I love working with Coach Nando! I've worked out my whole life but as a nurse, Covid turned my world upside down. I was deployed to hot spots and working every day. Gyms were closed, I was tired all the time, and honestly my nutrition went to crap. I gained A LOT of weight. At one point in my life I was very close to competing in a show but that didn't happen at that point. It's always been something I've wanted to do. Once I got back in the gym and dialed in the nutrition I lost a lot of weights and gained back my muscle. I knew I still had a lot of work ahead of me and I would do better if I had a coach. I looked at several coaches, local and remote. After I had a consultation call with coach, I knew he was the right coach for me. I could tell from our first conversation that he would be honest with me and he would push me. I have continued losing weight and gaining muscle with his coaching. I've now competed in several shows, done multiple spartan races, and ran my first marathon. I can say with 100% certainty that I am in the best shape of my life and I thank Coach for getting me there. I'm excited to see what we build together over the next year as I transition into a different division. Whether you are looking for a lifestyle coach and just want to lose some weight, tone up, etc; or you want to start competing, I highly recommend Built by Nando. read more

After dieting and training on my own for 6 months- (started at roughly 300lbs and came down to 235lbs when I saw Fernando)I was exhausted and my body had plateaued. At that point I knew I needed to do something different if I wanted to compete on stage so I hired a professional that came recommended by the local IFBB pro in my gym. From the beginning Fernando not only displayed a level of confidence that was genuine (due to his experience and expertise)but he also is able to pass this confidence on to you as well. I needed this confidence because he nearly doubled my food intake!!! I was so afraid of getting fat again I was starving myself which I discovered once I started following his meal plan. So now I was on a mission to get lean and I was eating more! Best of both worlds! 24 weeks later, checking in every single week, many diet modifications, hitting every workout and cardio session and regularly posing I was able to step on stage at the 2023 Tahoe Show to which I took 2nd in Open Class and 4th in Masters division. I was extremely satisfied with my results considering where I started and the fact that it was my first show! Many thanks to you Coach Nando and wife coach Bere. Both of you were ALWAYS there when I needed you and most importantly for me as a bodybuilding nerd - Nando you always were willing to explain the reasoning behind your approach. This is am forever grateful for because you were not only a coach but a teacher as well! I will have this knowledge for the rest of my life now. If you want to reach far beyond what your mind can imagine for your physique I highly recommend you get on Team Built. You will not be disappointed!!! read more

Built By Nando - 24 week transformation - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

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Coach Nando is amazing. He is knowledgeable and provides tons of resources to help you succeed. I saw results immediately after starting my journey and he provided the right amount of accountability that I needed. Would recommend highly. read more

I've seen significant change on my body just under a month of training at Built by Nando. I've always struggled with weight and they've provided a great road map and customized support that's been helpful read more

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be able to achieve the physique that I now have. Built by Nando has truly changed my life and introduced me to a whole new world. I can't thank this team enough for all of their support and hard work. read more

Built By Nando - My first bikini competition - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

A NO BRAINER for getting in the BEST shape of your life! When I signed up for Built by Nando, I was already in decent shape having been training in the gym for 7 years, but little did I know what was in store for me with this training program. I purchased the 4 months training plan with Nando on a Friday and by Monday I was introduced to my personally customized nutrition guideline plan along with my personally customized 6-day exercise plan with the ability of communicating and meeting with Nando any time I needed him which was very helpful in the process. Through the course of 4 months, I went from being 190lb at 16% body fat to 178lb at less than 10% body fat (at 5" 9") while building and maintaining muscle! I was, and continue to be, blown away with my results thanks to Nando's coaching and guidance. 10/10 would highly recommend! read more

There are so many things that I can say, but if I was to some it all up, it would be "a great experience". Coach Nando brings a lot of experience towards helping you get to your goals!! From nutrition, workout plans, and weekly check ins to getting you to your goals, Coach is in tuned to you!!! Throughout my fitness journey, I have been mostly independent, but when joining his team of athletes, I quickly found that there was a lot more that i didn't know. My one thing for sure, if you have a fitness goal, a competition or just want to start a journey right, this is the place to be!! read more

