This was my first time with a personal trainer and it was a great experience! I learned so much about weight training and movement that I had not known before. Learning how to lift, how much weight, and the proper technique was a great experience. Damien, my trainer was an extremely easy going, patient, funny, caring, and knowledgeable person, not to mention super fit! He was so great to work with and was so considerate of my age, body, and physical limitations that it became a fun learning experience rather than a chore of working out. I would highly recommend! Thank you Damien. read more

I decided to start working with Varta fitness when my husband and I were trying to get pregnant. I wanted to be in the best shape possible, and had plateaued on my own. Damien challenged me to eat healthier and pushed my limits in working out. He has the right education to be able to answer any questions, and has the passion and dedication to this field and truly wants to make a difference in his clients' lives. After one month of working with him, I not only pushed past my plateau, but ended up dropping 8 pounds (by working out and eating uber-healthy!). Through working out with him, I learned not only about fitness and strength training, but we had lengthy discussion about food and I ended up going vegan, which I still am today, two years later. I would recommend for anyone looking for a personal trainer to use Varta -- no matter what place you are in life, I guarantee that you will face no judgment and only a willingness to help and inspire! read more

I've tried many different personal trainers, from Seattle and beyond, and tried many gyms, programs, you name it! over the years ---and so happy with what what they are doing at Varta. Damien helped create an exercise program I could do at my tiny condo gym even taking into account some recent injuries. I got a cardio, weight loss and fitness program I feel like was customized for me, not just some boring ol' stuff I could have read from a book--at better rates than others I asked! I asked a lot of questions throughout and Damien taught me a lot about why exercise this way, not that way. What a difference from trainers who get their certificate online! I really dislike working out so having someone so upbeat- good conversationalist with great humor - motivates me so much more. I felt like I spent an hour with a friend instead of getting my butt kicked like with other trainers that just push-push-push, and rush you to get to the next exercise already! Push-Push-Push! Although I wouldn't be surprised if that drill sergeant technique works to motivate you, he could turn around and be that way too! And most of all: I feel so supported!! I got surprised lately by some health issues. Another Varta team member jumped right in, Kacie, and has been so helpful to add some nutrition tips that will help me out. Even for the days I haven't been working out, I feel like I could jump right back in because they are rooting for me all the time. So above and beyond the call of duty! read more

I am a jiu-jitsu instructor, competitor, father, and business owner and after opening my first business my schedule just wouldn't allow me to take care of my own health and wellness (I thought). All that changed when I met Joey. Not only has he been whipping me back into competiton shape, he also tells me like it is when it comes to my time management and goals...no bullshit. Joey is extremely knowledgeable (especially in Olympic lifts) and one of the very few trainers around these parts with the credentials he has...to me certificates mean nothing if you can't back it up and Joey is NO JOKE! You may think you have proper technique, but trust me...you don't. Over the period that he has been training me, I have watched him juggle multiple clients from morning to night and he still manages to keep a smile on his face and a good attitude. He truly loves his craft. Along with Joey comes Kacie, the Varta nutritionist...I have a hard time getting the energy I need in per day and Kacie has helped me prioritize my time and meals, so that I literally don't fall apart at night. It's nice to know Varta has a comprehensive program for those of us trapped in the hustle and bustle of modern human life. Nutrition and fitness go hand in hand, if it is available you would be a fool not to take advantage of it. read more

