An interview with Jon Celis... What made you decide to begin working with kettles? Back in 2004, while I was bodybuilding on my own--I'd already placed 1st and 2nd in two competitions--I had watched as a trainer was using kettlebells. Although I hadn't fully plateaued using methods more traditional, I had become somewhat bored, and what I'd seen this particular trainer doing had really made me curious. So I gave them a try. And once I did, I was hooked! Kettles were certainly more fun and more interesting; but it wasn't just that: in terms of movement, they were more dynamic, more challenging. An all-in-one workout, not only for strength training, but for cardio and flexibility as well. ****** ****** ****** ****** Was using kettlebells with your clients an easy transition from the tradition forms of strength training and conditioning? As a trainer, I eventually--and later, exclusively--began using kettles with my clients, both for individual trainings and for classes. In 2009, I became RKC certified, the most prestigious of kettlebell certifications. I'd begun to really experiment with new kettlebell movements, learning different techniques and exercises and making necessary modifications, so that my clients' individual needs could also be satisfied with such workouts. There is just so much you can do with them: from goblet squats and swings, to snatches, cleans, and presses. There's just so much variety! ****** ****** ****** ****** What made you decide to begin weight training? For my birthday one year--I was a freshman at the time--I had asked for a gym membership. So I began training on my own. I had no trainer. I just copied what I'd read in magazines and from observing others working out. I became more determined, pushed myself. In fact, it was a high school competition that had originally inspired me. It was called "Mr. Masculine." Anyway, there were mostly senior athletes and jocks who competed, up on the stage, flexing. Even though I was only a freshman, I entered. I ended up being the only freshman on stage, the only one, surrounded by upper classmen. And it took awhile, you know. I had a lot of catching up to do, but by my junior year, I won! My gym membership began paying off. But, like I had said before, once I met my goals, I became bored, less and less determined. I soon separated myself from bodybuilding. It wasn't until my early college years that I began again, and I have continued ever since. ****** ****** ****** ****** So what's next? I'm continuing to learn and expand my kettle bell training, attending more workshops and adding additional certs: RKC Level 2, Strong First Level 1-2. During which, I am also finishing my Masters in Holistic Nutrition as Absolutraining plans to evolve into a complete Health and Fitness Program. Kettlebell training will focus on physical performance, strength, power, speed, cardiovascular endurance; and Nutrition will promote health longevity and cognitive performance. The goal is to evolve into a complete system. Better performance achieved by combining functional movement with a nutrient-rich diet, in order to achieve the ultimate in my clients' physical and mental health. read more

Do you want to have a fun workout? Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to feel better about yourself? Do you want to maintain a healthy body? Do you want results? If you said yes to any or all of these then you got to join Absolutraining with Jon Celis! You will be glad to join an intense workout that will challenge you physically and mentally. Plus you will enjoy the great company of those going through the same workout as you. When you have consistent return bootcampers you know there is a reason for that. Come on what are you waiting for? Don't just be sitting on the couch waiting to decide what college to go to. Get off because you want to be active and add years to your life! Do it!! read more

Absolutraining has changed my life and my body. I highly recommend, the personal training, the boot camp and the nutritional training to give you the results you have always wanted to achieve. Definitely a must try!! Jon's unique combination of exercises keep you motivated, working hard, and sweating. Jon, is very knowledgeable about health, fitness and nutrition. If you want to lose lbs, change your lifestyle and or improve your fitness, I would highly recommend Absolutraining. read more

Jon is the best when it comes to training, nutrition, and knowledge of fitness. We have known each other for a few years now and he has been coaching, and training me for the past two. I have always been fit. I played soccer at a competitive level and wasn't one of those guys that needed to lose a lot of weight. But I wanted to be more fit and challenge myself. Jon's programs do exactly that. They are challenging but they also deliver results. He also takes time to talk about personal goals, nutrition, and each time we're ready to switch the programs he adds little tweaks to keep improving but also to keep learning about myself. He is terrific at what he does and he's constantly looking at new ways to improve what we do. If you're thinking to hire just a "trainer" that forgets about you go to 24hr fitness....if you want results, have fun, and working with someone who cares about your health and fitness, then Jon is your guy. read more

Jon and the team at Absolutraining are so much fun and take the training regiments serious! After just a few weeks of training, I started seeing major results and started feeling better and stronger then ever. I encourage anyone looking for core training regiment that will get you back in shape ... to join Absolutrainings bootcamps. Also, Jon offers great advice on nutrition and eating habits along with his training which is a bonus for anyone who is really looking for a lifestyle change. read more

I can't imagine the humdrum life of always being at the gym! I'm so glad I was referred to Jon Celis of Absolutraining. His outdoor workouts are so fun its almost like you aren't "working out"! He has a unique approach to his classes and they are very well organized. They are definitely challenging but after coming consistently, I am always happily surprised at my increase in endurance and strength! I've worked with him one on one and I'm currently participating in his KettleBell class. He's a very knowledgeable trainer, quick to expel any fitness myths and will take generous time to educate you with food and lifestyle tips. I highly recommend Jon Celis and Absolutraining! read more

