cheap praise and he's generous in sharing his knowledge. It's not often that you are able to work with someone who is not interested in your money, just in doing what he does in the best way possible. This is one such case.” – Roberto M.

“Sam and his wife, Michelle, are terrific trainers. I'm normally not one who likes trainers or gyms but I was at the end of my rope when I couldn't get over a knee problem. I did a variety of muscle building exercises on my own but my knee just wasn't getting better. I was referred to Sam by a friend and as soon as I started my training, I seemed to get stronger by the week. And not only did my knee recover, I became stronger all around. The prices are more affordable than most. The atmosphere is laid back. No machismo. It's all good.” – Dave B.

“I am not a gym person. This is not your standard gym. I am not a fan of most personal trainers. Sam and Michelle are so much more than that. I started training with Sam and Michelle almost a year ago, and I'm so thankful I did. I initially joined to lose weight, and that's still my ultimate goal, but with a medical issue that has made weight loss hard for me, my goals have shifted a bit. I now just want to be healthy and stronger, and be smarter about choices I make in my life, and with the unique method of coaching, education, and support Michelle and Sam have given me, I feel so much better. Every workout/ plan for better health is customized to you taking into account eating habits, sleeping habits, your work environment, and overall mental health. And the teachings aren't confined to the gym. There is homework. And Sam checks in to make sure it's getting done. When you join AOE, you are making a commitment to do your best, and Sam and Michelle commit as equally hard to you if you do. The workouts are never the same - cardio, weights, stretching, boxing, mobility... and you never know who will coach you (Sam or Michelle) until you walk in the door for your appointment. Either one, is a win. If you're looking for a lunk-head trainer, Sam isn't it. He is so smart, and so knowledgeable about, well, everything. Workouts come with really interesting conversations. He also attracts a smart clientele, so if you are in the gym with other AOE members (never more than 1 or 2 at a time) it's never disappointing. Even though you only see these people sporadically, there's a camaraderie among us all that just adds to the positive experience. I am a very fortunate member of the AOE family, and that's really how you feel when you're there.” – Alyse Z.

“AOE has been my first personal training experience, but I can't imagine a better place to train or better people from which to learn. Sam and Michelle are extremely knowledgeable, kind, exceptional people that will engage, support and challenge you. AOE treats and trains you as a whole person. You start with basic mobility exercises and work up to whatever goal you set for yourself. Sam takes a comprehensive approach when crafting your personal program, examining your eating, sleeping and work habits to better understand your needs. The first thing Sam will tell you is that it's all about mindset. I thought I understood this on day one, but I find I understand it more and more the longer I train. I really feel AOE has given me a better appreciation of what discipline means. At AOE you will work your muscles and your mind. Weights, cardio, martial arts, yoga and stretching (to name a few activities) will take place amidst an intellectual dialogue. Transhumanism, Feminism, Stocisim, Aldous Huxley — these are only the first topics that come to mind! Sam's intellectual curiosity and knowledge is vast. This may sound a little intense depending on the gym culture you're used to, but it's not a dry or stilted environment by any means. I've had countless thought provoking and fun conversations with Sam and Michelle. We also talk about comedies and Joe Rogan. There is sometimes 90's hip hop. Another great aspect of AOE is the community of people that train there. It's always a welcoming atmosphere. The clientele is really diverse. We're all there to work hard and improve — it's a supportive and inclusive place. I was pretty soft around the middle when I showed up for my assessment. I've come a long way and still feel like I have a lot of work to do, but Sam and Michelle have built me up and given me the tools with which to improve. I feel stronger. I've lost weight. I move more fluidly and have a better attitude overall. I can't thank them enough for the time and expertise they've shared with me. Check them out! You won't regret it.” – Kristine N.

“Sam and Michelle are amazing. I have one rebuilt (and re-blown) ACL in one knee and a blown PCL in the other knee. Basically, I'm all out of functional knees. Unlike other trainers who seemed to think that I should be able to leap up and down on the first day, Michelle and Sam worked with me — rebuilding muscle and confidence — until I actually COULD do the jumps, squats, and movements that would have been nearly impossible before. There are no mirrors at AOE because working out there isn't about what you want to look like (though that's side benefit) it's about your health, how you feel, and actually about how you think about your body and life. Working out at AOE you aren't going to get someone yelling in your face (you need to want this yourself), up-selling services or supplements, or tsk-tsking you if the scale moves up one day (if you are doing what you are supposed to it usually won't, unless you are piling on muscle mass). The question is — are you doing everything you can to really take care of yourself? Do you know what you are eating and why? Are you using and treating your body the way it is meant to be used and treated? Do you REALLY know what you are capable of? It's hard to find a place to work out in L.A. if you are self-conscious, not in perfect shape already, or just don't know where to start — everything seems super intimidating! Some people come in to A.O.E. and they can barely walk. If you need to be able to lift 15lbs and walk for 15 minutes, they can help you. If you need rehab post-surgery, they can help you. Slowly and surely after working with Sam and Michelle, even the weakest & sickest people regain health and confidence. I wasn't TERRIBLE when I first showed up, but I was definitely a bit of a mess. After working with AOE for about a year regularly, I had strength I didn't know I had — and I can't wait to do more. If you are in good — even great shape — don't think they can't challenge you. I've seen people who usually would be daydreaming through the hardest spin class sweating rivers and shaking like leaves on the AOE mat. Regular folks, pro athletes, MMA fighters, actors and models — everyone is pushed to their own personal limits and ever so slightly past them. Everything is geared around what YOU need RIGHT NOW. Sam and Michelle didn't just train me — they became coaches and friends. I really can't exaggerate how much of an impact they made on my life. Trust me, if you are looking for a trainer who will challenge you to rise to your full potential physically, mentally, and even intellectually and emotionally — go to A.O.E. You'll never look back.” – Natalie L.

“I hate the gym. I love All Out Effort. Sam and his crew probably won't get you a six pack, or train you to bench-press more than your buddies. There's a Gold's just down the street for that. Instead, All Out Effort gives everyone a personalized routine, but first looks at the bigger picture -- what do you eat, how do you sleep, do you drink enough water daily, are you stressed -- so that you see physical fitness as a part of overall well-being. Then, when it comes to physical training, AOE starts with basic mobility (a problem for me) to get clients flexible before it's time for strength training. To be sure, I've seen some amazingly fit clients training there, but what matters to me is that after a few weeks I was able to walk and carry things much more effortlessly, because for years my muscles had been fighting their own stiffness without me knowing it. I also had balance issues, so they focused on balance exercises -- embarrassing in front of others what with all the falling over, but over time I got better. The AOE staff are cheery and pleasant. No tough-talking jocks here. Sam in particular is an intellectual who can and will talk about any brainy subject while correcting your form. AOE's unique angle is not to browbeat you into shape, but to get YOU to understand why you need to do what you need to do. For some of us, that's the best training possible.” – Paul B.