After moving back to WA and leaving the amazing gym I found in AZ, I was sure I was never going to find something that would satisfy my personal requirements for training (small, group training that feels like personal training, no big box 24 Hr Fitness jokesters, a place I feel EXCITED to go, no primping before workouts or acting like complete tools around the gym, etc). Apparently it's easier to find in Seattle than I thought! We started at West Seattle Fight & Fitness in late June, and I'm doing the Warrior Woman bootcamp classes twice a week. I've worked with both Joey and Joel, and they are both awesome. Really focused on posture and form, doing it right from the start, rethinking how we've worked out in the past and changing our perspective on how to effectively work hard but also not set ourselves up for injury in later training. I don't pay attention to numbers on a scale, I prefer to judge my progress by how my clothes fit and what is comfortable around my waist, and this has been super awesome so far. Joey started from the beginning planting seeds about food choices, which I think is awesome. We have very similar philosophy about food I think, and I like that it's coming up in bootcamp because so much of fitness progress starts and ends in the kitchen. I've already been paleo/primal for over a year, but am really dialing it in lately and can physically feel the difference both from feeding right in the kitchen and working on strength and form in the gym. I recommend these guys, I definitely look forward to my Warrior Woman mornings at the gym. read more

I started training with Damien from Varta Fitness after a hip injury. During the first session, I quickly knew that I came to the right place. Damien really took the time to listen and develop a plan that not only helped me gain strength back in my hip but helped me reach my fitness goals. He also taught me so much during our sessions, which enabled me to take what I learned and apply it on my own. His education and experience were evident throughout the time I trained with him. The space in West Seattle is great too! Private and has everything you need. I highly recommend Varta Fitness for your fitness needs! read more

I had a kid a few years ago, and needed to start working out regularly so I can be a healthy person and live life a long life with my son and husband. Going to yoga once or twice a week was nice and relaxing, but wasn't getting me into the shape I wanted. Luckily, I heard about Varta Fitness and the Warrior Woman program. Classes are lead by Strength Coach Joey Cole at West Seattle Fight and Fitness. Twice a week I get my butt kicked, and come back for more. The focus is on strength training, with enough cardio mixed in that I get a well rounded workout. I am getting strong, and improving my life. My overall fitness is improving, my outlook is better, I look better, and I am definitely happier. I have never done strength training before, dead lifting safely, hitting a giant tire with a sledgehammer, and other great stuff. Varta mixes it up, every class is different. I am going to stick with it. Joey is a fun trainer, easy to talk to, and just the right amount of tough that I leave everything I have in the gym. read more

I've never, ever worked out. Even in high school I wouldn't lift weights since it screwed up my shot (hoops). Never done anything like what Joey makes me do each week, but I'm starting to really dig it. Seriously, deadlifting shit, squats, breaking down muscle groups I never thought I had, then going for more. It's really fun once you get into it. Anyway, Joey is a patient trainer but has a knack for pushing you just outside your limit, reeling you back in, then pushing you over. The days I work out with Joey at Varta, I feel fantastic all day. And I'm building muscles that my wife and kid already notice after two months. Anyway, even for the average 37 year old joe, Varta rocks. Life changing is certainly an appropriate term for what they can do for you...affordable rates too. read more

I got to the point that where my workouts just weren't doing it anymore. That's when I met Damien and he made a big difference in my results! His knowledge of the mechanics of working out, the balance points of cardio/weights/etc and his fantastic insight on nutrition helped me hit a whole new level. It was hard work but his supportive, kind nature kept me coming back and kept me pushing myself. The best thing I thought about my experience is that they take the whole body and your whole lifestyle into the plan which helps you achieve your goals faster and makes them sustainable. It's not just another place to workout - it's a life changer! read more

This is a long overdue review for Varta Fitness and I cannot speak highly enough of the work ethic, level of dedication and support this group provides. When Damien and I started training, I had very limited knowledge of weight training and thought (like many women) that it would bulk me up. Damien educated me on the finer points of weight training for women, how important it is for our bone density, weight loss and overall health. I've been weight training every since and I'm better for it. He created an excellent program for me that kept me active on the days we weren't training which got me weight training 3 times a week and doing varied cardio on the off days with one rest day. The results speak for themselves. I am much healthier, stronger and have muscle definition. If you want educated trainers who know what they are doing, look no further. Varta Fitness will help you reach your goals in a healthy and safe manner. More importantly, they can help you do this in a way that fits your lifestyle and helps you maintain your weight. read more

