"5,4,3,2 come on....and 1. Excellent job!" You'll hear Michael count down with u a lot while finishing up your reps. Although he has coined himself as the "most hated trainer".....it's hard to hate someone that is side by side with you during your reps, encouraging you to continue to work hard! I've been working out with Michael for several months now, and wow what a difference in my body! My strength has greatly improved.....and im actually seeing muscles i havent seen since i was a teenager! Gotta love it! Michael does not assign easy work when you get in the gym with him, so dont expect one of those 24 Hour Fitness trainers.....yes I've tried those guys. I had no idea I could sweat so much within just 30 min! He'll push you beyond what you thought your body was capable of! Soon after you'll see and feel the positive results! What I also like about Michael is that the day after your workout, he often contacts you to see how your body is feeling. This way he's able to gauge how your body is responding, and where he should direct you for the next session. This just shows that he cares about seeing you succeed at your goals. Michael is a true pro at what he does and will not let you fail! Get ready to sweat with one of the best trainers in the city! read more

I first went to steel barbells to train with Mike the owner over a year ago. I was very intimidated but Mike made me feel very comfortable and spent one on one time with me. Now I'm killing it and I'm in the best shape ever. I have referred several of my friends to him and they also love it. I highly recommend! read more

It's my favorite trainer! I mean... hated. yea. hated. He gets down to business and genuinely pays attention and helps you. He even contacts me when I can t come in for awhile to give advice or see how I'm doing body wise. I would definitely recommend him! -BloodyMary read more

Don't let the name (Most Hated Trainer) intimidate you. Mike is the best trainer I have ever worked with. He is very good at what he does and conducts himself in a professional manner. You'll never see him chatting on the phone while training or do anything other than train you. He is dedicated and pushes you to do the best and be the best. Another great quality that I appreciate is that he truly cares about his clients. I haven't been training with him in couple of months now (feeling a bit lazy with holidays and all), but Mike is not giving up on me. He still calls and texts to encourage me. I love that about him. I'll be back after the holidays, Mike. If you are looking for a great trainer, look no further. This guy knows his stuff!!! read more

Michael is an exceptional trainer, and I am so glad to have found him a little over a year ago. Give him a call, and you will be so happy you did! :] I had gained a lot of weight since I had several surgeries on my foot, and came upon his site my senior year of high school. However, I was too scared and knew nothing about exercising and shyed away. Two years later, I was ready to really change and when looking for a personal trainer, I came upon his site again, and I knew I had to give him a try, and it was the best decision I made. From Day 1, when setting up the initial session he truly listens to your needs and asks about your goals. When I started, I knew absolutely nothing about exercise, if you asked me to do a squat or pushup I probably would have been doing it all incorrectly. Fortunately, Michael emphasizes the importance of good form and doing the exercises correctly, which will be a huge benefit in the long run for his group classes as well as to prevent any injuries. He gives you a success journal on the first day, which helps you to visually track and see the progress you have made, as well as a format/guide for your diet which is in there as well. Not only he does he give you kick-ass workouts that have you on the floor in just about 30 minutes, but he supplements it with stressing the importance of your diet as well. I truly appreciate that he encourages that reaching your fitness goals is a lifestyle change, and I think that is the most beneficial thing I learned, although it was the hardest at first. It's not about fad diets, or depriving yourself of foods, but about finding a balance and doing something manageable that you can stick to long term. Through the whole process, he has been the most encouraging, supportive, caring, knowledgeable, and attentive trainer ever (never on his phone, always watching to make sure you are doing the exercises correctly) !!!! I mean he is so passionate about what he does and it is very clear in the way he trains and guides his clients. He is always checking in with you after workouts through text or phone call to to see how you are feeling and to gauge if he can challenge you more for the next workout. I am sure he has enough clients, but to go out of his way to cater to each of his clients, shows his dedication and passion for his craft. Yes, he is attentive and pushes you but you also have to put in the work, and the results will be apparent! Train with him, and you'll feel like I am ready for anything, because you have mastered all the basics and foundations with him. Did I mention that working out with him is actually fun as well? Never would I have thought I would actually look forward to working out and going to the gym, and now I do! Working with him has created a new passion in myself to live an active and healthy lifestyle and I am no longer afraid to go into a gym or shy, but excited to workout. I can only think of positive things to say about him so, thank you Michael Lopez, Most Hated Trainer so MUCH for sharing your knowledge and passion in your craft with me and everyone else who steps into your gym! read more