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Absolutely the BEST TEAM & COACHES in the industry hands down!! They produce winners! Before working with Team Built I was just another gymrat pretending to be a bodybuilder. Now, I am proud to say I'm a Winning NPC Bikini Bodybuilder, I took 3rd place Open Class C at the NPC/ IFBB Pro Legion Sports Fest in Reno, NV on 10/7/2023. Team Built, built the body I have today, taught me correct stage posing, and proper nutrition for bodybuilding. The coaching and guidance I received was truly genuine and caring. Being a Team Built Athlete has changed my life forever!! Sponsored Team Athlete - FitDelilah read more

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I enrolled with Nando after 4-5 terrible experiences with other coaches. I was even more hesitant because I'm out of state but Nando listened to my experiences / doubts and assured me that his coaching style would be different and he did not disappoint. Within the first month of starting my sessions I was able to see a difference in my body. My arms were my biggest insecurity and I was super excited when I could actually see the definition coming in. I have muscles in my legs and arms that I've never seen before. Nando cares about your progress, he's always willing to hop on a call/zoom and he is willing to put in the work with you. I do not compete and only wanted to "tone", I got so much more! read more

Built By Nando - Less than a month - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

I wrote a review in 2018 for Built by Nando regarding Nando's personal training services; yet in light of the Pandemic, I felt the need to update the review. I've been a client of Fernando Montes off and on (mostly group fitness, partner training sessions and 1:1) since he started serving in Alameda prior to 2018. I've seen him transform his personal training business from general health and fitness lifestyle coaching and training to also reach out to bodybuilding physique and fitness athletes/competitors. During this transformation and growth, COVID-19 happened and I've also seen him pivot and position himself to address the need for virtual coaching and online training programs. For a year into the pandemic, I spiraled back into depression, anxiety and alcoholism. For someone who was a pretty avid recreational athlete (runner) prior to COVID-19, it was a gradual but very real decline. I gained over 30 pounds from February 2020 to February 2021. At one point, I was not only sick and tired of looking at the visible physical changes in the mirror, but my health began to deteriorate. I started having issues with sciatic pain because I spent most of my day in bed, my anxiety rose along with my blood pressure, I had fainting spells along with tingling in my arms and legs which actually sent me to the ER in fear of stroke or heart attack and I started experiencing floaters in my eyes. At one point during one of my visits to an urgent care for COVID-19 and FLU testing, my blood pressure was 140/90, which technically is categorized as Stage 2 Hypertension. The Nurse Practitioner seriously spoke of putting me on meds. Let's just say that was my wake-up call. At the time, I had just turned 46 years old. How in the world had I gone from physically fit and being in IDEAL health to being borderline in a hypertensive crisis in a year? That's when I decided to go back to my foundations of physical fitness and how I reunited with Nando. After working with another personal trainer to rebuild some consistency, I felt like I wanted to take my body to the next level and give myself the goal of competing in NPC bodybuilding again. In the process, I found my way back to myself with Nando's 24 week program and the only time that I look back now is to admire how far I've come. I see Nando's coaching and personal training services like therapy and also an INVESTMENT in me. I look forward to my check-ins with him and also receiving my nutrition plan and my exercise program. If you follow both closely and consistently, there is NO WAY that you won't achieve results. Just to be clear, the process is a two way dialogue with Nando and if something isn't working after you give it 100%, then, Nando will work with you to adjust so that you get your results. Just don't give up. I know this is a long review, but if you've stuck with me and see my photos, which are worth 1000+ words, you will understand why I trust Nando for taking me to the next level with my goals. read more

Built By Nando - 3 months progress photos - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

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I followed his program and let me tell you my body changed! It was so impressive people offered to use me as a fitness model and influencer Left & right. It works! You have to put in the work, but it is so worth it! Amazing results read more

