Wow--what a workout! I initially went for an consultation and sample workout because I had hit an exercise rut toward the end of the summer. I had tried a number of different workouts (Kayla Itsines BBG program, PureBarre, cardio classes, spin classes, etc.) but hadn't found any program that made me look forward to my next workout session. The thought of a 30-minute, once-a-week workout that would help build my strength was appealing, as strength training is something that had always intimidated me at a bigger gym. Working with Anel for the past 3 months has been transformative not only for my body, but also my confidence. I'll admit that there's usually a moment each session when I want to give up, but Anel is always professional, patient and unfailingly positive. He believes in me, which in turn makes me believe in myself and push through the final rep. (The Greenwich Avenue space is absolutely gorgeous, with soft lighting, candles, plants, artwork and immaculate equipment.) It's the hardest workout program I've ever attempted, but I'm starting to see results and feel like I can accomplish anything at the end of each session. read more

I highly recommend Countdown Fitness! I was skeptical of their "30 minutes a week is all you need" pitch but I was looking to up my fitness routine without taking more time out of my schedule, so I decided to give it a shot. I am so glad I did! Anel and Madison are different than other trainers because their slow burn method combined with their attention to proper form means you will see results quickly. They switch up the routine every week, so it never gets boring, and even thought the workouts are really challenging they are also really enjoyable. There's also definitely an added bonus to be pushed (encouraged!) past the point at which I'd normally give up.. I'm noticing results in both physical and mental stamina which is so important when doing endurance training. If you want to get in shape quickly, and have fun doing it, get to Countdown Fitness ASAP! read more

Anel is everything that you could want in a trainer: he is incredibly knowledgeable about the body and how to improve it (both with physical training and nutrition), he is tough and doesn't let you get away with slacking, but he is also very careful and would never push you so hard that you could hurt yourself. Anel is empathetic and truly cares about my success in my training. The most important thing? He's hilarious!! It barely feels like a workout because we genuinely have fun together... That is until the next day when I am extremely sore (in a good way!). I can't recommend Anel highly enough. read more

Anel and I have trained together for 4 years. For much of that time, I have had major limitations due to injuries which have ranged from a broken hand to arthritic joints. Anel crafts workout sessions which provide a full body workout while taking my weaknesses into consideration. Working with a trainer one-on-one is not only about building physical strength. Anel's sense of humor and easy going personality help to make the tough sessions go by quickly. And his energy is infectious! For a full workout with consideration of physical limitations, Anel is the perfect choice. read more

Anel is a wonderful trainer. He pushes me to work harder than I ever would on my own. He is a perfectionist about form which is great for me because I don't want to get injured. He is very encouraging, sometimes I want to give up and quit and he won't let me. Anel is motivating and kind and tough all at the same time. When I go to him regularly I see such a difference in my strength! Not long ago, I helped 2 men put away about 10 kayaks after a full moon kayaking party. One of the guys was impressed with my strength and ability at maneuver the heavy kayaks. read more

Over the years I have worked with countless trainers that were always good for the first couple of sessions but then would slack off. Since September I have been working with Madison at Countdown Fitness and each week she has presented an original program that she has obviously spent time developing. She encourages me to push myself while ensuring that I am doing the exercises correctly. Madison is a very skilled trainer and is obviously very committed to helping her clients reach their goals. I would highly recommend her and Countdown Fitness. read more

I have been working with Anel for over four years and love our weekly training sessions. He pushes me to be better and work harder. He keeps things light so that the time goes by quickly while working out. He is a true fitness expert by way of experience and studying and ensures his clients attain their potential and goals, but safely. He cares about his clients and makes their priorities his priorities. I would absolutely recommend Anel and would be happy to speak to anyone about how my overall health experience with him has been. read more

Anel was so attentive to my fitness goals and even helped me work on things I didn't know I needed to work on, like my lopsided posture and slumped shoulders. After working with him for a month, the daily back pain I had from carrying around my two sons was gone and I felt so much stronger. He gave me a way to achieve my fitness goals in a method that was sustainable for me and fit into my busy scheme as a working mom. Highly recommend Anel to anyone seeking to get stronger and fitter in one workout a week! read more