What can I say about Mr. Michael Freakin Lopez other than no wonder he is LA's MOSTHatedTrainer! We aaaalll love to hate him and his constant encouragingly fun attitude. Who really wants to walk into a gym and instantly feel like they are part of an amazing beastly family?! Uh... Everyone of course! And don't even get me started on the fun we have getting stronger (the right way) and achieving goals we never thought were possible. He's always tough on you and is always concerned about how you are doing. He is constantly blowing up my phone after his extremely challenging but totally empowering WOD with "How are you doing?" or "How are you feeling?" Seriously, who does that?! Michael Freakin Lopez does folks! So if you want a trainer who is going to make you work while actually caring about your goals, your achievements, your body, and well, you in general, then look no further cause MostHatedTrainer is your answer. But do keep these precautions in mind... 1) If you are late you WILL do armless burpees 2) If you cheat you WILL get called out because he knows you're better than that 3) If you complain he WILL not let you give up 4) If you are sore he WILL send you the Mr. Chow meme 5) If you have concerns or limitations he WILL care and make sure you do what's good for you 6) If you succeed he WILL give you a shout in the gym and on FB 7) He WILL always give you helpful reminders like "Make sure you roll out." "Get your heart up before stretching." or my personal favorite "Be sure to help each other get your strap on." AND MOST IMPORTANTLY 8) Watch his hips!! Cause lord knows those hips don't lie!!! But just in case you forget he WILL ALWAYS AAAALLLWAYS remind you to do so Soooo I shall finish by saying THANK YOU MICHAEL LOPEZ!!! My body has never looked better and I have never felt as strong as I do now! I look forward to every new challenge and achievement you have in store for me BUT mostly I look forward to hating you a little more each and everyday! Sincerely your #MostLovableTrainee SKITTLES read more

I've had a few trainers in lifetime but Mike is the guy that pushes you based on our skill level in a way that will maximize your potential. I'm stronger than I have been in years, and I look forward to every session...I Highly recommend Mike, he's the best there is!! read more

I walked into the gym, everyone says hi to me like really enthusiastically, it was very welcoming. Michael Lopez is the best! I found him on Yelp, he had the most amazing reviews, and I can see why. He pushed me but not in a jerky militant way, in an encouraging no BS good sense of humor kinda way. I'm so frigging glad I went!! I can't wait til my next session. The vibe in there was super chill, no one was stuck up like at my gym, all around a great experience. I highly recommend him. Any questions message me and I'll totally answer them, that's how much I love it there xo read more

I started with Mike about a month ago after coming across all these rave reviews. I was looking for something that would get me in shape for my wedding! So far I have been very impressed! I have tried every workout under the sun: yoga was boring, bar method didn't make me sweat, and the parking situation at 24 hr fitness down the road was enough to keep me from going. Mike is encouraging, personable, and will hold you accountable!!! He will make time around YOUR schedule, which I really appreciate since I work all day. A membership with Mike is so much more than a membership. It's a program. He will text you and keep in contact throughout the week, and he will initiate next workout even when you don't. He will always know when you can't make it and when you are coming in next. Even in the group classes-he will expect you to be there, unlike the classes at big gyms where it's much too easy to no-show. I have been extremely happy with the results thus far. I also really like working out in the group setting ( you can do both group or one-on-one). In the group workouts you feel like you are part of a team and everyone is respectful of your own ability level. Would definitely recommend Mike to anyone who is serious about getting in shape!!! It's hard and you will sweat- a lot. read more

I can not say enough about how great my experience has been with Mike. First of all, working out with him is different then anything else I have ever done with a trainer. I have had traditional personal training off and on throughout the years and never found long term success with it. If you are looking to switch from machine to machine while a trainer stands over you, then this is not the work out for you. But if you are looking to sweat, build muscle, gain strength, and do actual "real life" movements that make you stronger in every aspect of your day to day routine, then there is no one better then Mike. Your first few sessions with him are focused on proper form and technique. He wants to make sure that you can build on a solid foundation and prevent injury. Something that no trainer I have worked with has ever done. Normally you get the instruction "ok, do 20 lunges and come back". With Mike, he's walking by your side, adjusting where your legs are going, adjusting how your stride is moving, and all the while you realize that you've never actually done a proper lunge in your life because no one has taken the time to show it to you! He's encouraging, positive, and motivating. He maintains a very healthy level of competition in group classes that keep you on your toes while at the same time allowing you to focus on doing your personal best. I can't imagine ever going back to traditional personal training after this. I strongly encourage anyone who is looking to get in shape to give Mike a try. For my time, energy, and well being, it doesn't get any better! read more