“Put very simply, Sam transformed my life. When I met him in late 2013, I was overweight (153lbs on a 5'2" frame at my highest), out of shape and completely intimidated by gyms and trainers. I knew I needed a change, but I didn't know where to start. I was looking for someone with whom I would be comfortable, but would push me to become healthy the right way. I read Sam's reviews on Yelp and felt very strongly that his process would work for me. I met him, interviewed with him and committed immediately. What I learned very quickly was that this was about a full transformation - not just physically, but mentally as well. The mental part was first, and the physical came as a result. Sam, Michelle helped me get into the mindset of healthy routines by introducing small changes gradually and in a way that has been sustainable. The small changes were easy to transition into and I saw slow steady progress at first. I was about 6 months into my new habits when things started clicking for me at a new level and the weight started coming off quicker and the mental cloud I had been existing in had completely cleared. Workouts were tough and make you feel accomplished at the end of each one, but the articles Sam sends and the conversations during the workouts served me even more. I left each session feeling inspired, motivated, eager to adopt healthier habits in all aspects of my life - diet, sleep, time management, risk, business. For the first time in a long while, I was feeling proud of what I was doing again. You get what you put in - if you are committed, Sam & team will give you the tools to be successful. But he will not yell at you, force you, berate you or babysit you. He will check in, encourage, inform, teach and push you. He has created a community of people who are committed to bettering themselves in every aspect and can share their wisdom and resources and help to better each other. Egos are checked at the door, occasional partner workouts are encouraged and an atmosphere of positivity and inclusion can really be felt. The most amazing thing about Sam is that he is truly rooting for you. He cares. And he does a ton of research and is a fountain of knowledge on many things. He finds ways to apply this knowledge to each one of his clients - to adjust posture, change mindset, try a new exercise, suggest a more efficient way of doing a task. You get SO MUCH MORE than just a slimmer figure or more developed muscles (although you get those too!). I am now down 30lbs and physically and mentally so much healthier. If you are reading this and looking for a coach who can help to transform your life, call Sam immediately - I really cannot recommend him highly enough.” – Michelle D.

“If you want to drop weight really fast and have someone shout at you to do more burpees then go on a fad diet and join a boot camp. But, if you are serious about your physical and mental health and want to make long lasting changes to your lifestyle that will result in healthier AND happier living then... Join All Out Effort. COACHES: There are two: Sam and Michelle. And they're all very knowledgeable, friendly and fun. You get to work with all of them and each has their own style, which gives a nice variety. And you never know which of them you will get when you walk in for your appointment which makes for a nice surprise. You might find yourself in a very heady conversation with Sam while grunting your way through your workout. Sometimes, it works in your favor because you might get a slightly longer break while he finishes his thought. ;-) WORKOUTS: They can be hard, but never grueling. Although some would disagree. And they don't yell out you to pull more weight or do more reps or anything like that. First, they see how you move to ascertain areas of weakness like shoulders, knees and ankles. Then they get you moving correctly. Then they get you moving well. Then they get you moving a lot. Always building. Pushing, but never punishing. They have ropes, kettle bells, weights, rowing machine, climber, medicine balls, pretty much everything you can think of. Some days you'll just do body weight and movement. Other days you might do a lot of weights. Depends on the trainer and where Sam thinks you are in your progression. The workouts, ironically, are the smallest part of the AOE experience. The hardest part is when it's you versus you out in the real world. PHILOSOPHY/EDUCATION: Sam is constantly providing new perspectives on how to look at both fitness and how you're living your life. Never preaching, but always sharing. To ignore this part of AOE is to miss out on the most important thing they have to offer in my opinion. VIBE: It's a very inviting, friendly community between the coaches and the clients. You start seeing the same faces. There is no "beefcake posing and flexing in the mirror" aspect to it. In fact, there are no mirrors at all. So, no matter how you might perceive yourself, no one is going to make you feel bad about what you can or can't do or make you feel bad about yourself. It's very welcoming and inclusive. But, bottom line is... these guys will make you rethink the way you look at fitness in the best possible way.” – Calvin S.

“I've been lucky enough to have known Sam for a number of years. Perhaps five years ago now Sam was a trainer developing his strategies under the corporate confines of Bally's. However, since then, and since leaving, he has created his own studio (an idea he was forming when I was his client). Years had passed when I was finally ready to come back and see what Sam has been all about in his venture. Perhaps 8 months ago now, I started back with Sam as my trainer and the results have been incredible! Mental and physical improvements in what has been a very difficult time getting my mind on track. His strategy, best described, is an all-encompassing approach to fitness and wellness - Mental First and the rest follows. I'm always excited to get to his gym. Sam is a wonderful teacher and great person to have supporting your corner.” – Rob T.

“It's my first time trying personal training and I have definitely got way more than I expected. Sam's method totally changed what I thought about fitness and health. I have learned so much knowledge and I can see small positive changes happening on me. I sincerely enjoy each training class with either Sam or Michelle. There are different movements every time and I alway look forward to challenging myself with something new. I feel I'm stronger, more positive and efficient throughout my journey with AOE. I really wish I could stay longer but sadly I'm moving to another city. I don't think I will ever be able to find another professional like Sam. His program is just so unique. But I will definitely stay connected with Sam and AOE community and being inspired all the time.” – Claire F.

“After reading the reviews on Yelp, and being frustrated with other trainers, I decided to give Sam a try. I almost didn't sign up with him because his interviewing of me was so rigorous that I was afraid he was going to be one of those "yell at you" types of trainers. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Sam is very much about showing you a path, and you deciding if you want to walk the path. He's supportive, and somewhat chill, but if it becomes clear you aren't interested in putting effort in, he'd rather refund your money and have you find a trainer that works better for you. Whatever you choose to follow will be respected so long as you are choosing what you do vs just ambling along eating junk food or jumping on a fad. My choosing to train with him was not so much about weight loss, but improving my mobility and strength. The workouts are not simply an hour, because your warm-up mobility exercises will take you at least 20-30 minutes before you begin the workout. After I moved away from LA, I tried a gym & trainer in my location that "seemed" like Sam's place -- seemed to have the same philosophy and the same type of exercises. But it was an awful fit for me. The key is not just the exercises you do, it's finding the right kind of mentor -- and that's what they are. If you enjoy your exercise you'll stick with it. I enjoyed every session I had for the year+ before I moved away, and when I move back to LA I'll be back with them for sure.” – Erin M.

“Love coming here. Sam and Michelle are smart, fun, and welcoming! This isn't about gimmicky weight loss. This is about wellness... both physical and mental. The approach is unique and sophisticated. There is definitely a focus on proper form and mobility. The vibe of the place is great and the other clients are cool too. Feels like a community. Thank you Sam and Michelle!” – Chris R.

“Just the fact that you're reading these reviews means that you're interested in finding a personal coach. And I'm telling you to go through with that feeling and contact Sam because you're not going to find someone better. 2 years ago I did the same thing and it literally changed my life. I wasn't overweight but never really felt entirely comfortable with my weight, maybe like 10 or 15 pounds too heavy. I had a few gym memberships in my life but never really ended up going or pushing myself so I realized unless I have a personal coach I'm probably always gonna carry around these extra 15 pounds with me. I went to the free consultation and immediately liked it. I got a good feeling from Sam, I felt taken seriously and I liked the whole approach which is really more than just "how can we get rid of that extra weight" and more of a "how can we change your lifestyle for the better". I always liked a quote that I heard on HBO's Girls that said something like "magic only happens out of your comfort zone" and Sam has a similar approach that I immediately connected with. I trust Sam 100%. I followed his advice, made changes in my diet, showed up twice a week for training and never felt better. What I like about it is the constant exchange with Sam. It doesn't just stop when you leave the gym, he will text you and forward you articles, update you on new research; it really is so much more than just working out. Another thing I should mention is that due to an accident I underwent a few surgeries and had to go to PT for my knee injury. I actually stopped going to PT because I get so much more out of my workouts with Sam and my knee is pain free thanks to us constantly working on it. In the end, I lost about 20 pounds and still, almost 2 years later, follow his diet guidelines and train with Sam once or twice a week. When I read yelp reviews 2 years ago I never thought that signing up with Sam would have such an impact on my life but I couldn't be happier to have found this place. As long as I have a job and can afford coming here once or twice a week I always will!” – Josephine K.