Built By Nando - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

This program is amazing and helped me get back on track the coach spent ample of time tailoring the program specifically for me and my needs. I highly recommend! read more

Built By Nando - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

I reach out to Nando after one of his previous client told me bout him. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. In six months he gave me so much knowledge about how to diet and proper way to train. With his guidance and commitment to me I was able to place in legion sport fest 2023. Without a doubt I'd recommend him to anybody who think about or want to change their lifestyle around to be in better shape and health. read more

Built By Nando - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

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I've been bodybuilding for a little while now, and Nando helped me take it to the next level and compete in my first bodybuilding show. I had a blast and came in looking the best I've ever looked in my life. read more

Built by Nando had my doubts at first but took a risk and am I glad I did. But let me tell you if you don't put the work in and follow the nutrition plan then you won't see result. if you follow what you signed up for you will achieve the best version of your self. With that being said I can tell you my journey. I signed up with Nando begging of May I signed up for the 12 week fat loss program. I started the program at 207lb with 28% body fat. At the end of my program I weight in at 183lb at 15.7% body fat. I wake up every morning feeling great and looking great. My Mindset changed along with my body. So if you are thinking of joking the team then suck it up do the and join. read more

I reached out to Nando based on his Yelp reviews. It was love at first fight. He wanted to mold a monster out of me, but I'm getting to an age where I want to lean out and trim down. He quickly pivoted and it's been bliss ever since. I've lost over 25lbs of fat, put on some muscle and reduced my body fat by 30%. We also have so much fun doing it. He brings the energy and laughs and I absolutely love our 3 day a week routine. For the first time in over 15 years I don't hate the way I look naked. Thx pal!! read more

Nando is a fantastic coach. My wife and I started working with Nando a few months ago, and he has been great about tailoring our workouts and nutrition plans to our specific goals. Both of us started seeing results within a couple of weeks, and we're continuing to make progress with his guidance. He's also responsive whenever we have questions, and he's been very accommodating whenever we need to make adjustments to our gym days due to our busy work schedules. Overall, I highly recommend Nando for personal training. read more

To say Nando is a fantastic personal trainer would be an understatement. He's motivating, incredibly knowledgeable in fitness, nutrition and fat loss, and makes training enjoyable! Since working with him 9 months ago I've noticed a huge improvement in my strength, cardio, stamina, and my approach to my eating habits. He is committed to my success and achievements, and motivates me to push my boundaries. I couldn't recommend him higher as a coach, the energy he delivers to every session we do - I'm a happier and healthier version of myself because of him! read more

Nando not only is a coach but he also set an example as a hard working individual himself - being an NPC competitor, a full time coach, a father... he always gives his best in each aspect and to lift the people up around him. I started my online program with Nando in January 2022 aiming for the OCB show in July. I remembered during our first zoom call I told him I just want to do a men's physique debut because I was not confident. However, today I am two weeks out from this show and I feel confident and ready! Not just because my physique has grown but most importantly the mindset and knowledge that I have learned from Nando. I am glad to be part of Team Built and I am striving to be a coach like him for my Chinese community in the future! read more

Built By Nando - First week of the program - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

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I don't know what I'd do without Fernando. After having a baby, I was stuck in mom mode... thinking constantly (obsessively) about my little one and neglecting my own needs. I got in touch with Fernando and he has been imperative in helping me to feel more like myself again. Working out is therapeutic for me, but without the accountability Fernando provides it would be easy to fall back into the habit of disregarding myself. He helps me overcome excuses and doesn't let anything get in the way of achieving my goals, even if that means holding and entertaining the baby while I'm doing push-ups. As a father himself, his dad-skills have been key and sometimes I think my little one enjoys my training sessions more than I do! Fernando asked specifically about my goals and builds workouts accordingly. This is important to me because I don't work out to "get my body back" or "lose the baby weight." My goals are about getting stronger. With his help, I've been using heavier and heavier weights. I feel strong, motivated and energized. I find myself looking forward to the next opportunity to exercise. Since the pandemic hit, our training sessions have moved from in-person in the gym to video calls using the limited equipment I have at home. Fernando has not missed a beat. He has kept me on my toes with creative and smart exercises so my progress is not lost. His positive outlook and consistent encouragement are a breath of fresh air during this time of uncertainty. Training with Fernando is the highlight of my week. There is absolutely no better use for my limited "me" time! read more