Working out with Michael has been wonderful experience! He is professional, knowledgeable and demonstrates a true passion for what he does. Unlike a lot of other trainers who are just out for your money, Michael shows a genuine interest in his clients' fitness goals and overall health. An expert in the field, Michael will show you proper form for the exercises you'll be doing and will explain which muscles you're working. He will send you texts regularly to see how your body is feeling after workouts and will constantly inquire about your diet, stressing that solid nutrition is 80% of the battle. My husband and I have been working with Michael since the end of August and we have both had great results: I've lost 25 pounds! I've struggled with weight for most of my life, but I finally can see the light at the end of the tunnel now, and I owe so much of that to Michael. If you're looking for a trainer who is professional, knowledgeable, fun to work with, and who will push you to limits you never thought possible, Michael is your guy! Personal training doesn't get any better than this! read more

I hate Michael. He makes my life hell for roughly 45 minutes 3-4 days a week and then, just when I'm feeling like not going, there comes the text message to check up on me. I hate him so much. I moved to Sherman Oaks 3 months ago and knew that I needed to try something new for a 'gym solution.' I wanted to try CrossFit, but as a complete newbie was terrified. Michael took the time to teach me how to move before adding on the weight. He made it "fun" and got me hooked. Now, 3 months later, I hate him. I hate him for getting me hooked and painting the illusion of "fun".... it's not "fun," it's hell. But here I am and I keep going back and now I'm convincing my husband to come and try it as well. Thanks for everything Michael! See you this afternoon. ugh. read more

This is hands down the best work out I have ever done. Not only is Mike extremely knowledgeable but he makes you feel like you're part of the team. Ive made so many friends that are constantly motivating me. My best advice is to just try it once and I guarantee you will fall in love with it!!!! read more

Now I know why Michael is the most hated trainer! Just playing. He's been a great mentor for me since I started working out. Since my first class Michael has been very motivating and tough! He pushes me to do my best, and calls me out when I'm not giving it my all. I told him from day one that my goal was to gain strength and in less than three months, I can feel and see the results (thank you Michael). His prices are very reasonable and worth every penny. I love/hate Michael and I'm sure once you start working out with him, you will too. read more

Michael is a super great coach, and both his private or group session are really great for anyone looking to work their butt off while having fun. Everyone in this gym make you feel part of the group. It's welcoming, hard, fun but intense. I guess it's exactly the right ratio of everything to get you working out while enjoying doing it. read more

Late Review-When I first visit the gym I was a little surprised by how small it was and how hot it was. I joined anyways in hopes the training was worth it. When I joined, Michael provided me with a folder that he used to keep track of my progress that was one of the things I really like, but I think it was only used twice. In the beginning I was trained one-on-one and was taught the basics and that was perfect, but then it turned into a group training/exercise. If you enjoy working out in groups and don't mind a little heat this may be the place for you. Michael is a good trainer and is nice but I personally need one-on-one training. read more

The valley is a bit of a hike for me since I live all the way in Silverlake but my girlfriend kept raving about this gym so I grabbed extra water, put on my booty shorts and Nike Free's and I was on my way...... I'm so glad I did! I've taken some crossfit classes before but was always intimidated by the weightlifting and the way instructors just throw you into a workout and expect you to perform. This guy Mike, aka "The Most Hated Trainer" has a way of making you feel like you're the only one he's focused on, even when the class is packed with 10-15 members (which it usually is). He knows everyone's strengths and weaknesses and makes sure first and foremost that everyone has proper form, which is something that I find most crossfit gyms lack. I threw my back out one time at another gym by pushing too hard and was out of commission for almost a month!!! The classes are so much fun that next thing you know, the hour is up and it's time to head home. = ( I've never had so much fun working out before, so much so that I almost "look forward" to my treks to the valley! So Mike "The Most Hated Trainer"....yes, I hate you..................... and yes, I can't wait to see you tomorrow!!!!! read more