“Thank you, thank you, Sam, I am! Thank you for the sore quads and hams. I could not, would not live without Sam's personal training workout. I will do them in the gym. I will do them before a swim. I will do them in the park. I will do them in the dark. I will do them at the break of dawn. I will do them on my front lawn. I will do them here and there. I will do them anywhere! Try them, try them! you will see! You will love them, just like me. Try them, try them! they are fun! Join me after for a run! I do so like sore quads and hams. Thank you, thank you, Sam I am!” – Jill C.

“I honestly don't even know where to begin when it comes to talking about Sam and Michelle and the entire All Out Effort community. I have never been one to talk about my weight or talk about my size, being overweight for a good portion of my life I think that I had simply learned to “live with it” and never did I ever think I would posses physical strength or feel truly comfortable in my own skin. I came to Sam last January when I had reached the highest weight that I have been in my adult life. I was miserable, exhausted, and had very little self confidence left. I realized that I was living in a severe state of denial about my body and my life. I learned to buy clothes that covered the problem areas of my body, I would avoid hiking and bike rides at the risk of not being able to keep up with my physically fit friends, I never ever took pictures, and I lived in a constant state of anxiety that I would never be the woman that I wanted to be. An emotional eater by nature, what makes weight loss different for me is that it's a mental obstacle, an emotional attachment to food. It is not simply an issue of changing my diet or getting off the couch and working out, I needed to change the way I thought and approached fitness and my well-being. In the past I have tried fad diets, working out with trainers at the mainstream gyms, doing it on my own, and setting goals but not following through with them. I kept trying and failing over and over again because I never grasped the mental part of health and fitness, the most important part in my opinion. This is one of the many, many things that set Sam and his team apart from the rest of the trainers out there. Sam’s philosophy revolves around having the correct mental philosophy and approach to fitness. No matter if your goal is to lose weight, gain strength, or simply get in shape, Sam and his team work wholeheartedly and diligently to create a plan that is designed specifically for you. It is truly a personal experience, you are not just a number at All Out Effort. Sam and Michelle are not just trainers they are coaches pushing you each step of the way. Through working with them I have gained more confidence than I have ever had in my life or ever believed that I would have. They have showed me that I CAN do it and have never let me give up on myself even though there were definitely days that I wanted to. I have lost 30 pounds and a high percentage of body fat in the eight months that I have been a member at All Out Effort. Although the numbers are wonderful, nothing can compare to how I feel now compared to when I first started. I have confidence, strength, and pride in my body and myself. To feel this way is truly priceless and I could not have gotten here without All Out Effort. If you are ready to take a leap in your life and get on the path to becoming the person you want to be I highly recommend becoming part of the All Out Effort community. It's a decision that you will not regret.” – Lauren W.

“Sam and company are knowledgeable, personable, and I benefited tremendously from training with them. I didn't feel pressure to buy anything, and it's not a glamorous experience, which is why it works. I found that I could take what I did there with me to the gym. I got both stronger and leaner and I found that working out here enhances other activities I do, like yoga. The methods are deeply researched and I trust them completely. This is not for someone who is taking change lightly or superficially. If you commit to it, you'll get results. I highly recommend them for those people who are genuinely interested in changing their lifestyle and, perhaps, your attitudes about exercise and nutrition.” – Diana D.

“If you're only looking for a trainer to sculpt your abs, do not waste your time here. If you're not willing to literally crawl before graduating to walking, do not bother contacting Sam. If you're not willing to do LOTS of reading homework in an effort to challenge conventional approaches to nutrition, do not pick up your phone to call Sam. If you're not willing to text photos of everything you eat for 2 weeks WITHOUT FAIL so that Sam can get an idea of what you eat, this is not the place for you. If you're just looking to lose some weight for an upcoming event (wedding, honeymoon, etc) and that's it, this isn't the place for you. If you love forking your money over to the supplement industry, you might want to consider dialing another trainer. If you are willing to work extremely hard, give 110%, realize that fitness does not end the minute you leave the gym and completely overhaul the way you used to think about working out and nutrition, then this is the place you for you. Sam will turn everything you THINK you know on its head as he runs you through your training. Training with Sam isn't just exercising because he insists you exercise a muscle you normally wouldn't associate with "working out" and that's your BRAIN. If you think I'm kidding, let me reassure you that I am not. While you are huffing and puffing and your face is turning an alarming shade of red, he WILL be asking you about any number of the "homework" he has assigned to you when he agreed to take you on as a client. If you think he doesn't remember what you have and have not read, let me tell you that Sam has the memory of an elephant. He. Will. Remember. And then he'll ask you the next time he sees you. That's right. HE determines if YOU are worthy as a client. Sam's approach to training is wildly different from any other method I've ever come across. He cares about you and how you're doing. It's hard to believe that when you're scrabbling across the floor facing off against his beautiful (and equally relentless and brutally efficient) wife and you swear you're about to drop dead....but he really does care. He will email you. He will text you. He will check in on you routinely to see how you're progressing and will alter his plan accordingly. Sam trains you the way elite professional athletes train and therein lies the difference between his method and all the other trainers out there. When you come on as a client of AOE, what you're really signing up for is the opportunity to train the way athletes do. What's also stupefying is how Sam charges for his services. It is beyond affordable...and the results are incredible. When you join AOE, what you're really doing is becoming a part of a small community where everyone encourages each other and celebrates our small victories.” – Bonnie C.

“I'm always looking for the most optimal way to do anything I care about. In fact, I see no reason why I can't be exceptional in every significant aspect of life. I believe that all I have to do is find the most successful people in the field that I'd like to improve in and learn everything I can from them. I was always skinny growing up. In high school I ran track and played football, despite being one of the smallest guys on the team at 5'6 145. I stopped playing organized sports in college and started putting on the pounds. When I came to AOE I was over 170. I felt like I couldn't lose weight no matter what. I never ate after I was full, avoided late night meals and exercised a few times a week. Not only couldn't I lose weight but I'd feel weak and lethargic for long stretches at a time. Eventually I decided that I couldn't stand being sub-optimal in such an important part of my life. I looked for personal trainers on Yelp and picked the one with 40—something consecutive 5 star reviews. When I first met Sam I was surprised; he was Asian and not a meathead. That was good. I don't like meatheads. When I'd imagine working out with a trainer, I'd always envisioned a guy who looked like The Rock flexing his guns in a sleeveless tee, while yelling at me to stop being a pussy and pump out one more bicep curl. I was also surprised to learn that my fitness homework was to read some books and a bunch of online articles. Initially I was far from convinced that following Sam's diet advice would help me achieve my fitness goals. I wanted somebody to help me work out, not tell me how to live my life! However, if I commit to trying something, I'm going to try to do it to the best of my ability. I decided to follow Sam's suggestions as best I could and check on the results after a few months. Well waiting a few months turned out to be completely unnecessary, as I lost 6lbs my first month, 18lbs after 4 months and have continued losing weight at a gradual pace since. It's been 16 months now and I'm down 37lbs to 135, and have a 6—pack for the first time ever! This is the first time in my life I've been able to see any of my ab muscles, let alone all six! Sometimes my friends ask me why I still see a trainer and eat such a weird diet. "Why do you punish yourself when you're already in such good shape?" To me that question makes no sense. I've finally found something that has helped me optimize my body, health, and fitness and now I should change just because I look healthy? Of course, I cheat occasionally but it makes no sense to me to change something that makes me feel stronger and more energetic throughout the day, while helping me maintain the body I want. It's not a stretch to say Sam has changed my life. Sam is always there with new information and ideas on what I can do to be a better, healthier me which never gets old since I'm always striving to be my best. He even gives me semi—compliments sometimes! But I can't complain since she creates such a fun and completely supportive environment for my grunts. At this point, they feel like friends as much as coaches. But as much as they've helped me get in great shape, I know that I'd also be fine on my own. I haven't stopped losing weight when I've gone out of town for a month or two because I still control what I eat and how I work out. I know they can't eat healthy for me, or drive me to my work outs, or make sure I get enough sleep. So I do my best to do all those things on my own and when I'm in LA, I know they're always here to help me get the most optimal workouts I can.” – Isaac H.