Coach Nando is amazing! His one-on-one coaching, workouts, and nutrition plans are top-notch. 5/5 would recommend whether you're at the beginning of your fitness journey or looking for more advanced training. read more

Fernando is not only a knowledgeable trainer, but also a great motivator who holistically makes a plan to get you to your goals. When I started training with Fernando a few months ago, I was in a not so great place. I knew I wanted to make a change and I was unhappy with my fitness and how I felt overall, but I was overwhelmed at the amount of information out there and I knew if I did this on my own I would not have accountability and eventually drop off. I really liked how in my first meeting with Fernando he talked about my goals, why I am looking for a trainer and my past history with training and nutrition. I felt heard and safe - something I think is super crucial when embarking on a journey that is so personal. While you still have to put in the work, I think it's nice to have someone coaching you who has worked with so many clients before and has achieved results. I sometimes feel intimidated by going to a gym, but the atmosphere that Fernando creates is no judgement, at your level, and he celebrates your wins. I am glad that he has private or buddy training option available, which helps with affordability. I also appreciate how organized Fernando is with monthly scheduling and online invoicing, everything is straight forward and convenient. I have enjoyed my time with Fernando a lot and my best friend even started training with him because she saw how motivated I am. I am still working towards my goals and have a long way to go, but it helps knowing there is someone who holds me accountable and can show me the way. read more

I highly recommend Fernando. I been training with Fernando for nine months and have seen noticeable improvements in my fitness and health. I met Fernando through his community kettlebell class and liked his energy and motivation. After a few group classes, I signed up for weekly personal training sessions. I felt as though I had plateaued in my own training and was aimlessly taking Class Pass group classes and weight lifting when I had time. Training with Fernando has been great as he has developed a specific nutrition and training program that I follow and he adjusts weekly based on my progress. The biggest issue I faced before working with Fernando was a lack of direction and focus. I always wanted to get stronger and eat healthier, but didn't have the tools or knowledge to see results. Fernando has educated me on proper weight lifting technique and nutrition strategies. Lastly, as my fitness goals changes, Fernando adapts the nutrition and training program for the week. He's always available by text or email to answer questions, which is helpful if I have a random question during the week. As a result of training with Fernando, I've gotten stronger, leaner and feel better from a healthier diet. read more

Coach Nando is professional and truly cares about his athletes. I had some obstacles on the road and he never judge me for it or made me feel ashamed. He supported me in my decisions and was understanding of my circumstances, NOT too many coaches will understand that sometimes life happened and priorities change. If you are looking for someone who motivates you and encourages but also keeps you accountable, he is your guy! Thank you for being a phenomenal human being even if it was for a short period of time!!! read more

I have beeb working with Coach Fernando since April of this year and before that back in January my weight had sky rocketed to a heavy 234lbs due to covid. I'm usually pretty good with my weight management and work out routine but being stuck at home and the gyms closed I found that I got so used to it and being able to work on myself with training and my nutrition it was pretty hard to get back into the groove. January of this year came and I told myself that I wanted to loose all the covid weight I had gained over the past year. I was able to drop some weight from 234lbs to 219lbs. That took me 4 months to do and once I got to 219lbs my weight was plateauing and I could not make it under that weight Until I reached out to Coach Fernando. Since I started working with him in April it is now June and I'm back down to 200lbs and all the covid weight is gone. Super proud of myself for reaching out and going thru the process. Coach Fernando is a genuine dude and he is very easy to work with Check out my body transformation since I started working with him! Enjoy! read more