The Most Hated Trainer... that is something that I have to question because a lot of people love this guy. Whether your experienced or just beginning, he is willing to help you out. I think this is particularly useful for newbies. I brought my friend, who was completely new to CrossFit and Mike actually took the time to make sure that he was doing all the movements correctly. Definitely knew what he was doing and he is a motivator. Which is huge in physical fitness of any kind. Highly recommend this guy because he genuinely cares about the fitness community. read more

I LOVE MIKE!!! From day one, he made me feel at home. We started by making sure I understood the basics (e.g., squats, push-ups, pull-ups, etc.,). He has so much patience!!! Believe me, he needed it while teaching me how to do a pull-up. :) I had no idea what I was doing in the beginning and within a month feel so much more confident. He pushes you but also pays close attention to your limits. He checks in on you by texting you to make sure you're okay and really motivates you to come to class. Don't hesitate to give him a call and set up a time to come in. You won't regret it!! read more

I love this guy! Working out is mad fun with him and the best part about it is he gives a damn if you're doing things right!!! I mean I know that's what a trainer is supposed to do but take a stroll through an LA fitness one day and look at those "trainers". I've never seen so much bad technique and trainers who just watch them do it wrong. Pisses me off! If you're one of those people thinking that a gym trainer is the best route cool. But if you'd like to get down with someone who cares and kicks your butt so that every time you leave them gym you feel accomplished, then head on over to steel barbells and Mike. I'll be there workin with you! Peace read more

Mike is an awesome trainer. I found him on yelp when I first moved to LA and he has been kickin my butt ever since! Super nice guy and extremely knowledgeable physical trainer. read more

I'm not one to say I'm looking forward to working out. Actually I've always dreaded working out. I've tried gyms and felt lost in a sea of machines I couldn't even begin to understand and felt intimidated by the crowds. I was considering getting a trainer and was lead to a crossfit gym. I loved the small community feel but wasn't getting properly trained and as the classes grew in size I got less attention. THEN I heard about Mike Lopez aka. the most hated trainer, as scary as it sounded I emailed him and immediately got a response. After answering a few questions about my health, and fitness goals, we spoke and set up my first session. I LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING OUT! Wait did I just say that out loud?! I am half way thru my one on one sessions which have truly been amazing. Mike really takes the time and care to show you how to do everything properly with correct form and explains why and what you should be feeling. Mike has a great energy that is motivating and he gets me to push myself harder. When my brain and body are saying "I'M DONE" I hear Mikes voice "come on 5 more!!" Walking to my car after a work out with Mike is not an easy task but the more beat I leave the gym the more empowered i feel. But Mike doesn't stop there, he checks in ALWAYS the day after to see how i'm feeling. He shows a lot of care for his clients. He also provides you with a dietary plan. Healthy eating is important in my journey and having someone to answer to about my eating habits encourages me to make the right choices. He always has great advice and I don't feel intimidated asking/telling him anything. I really look forward to continuing my journey towards my health/fitness goals with Mike. I know he has a world of exciting things to show me. read more

Mike is an outstanding coach and trainer. I have been training for several years with qualified trainers and never realized that I was doing it all wrong. After just the few sessions with Mike I can't wait to get back. He disects each exercise until I have a perfect understanding and form and everything else flows effortlessly. Don't get me wrong, its hard as hell, but I enjoy every minute of it. Mike makes each session as creative and fresh as the first time. He's patient, sincere, enthusiastic, and passionate about sharing his knowledge. Mike has inspired me to raise my goals and expectations. I wouldn't want to look anywhere else. read more

Its been close to 5yrs, since I walked into Cross fit with no competitive goals... I loved fitness but was tired of spending hours running or on the elliptical machine with no results. I was looking to lose weight and get fit. One day I found Steelbarbells and met Mike Lopez the most hated trainer, who took me into an evolution and although he was a bit of a jerk , I loved his intensity and agreed to sign up. I had no idea where this journey would take me, how my outlook on fitness would drastically change, the life styles changes I would make, the new friendships I would gain, how far I would push my athletic potential, how much effort that would go into pushing a dream, the number of fans i would acquire along the way as we push and support each other in ensuring we kill every workout Mike sets up for us. The journey is what its all about and I wouldn't change a thing.... thank you Most Hated trainer for doing what you do best and to all the other amazing trainers at Steelbarbells! read more