“I started training with Sam a year and a half ago. I was 30 lbs overweight and couldn't touch my toes without screaming. Now, I've got 10 lbs to go, and only scream in triumph when i finish my workouts. Here's the thing with Sam. Yes, you'll lose weight. Yes, you'll start eating right. Yes, you'll feel better. But here's what's more important. You'll change. You'll be a different person, and you'll carry that difference into your life. No longer will you settle for less than your potential. Not in work, not in life, not in love. And though Sam doesn't deal with any other aspect of your life but your determination and education as it relates to health and balance and strength, the side effects of his training are long lasting. Not only will you develop new habits, but you'll take care of yourself in a way you never thought possible. Sam focuses on the mental stamina and the belief in yourself that is required to be a physical and spiritual warrior. And if warrior isn't your goal, then you'll still be in great shape, groceries will be easier to carry, and people just might mistake you for a warrior. Oh well...” – Jason E.

“If you want to change your bad habits, posture, and life, I highly recommend Sam. When I first got there, I was so exhausted from work and was in a depressed moment in my life. That's why I was desperately looking for something to change me. Well, my choice turned out well. I changed my bad habit of craving carbs and eating even when I wasn't hungry. At the same time, they made me stronger. My stubborn fat was not going away, after 2 months of training it began going away, I couldn't believe it. Their training is not that easy but you will enjoy it later. If you want to feel stronger and healthy, I definitely recommend them.” – Michelle K.

“We've made a lot of progress on my goals of being healthier, stronger, and having more energy. I'm excited about what's coming next. Feeling stronger makes me want to feel stronger, if that makes sense. Spending a week in Hawaii with my four-year old, who has turned into a little athlete who prefers to spend about eight hours a day at the pool and the beach, makes me really happy that I can keep up with him and that I'll be able to keep up with him for a long time. I could write all kinds of stuff. I'm excited about where this is going. I'm grateful for a big shift that's taking place in my whole attitude toward diet, exercise, and myself. Thanks for your help, Sam! It's a big deal.” – Dan R.

“Sam challenged me to step up and make a commitment. And I knew that nothing less would count. I have a new baby and I want to be a dad who can compete with the younger dads at school sports days. I want to be a dad who is healthy and fit and a role model for my son. So I committed and I get out of bed at 5AM twice a week - no matter what - to work out with Sam. Sam pushes me far more than I could ever do for myself. I'll be straining to do pull-ups and he'll come over and hang a weight around my waist! I'll get my highest ever score on the climbing machine and he'll force me to do push ups instead of lying in a heap! As Sam says, "Train hard, live easy." I see training with Sam as one of the best investments I have ever made in myself.” – Rich L.

“I joined All Out Effort less than a year ago when I moved to LA - my goal was to lose the weight that has plagued me all my life but more than that to lose it and keep it off instead of the up and down I'd been doing since about 11. Plus my 40th birthday is almost upon me this year and I wanted to be happy with myself for probably the first time ever. I'm not there yet but I've lost 30lbs, have shape to my arms and legs and am pretty sure I have a two-pack that's actually made out of muscle instead of fat rolls. Sam has a different style and you have to go in to this with the mindset that you want to change. If you have that, he will move heaven and earth to help you achieve it but why should they give their all if you're not? I didn't have a lot of faith that this would work when I started but Sam kept telling me to trust him and I did and it worked. From the taking photos of my every meal, to the conscious decisions to eat right, to the showing up for workouts, to the learning to love myself, I've evolved into someone that has forgiven herself (mostly) for the imperfections and accepted what I can and can't change. But surprisingly, some of the things I thought I couldn't change, I was wrong about and I wouldn't never have known if Sam hadn't encouraged me and pointed out the way. One of the most impressive aspects of their training is how much attention they pay to each individual person's needs - it's not a one program fits all. If you have an injury, they work around it and follow up to make sure you're ok afterwards. They step you through strength, technique, stability and keep it different so you work every part of your body regularly. I'll be honest, I have two sessions a week and maybe do only 2 or 3 on my own at home but they must be doing something right because I've seen huge changes in definition that don't just come from losing weight. Seems to be more effective training with exercises that target weak spots and work to correct them. One of the best things for me has been their insistence that a 20 minute workout is ok - I used to do two one hour workouts a day and got totally burnt out. The mental freedom you have from knowing you just have to knock out 20 minutes has been liberating for me and helps me to stay on track far more easily - who can't squeeze 20 minutes in?? Sam's dedication to his clients shows a level of caring that you don't get with trainers that are just looking to make money. I would highly recommend the two of them and All Out Effort if you have reached the decision that now is the time and you're prepared to commit and put in the work.” – Kirsten F.

“I got to train with Coach Sam several years ago before All Out Effort was what it is now and he in that short amount of time changed my life... I know that sounds cliche but he did. There are things he's said to me that still resonates with me today, and whenever I am about to eat something bad, I can hear his voice asking me if I really want to do that. It's like a little coach on my shoulder. I came to him during a time when I was going through a lot of personal issues and my life is now forever altered...for the better that is. Not only did I get in the best shape of my life, but its sustainable now. How to eat, exercise, swing a kettlebell, sleep, and live. On my first day he told me about my comfort zone, and how all the magic was on the other side, outside of my comfortable little bubble. In the darkness I will find my motivation, and only then can I sustain my healthy lifestyle. No magic diets, no guarantees, just a lot of perspective, and it's what I needed! Thank you so much!” – Ellen L.

“Sam deserves to be on Best of Yelp's top personal coaches in Los Angeles! What separates Sam from other trainers? He genuinely cares for his clients. He makes sure you have proper form when performing exercise routines. He listens to you and your story. He not only helps his clients lose weight, but coaches them to make a lifestyle change. I met Sam summer 2010 when I decided to make a lifestyle change. Since then, I have trained with him, observed him training other clients, and followed his blog / youtube videos / anythingyoucanname that he wrote. What I love about Sam is that he accepts and welcomes you just as you are. From there, he will work with you to live life healthily and happily. He isn't like other trainers that forces strict diets down your throat (hehehe, pun intended) and make you perform an absurd exercise regimen that makes you want to quit forever (but I'm sure that if you requested a hardcore workout, he will give you one). Many individuals want a miracle cure for their weight loss issues, but they have to understand that it takes time, change, patience, determination, and a helpful supporter. Sam philosophy works--not only physically, but mentally. While you work with him, your mentality will change and you will start seeing weight loss differently. No trainer can force you to do anything. The inspiration must come from within. So if you're ready to make a lifestyle change, then invest in yourself by contacting Sam. I promise you--you won't regret it. If you're still hesitant about finding the right personal trainer, I highly recommend visiting his website. Browse through it, read the blog, read the reviews. You'll learn a lot.” – Milli J.

