Been training there for about 2 months now and feeling a big difference already! Mark the trainer knows his stuff and keeps an eye on you and your form. I am signing up for another 3 months and look forward to even more improvement read more

Because of Mark, I now really enjoy working out! I bought a groupon before signing up and am I gald I did. Mark is a great trainer, he motivates, he's tough but fair, professional, energetic and fun! Although Mark trains more than one client at a time (In a private gym) he works with each client personally and effortlessly. I highly recommend Mark to anybody that wants to start feeling stronger and better overall. read more

I love this gym and Mark. My sister in law and I decided to get our lazy butts in shape and bought a month package to train with Mark. When we started we were nervous and both have workout limitations due to previous injury. Mark was understanding and aware of our limitations but pushed us anyway. Mark is inspiring and tough without being aggressive or pushy. He tolerates my whining and has made working out fun again. I would highly suggest this gym for anyone looking to get in shape or stay in shape. The gym is clean, always nice and cool and has the best tunes. Thank you Mark! read more

Mark is a no nonsense trainer. His gym is clean and full of all equipment necessary to get an excellent workout. Mark keeps track of your workouts so each time you go, the workout is new and challenging. I already see new muscle definition and a flatter tummy after 10 sessions. Thanks Mark!!! read more

Mark Gontar is the BEST trainer in the South Bay... period... There are over 50 of us clients that are so grateful that Mark is our trainer... He has gotten me in shape beyond what I could even imagine with his strength training techniques...lean, toned, and strong. After almost two years of training with Mark, I am continuing to see results in my physique. My bone density went from osteopenia to normal within just eight months under his training without any medications, and my doctor was impressed at how quickly my bone density improved. I was a faithful member at another gym for years with disappointing results even though I regularly did step aerobics and spinning in conjunction with a personal trainer. The secret? Mark has an innate ability to see the ultimate potential in each client and customizes exercise programs accordingly. He has an uncanny ability to read a client's strength and stamina levels and knows how to gently progress clients up in weights to achieve maximum results. He takes meticulous notes of each client's workouts and changes up workouts every time so that every muscle group is worked. In almost two years of working out, I've not had the same workout twice. He's always researching new exercises to keep things fresh. The gym is spotless and meticulously maintained with top of the line equipment. He even customizes the music to his client's tastes. Mark is beyond dependable and opens up the gym at 4:30am so that his 5:00am clients can get in 30 minutes of cardio prior to their workout. In fact, he encourages all of his clients to come in early to do cardio and does not charge for this time. He also consistently allows clients to go over time to finish a set or if he feels they need an extra exercise. You won't find a better trainer anywhere... read more

I am someone who needs to be accountable to someone when I work out--Body by Design was recommended to me by friends, and it has met my needs exceptionally! Having a trainer design my workouts for variety, adjusting limits for my abilities, and targeting areas to tone and build muscle, while working out with others (I don't need to be watched every minute!) has been what I needed to motivate me to keep working out. My results have been exactly what I have put into it--if you are willing to show up, work hard, and be real about your needs, you will find that Body by Design will facilitate getting to your goals. I've met great friends there and experienced a warm and encouraging environment. I've been using Body by Design for nearly two years and the flexibility to reschedule my time slot when work or other situations prevent me from coming at my regular time has not been an issue at all. I have also been given great advice as to additional exercise outside of workouts. I encourage anyone to come try out the promotional sessions and see if Body by Design is a fit for your workout needs! read more

Mark is awesome! He knows exactly how hard to push you. He is a tough trainer as he does push you to your limits! But you will see results. He has been a trainer for a very long time and knows what works and what doesn't! Mark is not mean as some people mention. He is disciplined and wants you to take your workout seriously, but again that's the only way to achieve results. He has been my trainer for almost two years and I have achieved amazing results! I have lost weight, toned up/gained muscle, gained strength and mostly confidence. I love coming into the gym! I have made friends there and I do love the good music. He knows what kind of music the small group likes and personalizes it so that everyone is enjoying it. Give Mark a try and allow him to establish a relationship with you. He is a wonderful person and a fantastic and experienced trainer! read more

Started a couple of months ago with Mark and absolutely love it! Marks a great guy, the training is tough but it's fun as well and I love training with in a group environment. My wife just started training with me and is really enjoying it as well, she's surprised how much she likes lifting weights! After years of other types of training, lifting weights has provided fast results by comparison. Cheers mate! read more