Most Hated Gym - Beast Mode Everyday - Trainers Near Me - Van Nuys, California

I met Mike and started training at Steel Barbells thanks to his brothers who own Fog City Fitness up in San Francisco, which is where I moved from. The first thing that Mike said to me on the phone, 5 minutes into the convo, was "we would love to have you but are you SURE you want to make this drive?" The gym is about 20 miles from both my work and where I live, and in LA traffic-terms, it's about a 35-40 minute drive on a good day during rush hour. Haha I definitely had my concerns, but I decided to check it out anyways. I was hooked after the first class and have been hauling myself through traffic 2-3 times a week for over a month! Mike fills every workout with incredible energy and never fails to kick my ass. Even when I feel like I'm getting stronger and more fit, he finds a way to make me push myself to the point where I'm still dying by the end of class. No whips or drill sergeant attitude -- just quality motivation...and maybe a little bit of Jedi mind tricks... All in all, Mike's a great trainer and if you're looking for somebody to get your ass in shape, hit him up! read more

I was a pretty active person (did 2 sprint triathlons last year), but I hit a plateau and was inactive for a good 3-4 months. I decided to check out Mike from the Yelp reviews. I started training with him the middle of Dec and it has been fabulous! He is energetic, patient, encouraging, and most of all he kicks your butt. He has taken me to a different level than when I trained on my own. He checks in on how you are feeling after the workouts and sends encouraging messages to remind you to eat good. He always says, "your goals are my goals". I feel great and can't wait to meet my goal! read more

What a great place to train! Don't get me wrong Mike will kick your butt with every workout!! He is a great trainer that always mixes things up ...... the things he has us do...lol! The Saturday group training is a blast and everyone is very encouraging and friendly. This is the place to workout!!! read more

This was my first time ever working with a personal trainer (or even really exercising for that matter), so I had to find a great one, someone who would understand what I am capable of doing and push me a little bit more to go further. Mike is excellent at doing that. He demonstrated the proper way to do certain exercises and is quick to offer feedback. In addition, he gave me a suggested meal plan. In my first month, I lost 15 pounds! He truly cares about getting the results you desire, follows up with you, and even gets disappointed when you eat too much McDonald's. I would definitely recommend his services! read more

Where to start? I wish I could give more than 5 stars to reflect how awesome Mike is and the incredible manner in which Steel Barbells is run. My time spent there has changed my whole understanding of what a gym experience should be. My wife and I met Mike many years ago and spent a few years working with Mike as a trainer - during which we both got into the best shapes of our lives. Fast forward many years and I was excited to see that he had ventured out to create Steel Barbells. I immediately joined and have greatly enjoyed the classes each morning. The group sessions are great fun and it's a testament to Mike and the other trainers on site. I am neither a gym rat nor a morning person but find myself anxious to wake up early and get to the gym to get the morning workout in. Beyond the classes, there are so many great events that Mike puts on outside of the gym. He has cultivated a great family atmosphere for the "steel kiddos" - be it from team races (mud runs), to post-workout bbqs (what other gym stocks the fridge with beer alongside gatorade and water), to so many other excuses to party together that are often impromptu. With all that said, Mike is just a great person. He's always there to make time should to fit me in when the schedule doesn't align or to check in on my when I have been absent. Often, after a tough workout he'll text me the next day to check how I'm doing. As an added bonus, he's absolutely the most amusing Facebook feed to follow. I highly recommend to everyone to give Steel Barbells a shot - you won't regret it. read more

I wanted to lose some weight before my wedding, and my fiance found this trainer and bought me a package of sessions for my birthday. I changed my diet, did the workouts and lost the weight. That simple. Micheal is an exceptional human being. I've come across very few people who have his level of passion and commitment to his life and work. Your fitness goals become his fitness goals... which immediately becomes evident by the relentless texts reminding you to get to the gym! Very methodical, and thorough, he always makes sure you are doing the most effective things possible to reach your goals. People who are this hard on you AND this genuinely committed to you AND have the professional attitude to motivate you are ultra rare. A lot of trainers think this way and have great intentions, but most don't have the courage and people skills to live out a sense of purpose on this level. Highly recommended. read more