Built By Nando - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

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Coach Nando and his team are truly exceptional. After being introduced to him two years ago, I finally joined his team, and it's been one of the best decisions I've made. Professional, prompt, and focused on results that matter, training with him is an experience anyone would vouch for. His clients benefit from personalized nutrition plans, comprehensive workouts, and elite coaching. But it doesn't stop there--he genuinely cares about his clients' overall well-being, including their mental health and financial situations. He goes above and beyond to ensure his clients have everything they need to reach and exceed their fitness goals. His deep experience in the field, combined with personal insights, allows him to deliver world-class service. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of his community and am confident you will too when you join. Don't wait--your best life is just a sign-up away. And when you find yourself thanking me later, you're welcome in advance! read more

I love training with Nando whenever I can! He's super attentive, energetic, encouraging, and funny! He is knowledgeable and pushes me beyond my comfort zone. I started heavy weight training because of him. I never thought I could squat more than 40lbs but I've come a long way since then. So, I'm super grateful! He knows I like to train hard so his workouts never disappoint. Book one session with him and I promise he will not disappoint you. Be clear about your goals and he will guide you! read more

Writing this after finishing a group session so I won't let my fatigue influence the review :) Plain and simple...he'll push you and teach you to push yourself. He's got an amazing attitude (anything is possible) and encourages everyone. There is also no one-size-fits-all approach and he'll work with individuals to tweak anything needed to ensure you're getting the maximum out of every class. He's also been accessible outside of class when there are questions on nutrition or on exercise routines while traveling. He's a top trainer - and if you're looking for a way to enjoy working out while getting results I can't think of a better place to start than with Fernando & Truve read more

He is the most awesome personal trainer that I will ever ever ever ever have in life like my goal is to be 200 he works with you I was 255 I have lost 10 pounds read more

Built By Nando - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

My experience since joining the team with coach Nando has been outstanding. I honestly could not ask for a better coach that knows what he is talking about and puts in the work with you . If you are looking to change your life forever you need to hit this coach up . He deals with a lot of clients but always finds the time to get connected with all us . My life has change so much , thank you coach nando . read more

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My husband and I started taking a Kettlebell HITT class with Fernando a few months ago, and more recently, started doing personal training with him as well. I like that he focuses on nutrition, wellness, and fitness all at once, and tailors any plan to your goals. My husband and I purchased "buddy" sessions because we like to work out together, but we have different goals and Fernando altered our workout and macros to fit those goals. The Kettlebell HITT classes are incredibly challenging yet fun. His personal training style is similar, in that he pushes you more than you would ever push yourself, but he also encourages you and is super adaptable. I highly recommend Fernando if you're looking to get stronger and in the best shape of your life. read more

Fernando's Kettlebell's class a Truve was the first kettlebell class I took and have been going for a few months now He's awesome -knows when you're going by easy on yourself and gives you that extra push -really welcoming to all level classes -challenging but not intimidating -does corrections and assists! Brought my friend and she loved it too! read more

Built By Nando - Trainers Near Me - Oakland, California

Fernando is GREAT! My wife and I attend his classes regularly. We try to get to at least two of his three weekly classes at Truve (either the 30-20-10, Kettlebells HIIT or Lean Power workout). His workouts are HARD. He WILL push you to work harder, jump higher, do more reps, use heavier weights and IMPROVE. I had previously had an aversion to class workouts. I did my usual 60-90 minute workout at 24 hour fitness for years. I thought I was in pretty good shape sometimes. BUT taking Fernando's classes have taken my fitness to another level. Thank YOU Fernando! You kicking my ass and pushing me to do more is what I need. FIVE STARS! read more