Very motivating training no matter what level you are at. Everyday you see improvement with well thought out training and nutritional advice. Love these classes! read more

Absolutraining with John is awesome!! I have been involved in his bootcamp and Kettlebell classes and I am thankful I found a trainer who actually cares about his clients. I used to go to the gym for more than 6 years and it got to the point where my body just reached a plateu and my same boring workout routines was not cutting it anymore. So when my friend referred me to John I willingly gave it a shot and thankfully I did because he is one of the best trainers out there. He is friendly, funny, and shows alot of enthusiam towards his clients. Also he randomly sneaks in health tips and lessons during your workouts so not are you only getting your body into shape but your brain is also learning. So if you are looking for a better, more optimistic, and beneficial fitness program look no more because John is the one for you! read more

Jon is an extremely knowledgeable trainer. His expertise on nutrition, dieting, and fitness are excellent. I've been to a number of gyms my whole life and tried different diets, with some level of success. But it wasn't until I received Jon's advice that my training really took off. Since our consultations I've rapidly lost body fat, gained muscle, and from the looks of my recent blood work I'm attaining better health. Absolutraining are very professional, patient, and willing to work with your needs. I'm happy to put my fitness needs under the supervision of Absolutraining. read more

if your reading this review then your your probably at the point I was 4 months ago. Looking to make a significant, life changing, positive health and fitness leap. I have like most had a gym membership and it works then doesn't then does. Without accountability from a coach you are in a constant cycle that doesnt produce consistent results. The difference with absolutraining all comes down to Jon Celis. Jon is a fitness expert. A nutrition expert. When you hire him he will not only teach you how to make fitness a new way of life but also how your food choices matter. He is friendly smart and holds you accountable. I genuinely feel like he cares about my fitness goals. When I joined his one on one coaching I had high risk cholesterol numbers. Within a few months my doctors cleared me of that concern. jons training had a significant role in those results. If you would like to talk to me to hear my experience you can call me at 949-689-five 4 one 5 for a live reference. Call him now and join his program. Thanks! read more

If you are looking for a fun approach to working out then this is the place for you!! I attend his spring, summer and fall boot camps and I absolutely love them. You will meet nice outgoing people and make friendships along with improving your overall fitness. it does not matter what level you are his classes are tailored to help you reach your personal goals. Jon teaches you about much more than just working out...he is an expert in his field and I always seek him out for advice. Trust me you will not want to go back to the gym after meeting Jon and attending one of his boot camps or kettle bell classes!! read more

The training offered by AbsoluTraining is the best in Long Beach! It's always something new and fun, all while continuing to provide a challenge and get (or keep!) your body in awesome shape! :) read more

I have worked with Jon for almost a year. I came to him because I had an injury and needed help with my nutrition. After multiple trainers at 24 hour fitness I realized that the barrier was my food choices, not how hard I worked at the gym. What I love about training with Jon is that he is teaching me about the chemical changes in my body depending on the foods I eat. Also that he makes me turn in a food log at the end of each week. I strive to one day hold myself accountable but until then... Jon does it without judgement or shaming. One of my biggest successes is learning to manage and control my IBS. Jon patiently poured over my food logs and symptoms until we figured out which foods I could eat. It was nice to have a teammate on this journey. I strongly recommend his services. read more

Jon Celis is an expert and knows his stuff. I have worked out with him for several years and I dont think I have ever had two workouts the same. He is a great motivator too! read more

The absolute best trainer, nutritionist, and friend ever!!!! Jon takes his business seriously. Jon motivates my entire family to eat healthy, train even when you don't want to and have fun while you're doing it. Jon has a great attitude towards life hence the "love life", and is constantly looking for ways to improve his business. read more

If you want to change your lifestyle to a fit and healthy one Jon is your guy! He is an expert in the field of fitness and nutrition. I was fortunate to take his bootcamp classes where full body training was focused. Jon also spends time at the end of the class answering nutrition questions that we have. I have seen great results and will be coming back! Thanks!! read more

Jon Celis at Absolutetraining has helped me get into shape, motivated me to stay in shape and make the decision to strive for a healthier lifestyle. The workouts are intense, fun and tailored to your personal needs and desires. I have worked with a few different trainers and I have never felt that my workouts were 100% designed for my body, but Jon understands what I need and gives it to me and more! Not only will you build strength and endurance in a safe and comfortable setting, but with Jon you will get food and nutrition tips to maximize each and every workout! Look no further for a trainer and make the change to a healthier lifestyle. read more

makes working out so much fun, love that we are outdoors, and great price for what you get both movement education & nutrition education.