I had the opportunity to work with Joseph during my fitness journey, and as a beginner, the gym felt a bit intimidating at first. However, Joseph made the process easy by guiding me every step of the way and explaining everything clearly so I could understand. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking to start their fitness journey. He's knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely motivating. If you're looking for a trainer who will help you feel confident and stay on track, Joseph is your guy! read more

Shawn is an exceptional personal trainer who truly cares about helping his clients reach their fitness goals. He took the time to understand my goals and needs, building a workout planned designed for me to be effective, sustainable, and genuinely fun. He adjusts routines for progress when needed and ensures every session is purposeful. Beyond his technical expertise, he's motivating, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping you become your best self. Training with Shawn these last few months has truly helped me build healthy habits and become more confident in myself, and I can't wait to continue working with him! read more

Julian and his team are incredible. I especially appreciate that Julian gives very personalized care to each of his clients, both on the business side and the actual training side. The gym itself is small, but more than enough. Our friend group has slowly, but surely all started coming to ESL in one former or another, either for training or specific classes (boxing, etc). If you are looking to just get stronger overall, or get specific coaching around movements related to a particular sport, or even nutritional coaching to match your exercise plan, then this is the place for you. I would say that the price is on par for personal training in Orange County. If anything, it's a little cheaper than other places I've looked into! So don't be put off by cost. read more

This gym is great. I've been to other trainers who work me out too hard and I end up feeling terrible afterwards. Julian listened to me and what I wanted and set up a routine that challenged me but still left me feeling good afterwards . I can't recommend enough read more

This gym is AWESOME! If you are interested in private training, boxing, jiu jitsu, or just being amidst swolle greatness I 100% recommend this gym. I took a jiu jitsu class, and got my toosh whipped by a very efficient and fun new type of workout. The instructors, Julian and Edwin, were very knowledgeable but more than that very PATIENT! I very much appreciated that, and felt very cared for. Parking is easy, the facility is very well kept and the gym has good bones! Looking forward to coming back! read more

Started about two months ago and solid communication with Joesph we discussed what I was looking for and I shared what I was looking for in the short and long term. He explained what he his plan for me made some adjustments based on conversations there after couldn't ask for more great team to work with! read more

At 70, I know that staying fit is essential to my overall health. In the past, my gym workouts lacked the expert feedback I truly needed. Working with Julian was a game changer--he introduced new techniques that helped me elevate my performance and get the most out of every session. I'm incredibly grateful for his knowledgeable and effective coaching. read more

Elite Strength Lab - Trainers Near Me - Garden Grove, California

Have been coming to Elite for about 6 months now. Always daunting starting a new fitness journey but the whole team has been so welcoming and friendly. Always encouraging in the right direction. Shawn has helped me work hard on form and safety especially with my bum knees. Will continuing coming back to build back knees to that of youngling. Feeling stronger each session. . read more

This was my first time doing a proper workout in over a decade. Both Julian and Joseph (my trainer) were friendly and professional, and tailored my workout based on what I wanted to get out of each session (i.e. developing core strength and weight loss). The atmosphere and vibes were on point, and Joseph was very cognizant of pushing things to my limit but not overdoing it. He was also extremely helpful in correcting my poor form with each exercise. read more

Clean and motivating environment with really skilled trainers! This gym is a hidden gem. I highly recommend checking it out and scheduling a session! read more

My second time being here and I have nothing but great things about this gym to say. I've had two different trainers here and both guys were awesome and very knowledgeable with their fitness. Small private gym, never crowded, clean and organize. Julian and his team here are very worth the money spent. read more

Tried boxing for the first time at Elite Strength Lab and had such a great experience! The coaches were super patient and broke everything down in a way that was easy to understand, even for a beginner like me. I loved how detailed they were when explaining technique, especially how to engage your core and move your body to get more power in your punches. You can tell they really care about teaching proper form. I'll definitely be coming back! read more

I couldn't think of a better place for private training than ESL. I worked with Julian who provided the most intricate coaching to my workout. I thought I had good form, but after a session here, I felt that the slightest change in my form had provided a better ROM and worked more muscles. No need to wait for benches or machines here since your workout is dedicated and all equipment is provided. Definitely reach out to them, it is worth it! read more

Shawn C is an excellent personal trainer who is patient and dedicated to helping me achieve my fitness and weight loss goals. He provides a variety of workout routines to help me strengthen different areas, while encouraging me and explain how to do each exercise. Shawn has been a great coach and helps me correct my form and get stronger during each session. read more

I signed my son up for basketball strength and conditioning to prepare for High school Varsity for the upcoming school year. I found Julian and his great team of trainers to help. From day one I met Nathan his primary coach and immediately he was very enthusiastic about my son's fitness goals. Nathan and Julian are very motivating and passionate at what they do. So far my son has been training with Elite strength lab for the last 3 months and I already see great results. The level of care and knowledge they put into my son is lack of a better word "elite". If you are serious about taking your fitness to the next next and want that top tier training, then check out Elite Strength Lab. The first session was free to try out too. read more