“All Out Effort is the ultimate training experience in Los Angeles! Sam and Michelle provide personal training at an affordable price point which is a rarity in this town. Their vast knowledge of body mechanics combined with dietary recommendations really provides you with the proper tools to improve your overall mental and physical self. Having been physically active my entire life and a trained dancer, I am hyper aware of correct body alignment and its importance. I have taken fitness classes all over this city and they are the only trainers who actually pay attention and focus on proper technique. No workout is the same... all are custom tailored to be challenging in order to take you to the next level. Sam and Michelle are excellent trainers who really care about you as a person. Going to All Out Effort gym has been the best investment I have ever made!” – K. L.

“You know what has actually helped me through this last week of stress? A drawing that you showed me on assessment day - the circle with the line through the middle with comfort on one side and the dark night on the other. I drew a version on a post-it (with growth & change instead of dark night) and stuck it on my mac as a visual reminder, and every time I start to feel overwhelmed I stare at it for a while and think about the reasons of why I'm doing all of this. And I start to feel renewed again. So thank you Sam, for showing me that. I bet you didn't even realize that in 1 minute you already changed my life.” – Diane V.

“I have worked out with personal trainers before, but never with anyone who actually cared about how I was doing and wanted me to be healthy not just lose weight. I knew that Sam was different the first day I met him when he gave me reading homework. I was like I have to read to get in shape, but Sam wanted me to understand my body and what roles nutrition and exercise played in my life. I didn't get to work with Sam as long as I would have liked, but with him I lost nearly 30 pounds in just a few short months. Everyone asks me what I'm doing like it's some big secret or mystery. I just say I met this awesome guy who taught me how to eat right and exercise the right way. I would recommend Sam to everyone! He's the BEST!!!” – Angela Z.

“Basically I just came back to New York many months ago… just for a visit...and then I just stayed. I found freelance work pretty quickly. But more importantly, I also wanted to thank you. I am doing some training here, but it just makes me appreciate your methodology and the effectiveness of your workouts. Again, thank you for everything!” – Leslie K.

“I've been to the other Personal Trainers; The dime-a-dozen, amped-up fitness freaks, of which there are so very many in this town. People with frozen smiles and that perpetual groaning noise caught in their throat after they say what they think you want to hear. People who will tell you anything to make you feel like you're making progress. People who coddle you and make you feel good about yourself so that you continue to give them money for their unlicensed, unregulated business that they conduct with little to no training requirements or expertise. Such is the usual business practice of the Hollywood Personal Trainer. I'd hate to sound clichéd, folks, but Sam is not the average Personal Trainer. He shouldn't even be in the same category. At this point, I find that referring to him as a "Personal Trainer" belittles him due to the mere association it creates with the rest of the fitness morons in this town. Sam is, to me, a remarkable individual with whom it is a privilege to train with and be helped by. Unfortunately, that's not a catchy title but it captures the spirit of his practice far more than "Personal Trainer". He is not here to tell you what you want to hear. In fact, you're probably going to hear a bunch of stuff you didn't want to hear. About your diet. About your posture. About your moods and your personality and the way you conduct your life. He approaches you from a clinical, almost mathematical point of view. Just by looking at your musculature and the tightness of your joints and nerves, at the way you move and run and interact, he can somehow see the kind of life you lead and the kind of person you are and, make no mistake, to Sam, that is important. He's not trying to improve your body. He's trying to improve you. Body and mind. Hardware and Software. Improve it, shape it. To him, it's all connected, as I've come to learn that it should be. Let me explain; He will constantly look at every aspect of your life. Your diet. Your exercise. Your work place. Your personal life. All of these things come into play and he evaluates all of it and forms a plan to improve every facet of your life. And he will explain to you, in detail, why and how these parts of your life must change. Get ready to absorb some info, because Sam does his homework. He is learned and very informed in everything that he does. This kind of dedication from a "Personal Trainer" is not the norm. I cannot stress it enough when I say he doesn't NEED to do what he does, he does it out of pleasure and kindness. And as much as he might seem like the hard-ass, he's a softie. He puts a LOT of emotional investment into you. More than many people should. So much that you won't want to let him down. It's not a guilt thing, he actually cares. He puts effort into you, tries to help you in any way he can, professionally and personally because he approaches you like a PERSON, not like a body or a client. That's why he's so effective. He tries to fix problems from the source. And he feels more like a good friend than a coach. The only reminder that I'm a client of a business is that every few weeks he mentions that I'll have to make a payment soon. The rest of the time, he approaches me with a balance of professionalism and friendship that is exactly what I need to turn my life around. Which brings me to my final point; By far, the most important thing you must take away from this review is that he will stress that it is YOU who's got to make the change. YOU who has to put the work in and the belief. I know I've made him sound like some flip-a-switch solution to your problems, he's not. He just gives you the support and information you need for YOU to become the solution. And that's worth a whole lot more than he charges. Before Sam, I was half-assing life. I was just trying my best. Now, I'm trying to be the best. There's a big difference there.” – Arthur D.

“I have been in the US for 6 years now and had a sedentary lifestyle for the first 5-1/2 years. Before that, I was never FIT at any point of time but, at the very least, I used to play cricket for several hours every week. Being a south-indian, veggies and fruits were part of my diet. Excessive cheese, oil or salt were NOT, it was all good stuff (lentils, veggies, diverse spices, etc ). On the downside, I used to eat a lot of rice, yoghurt, savories and drank coffee quite a bit (coffee diluted heavily with milk). When I came to LA, there were a few subtle but important changes. I started eating out more (indian fast food and otherwise). So, more cheese, salt and oil than I was ever used to. Due to anxiety of grad studies or work or what not, I started drinking even more coffee. Plus, absolutely NO exercise. Fast forward 5-1/2 years later, I couldn't do easy hikes without taking breaks to catch my breath when everyone around seemed fine (they are not super-fit, just not as bad as I was). Advice from friends, family, doctor and lot of internet research led to prioritizing health as an important goal in my life. Sam's experience and his blog was an important factor. It has a lot of information on how to improve the diet, what are the kind of exercises to incorporate in training to achieve fitness goals. Another factor is his emphasis that safety comes first. I know people who had severe injuries trying to work out or lift weights without proper training. So, having read client reviews and being convinced in a FREE session, I decided to give AOE a shot. IMPROVEMENTS: 1. Safety comes first and Sam is critical about perfecting the posture before moving on to more reps or heavier weights. When I started, I was asked to run on the treadmill. Soon, he noted that I had an incorrect running form. After a while of running, I had shin splints due to the way I was striking my feet and my shoes. He promptly asked me to try running barefoot, corrected my form and suggested particular type of barefoot shoes. Hours of practice later, I can run faster (7-8 mph), longer (9-10 minutes) and no shin splints yet. 2. Strength training: I didn't know most of the exercises, had poor form for the rest and the weights I used were small. So, Sam suggested that I start with small weights and lower reps. But he made sure that I was pushing myself to the next level and over time, improvements were apparent. Earlier, I could probably squat with 15 lbs kettle bell for few reps. Now, I can squat with 35 lbs for more reps or even do a complex with two 25 lbs (50 lbs effectively). Still have a long way to go compared to other clients. 3. IMO, one of the best advice that Sam gave is the notion of proper form in body-weight exercises. Some exercises (squats, dead lifts, getting up, etc.) are basic movements that we do everyday. It is crucial to maintain proper form while doing them as well. I felt that was insightful and made it a point to apply it everyday. Whenever I reach down to pick up stuff or lift heavy packages in mail, I make sure that I apply the same techniques as if I were in a gym working with free weights. His method is to teach techniques that go beyond the confines of a gym and intended to be incorporated into daily activities. 4. Sam asked to make significant changes to my diet. Basically, cut down on grains, eat raw and cooked veggies and fruits, healthy fats, nuts and egg whites. The changes have had a profound impact. 5. The results speak for themselves. After 5 months of training, I can hike for several hours on moderate to steep inclines; last month, I hiked with a 30-40 lbs backpack on a steep incline for 10 hours in one day and I did fine. And for the readers interested solely in numbers, I've lost 16 lbs (10% body weight) since I started and am at less than 10% body fat (I started at 20%). 6. So far, I've talked about improvements on my end. But that's just part of the story. I had recommended his blog to friends and relatives and it seems, that's had a positive impact as well. For instance, two of my younger cousins, aunt and uncle have already made changes to their diet and fitness methods. Also, it has brought about changes in what my room mates eat everyday. One of them has cut down on rice significantly and has started eating more raw veggies. Now, only if I can convince her and the other room mate to start exercising. There are several positive things that I could go on and on about Sam but this review has reached its limit. So, I'm gonna end by saying that I completely recommend Sam to anyone looking to prioritize their health, learn the fundamentals of fitness and the effective methods to make it work to attain your goals.” – Prakash R.