I have been going to Mark for almost 9 months now and I can really feel the difference. He is very professional, and has all the equipment I need to get a great workout and stay motivated. I really like the fact that there is never more than 4 people during my training sessions, and he keeps excellent records of what I have done on every workout. He pushes just as much as I need, and listens when I need to slow it down. Thanks Mark! read more

Since training at Body By Design with Mark for the past ten months my general health,fitness level and strength has greatly improved from what it had been. Weight training was a new experience for me. The physical and mental benefits gained from working out with Mark has manifested in my overall health and appearance. Mark is an extraordinary trainer. He puts forth a lot of effort to insure that the gym is very neat and very clean with excellent equipment. There may be four people maximum working out at the same time. . I find Mark to possess a high level of knowledge and skill which is used to work with each client on an individual basis. Mark is accommodating, pleasant, and dynamic . After the completion of my workout I feel that I have accomplished something and also look forward to my next workout with great anticipation. read more

I am completely in utter shock! I called to start personal training with the gentleman and once I said I was from Los Angeles, he replied with, "I don't think it's a good fit." I did not have a problem driving out there since I work in the area and he rejected me. I can not believe this just happened. I'm saddened. read more

I needed to whip myself into shape and get the personal trainer who could keep me motivated. Mark's the guy. Personalized weight training and multiple cardio options. I've dramatically improved my musculature and I'm on my way to losing the pounds I don't need. Thanks Mark read more

This place is great!! Small groups, individual training, old school style using tried and true, proven techniques to get you into shape the right way!! The music is great, the atmosphere is awesome and Marc knows what he is doing. I have had many trainers in my life (I AM on the older side) and Mark doesn't use fancy gimmicks or tricks. He is an east coast guy so he may seem gruff or like he has an attitude but he is focused, attentive and gets results! read more

Mark kicks my ass every time I'm in there and I leave drenched in sweat. Not only does Mark know exactly what he is doing but he changes up the work outs constantly giving my muscles a new kind of shock every time. This constant change in routine leaves me always swore the day after which I love. I have worked out pretty consistantly for the past couple years and thought I knew everything there was to know about form and weightlifting. After being with Mark I have learned the right way to do almost everything even down to the way I breathe when lifting. Staying motivated to work out is a huge problem for most, with Mark I wake up every morning exited to see him and ready to get going on his kick ass workout. He is super motivating at pushing you to limits you otherwise wouldn't attempt to reach your self. I have had amazing results in gaining muscle weight and loosing fat at the same time, way better results than I ever had tried to achieve on my own. At the end of the day I would probably go out and have a drink with him out at the bar he is that nice! HIGHLY RECCOMEND MARK AS A TRAINER ITS THE ONLY WAY TO DO IT RIGHT! Thank you Mark! -Shay Falkenstein read more

I came here for about a month or two a few years back with the intention of getting in shape of other than a circle. I researched Mark Gontar and everything seemed on the level. But I never went back and I would never recommend him to anyone trying to pursue a personal trainer.I even left early (gave him 2 weeks free) just because of his un-professionalism.I spent close to a couple thousand dollars trying to get "ripped" but i got "ripped off" instead. The only clientele I would see in their were caucasian professional /stay at home moms from Manhattan beach who have the money to support this arrogant dirtbag.What i did not like is that he already charges an arm and a leg to train you in a group setting but a personal trainer is supposed to be 1 on 1 ,he would have 5 people in their taking turns "training"them His diet advice was horrible ,he would say only eat if your hungry ....what kind of horse shit is that??? listen I can go on and on but I'm not,also he was always in the back on his computer and only god knows what that creep was looking at...I even called him during the recession to give him the benefit of the doubt and to see if he had any recession buster deals and his reply was no,what a douche bag ,he's been at that location for a while so I guess all the Manhattan Beach housewives keep him in business...long story short save your money and go elsewhere try The Gym in Torrance ,Armando is a great guy and will motivate the fat off of you!!! and you will get ripped not ripped off or do boot camp style classes but please heed my warning ,stay far from Mark Gontar...... read more

Mark does an outstanding job customizing a workout to your personal needs. I had never done weight training and never had used machines. Mark was very patient but had me productively working on all the machines from my first session. The improvement in my overall fitness and strength in the last ten months has been amazing. Having Mark as my trainer has changed my "fitness" life in a way that I didn't think was possible. read more

