James is a great trainer. I walked in without any weight training experience and a skinny body, at age 50. James gave me just the right amount of challenge without crossing the line into injury territory, and in the past 6 to 9 months I saw my body change and watched the weights go up. His training changed not only my body but also my confidence, and I learned skills on form that many other trainers seem to overlook. James is not the kind of trainer that will sing your praises ecstatically, nor is he the kind that yells at you. He is simply quiet and calm, giving guidance when needed. I am very grateful for his coaching and recommend him to anyone looking for a trainer at any level (I was a beginner but James also trains very experienced lifters). read more

I've been training with James since April 2024, and it's been a great experience. After eight months, I feel stronger and healthier, and I've built a consistent workout habit. I chose James as my trainer because we both have a history of lower back issues. I wanted someone who understood how to help me build strength safely, and James has delivered. He's kind, supportive, and very organized. What I appreciate most is how attentive he is--if something feels off or painful, he listens, makes adjustments, and those adjustments almost always solve the problem. James focuses on a full-body workout, which has been a big shift for me. I used to focus only on lower body exercises to rehab my back, but I've learned how important upper body and back exercises are for staying injury-free. I've also picked up skills for lifting weights properly and can see that I'm much more toned now. Overall, James is a great trainer. He checks in after each session, tailors workouts to my needs, and has helped me feel stronger and more confident. Highly recommend! read more

I have been training with James for about 6 months now pretty consistently (4x a week). I could not be happier with the results, have dabbled on and off with working with a PT before James but this is the only time I have continued consistently. James really does care to make sure that each lesson is tailored to the individual. Always come in to long hand written workout sheets each time I see James, I assume he does this for every client. Checks in constantly to make sure that you are feeling okay throughout the workout and focuses on form, check in texts after each workout as well the day after to make sure your body is feeling alright. I started at more than 20-25% body fat in April and recently checked in at 12% after getting a DEXA scan. Again, super happy with how my fitness journey has been going. read more

I have been working with James for the past few months, and he has taught me so much about weightlifting and fitness in general. I had barely done any weight training before, and he was very patient with teaching me all the various exercises and explaining each one's purpose. He also spends a lot of time on form so that I don't hurt myself, which I greatly appreciate. While working with James, I have gained muscle, I look and feel healthier, and I have learned so much about weight training. I highly recommend him to help you reach your fitness goals! read more

Easily one of the best strength professionals in San Francisco. Meticulous, has a great plan, focuses on form, and programs exercises very well. It has been a very pleasant experience to see my strength measurably increasing, and far exceeding what I thought I could do in just 1-2 months. Highly recommend. Removed a lot of my daily aches and pains too! read more

I have been working with James for 5 months, and he had helped me immensely throughout this process. I had trained on and off previously. Due to injuries, there are a few movements I simply couldn't do. James actively focused on these parts, providing instructions on recuperation and how to steadily improve my range of motion. Now I am fully capable of performing these movements. I had worked with a few trainers before. James stands out with his calm, smart, and kind vibe. He is special in the way that he does not rush for results -- it comes naturally. Step-by-step I feel can sense how far I had improved by working through his routine, while the workload does not kill my day (I train in early mornings). Highly recommended! read more

James has been working with me for a couple of months and I'm very happy with the progress. Strength training (at least for me) isn't super-fast and James is very patient with that. I haven't lifted weights before and James is great at providing feedback on exactly what I need to do differently and why. The gym is small and well-kept with all the gear in good shape and organized. James also comes prepared; he keeps track of what we did previously and what we're planning for the current session. James explains what we're doing and why we're doing it this way which I really appreciate. James is realistic and accommodating when I've messed up playing a sport and hurt something that we need to work around. James also gives good suggestions on things one can work on independently. So, all in all, a really great personal trainer and coach to help improve strength and overall fitness. read more

James is the best trainer I have worked with. Pre Covid, I worked with several top tier trainers at Equinox (Tier X and Tier 3+). James stands out above them all. His training plans are wisely designed. He monitors my movements carefully during our sessions and keeps tracking. It is very important to learn the right form when weight lifting/ strength training. I have learnt from my own experience that as the weight goes up to a certain point, incorrect form will cause injuries, and it might take very long time to get recovered. James pays attention to form with great patience. He is no doubt the right person to help you build a solid foundation. I have been working with James for a couple months and have been very pleased about the experience and the result. No matter as a beginner, an experienced trainer or someone with injury issues, James is the right person to go with. read more