When you write a YELP review with 5 stars, it summarizes as "Woohoo! As good as it gets!" which 100% defines Fernando's workout classes. I came to Truve, and Fernando's class, looking to get back into shape and find a community. Not only did Fernando's class and Truve get me back into shape, they also made me stronger and more fit than I've ever been. Fernando shapes his classes to feel comfortable - again that sense of community Truve and he strive for and succeed at - while pushing you to your limits and getting an incredible all body workout. He peppers his class with information on healthy eating habits along with general fitness guidelines (how much cardio SHOULD you do along with weight training to see gains? How much protein do you really need to eat? Come to Fernando's Saturday noon class to find out!). I wanted to find a space in the East Bay that made me feel at home. A place where folks knew my name and I wasn't just trying to get in and get out as fast as I could. Fernando's class and Truve (especially the owner Alison) are not only the highlight of my week but have the added benefit of being a great healthy lifestyle choice. I've gotten a minute faster/mile on my 5K time in only a few months along with the ability to run longer distances; I've increased my weight lifting tremendously; I've found a gym and trainers that are inviting, warm, and friendly while absolutely kicking your butt. A rare combination! Fernando is a great trainer for people of all abilities and goals. He'll get you off the couch and into shape or in good shape to great shape. He tailors his workouts to push you and changes them up so the workouts are always fun and different. He's a great trainer and his workout classes are absolutely worth joining! read more

Fernando is the bomb dot com! His positive mentality is a breath of fresh air and helps me on days that I'm struggling. The workouts are fast-paced, extremely challenging, easy to remember (and therefore do on non-training days), and varied. I've been training with Fernando at Truve for a little under three months and saw my strength and dietary habits improve tremendously and become more consistent. Truve's space and support is also laudable - showers, massages, classes, and high-quality equipment. I appreciate that Fernando encourages frequent communication throughout the day. This type of personalization and accountability helps me to stay on track with my diet and workouts. Though I am currently taking a short break from training for work reasons, I cannot WAIT to be back in the gym training with Fernando! read more

Fernando has been my personal trainer for over 5 months now. I have done both 1-1 and buddy training with him. He helps push me to my limits and has a great attitude even if I complain:) I am very happy with my progress and would definitely recommend him! read more

Fernando's Kettlebell class is the most killer workout - I look forward to it every week! He does a great job of mixing up the moves and ensuring the entire class has proper form. What I love the most is that he is so encouraging for everyone to push themselves - and he remembers your abilities so that you continue to improve (aka you won't get away with trying to get an 'easy' weight - he'll make sure you're challenged!) This is the best workout I've had in the Bay Area and I recommend it to anyone who wants their hour of working to truly count! read more

I never write reviews but Fernandos program is worth mentioning. I met Fernando with the goal to develop a workout routine and nutrition plan to take my body to the next level. I've been working out for some time but found my results plateauing and certain muscle groups falling behind. It was very frustrating. Within several sessions using Fernandos intensity workouts and nutrition plan I've seen my body respond in ways I haven't seen in a while! I'm getting the burn back that I've been missing! Fernandos program has giving me a new level of motivation to hit the gym harder then ever. If you are looking to get started or take your body to the next level, Fernando will get you there! read more

Fernando is awesome. I take his kettlebell HIIT class, and its probably the best group training class I've ever been to. Ive been doing kettlebells for a year, and it never gets easy...in a good way! The workouts are very well organized. There is a nice flow from one exercise to the next, with a perfect ratio of strength to cardio. Fernando's classes are always challenging, but he keeps you motivated for the whole hour and you leave feeling great. He is very attentive to everyone in the class and will correct your form and give you advice on how to improve, making you feel very welcome. I also just did a personal training session with him, which was (of course!) an intense and fun workout. He is genuinely excited to train you, and will push you above your limits. read more

I've been working with coach Nando for awhile, especially for contest prep and I have to say he's the real deal and definitely knows what he's doing. Not only that he's really caring for the people he works with and always makes sure and check how they're doing with either their nutrition or just in life in general. He's really encouraging and super supportive especially if you're putting in the work and sticking to plan. Again I highly recommend coach Nando and his coaching to anyone looking for a coach. He definitely made a difference to my physique for the stage and the differences are gonna continue to keep developing and I'm excited for them. read more