I've only had the pleasure of training with Varta for a short time but it's been incomparable to any prior experiences. Varta instantly met all my criteria; they are flexible with my busy schedule not to mention welcoming and knowledgeable. Damien's techniques are creative and innovative while his commitment and focus is such an inspiration. I would highly recommend Varta to friends, loved ones, and anyone looking to train with superior level industry leaders. Looking forward to what will surely be a long term relationship with Varta Fitness! read more

Training with Joel has been a delight. Joel is thoughtful and helped design a work out for my partner and I that was suitable for us to do ourselves in our mini gym. Joel was patient and made sure that we were completely each exercise with the proper technique. I highly recommend Varta Fitness to anyone of any skill level! I even got to choose a gym that was near by where I lived. How awesome is that?! read more

I'm really happy with my experience with Varta. Knowledgeable, personable, reliable service. I always enjoy my work outs :)

I love the gym and lifting weights but sometimes find myself stuck in the same routine...enter Damien and Varta Fitness! Damien and his staff have top training, are professional and experienced and can personalize your workout to help meet your fitness goals whether it is endurance or strength training, weight loss or introducing you to proper weightlifting. When I work out with Damien, I know I will be challenged with a great all-body workout that is personalized to my needs. Damien will also take the time to answer questions and explain the reasoning and philosophy behind the exercises and nutrition. His studio is gorgeous, clean and stocked with the perfect equipment for a great workout. I would highly recommend Varta! read more

I've been meaning to find a trainer, so when I saw the Groupon for Varta Fitness I jumped at the chance to try it out. I'm so glad I did. The trainer I worked with, Joel Mitchell, not only taught me the proper form for various exercises, but made sure to make the routines we did easy for me to recreate at home or even at work. He was flexible, friendly, and happily answered any questions I had about the exercises we did. I'd highly recommend Varta Fitness. read more

I bought 5 personal training sessions for Varta Fitness on Groupon and trained with Matt Sweeny. Matt went out of his way to put together sessions specifically designed for me since I was recovering post-surgery. Another cool thing about Varta Fitness is that their locations have parking and/or a trainer will meet you wherever you want. Good deal for a great trainer! read more

Want to maximize the effort you put into your workout routine? Train with Amber! I've been a runner for years. Last year I added weights to my routine, but I wasn't seeing the results I wanted. I felt like I wasn't using the proper form or doing the exercises that I should be doing for the areas I wanted to target. I wanted to see better results for the effort I was putting in. I thought a couple of sessions with a personal trainer would help get me on track. Enter Amber. She reviewed what I was doing, corrected my form while lifting, added a bunch of weight routines plus core and legs for a total body workout! What I thought would be 3 or 4 sessions has turned into a year of training. I will not give it up! Every time I work with Amber, she adds new elements in weights, core exercises and leg exercises. It's always fun, energizing and, most of all, challenging. What's really inspirational is that she demonstrates the element and makes it look soooo easy - but it's not! That in itself is a challenge to me: I want to have that same form and make it look effortless. She pushes you beyond what you perceive as your limits but not to the point where your form suffers and you could strain a muscle and hurt yourself. I've been really sore after a workout, but never hurt. I write down the elements she uses and use them during the week. It makes it easy to keep my routine fresh and it keeps me invigorated, challenged and focused on results. And, you don't need a full gym to see the results. Amber comes to my house, where I have free weights, an exercise ball and bands, and creates a program that is a killer! I was panting on the floor after our last workout, but boy! did I feel good!! And, I have seen fabulous results! No more flabby inner thighs, a clear definition in my arms and shoulders, and in my abs! I couldn't be happier! If you want someone to work with you, create a routine that targets the areas you want to work on and brings results in just a few weeks, work with Amber. If you're 20 or 70, she'll give you the exercises, motivation and encouragement to reach your goals. Use it or lose it! read more