I've been training with James for a year now with no previous weightlifting experience, I've made progress consistently and haven't got Injured, he makes sure the work out routines are challenging but doable. read more

I came in to train with James because I was unsure about my squat and deadlift form, after hurting my back squatting previously. James helped me regain confidence in squatting and learn the right way to do deadlifts as well. I always enjoy my sessions with him and think he's a great teacher. I usually want to understand why we do things a certain way, and he's great at explaining. Highly recommend! read more

Have been training with James since October last year. I was a real beginner so knew nothing about how to use gym equipment or what good technique was. And with his instruction and training, I am now pretty comfortable working out on my own. James has been excellent at understanding my priorities and recognizing my strengths and weaknesses. He is consistent in pushing the weights but careful in not over-exerting. He follows up after every session to check how I am doing and to iterate and adjust the training plan for the next week. He also has great knowledge about different muscle groups and has great recommendations on how to stretch and / or build specific muscle groups. If you have specific goals, I completely trust James to help you achieve them! He also has a weirdly great memory of films and media. So, it's always a fun conversation ;) read more

Look no further! Unless you want to hurt yourself training. James is seriously so form oriented, I was new to training and he built a solid foundation for my body. I cannot thank him enough. I thought he spent too much on my form but now that I'm off on my own I get compliments on my form. I feel confident now. Thanks James. Look forward to working with you again. read more

I have to start by saying that I'm one of the most picky-est persons I know and I've tried different trainers over the years but James has been super amazing so far. I'm going into my 3rd 10sessions with him and the results are fantastic. I mean, my body has changed drastically, my clothes fit perfectly and I'm so much happier plus the world is noticing! Not only do you get a work out with James, he's also a super great listener and he makes the work-outs pleasant and fun! It's become a lifestyle and I'm lifting weights I never knew I could. I'm stronger and happier and it's all thanks to James! Now if only I could just get a better paying job, I'd pay for sessions in advance and never have to worry about money!!!! Thanks James for giving me a body I never thought I could have in just a few weeks! read more

Strength-Fit - Squats with James Fitness! - Trainers Near Me - San Francisco, California

James is a fantastic personal trainer and I'm very pleased with my results so far, as well as the process of training with him. James really listened to my goals, my level of experience, and the things about working out that intimidated me. James is great at explaining exercises and how they relate to my goals, so I never feel lost. He pays close attention to form and makes sure you know the important points for each exercise. He really helped me feel comfortable in the gym and more confident doing exercises I felt nervous to do before. His workouts are challenging but achievable, and support my goals. I always leave sessions feeling like I've had a productive/successful workout. read more

James as a trainer goes above and beyond in not only crafting workouts, but recovery plans, and check-ins the day after on soreness. I went in search of a personal trainer, and James has exceeded all expectations. I've never had a personal trainer before, but was running and working out mostly on my own. I had entered a slump and got unhealthy throughout a year. I've been using James for the past six months a few times a week. Not only has it kept me accountable, but it has given me the energy to get back into long distance running again. I would recommend him highly. read more

I came in fat, tired, out of shape, and generally disgusted with myself. James didn't flinch or have any reaction that made me feel extra self conscious. In fact, he was really professional and super relaxing without a single hint of judgement. I chose James because I wanted PT with a martial arts background. The day of the assessment I damn near couldn't make it through the warm up. James never made me feel shitty he just made sure I didn't hurt myself. Almost a year later I feel amazing and people notice the results just walking down the streets. I always feel safe doing whatever he asks me to do because proper technique is very important to him. We work on proper form with every new exercise I learn. He explains which muslces are the focus and what I should do to maximize my results. He puts a lot of thought into my sessions and adjust them according to my body's needs. When I am old man sore he always has the perfect stretch to make me right again. He is always on time and has only cancelled on me once and that was well in advance. He also doesn't act like a petty bitch when I have to cancel on him. Once he revealed his true colors I must admit I enjoyed every shade. He keeps me working hard with that good brutal punishment just how I want it. Our hard work is really paying off. Working with James has been one of my best investments. read more