“Although I've been active (hs sports, running, kickboxing, etc), I have been overweight most of my life...and in self denial. I figured, "Hey I am exercising so I must be healthy, right?" Wrong! What woke me up was my doctor informed me I was prediabetic. If I didn't stop what I was doing, I was going to be diabetic. My grandmother passed away from complications of diabetes in her 50's so she never met any of her grandchildren. I want be able to see and actively play with my own grandchildren. Around the same time, my uncle started to suffer from Parkinson's. While it's a neurological disorder, his lifestyle didn't help him nor does it help him now. Research has shown that diet and exercise can help slow the symptoms. My uncle is in a downward spiral as he continues to avoid exercise and to eat greasy fatty fried foods. He's thin but he constantly complains about his inability to walk upright, painful muscle spasms, insomnia, and incontinence. If you don't help yourself, no one can help you. That was the last straw. I needed a personal trainer. I want to avoid any type of pill popping to stay alive. If I do not change, my life will be full of doctor visits, suffering, and constant worry. Who the hell wants that? I saw Sam as a last resort to weight loss. Sam was not kidding when he says, "Wake up at 5 AM. Change lives at 6 AM." Sam has changed my life. Sam is not the type of trainer who will scream in your face and work you out until you collapse. He is the methodical Sherpa on your climb up the Mount Everest of refined and processed foods, bad habits, and improper form. Sam heavily focuses on proper form and moving along at a comfortable pace to avoid injury. When I experience back pain, Sam is cognizant of the pain and does his best not to aggravate it during our sessions. He has taught me exercises which eased the pain and went easier on me when my back was acting up. However, Sam is NOT a softie. When my form is bad, he corrected me. I was flustered because I was in bad form and Sam was doing his best to correct it. When I texted him the food I knew wasn't apart of the diet, I cringed because he is stern. No matter how much I want to reach through my phone and punch him in the face for telling me no corn, I can not argue with him because of his knowledge. His stern presence has kept me accountable. I started to see Sam at the beginning of April and I have lost 10 lbs in less than 2 months. I am very optimistic I will lose more. Many people make the mistake of hiring a trainer at the globo gym or via groupon/social living. It is cheaper and maybe more convenient. What people don't realize is the quality they are missing with a quality personal trainer like Sam. Not only is he knowledgeable and constantly sharing information with everyone, he is personally invested in you as a person...and not some paycheck. I know if i texted him that I ate cheese right now, he would instantly give me hell for eating it. If you're pussyfooting around about contacting Sam, don't hem and haw. Hemming and hawing is for the weak. Just do it.” – Anita C.

“The best thing about training with Sam is that it's a positive, frustration-free experience. Sam puts a major emphasis on proper form and building a solid foundation. They're both incredibly knowledgeable, and it's great to feel like you can truly trust the advice that you're being given. There's no boot camp-style yelling or bullying-- just encouragement, motivation, and tangible results that you can see and feel. Sam is great about checking in on your progress as well as consistently sending out interesting articles and videos that back up everything he tells you during your sessions. Proper nutrition and stress management are emphasized just as much as exercise, which is key for longer-term success. You really get the sense that Sam is as invested in your progress as you are, and that kind of teamwork and coaching is what makes the difference. As a former vegetarian and disgruntled cardio machine user who would cringe at the thought of anything more than a set of five-pound dumbbells, I can honestly say that my outlook on diet and fitness has done a complete 180-degree turn in a short amount of time, and I feel and look ten times better because of it (and there is still a LOT more progress to be made!). I initially thought that having a personal trainer was a major luxury, but more and more, I see it as a necessity for good health. Not to mention the awesome fact that two months ago I would've been embarrassed to be seen in a swimsuit, and now I'm actually excited for my upcoming beach vacation. My kettlebells will be joining me on the trip! If you're in Los Angeles and you're willing to make the commitment, you really can't do better than Sam. Seeing improvement as a result of hard work is a great feeling and I can honestly say that it's something I experience with every session.” – Dana B.

“I am getting married in less than two months, and I met Sam a month back while my mom tagged along interested in the free consultation. I explained that I want to lose all the chubby that I've done a wonderful job maintaining all my life. I was looking for a permanent change that improper exercise and diet, starvation, oriental detox, and questionable asian "vitamins" could not bring. And these methods only exacerbated my problem even more. Little did I know.. after our consultation, Sam told me to my surprise that my mom who simply tagged along ... needed attention more than I do. Sam started rattling off mom's bodily problems that she is likely to have while mom and I sat with eyes widening with each word Sam was uttering. He was right...she did have weak knees and in the last year she became dramatically prone to injury... He warned us that at this rate, she would eventually be in a wheelchair. That woke me up in two ways. I wasn't about to let myself watch my mom being put in a wheel chair before I even have my first child, and second, I wasn't about to become her in the future. It has now been little over a month and my mom falls less, has little to no digestion problems, and has less menopausal symptoms (THANK THE HIGH HEAVENS)... As for me, I am noticing muscles I was never aware of, I now have absolutely no digestion problems after following Sam's nutrition instructions, and have higher energy. Sam has my complete and absolute trust. Mom is astounded that a skeptic such as myself hangs on to Sam's every word without question. Sam is without a doubt, THE best personal trainer in the Los Angeles area. I can confidently say this after scouring all of LA for a personal trainer rather frantically after setting my wedding date. He is a personal trainer, nutritionist, and life coach all in one. I now know that, "healthy is not something you achieve easily," (Sam). My goal is to become healthy. Looking good is only the byproduct. *** This update is long over-due but here goes. It has been roughly 2 years since I've trained with Sam and only stopped because I've moved away from Los Angeles. I will admit that I've poked my head in on pilates classes and even considered the bar method just for sake of interest and hey, no shame. But time and again, I find myself falling back on Sam's techniques. Safety first. Build your strength from the feet up. Oh is that ever the truth, all the more when I broke my foot. The exercises that I could do that I learned from Sam were in line with what my physician recommended, so much so that my doctors were intrigued at how I already knew what to do. Many reviewers mention that one of Sam's strong suits is his heart for his clients. I can attest to this. Mom and I set up couple sessions, the aim being that we motivate each other, but one morning I managed to get her so upset that she bailed. Got out the car and started to walk home. I walk into the gym alone and Sam asks where mom is. I explain and he gets me started on the usual stretches, and manages to come back with mom. How he did this, I'll never know. First, mom had managed to get pretty far away, albeit on foot, which leads me to believe that he ran down the street to find her. And second, what are these magic words that he said to get mom to comply? That is an accomplishment worth noting because with all the health issues mom was going through, she was an emotional roller coaster difficult for anyone to calm. In any case, if there was any doubt, when you sign up with Sam, you are definitely not just a number. He cares.” – Rebecca K.

