I've been working with Mark Bransky in Pleasanton since March 2025 and couldn't be happier. I just renewed my subscription because the results speak for themselves. Mark is excellent at explaining both the theory and practice, so you actually understand what you're doing and how to do it properly. The gym is very well equipped, always clean, and has everything you need for serious and focused training. Mark creates a relaxed but professional atmosphere, and he's easy to work with, always adjusting the sessions to fit where you are and what you need to work on. Since starting with him, I've seen solid gains in strength and technique, and I feel much more confident with every workout. If you want a personal trainer who's knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely committed to helping you improve, Mark is the guy to see. read more

Even though Mark's services weren't specifically what I was looking for, he went above and beyond to help me find a gym that did suit my needs. If he's willing to be that helpful with someone who isn't even paying him, I can only imagine how well he treats his actual clients. Thanks a million, Mark. Should I hear of anyone who needs a personal trainer, I'll make sure to send em your way. read more

Let's start with - I highly recommend Mark! I initially started working with him because of some sudden debilitating pain in my leg and some persistent back pain, unsure of the exact cause or whether there were deeper structural issues at play. From the very first session, Mark took a thoughtful and comprehensive approach, carefully assessing my movements and making sure to design a plan that would both relieve my discomfort and build strength around my problem areas. Despite not knowing the full extent of my underlying issues initially, he instinctively knew how to modify exercises and ensure I was progressing in a safe and effective way. What really stands out is his ability to balance professionalism with a light, friendly demeanor. Regardless of how early in the morning our appointments are, the sessions are always approachable and enjoyable, which made sticking to the program so much easier. We're still working on the various aspects of my rehabilitation but I've noticed an improvement in my posture, mobility, and overall back health. In many ways the awareness and the small lifestyle changes I have to make are just as valuable to me since I wasn't ever aware of it before. Like I started this review, I reiterate--Mark's expertise, attentiveness, and positive energy make all the difference. read more

Mark is an outstanding trainer. He took the time to understand my goals and physical limitations, and tailored the training plan accordingly. His feedback is always constructive and encouraging--it pushes you to improve without feeling overwhelmed. Before working with Mark, I struggled with consistency at the gym. Since starting his program, I've maintained a regular routine and built noticeable strength, especially in ways that have directly improved my swimming and badminton performance. If you're looking to start training or get back into a solid rhythm, I'd absolutely recommend Mark--100%. read more

The training I received from Mark was top notch and tailored to my personal goals. Mark took the time at our first meeting to discuss my fitness goals and created a program that helped me achieve them. Mark is extremely knowledgeable about fitness and the workings of the human body in general. In addition to my fitness goals, we worked on overall improvement in biomechanics that has helped me to be pain free in areas where I had lingering injuries. I am stronger and feel better overall after our sessions. I would highly recommend Mark for helping achieve your personal fitness goals! read more

I've known Mark for years and worked with him as both a colleague and a client. Mark is truly at the top of the field and I can't recommend him enough! Mark's process is approachable and motivating, from start to finish. He's thorough, thoughtful, and cares deeply about what he does and the people he works with. read more

Mark is an exceptional personal trainer who has been instrumental in helping me manage my back pain caused by a disc bulge. His expertise and tailored approach have not only improved my strength and mobility but also significantly reduced my discomfort. What sets Mark apart is his deep understanding of anatomy and his ability to create customized workouts that prioritize safety and long-term recovery. He carefully guides me through every exercise, ensuring proper form and making adjustments as needed to avoid aggravating my condition. And the sessions are fun and we chat about a lot of stuff other than just workout. Theres never a dull moment. If you're dealing with an injury or chronic pain and want a trainer who truly listens and knows how to help, I can't recommend Mark highly enough! read more

He's super knowledgeable and will explain why he's suggesting certain exercises. Totally worth every penny.

I have been training with Mark for the past 8 months, and it has been a positive experience. Mark has demonstrated a deep understanding of fitness and is assisting me in achieving my personal goals.As a male in my late 40s, my body does not function as it used to, and Mark has created a regimen to both strengthen and stretch the muscles that might otherwise be neglected and lead to injuries. As a result, I have seen significant improvements in strength, flexibility, and mobility allowing me to engage in sports and play with my kids without any pain. I recommend Mark to anyone seeking to improve their fitness and well-being. read more

Highly recommended! I came to Mark to see what exercises I can do to improve my surfing. Shortly after I started I could already feel a huge difference in my strength in the water. Mark was able to curate a fitness plan for me that fit perfectly with my needs. He also was one of the most encouraging and friendly people I've ever met. Thank you again Mark for everything! read more

I had the pleasure of working with Mark for 6 months and it was an awesome experience. I learned a lot about my own strength, built better habits, and felt stronger overall. What set Mark apart was his wealth of knowledge and experience that allowed him to tailor each session to my personal goals - it never felt 'cookie cutter' and I appreciated that. He is a great guide, communicator and a coach. I highly recommend Mark and would work with him again! read more

Working with Mark has been life-changing. Over the past several months, he helped me lose 40 pounds and completely transformed my approach to fitness. His workout plans and constant encouragement, made every session both challenging and rewarding. I feel stronger, more confident, and healthier than ever. I couldn't have asked for a better trainer! read more