Mark is awesome. He works you hard, keeps it fun, and you will see results. Great atmosphere and other people in the gym. Definitely worth a try and would recommend to anyone looking to get in better shape. read more

Suffering from arthritis for many years, I came to Body by Design to strengthen my leg muscles. After over a year at BBD, I am now ready for the knee replacement and my legs are so much stronger - which will be of great benefit in my recovery. Without strength training I don't even want to think where I might be physically. My weight is the same, but muscle has changed my body and people always ask what have I done to lose weight. Strength training is the way to go, so give it a try! Thanks to Mark at BDD for encouraging me along the way. read more

I have been working out with Mark on and off for almost 3 years now. I love coming to this gym! Mark is extremely knowledgeable and attentive. He provides a great work-out tailored to the individual. Some days, there may be 3 or 4 clients working out, but Mark manages to keep us all on pace. Other days, it is only me. The gym is clean, has great music, and a variety of equipment. I highly recommend Body By Design. read more

I knew I needed to so something for all the normal reasons after years in a high stress, long hour career. When a friend recommended Mark, I thought what the heck I'll give it a try. I'm not a gym fan, so I was definitely out of my comfort zone. I shouldn't have worried. WOW, is all I can say. Mark met with me and talked about goals. He came up with an individualized plan tailored just for me that has gotten amazing results in just a few months. My fitness, strength, balance, and "gym confidence" have increased exponentially. Muscles have even started to appear! Friends and family are commenting. He varies the workouts each time to keep it interesting and address every part of the many things that need to be addressed, using a variety of machines, other equipment, and mat work. He gives detailed instructions and attention to proper form to minimize the risk of injury and maximize results. He constantly watches, coaches, and encourages, with just the right amount of nudging, challenge, and a bit of humor. He invites everyone to arrive early and warm up on the equipment before the actual session starts, so I get more than an hour's worth of workout. But it's not only me. I've had the chance to see him work with the others in our 3-4 person groups. They range from newbies like me, to the heavy-weights-seriously-fit-just-need-to-maintain. Everyone gets the same personalized attention, with individualized programs, patience, and encouragement. In terms of diet counseling, I figure most of us know what we need to do - we just don't want to do it. He gives info and encouragement there as well, without lecturing. No one gets to give up on themselves or put limits on what they can do (subject to personal safety and medical restrictions of course). The others in the small groups are doing their own personalized programs under his watchful coaching, but everyone finds time to be friendly, so it feels more like a family than a bunch of people focused only on themselves. I've been so inspired watching them. Thanks, Mark! read more

I have been a member of Body by Design and worked with Mark Gontar for over two years now. I must say, my positive experience has been worth the price of admission. The improvements in strength from the first day I walked in the door are a gift since I had no expectations of what I could achieve. My confidence level has improved and I find can walk into a gym now with confidence and assess what I need to do properly. Each person needs a course of action for improvement based on their ability and Mark can address that requirement with a specific course of action. My advice is to go for it. You will not be sorry. read more

I signed my teenage son up for 12 sessions over the summer. It was great experience for him. Mark was tough and motivating. He always made sure my son was doing the workout correctly to avoid injuries. Prior to beginning, Mark discussed my son's goals and gave him a realistic idea of the work he would need to do and the outcome he could expect. My son got strong fast with the help of Mark. My son would have continued to work out with Mark if his school schedule did not conflict. If his schedule ever changes, he would LOVE to return to Bodies by Design. I have recommended Mark and his studio to many. read more

I have been working out with Mark for a year and a half now and I must say that I truly enjoy working out at Body By Design. Mark can be tough but that is just what I needed to push me to not only meet but exceed my expectations at the gym. I have spoken to my doctor about Body By Design and he said that he was familiar with the gym and recommended that I continue my regular workouts. Not only am I in better shape physically but more importantly I have lowered my cholesterol, raised my self esteem and have even made some new friends at the gym. I have worked with other trainers before so I knew what to expect. I trust Mark to push me beyond what I think that I am capable of--knowing that he would not ask me to do anything that might injure me. The gym is clean, the other clients are friendly, the location is excellent with ample parking and I highly recommend that anyone serious about getting in shape try Body By Design. read more