“If you're looking for a trainer that's going to kill you with a crazy workout 5 days a week, tell you to get a bunch of different supplements and protein, push you to go physically beyond your limits and lose 20lbs in your first month then Sam and A.O.E is NOT what you're looking for. Sam is the best personal trainer I've ever experienced and the most knowledgeable person I know about health that I've ever talked with. He works with you from the ground up to not just "get in to shape" but develop a true and livable, healthy lifestyle in your workouts, nutrition, and day to day activities. At A.O.E. it's ultimately about mindset. They look for clients that are genuinely interested in changing their lifestyle for the better, and will even turn away potential clients who don't come in with an open mindset to fitness. If you already think you know everything about fitness and aren't willing to listen to new ideas (all of which Sam will back up with tons of articles) and make genuine changes in how you think and relate to fitness then A.O.E. isn't for you. But if you're open to different approaches than you've tried in the past; if your seeking to genuinely make changes in your life to improve your health and happiness; and you want someone who won't just tell you what you want to hear, then you should contact them immediately. This is the place for you.” – Cameron B.

“I have been working out with Sam for nearly two years, and I can't imagine ever needing another trainer. I was seeking a new trainer after a few years of being a gym rat, pointlessly lifting weights that built up the look I was going for - but after only one workout with Sam I realized how totally out of shape I was. Now my look has changed, and while I may not have the biceps I once had - I am stronger, faster, more agile and balanced that it has ever been in my life. I feel like my body is ready for anything. And that is the point. I have never met anyone more totally devoted to overall fitness than Sam is; he is obsessed with it. He has studied every form of exercise you have ever heard of, many that you haven't, and is always uncovering new ones to study and add to his lexicon. He totally customizes exactly what your own, personal body needs, and no one gets the same treatment. He will surprise you constantly with new, interesting ideas and techniques, and like any good scientist he is constantly refining and adding to them. If you want a big chest to carry around on those spindly legs of yours, Sam is not your guy. If you want someone to yell at you, count your reps, and tell you what an awesome job you are doing, Sam is not your guy. If you want to be in the best shape of your life - and I mean real fitness that happens over time, not Los Angeles body sculpting for shopping on Melrose - let him take you apart and put you back together. You've never experienced anything like it.” – Joshua L.

“When I first met with Sam I was looking for someone to help me keep my body fit, however, now I realize that is only half the equation. You need to have a healthy mind as well, and he works hard to teach you that. Why Sam stands out among all the other "gym" trainers I've met (and there have been many) is because he becomes actively invested in your growth. He doesn't just throw you onto a machine and wait for you to do a certain amount of reps like a lot of trainers. He has shown me stretches and moves that I have never seen at any of the gyms I used to go to. Talk about making working out FUN and interesting again!! He constantly changes things up to keep your body improving, and he is there the whole time making sure you are positioned right so you don't hurt yourself. He's not going to just work you out for an hour and then forget about you until he sees you next. I'm a performer so I have always been physically active and pretty conscious of my body's capability, but Sam has taught me things I didn't even know about myself and my potential. I never really thought of myself as an 'athlete' until now. He's shown me that I can be as strong as I allow myself to be, and that there is an inner warrior just waiting to come out of all of us. I recommend him to EVERYONE I meet in LA and wouldn't waste my time with anyone else. Check out his blog as well- it's awesome!!!” – Amy B.

“Sam is a fantastic trainer. I worked with him for close to a year and I've never felt better about my health and how my body looked. I only stopped because I moved far away. Sam doesn't fool around. The man cares about doing it right. So he ramps you up over time and by the end you are doing stuff that you didn't know you were capable of. He is also just a great guy. I always looked forward to working with. Highly, highly recommend it! Sam's the man.” – Jonathan L.

“The popular saying goes that your body is a temple. After two years of working the 9 to 5, an undisciplined eating habits, and a dramatically reduced metabolism, my body became more like a fortress with the subcutaneous fat a thick padded wall that surrounds my frame. By no means was I ever obese. But I could no longer be classified with words such as "thin" or "fit". However, I was adept at fooling many that I carried a thin yet curvaceous frame. Like a clever magician, I used the optical illusions of fashion to divert attention away from my excess pooch. Waisted belts, empire waist shirts..you name it. Ah, but I couldn't hide it from myself. I was bothered by the discomfort of a protruding stomach and extra cushion. I slouched more. I didn't feel comfortable while sitting nor sleeping. And I was outraged that the cute clothes I owned didn't look so cute on me anymore. My crafts at optical illusions couldn't hide the obvious anymore. So I began slaving away at the gym daily and tried to cut down my eating. Sometimes it worked...temporarily. I was another victim to yo-yoing with my weight. Though I could build a temple, I didn't have the foundations nor fortitude to maintain it. I didn't have the right knowledge nor the right tools to keep off my weight. I needed a professional with years of knowledge and experience to help guide me into building my body into the temple I desired it to be. So, I decided to meet with Sam. And I'm sure glad I did, because as much of a smart-ass I am and as much as I hate ass-kissing, he has earned my respect because he IS the best. Sam Y. knows his shit, and he's a mother-effing guru when it comes to fitness. Sam was the perfect civil engineer / architect to help sculpt my fortress into a temple. Brick by brick, he guided me how to lay the foundation for a lifestyle that would both build and help me maintain the figure I want for myself. And he gave me some handy tools to effectively accomplish this. Instead of using a shovel, he gave me a bulldozer. Oorah!! I have been working with Sam for 4 weeks. Right now, I'm still a work in progress, and I am still in process of reaching my target. But I must say, since I've began with Sam I've been losing the optimal weight that I should and building lots of lean muscle. My metabolism have definitely jump-started. In fact, honestly, physically speaking, I am very satisfied with where my body is at. Everyone has noticed a difference. However, now my focus is more on toning, being more lean, and healthy. NOW I want my temple to be spotless, damnit!! Sam is also great to work with. He's amicable and will do his best to answer any questions I have. And I have a tendency to ask many technical, scientific questions. To be frank, I am a guilty of being an unapologetic obnoxious pain in the ass to deal with. I'm a skeptic, and I take everything that challenges my conventional wisdom with a grain of salt. So I always question HIM and his methodology, "is this really working? Are you sure? What is the science behind this? Am I working hard enough to achieve my goals?" "Will I get too many muscles? I don't want to gain too much muscles or look stocky." And he doesn't just answer my questions, but he shows me every week when I weigh in on his scale. As long as I follow his guidance, I will meet results. Sam Y.. the ultimate architect / civil engineer of the body. He will help you to sculpt your body good.” – Nancy Y.

“I'm happier, more independent, and confident now more than ever. I think releasing all the negative energy and people around me has helped me become a better person. Weight loss was just a perk. And you know, I've been wanting to thank you for helping me out a lot. The time I spent training with you has helped me take the higher road in life... Honestly, you're a life changer.” – Edlyn L.