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I can't say enough great things about Julian and his gym! As someone who's been on a long fitness journey, I can honestly say he's one of the most dedicated and knowledgeable people I've ever trained with. Thanks to Julian's guidance, I hit a personal record on my squat -- something I never thought I'd do! ‍ But it's not just about the numbers. Julian helped me understand fitness on a whole new level -- from proper form and technique to mindset and consistency. He genuinely cares about his clients and creates an environment that's both motivating and welcoming. Whether you're just starting out or trying to hit new goals, Julian will have your back 100%. Proud to have had spent the time that I did with him and at his gym. If you're looking for someone who knows their stuff and is truly passionate about helping others and pushing you to be the best version of yourself, Julian is your guy. read more

I've been training with Julian at Elite Strength Lab for 2 months now and can't recommend him enough. He really knows how to program workouts that make sense for your goals and skill level. What stands out most is how attentive he is during sessions--he notices the small details and constantly helps correct your form so you're training safely and effectively. If you're looking for a knowledgeable coach who's a great teacher and truly invested in your progress, Julian is the one to go to. Highly recommend! read more

By far best private gym I've tried out! Really enjoy the personal training I received. I felt self conscious at first but my trainer Julian was very encouraging and never let me give up easily. Would recommend this place to everyone looking to lose weight or get in shape! read more

ELITE STRENGTH LAB IS LEGITIMATE!! Been training with Julian specifically, and the entire team here since Oct. 7th!! Today is Dec. 30 & the difference is MONUMENTAL!! 2 sessions a week, and not only am I stronger, but more explosive, and more ATHLETIC. Coming back from an injury has never been so productive, and proggresive! Thankful for the entire team here and all they provide. My recovery has been on fast forward since stepping into this facility and looking go get back in the ring soon!! Whether you're a full time fighter, part time athlete, or a weekend softball hero; THEY WILL HELP YOU DEVELOP ALL ASPECTS OF YOUR GAME!! EXTREMELY THANKFUL FOR YOU GUYS! read more

I cannot recommend Julian & the team at the Elite Strength Lab enough. I came to Julian for personal training to help me get back to sports after recovering from an injury. I finally feel confident in moving my body again thanks to the support and guidance at Elite Strength Lab. Thank you! read more

Julian has been amazing to work with! I'm seeing more mobility strength and increased muscle mass in a much shorter time than past trainers I've worked with. He really knows his stuff! read more

ESL is a great place to train and get strong. The staff is knowledgable and seems like they really care about their clients. Very comprehensive approach to strength training and the programming is catered to you. Low ego, high motivation environment. No commitments required, so highly recommend to try at least one session see if its a good fit for you. read more

Before Nathan started guiding me on proper warm-ups and body mechanics, I used to go straight into heavy lifts with no prep--and man, my body paid the price. I'd be in constant, severe pain, and over time that wear and tear really started catching up to me. I know I'm Asian, and "Asian don't raisin," but let's be real... my body was definitely feelin' it more and more as I got older--sore as hell, constantly aching, and struggling to recover. Since incorporating Nathan's teachings, everything has changed. The warm-ups, the stretches, the intentional movements--it's been a game changer. I no longer deal with that brutal pain after lifting, and it's made a huge difference in the longevity of my workouts. I feel stronger, more mobile, and just overall more prepared for anything I throw at my body. What I really value about Nathan is how well-rounded and knowledgeable he is. A lot of people in this industry will just show you what to do, but Nathan takes it a step further. He actually explains why each movement matters--down to the specific muscles, ligaments, and mechanics involved. You walk away learning something every time. If you ever need guidance, support, or someone who genuinely knows what they're doing, I 100% recommend Nathan. Big shoutout as well to "Elite Strength Lab" and my boy Julian--the owner and a real one. The love, the hospitality, and the community they've built there is unmatched. They've always shown me support and never fail to lend a helping hand when needed. Much love to y'all--fr, I appreciate you guys beyond words! read more

Julian and the ESL team are great communicators and so motivating. He took good care of our mobility and made corrections when necessary. I'm still nice and sore days later. We really enjoyed our personal training experience. Thanks so much Elite Strength Lab! read more

Julian and his trainers are hands down some of the best that you'll get out there. They're attentive, cater to your needs & goals, and are very knowledgeable. I still would highly recommend ESL to anyone! read more

Great gym! The staff is friendly and incredibly supportive, which made the environment relaxing and enjoyable. Workouts are customized to your goals so if you're looking to stay motivated in your fitness journey, I highly recommend Elite Strength Lab. read more

Amazing facility with equally exceptional trainers. Shawn Chang is a great trainer who pushed me to my absolute limits and helped me reached my fitness goals. He helped me with proper form and how to manage my workouts efficiently. He's amazing! read more