James is absolutely a great trainer. I've been working with James for over a year, and I've been very pleased with the workouts he designs, his eye for technique and all around fun. I went in looking to improve my technique, build a well rounded routine, and relieve stress. James did a great job with all of that, and I've stuck around because he's fun to work out with, a good motivator, and flexible when my work schedule gets hectic. Highly Recommend! read more

I've been working with James for about three months now, and I'm very pleased with the results I've seen. We discussed my goals in the intro session and he's implemented them into every single training we've had, which I really appreciate. He's been willing to work with my chaotic schedule. He's meticulous about safe form during exercises, and he checks in with me the day after our workouts to assess how my body's responding. James is always respectful, but he has an excellent sense of humor that makes him approachable and fun to work with. Highly recommended, especially for those just starting out on a workout regime and wanting to progress safely and build a strong foundation. read more

There are few things about physical fitness I actually enjoy. Sweat? Ew. Muscle soreness? Pass. Mr. Pitts takes all that and makes it worth it. My intention with Mr. Pitts was clear-- make me faster, make me stronger. And he did all that in style. Every session is tailored to YOU. Most people think of "good" personal trainers as a boot-camp drill instructor pushing you to break your back. It is, in my humble opinion, a great trainer that knows when to say "Hey. That's enough for now. Take it easy" and still give you results. Mr. Pitts is compassionate, intelligent and humble beneath his sinewy muscles. If you are ready to take your fitness to the next level, you need to call him. And if you're not ready, call him anyway-- you'll gain much from training with him. Who knows? Maybe you'll find you enjoy being sweaty and sore-muscled. I know I did. read more

James is a stellar trainer that conforms to his clientele's fitness level tailoring your plans to you and your goals. When I began training with James I was out of shape and mostly new to weight lifting. After training with him for months I now feel comfortable lifting weights alone, building onto my plan/goals, and am more in shape than I've been in years! read more

James aka Hercules! It is with great pleasure I am leaving a feedback here in Yelp for my favourite trainer and part time shrink. I had the most stressful job that working out was a must to digress me by lifting weights and staying in shape. I knew I wanted a trainer who was willing to train me and be kind as well. I had so far at least 4 trainers and was feeling a bit uncomfortable whether I was going to find my fit. I was happily surprised that James not only helped shed my extra pounds, but also patiently listened me when I was literally crying about my toxic work. If you are looking for a good trainer with an interest in learning the correct technique and friendly company, you gotta give a try to James. He is a good friend and an excellent trainer. Cheers! read more

One of the best choices I've made this year was having James as my personal trainer. I've always wanted a personal trainer but was very intimidated to hire one in the past. I like working out but I always do the same routine at the gym.....I felt like I was lacking something. James kicks my ass at every session but not to the point where I'm too sore to even move the next day! He motivates me to keep on going even when I'm ready to give up. I see a difference in my body, and my sessions are not even done yet. One of my goals were to make me stronger, and he is definitely doing that by creating a routine specifically for my needs. I plan on to continue with him for more sessions. read more

James has been a steadfast trainer that I can always count on to show up with a good well thought out workout program. He has always pushed me to be the best that I can be. I had severe shoulder issues when I first started with him over a year ago, yes, long time coming on this review, but he has rehabed my shoulders to the point of being pain free. I could not even sleep comfortable for months until I started working out with him and within 6 weeks, I was pain free. He is professional, diligent and an excellent kick-boxing instructor to boot! If you want a trainer that will come to you and show up when he says he's going to, then James is your guy, you won't be disappointed. Thank you so much James for getting me though all my ups and down! read more

I trained with James 3 times a week from Apr -15 to Jan -16. About me: When I started I was hardly able to do one proper push up, hadn't ever even touched a barbell and wouldn't have known what bulgarian split squats are. Now I deadlift roughly 155 lbs (I don't even know what my one rep max is, this weight is for 5 x 7), I do proper push ups and have a love hate relationship with bulgarian split squats. About him: He's few in words, kind, smart and has this unmistakable ability to know what your body is capable of - even when you yourself think there's no way you'd be able to do that (whatever "that" might be). He pushes you to challenge yourself and suddenly you just notice "Goodness, look how far I've come!". Unfortunately I couldn't keep having him as my face-to-face PT, as now I live on the other side of this wee planet. Shucks, as I do miss training with him. Highly recommend! read more