“I've only been studying with Sam for almost 2 months but I feel like I'm much stronger and more confident than ever before! Sam has taught me not only valuable life lessons, but skills that will be with me even when I'm old. He is a great trainer and coach and I'd highly recommend him! His methods of teaching are like no other and he personalizes each routine just to fit your needs. He's great!!!” – Abby K.

“Sam is not only a great trainer, but also a great human being to work with! Though I was a professional dancer and used to be very active up until a few years ago, after starting grad school in architecture, my lifestyle, alignment, and habits all took a dive... Long story short, I ended up with a back injury which got worse and led to me having to have spine surgery. The injury obviously had prevented me from exercising, and I ended up gaining a lot of weight. Post surgery, I really needed a trainer who was well versed in all aspects of fitness, not just rehab, not just weight loss. I needed someone that was knowledgeable enough to help me achieve major weight loss while also knowing how to help me do it in a safe and injury-free way (which is rarer than one may think in the world of personal trainers, they're usually one extreme or the other). Sam was the guy.... though I couldn't continue training because I'm not yet fully healed from surgery the way I need to be in order to train (this is not due to my workouts with Sam, this is due to me returning to my grueling school schedule two weeks post-op), for the time that I did train with him, he was amazingly understanding of my condition, yet he also pushed me enough to take me out of my comfort zone and keep me motivated!! That's exactly what you need with a trainer, someone that pushes you to your max potential, but is also sensitive and understands what you're going through so that you feel safe and comfortable with the person training you. When I had to stop training due to medical reasons, Sam was also amazingly understanding about this and would still periodically check on me to see how I'm doing, even when it didn't mean dollars in his pocket. He is a really trustworthy and sensitive person, and also one that knows what he's doing and that will push you to get you your results and to live a healthier life!” – Binita B.

“I'm a long time fan of the UFC/MMA and first contacted Sam about training MMA, and have been training with him twice a week for the past seven months. Let me rewind a little... I was in an accident in high-school that required eight operations and left me with limited use of my left ankle and foot. I also have a hard time walking or doing any type of exercise without the support of shoes. I visited a few different MMA academies with the intention of joining, with one stipulation... I needed to wear shoes. But all I got was "no's" across the board. Enter Sam, who told me shoes were no prob, and ever since our first session he's always been aware of my limitations and has taught me ways to even use the disadvantage TO my advantage. His training has been a methodical approach of physical technique, concepts, strategies and mental strength. Each week he finds new ways to challenge me and develop my training.” – Ben K.

“I passed on the dozens of trainers and gyms in the area and opted to see Sam Y because of his style in teaching, coaching, training and inspiring you. Without being loud and in your face, he motivates you... I've been interested in personal training for a while but didn't find the right fit until Sam. I look better. I feel better. I'm inspired and I want to continue learning more. Sam's method is unique. He feeds the mind as he is transitioning your body. The combination yields results and more importantly longevity. He's a good person and I owe my success to him.” – Miko T.

“Sam isn't just a trainer, he's a coach. Losing weight isn't just simply lifting weights, running on a treadmill or any other exercise you can't think of. First and foremost being healthy is a new way of thinking. Your habits and concepts of health must change before your body does. And that's what Sam specializes in. He coaches you on the right path to thinking and behaving healthy while showing you exercises that are effective and efficient. Personal training is a really a science and Sam is the ultimate professor!” – Matt S.

“Sam is legit. I've worked out with many trainers in my life (coming from a professional, competitive surfing background), and his workouts create strength without the bulk. He doesn't burn you out. He doesn't over train you. He gives you useful tips, but doesn't make you cut out all the fun in life. Best of all, you see, feel, and live the results.” – Esther H.

“I've been training with Sam for over a year and his approach is backed with science and knowledge. I've had a few trainers over the years and Sam is far and away the best.” – Aaron L.

“To call Sam awesome is an understatement. I know that he is an amazing personal trainer, but I am not exactly sure why. He certainly has the training and the skills to get you into the shape you want to be--that's a given. But there's something else to him that I think is rare: the ability to make you a better person. Before I even called Sam, I read all the reviews on Yelp and his blog- twice. I even pushed myself a little harder (not hard enough or smart enough because I'm sore somewhere new after every session), before I worked out with Sam. I did more cardio and with more resistance. I like cardio, because I found it easy. But I've always been afraid of the dreaded--yes, you may know what I'm talking about--the stair master! The first day, the FIRST day! training with Sam, he told me to get on the stair master. I pleaded... "But, um, can't we do the elliptical? Or oh...how about the treadmill?..." And Sam responded, by simply saying "No." I've never told Sam this but that was the first time I've ever been on an actual stair master. Sure, I've been on those hydraulic types but that's not the stair master. Those five minutes felt like the hardest five minutes of my life. That is of course, until I cooled down. "That was only cardio," Sam said. And the other 45 minutes of training made me realize that the stair master isn't that bad after all. Train with Sam. He won't disappoint you. But please, please, don't take my morning slots with him!” – Betty D.

“Sam is an excellent personal trainer. I've been working out with him since February. I can truly say that training with Sam definitely changed my lifestyle. Now I'm addicted to exercise! Most importantly, I feel stronger, healthier, and more energized than ever. Sam always has a workout plan specifically designed for me. During training sessions he watches every movement carefully and make sure I'm doing each exercise correctly with good form. He also constantly mixes up workout routines, so I never get bored. He is extremely knowledgeable about all things fitness related and a great motivator. He encourages me to push myself beyond what I would normally do on my own- that's what I really need. I'm very lucky to have him as a personal trainer. I would definitely recommend Sam for anyone looking for a personal trainer. Sam knows the most efficient and effective way to get you the best results.” – Yoon M.

“I am an actor who has been doing martial arts for a long time and various roles in action movies. I have always thought I was in pretty good shape and understood my body well. However I found myself getting injured a lot which kept setting me back from my goals I was trying to attain in over all physical well being. Then I met Sam. Immediately, this guy began changing my whole perspective. He not only showed me how I had been stretching wrong all these years which was causing me great injury, but also has helped me lose weight that I have always had a hard time losing with his extensive knowledge in health, nutrition and exercise. Furthermore, I have seen shocking results in regard to improvements in my speed, strength, balance, agility, endurance, explosiveness and all around athleticism. Patient, understanding and intelligent, I would say he is truly an expert in communicating what your physical limits are, while at the same time guiding you past them. I couldn't recommend him higher.” – Eric C.

“I did one-on-one training and boxing lessons with Sam. It was by far the best experience I've ever had working out. He's a great person - not just a trainer but easily someone you come to really like and admire. So, for those of you with the desire to get fit and the means (he's actually not that expensive, relatively speaking), I highly, highly recommend him.” – Andrea L.

“By far the best personal trainer I've ever had and believe me I've had a lot. This man is genius. Thanks to Sam I'm in the best shape I've ever been in. He's great!!!” – Sharon W.

“Sam makes a workout fun and it doesn't feel like a workout! His kickboxing techniques will get you into shape and sweating within 15 minutes! He's patient and works to help you help yourself reach your ultimate weight goal. Fun trainer. Highly recommend him! Don't forget to stretch WELL after his workouts!” – Nicole C.

“Sam is a healer! I had hurt my ankle and thought I wouldn't be able to work out but after doing some rehabilitation with Sam I was able to work out hard and do a duathlon the next day.” – Adrian T.