My tween son has been working with Nathan for about 3.5 months. He's focusing on strength and balance, to help with tasks in daily life, as well as BJJ. Over the course of these past few months, my son has competed in two competitions and medaled both times. He was able to keep balance, endurance, and looked much stronger than his opponents. We're so lucky to have stumbled across ELS, as Nathan is also very skilled at working with individuals with behavioral and developmental issues. My son was diagnosed with ADHD and is in the process of being evaluated for Autism. Nathan is very accommodating to his needs and able to get him to refocus. He's patient and kind. My son always looks forward to his sessions. I highly recommend ESL for adolescence or the tween to teen transition. read more

Julian is an excellent trainer. His training regimen and feedback helped me fix muscle imbalances from my previous training routines. The gym is welcoming and the staff are all friendly. I enjoyed my time there so far and would train there again. read more

I have been soo BLESSED by Julian who has helped me get stronger and has helped me with my confidence. I had frozen shoulder years ago and was hesitant to join a gym because of potential injuries of not using the equipment appropriately.With Julian's expertise in Kinesiology, he has helped me get stronger! Blessings Julian and to his team read more

I've been training with Nathan Cardinal for a little over a month now after taking a year off from strength training and mainly just playing pickleball. Once I told him I wanted to get back into it, he invited me out to a session--and I've been going ever since. Training with Nate has been super valuable. I've learned the importance of active stretching before workouts, how to target strength and conditioning in areas I've been neglecting, and how to train more functionally for athletic performance. The workouts are definitely challenging, but the vibe makes it fun. It's awesome and makes pushing through the tough stuff way more enjoyable. read more

Julian provided personalized assistance to me, a first-time visitor. He listened to what I was interested in and provided the support and direction I needed to make the most of my limited time. I highly recommend Elite Strength Lab for anyone seeking to improve their physical health through an exercise program developed to meet their specific situation. read more

As a former D1 athlete, I've been through tons of gyms, coaches, and training styles. Julian is truly, truly phenomenal. He knows just the right amount to push, and still makes it fun and an affirming, confident experience. He knows what he's talking about, but the real magic of being a great personal trainer is how you feel during the workout. He makes sure you always feel empowered and strong, and that you're having a good time. My partner and I came for a boxing class, and neither of us had ever done it before. He thoroughly went over the basics and then had us do some freestyling at the end, and it was amazing. It can feel intimidating to do something for the first time, especially in a gym setting, but Julian makes sure the experience is fun and not too much pressure, and we learned so much. Will be back!! read more

Prior to training, I would have immense knee pain when playing pickleball. It would get bad enough that I had to resort to wearing a thick knee sleeve as well as take a week off every now and then to curb the pain. Nathan Cardinal, a pickleball player himself, designed a routine for me to help with my overall play and mobility. His experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant and as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach would come into play as he would explain the purpose of each exercise in relation to the different movements necessary in the sport and attentively correct any form issues to engage the correct muscles. He would place heavy emphasis on mobility targeting my calves, hips, and legs. All the while, Nathan would always keep me motivated to make sure I got the most out of each workout. Due to the selected exercises and mobility work, I've noticed a lot more power and fluidity in my swing thanks to my improved ability to rotate my hip. Within one month, my knee pain also decreased to the point where I no longer have to wear a sleeve when I play. I can't thank Nathan at Elite Strength Lab enough at helping me improve my game and giving me the tools to hopefully at some point in the future play pain-free! read more

I and my wife had an amazing training time with Amie and Dylan. They collected all the necessary information before creating a training plan for us which was based on our goal and objective. Highly recommend this place if you want a good experience with PT! read more

I have been training with elite strength lab for the last three weeks and I can already feel the difference in my performance working with Julian for my next MMA fight has it been a great experience so far he has tailored everything for my specific sport and has also been very knowledgeable on the reasons why we're doing these exercises If you're a local MMA fighter or just a regular person trying to get into shape come check out elite strength lab read more

Update: After 3 months of strength training (twice a week) with Amie at Elite Strength Lab, I am seeing and feeling results, and my recent BodySpec (Dexa) Scan proves the results are REAL: over 3 lbs of body fat GONE, over 2 lbs of lean mass BUILT, and bone density INCREASED. It's not easy for a 65+ woman to build lean mass, but we are DOING IT, and without injury. Can't wait to see my 6 month results! read more

So grateful I found Elite Strength Lab. Their trainers are friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. They're great at teaching me how to properly execute exercises and keeping me accountable. Give them a call to see if they're the right fit for you! read more

Julian has been such a great help during my fitness journey. Not only is his knowledge of strength & conditioning top-notch, but he has greeted me with so much energy each session. I went to his facility for the training, and I've stayed for the camaraderie. Can't wait to keep moving forward with you! read more

Couldn't say enough about this gym and their staff. The gym here really had a lot of great equipment and great set of people that work here. Julian is really great when it comes to getting your goals accomplished and working with you. I would highly recommend coming here and accomplishing your goals. They also have a great nutritionist that can help look over your current plan and help you out or help you get your goals done. read more