I didnt want a trainer that didnt understand me. James gets it. He spent a lot of time with me in order to understand my needs and how i work. He helps motivate me by inspiring me and always recognizes the positive. He is not an aggressive scary trainer. He works at a pace that works and always tries to get you to push yourself without being overly aggressive. James is kind, sincere and listens when I speak. He gets me and I am thankful for it. We have been working out for a few months and it def. helps. read more

I've been working with James for 6 months and he's a fantastic trainer. I've been weightlifting on and off for a long time but James has helped me completely rethink my technique and now I'm making strength gains I never thought I could. Each time I think I'm going to plateau, he provides a new piece of insight for me to think about and I keep moving up. He's also a great guy to just chat with and isn't one of those annoyingly over the top personalities trainers tend to have. Would highly recommend working with him if you can! read more

James is the only thing preventing my complete moral degradation. Great value as my 2 hours/week trainer. I've definitely been getting stronger. Very gentle and sweet fellow with considerable experience in physical training. I recommend him. read more

Are you ready to make YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION A REALITY? Or perhaps bikini season is approaching and you want to look hot in your speedo. Whenever you're reading this, JAMES PITTS IS THE MAN FOR YOU! Working out with him has been the best addition to my weekly routine. ASS LOOKS GREAT! He fully assessed my fitness level first and we have been steadily achieving GAINZ. And he's so affordable I can see him TWICE as much as other trainers! He's very into safety and proper technique--really feel I'm in good hands. He follows up with texts checking in on soreness/offers advice. You can tell he really cares. I DISCOVERED I LOVE BOXING AND WE DO THAT. I LIKE IT WHEN THE BOXING GLOVES SNAP. Also writing in all caps is fun. My rising moon is in Kanye. GO SEE JAMES! peace. read more

James is a great trainer and exactly what I was looking for. A little about him first: 1 - Easy going personality, but still knows his stuff and will give a good workout. 2 - Comes to your location! A park, your back yard or your gym if possible. 3 - Very reasonably priced. I keep telling him to increase his rates. Get to him now. 4 - Excellent with both circuit workouts/crossfit as well as martial arts/boxing. Really keeps things interesting. I'm truly learning a skill and getting in shape. I had been looking for a personal trainer for some time. I wanted to get back into shape and learn a martial art or regain some of my old boxing skills. I tried crossfit a year ago, but it seemed like they were trying to kill me. I went to a boxing gym 2 years ago, but the trainer acted like I didn't exist. James has put together a customized routine for me that he adjusts as I improve. I can actually see an increase in stamina and strength every couple weeks or so. This beats every alternative I've tried and can think of. There is no reason not to at least give James a call. He'll give you a free consultation. Give James a try. You will not regret it. read more

Before meeting James, I never had a personal trainer and worked out about 3x a week taking fitness classes. I decided to get serious about getting stronger 7 months ago and am so happy I did. James ensures that all of my movements are correct and safe which was super important to me when I first started out. Any time I have questions about my alignment, movements, even advice on nutrition, he's always willing to help. I travel about once a month and he's accommodating to my work schedule and he is flexible. He pushes me hard and motivates me but not in a loud, obnoxious way. James pays attention to each movement and is very detailed in his explanations. I can't believe how far I've come in a short amount of time and can't wait to get even stronger! read more

I didn't know what to expect going into my first personal training experience. I needed accountability, motivation and knowledge. I would go to the gym here and there, but mainly stuck to cardio since I had no idea what I was doing. From the first consultation, James was very laid back, nonjudgmental and easy to communicate with. Our sessions typically consisted of a warm-up, weight training and a 'circuit', which usually left me unable to breath (in a good way!). James is very flexible - when I wanted to change some things up or if I was interested in doing something different - he was very accommodating. He is very knowledgeable and ensured I performed the exercises properly. He would also explain some of the mechanics behind the moves, which was appreciated. After a random injury (falling down some stairs on my own time), James modified our routine for safety and helped guide me into healing with suggestions on what I needed to do, specific stretches, etc. I really feel that because of his guidance during this time, I was able to bounce back while building strength. If you are looking for someone you can learn proper technique from while getting a solid, consistent workout, I would definitely recommend James. He also accepts Venmo! read more

I've been working out with James for a few months now, and he's been terrific. He's very knowledgeable, motivating, pragmatic, sincere, authentic, and has a quirky, hilarious sense of humor. I highly recommend his services. read more