When I first started with Mark at the end of June 2024, I had three specific goals: improving my mobility since I have knee arthritis in both knees, flexibility, and strength. Weight loss would be a plus, but it was not my primary goal because I knew it would come if I gained some traction in my first three goals. I have to say that I've achieved all three goals and have gone down a pants size. I can now move a thousand times better than previously, and folks at work and my family have noticed and commented. I feel stronger and better in my body and can lift things easily that I previously could not do. All of this did not happen overnight, and I dedicate two sessions a week, which is an investment of money and time, but since this is my life and it's improved so greatly, it's hard to say that it isn't worth it. I only wish I found Mark sooner. Besides leading me to my goals, Mark's easy nature and positive attitude have made heading to the gym a joy. read more

One of the best decisions you will make in your life. Went to school and Mark was my teacher. Has taught me so much about exercise, fitness, and overall health. He has many fitness certifications, but the most impressive to me is being a NASM Master Trainer. NASM is arguably the best certifying body in fitness. So, basically Mark is one of the elite of the elite. One of the best parts was that after school I would stay and workout and practice what I had learned that day. Occasionally, Mark would still be there and would come into the gym and do basically a hands on training session with me. His knowledge and technique are unrivaled. He would point out things that I didn't notice and would have a solution for it. His way of describing how things work in the body and why we are doing certain things are as simple as they can be. He isn't condescending, nor patronizing while explaining. Mark wants to educate and empower the client, so they aren't blind weak sheep following the shepherd. I believe that is a rare quality in the fitness industry. Most trainers want their clients to be completely reliant on them and codependent. Overall, if you're looking for a trainer, I cannot recommend Mark any higher than what I have already said. He'll be as engaging as the clients wants, he's very relatable, has a dark sense of humor, and best of all he's extremely knowledgeable. He will tailor a program that is specific to each client. Also, I know one of his goals is to make it enjoyable for the client! The biggest thing that sets Mark apart from other trainers is the fact that he has taught for so many years. Many people are extremely knowledgeable, but it takes a gift to be able to convey that knowledgeable to the average client. Go train with Mark, you WILL NOT regret it read more

I've worked with many trainers in the past and none have been as knowledgeable and realistic with goals as Mark. I was severely injured last year and it's been a long journey, full of ups and downs. I've managed to stay on track, improve my mobility significantly and gain 12lbs muscle back with his guidance. I look forward to continuing my fitness journey with Mark. read more

Mark is fantastic trainer. Mark is very patient with me in finding what motivates me and what I like about exercise and using that information to create a meaningful and effective workout program. He makes sure that your session consists of quality time spent, so that when you are done, you feel good about your hard work. He is very enthusiastic about his practice, which definitely helps increase my enthusiasm for training and fitness. Also his point of view of exercise from a scientific and objective approach helped me understand why what I was doing was beneficial and how. I recommend working with Mark for your personal training needs! read more

Bransky is the GOAT. He has been my coach for many years and is one of the most knowledgeable trainers I've ever met.

Revived a dead Yelp account to review: I highly recommend Mark. I have been on a weight loss mission for a couple years and recently decided to partner with a trainer to continue my losses on the scale and improve my strength and fitness; Mark has helped me achieve this and more. As a newcomer (late 20s) I'd Highly recommend Mark. He is knowledgable and responsive both in and out of the gym, his personality and communication style really helped me stay motivated before during and after workouts. I was working with Mark 2-3 times a week and combining this with outside exercise and a robust diet. Over the months we have been working together I have genuinely transformed my level of fitness. I've had no issues or concerns training with Mark and speak highly of him to friends looking to get into fitness. read more

Mark is amazing. Seriously. Not only is he a total fitness nerd in the best way, he's also funny and compassionate. First rate ass kicking without making you feel like a pathetic, weak loser. He focuses on form without making things too complicated while ensuring you're still challenged AND safe. Who could ask for more? Highly recommend giving Mark a go. He'll change your life. read more

Mark Bransky is truly a one of a kind personal trainer. He possesses the extremely thorough education, multi-faceted training experience, creativity, and emotional intelligence to get you to whatever health/fitness goal you may have. Working with him allowed me to lose fat and gain lean muscle in the most efficient, safest manner possible, and thanks to Mark's succinct explanations, I learned a lot about fitness in the process that I will take with me through the rest of my fitness journey. What really sets Mark apart is that he is so pleasant and entertaining to be around, he makes sessions fun while still getting so much accomplished in only an hour's time, and he is client-focused - he really listens to you and your goals and translates them into a program uniquely tailored to your needs. Mark is the best in the biz. read more

True story. When I first started training with Mark I was badly out of shape. He got me doing crunches and I struggled but instead of making me push through he asked what was wrong and - long story short - he discovered weaknesses in my back and so we changed the whole program. I mentioned it to a colleague who is also a part time trainer and they said not many trainers provide such insightful, personalized programs. I've never looked back. For sure he's worth a shot! read more

Mark is a great motivator! He really helps me stay on track with my goals. Thanks to him, I continue to push myself harder and actually see results! He also trains with TRX which is an amazing workout that really works the entire body. I always look forward to my workouts with Mark. He keeps it fun and knows how to mix it up. I highly recommend him as a trainer! Looking forward to working off this holiday gain in the New Year! read more