Joey at Varta Fitness was a great find, and I recommend him highly. At age 62, I have never gotten around to working with a personal trainer until now, but I'm glad I finally did. He taught me how to work out safely and effectively, why I was doing each exercise, and how to evaluate the components of a routine. He is a friendly and engaging person and I enjoyed his company. read more

I've been using these guys three times a day since August and they're great! I mainly have Damien Krantz as my instructor but occasionally Joel subs in. Both are a lot of fun to talk to, rescheduling is easy, and I've noticeably gained more muscle (helps when your friends and gf notice it). I've never stuck to an exercise program for this long and the people are a big reason for it. read more

Like a lot of people I've had trainers on and off for years. Generally just need extra motivation to get to the gym and paying someone helps provide that. This time around I wanted to try working out at home and save some travel time, parking, etc vs going to the gym. Through a recommendation in the neighborhood I hooked up with Matt at Varta. I only have a small space to workout and not a ton of equipment, but Matt always designed excellent workouts. Good focus on strengthening/stretching some support muscles around an old shoulder injury. The workouts varied and he was able to work around my constantly changing schedule to make sure we got in a few sessions each week. read more

Bought the groupon personal training deal. The training sessions were good, but my workouts were more intense when I went to the gym on my own. I purchased training sessions to build onto my current routine which I've stuck to since doing training at another gym. There were a few areas I specifically wanted to focus on because I wanted to fill in the gaps of my current gym routine, but what I ended up doing at most of the sessions were just random exercises that worked me out but was not what I initially came for or asked for.. As a result I just stopped going and worked out on my own.. I would only recommend if you have no prior knowledge of how to do any sort of exercising..you don't know how to do warm ups on your own, etc. read more

I have been working out with Matt Sweeny for a good part of a year and he is amazing. I too have worked out with many trainers throughout the years. I am overweight, have an old serious knee injury, but obviously have had success in other areas of my life. He knows when to push and when to hold back and calls me out when I don't tell him the truth - whether it is because I am not confessing that something hurts, or whatever. But he also knows that change comes slowly but steadily. I am super busy and don't always put myself first and he is very supportive and not at all judgmental, JUST what I need! He absolutely knows what he is doing and it the consummate professional. He is positive and a bunch of fun - what more can I ask? I look forward to my workouts even when he is kicking my a^#. He is one of the good guys! I love working out at Varta - it is a great location with parking and a focused atmosphere. It is just right! read more

I have worked with quite a few trainers in the past who were just there for a paycheck and didn't really care much about the client. I recently moved to Seattle and really wanted to get back into shape. Varta had great reviews and I figured I would try one session and see how I felt. I've now been working with Matt Sweeny for over a month and I couldn't be happier! He's passionate, knowledgeable and just the right amount of encouraging. I never do the same work out twice and I actually look forward to our sessions (which I never thought I would say)! What I love the most about Matt and Varta is they are there to support your wellness as a whole. They can give you nutrition education and fitness tips for the days you don't train with them along with why it is important or what parts of the body it focuses on. I have never found that in a trainer before! I can't wait for my next workout! :) read more

I have done a few sessions with Joey and he is extremely well versed in proper technique and the science of exercise. He's like a mad scientist of pumping iron. I also like his musical choices. read more

Damien and Joey are incredibly knowledgeable and approachable as trainers. I know there are a few trainers at Varta but i have worked with both and highly recommend them. I have toned muscles in my arms for the first time ever! Damien makes it known he is there for you for any fitness or health questions or concerns, these guys want you to succeed and it really feels good to have sincere client-trainer relationship read more

Matt Sweeny is great! He is helping me improve my fitness level for my career in the military and also helps me reach/realize my fitness potential. Matt is very passionate about his career in fitness and it is apparent when you first meet him. I am looking forward to working with him to achieve my fitness goals. read more

Joel is an excellent trainer, varying the sessions with many different routines so that the 50 minutes passes quickly, even for a reluctant trainee such as myself. He's extremely personable and a good motivator. The gym venue is a little meh, but Joel is excellent! read more