This dude rocks. In the short amount of time I've seen Michael Lopez I've gained strength, flexibility, and lost weight. In addition I have more energy and just feel better overall. Having a back injury, I was worried about doing a formal exercise program and feeling out of place or injuring myself more. Michael makes sure to modify the exercises for me so I don't injure myself and I never feel like the odd man out. Overall, it's been a great experience working with Michael. read more

I had not worked out for a good 2 years when I came to Mike. Once I started, I learned very quickly that what I had been doing even when I was, "working out," was a joke. Mike and his classes will kick your ass... but he does it with respect for your fitness level and knows that you will progress and eventually be fine with the pack as you see your own progress take shape. What makes it even greater is that each session/class leaves challenges for even the most physically fit people. It may be easier said than done... but just do what he says. Show up to your workouts, eat right, and watch the weight fall off as you get healthier! read more

Michael Lopez, The Most Hated Trainer, is far from hated. This man is dedicated to helping. I've never been to a gym with such a strong sense of community let alone an environment where you talk to people while you work out. Mike is to blame for all of this. He texts me diet tips and reminders to motivate me and push me further. When I was really getting into it I tried to come to more and more classes with him, but he knew that I was pushing myself too hard. And in a stern and caring way like only he can, he told me to relax and take it easy. Because he knew that I could seriously hurt myself. Mike Lopez, The Most Hated Trainer... More like Mike Lopez, The Most Dedicated Trainer. read more

Joining Michael's training program is one of the best things I've decided this year! He combines personal sessions, where he thoroughly teaches you how to do certain exercises and then group classes, where you join other students and complete AMRAPs and repetitions... months go past and you see you are now independent to train by yourself but now doing exercises in the right way! His attitude is addictive and always positive, going there 4 times a week for the past 5 months has let me realize I'm capable of anything and that is what Michael encourages! Yesterday I did my first Spartan Race with the whole team, made of him and his students, and being all really different: age, ethnicity, size... We all shared what he had showed us: team work, helping each other, having crazy fun together and WE COULD ALL DO IT! And we did! Could not be more thankful of once googling Trainers and finding "The most hated trainer" and thinking "wtf, ill go and try it!". No regrets read more

6 Reasons Why I HATE Mike, Most Hated Trainer, at Steel Barbells Gym... 1.) He makes EVERY muscle in my body sore, on a regular basis! 2.) He does NOT let me CHEAT! One time he made me do 100 bicep curls as part of a whole set of exercises. After I did push-ups, ran around the building, did 100 jump ropes, and a whole lot of other things I was freaking tired as hell when it came to the biceps. I managed to do 70 reps and asked if I could just stop there cuz I was barely able to get myself to lift my arms. He said, "Ok, you can just do 30 more." ...So I did. 3.) If I am slacking and not coming to work out on a regular basis he will call me out on Facebook and threaten to kidnap my cat if I don't get my a$$ to the gym! 4.) He always writes the work outs on the board so everyone knows what we are doing. If you ask to skip something or if you can do less he will walk over to the board and say something like "Um let me see what it says on the board here...uh yeah it says 100 squats...you can do 100 squats." 5.) He will actually MAKE you have a good time while you work out by doing little dances to the music playing. I think he is the lost Backstreet Boy member. Oh, and don't even get me started on the interpretive butterfly dance! 6.) This a$$hole actually knows what he is doing too! He will make sure you are using the right form while doing the exercises and show you exactly what you need to do before attempting anything new. How dare he?! All in all I can't wait to go in and "HATE" Mike every time I go work out. The work outs are always different, never boring. He will NOT let you slack off. The other people in the gym have a great sense of humor, are down to earth, and there to have a good time while getting a kicka$$ work out. I will keep coming back for the torture :) read more