I work out with Madison weekly. The routine is varied and intense. Her encouragement and personality have kept me healthy, and more importantly, coming back. I have worked with other trainers who are less studious and where I have gotten hurt. Madison is totally focused on you when she trains you and will not allow you perform an excise unless you do them properly. One extra benefit - the countdown regime only takes 30 minutes, which is all your body can take. Fits into my schedule perfectly. read more

I have been working with Anel, weekly, for 5 years in NYC. Every week I want to quit but his great humor and encouragement make me return, even for tomorrow's work out. I am 60+ and had severe osteoporosis but his strength training has improved my Dexa scan. I am a Pediatrician and have referred many of my patients to him; some are in college now and still return to see him. He has a certain kind of "magic:" I highly recommend him and a trial lesson with him will be worth you time. read more

Anel is an incredible trainer! His knowledge of the human body is seemingly endless but more importantly, he really cares about my progress and wellbeing. Every week he asks me what is going on in my body and genuinely wants to know the answer. Based on my response, he'll change up the workout, customizing it to whatever issue I might be having. I've become stronger and more toned in working with him and recommend Countdown to anyone looking for a great workout with a great guy! read more

I train with Madison once a week, and girl kicks my butt every time! I've been training with her for about 6 months, and I have some awesome new tone in my legs, abs, and arms. The Countdown method is so good for your joints, and has really improved my posture and strength. Madison has the perfect balance between pushing you out of your comfort zone and being super nice. I leave so exhausted, but Madison always keeps me wanting to come back for more! read more

I am not an athlete and in my mid fifties. Training with Anel has given me strength and endurance I never could imagine. The focused time and training strategy is very doable and it's a time commitment I rarely miss. Anel takes care to make sure that each excerise is done with proper form and although he pushes hard, it's with a very kind demeanor. I have never committed to any ongoing exercise before, but training with Anel has become my routine. read more

Anel has been a big help to me after a severe knee fracture.  He is very aware of my situation and has helped me gain a lot of strength back.  He is a great motivator and I feel like I have accomplished a lot under his direction. His schedules are great for a full time working person.  He changes up the weekly programs so I never get bored and I'm amazed at what I have accomplished. Besides his training skills he's lots of fun to work with. read more

Madison trains me weekly. She has an upbeat attitude and is very conscious of the pain I have in my shoulder. Since I've started working out with Countdown, they've helped me strengthen my shoulder to where the pain is almost gone and I'm feeling all around stronger. My girlfriend says she notices it too, so that's always an added bonus :) I would highly recommend Countdown if you're low on time to workout but still want to see results read more

Perfect fitness program and philosophy for a plethora of schedules and athletic types. Wonderful, friendly, educated trainers! 30-min. sessions designed to help the individual succeed - changes / increases resistance and training program weekly. Started training with Countdown six weeks before my wedding - amazing results! Highly recommended with a smile (and newly created biceps!) read more

I began working with Anel last year. We have a 30 minute session that I find is way more effective than anything i could do on my own in multiples of that time. More importantly, working with him helps me build strength/improve fitness without injury. When i've tried to strength train on my own, it led to problems. He's a pro and excellent at what he does! I highly recommend! read more

Countdown fitness is everything it promises to be. I am a "woman of a certain age" and have not had great luck with fitness programs in the Greenwich area -too intense, injuries. Both Anel and Madison "push me" to my limit, but never over. After three months, I am feeling stronger and, for one who does not like to exercise, don't mind going at all. Excellent program overall! read more

I have been working out with Madison every week for months and look forward to every session. She is an awesome trainer! She has a positive "you've got this" attitude yet she is very sensitive to your limitations. In the first few weeks, I noticed a big difference in how I felt, both physically and mentally. And the best part...it's only a half hour a week workout! read more