I've been training with Micheal Lopez for the last four years. What can I say about Mike Lopez except that he is THE BEST trainer there is out there, hands down! I've had a couple of trainers before, but none have helped me gain the results that I've obtained with him. When looking for a trainer, one of the MAIN qualities I was looking for was someone who would not only be my trainer but an educator in fitness. He takes the time to show you proper form, how the excercise is supposed to feel, and what muscles you are working on. He's done this for so long, it's amazing how in tune he is with the way your body moves. He knows when to push you a little further than before so that you keep seeing those amazing results. When I stared with Mike, I was at a whopping 230lbs with a 38 in waist (I stand at 5'8", so that was a pretty big size!). When he would tell me that I would one day be able to do all the things he said I would, I didn't believe him. Today I'm at 185lbs wearing 32 inch pants!! Not only that, I'm getting stronger every day doing pull ups, push ups, squats, etc etc. He is a true professional and really enjoys what he does. If you are ready to see results and are ready to make an investement in your health, make sure to give him a call!! read more

After motivating myself for years and going to Ballys and 24 hour Fitness, doing the same old routine day after day, I finally decided I wanted to try a personal trainer. I interviewied a handful of ripped, probably juiced trainers and stumbled across Mike, who stood out from the rest He labels himself the "most hated trainer, but is actually liked by everyone. His workouts can be intense but they are also addictive. Rather than going to the gym for a boring hour of cardio I complete my workout in about 45 minutes while losing more weight, building more muscle and having more fun than I ever did on my own. I am now 50 and have been with Mike for over 2 years and can physically do things I couldn't do when I was 30. I'm even regularly kicking the butt of a fit, cocky 31 year old on timed exercises. I highly recommend Mike to anyone! read more

He is called "The Most Hated Trainer" but this could not be farther from reality. I get the gimmick in the title and cleaver it is. Michael Lopez is a great big ball of enthusiastic motivation. He really personalizes his time making you feel more confident in the work you are doing. I thought I knew a lot about CrossFit when I started training with him because I had been training for more than a year elsewhere. I was surprised to learn how much I didn't know. Michael has really helped me learn the motions correctly and does not make you feel unsmart if it takes 500 times to learn a particular motion. He is more patient than a rock. He has pushed me to work on things I really hated and felt that I could not do (pull ups, jump rope double unders) but helped me push past my own biases to learn how to do them well enough to not feel embarrassed in front of more experienced and fit CrossFitters. read more

I just had my daughter then and really did not have any concrete plan on how to lose the 40 lbs. I gained during the pregnancy. 10 pounds came off easily the first two weeks, another 10 the following week. The last 20 lbs., I had to work them off. In comes Mike. He offered to train me 3 times a week. Since I lived on the second floor, my warm up was going up and down the stairs, skip a step, for 3 minutes the first few days and gradually increased the time. I was doing 30 minutes of stairs on the third week. Our routine was half hour to 45 minutest. We did kick boxing up and down our street (Arch Drive!!!), used the exercise ball, excercise bands and some weights. Everyday was a different set of exercise. He also created a meal plan for me that I followed (??!!!?) to the teeth. Well, my husband cooked a special meal on Valentine's day so that was my cheat day. Anyway, his famous line was "no salt , no sugar". I learned more about healthy diet and healthy lifestyle overall from him. Why is he the most hated trainer? Because he gets into your head. Even if he's not around, I would think twice before getting even a full serving of white rice. His voice would be playing in my head saying, "nothing white, no carbs". He is also there to guide you and push you to your limit, when you think you can't do it anymore. Anyway, it all paid off. I lost 9 lbs., and 20 inches after training with him for 4 weeks. You will hate him at first, but you will definitely love the results. read more

Ummm let's see...where should I begin with Mike? I definitely can't stand him because he makes me do burpees for coming in late (whenever I do come in late). I can't stand how he stands there with his smirk on his face after explaining the WOD. I hate how he makes me do workouts I don't want to do. And I hate that he holds me accountable when I don't go in. I don't tell him this (because his ego is already big enough lol) but I'll say it here...I actually love him as my trainer! Before him I didn't have motivation to go to the gym, and I hadn't found a good trainer/coach to motivate me or to make me enjoy the gym...and then I found Mike! He seemed nice at first but as time went on that went away and got tougher on me all due to good reasons. Now I enjoy the gym, I am motivated, and I am feeling better physically. He's the best there is and you can tell he really loves what he does! He genuinely cares and that's tough to find in trainers. Mike, I hate you for making me get up so early in the AM and for actually being so great that I can't give up on going to the gym. -The girl who you love to identify as "chola party girl" and love to scare people telling them that. Lol! read more