You know the drill: it’s 21 Questions, this time with personal trainers, coaches, teachers, owners, etc. We’re using the moniker trainer to categorize them, but really, they’re so much more. Therapist, motivational speaker, soundboard, probably holds the record for the slowest counter ever — 10 seconds has never felt so long — you get it. We asked, they answered.
Ryan Burgess
Trainer at MADabolic Jupiter
1. What is your training philosophy or approach?
Consistency and focusing on the journey. It’s a lifestyle!
2. Do you have specialties or areas of focus?
Functional strength training.
3. When did your fitness journey begin?
I have been an athlete most of my life. But my journey took off when I got involved with the Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis in 2018. Turning my passion into a career on the water and in the gym at MADabolic Jupiter.
4. What are your current go-to physical activities?
When I’m not in the gym, you can find me on the ocean paddle boarding, or on hikes and bike rides with the family.
5. How do you motivate and encourage people during their workouts?
Intentional lifting while leading with corrections and cues. Also, my playlists! lol
6. Do you have any tricks for motivating yourself?
It’s a non-negotiable contract I’ve made with myself. Staying disciplined.
7. Have you ever considered experimenting with a side gig as a motivational speaker?
Yes, it has definitely crossed my mind. As a group fitness coach, you have to learn quickly to speak in front of large groups.
8. What’s the best part of your job?
Helping others, for sure! The reward of watching my clients move better, get stronger, and reach their goals.
9. Do you have a favorite class to teach?
Definitely Anaerobic! We focus on power and speed with heavy lifting. You can feel the energy in the room.
10. Do you have a favorite class to take?
Momentum. I love the build of intensity in the workout.
11. What’s your unpopular gym etiquette opinion?
Punctuality and structure are key ones for me.
12. Have you ever considered getting a whistle?
No! If you ever take my classes, you will find my voice is loud enough. HA!
13. What’s your advice to someone hesitant to start attending classes?
Anything worth doing is going to be challenging. Stepping outside their comfort zone.
14. How do you feel about all the New Year’s Resolution sign-ups?
Why wait? There is no better time than NOW.
15. What are your must-haves for successful workout recovery?
Long walks, bike rides, paddle boarding. Anything outside.
16. How do you spend a rest day?
Spending time with my family is the most important to me!
17. If you could only choose five exercises what would they be?
Squat, deadlift, lunge, push and pull weighted movements.
18. What exercises do you avoid like the plague?
Running!
19. What makes you most proud about your fitness journey?
Paddle boarding six times across the Atlantic Ocean from Bimini Bahamas to Lake Worth, Fla., all for an amazing cause!
20. What fitness goals are on the horizon?
Looking forward to building my brand and program with Elemental Performance and this year’s Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis 2025.
21. Plug your sign-up link, class schedule, exciting news, etc.
You can find me coaching at MADabolic Jupiter most mornings from 5 to 10 a.m. Come in, and I will give you a free week’s trial!
Brian Pease
Trainer at PIT Fitness
1. What is your training philosophy or approach?
My training philosophy combines progressive overload with strength and conditioning. As a former collegiate athlete and current Senior Ice Hockey player, combining strength training with conditioning is vital for athletic performance.
2. Do you have specialties or areas of focus?
I focus mainly on foundational functional movement patterns that apply directly to the sports I’ve played and helping my clients feel and look better. I am also certified in RFT, or Raw Functional Training, which one of my mentors created to train first responders and Chris Hemsworth.
3. When did your fitness journey begin?
I’ve always had a passion for health and fitness, but it really became my life in 2011. I failed out of Saint Joseph’s University in Philly and was lost in life. My first mentor, Karl Safran, put me on the path to become a coach, and I graduated top of my class and regained my love for academics, and my journey has brought me from Philly to South Florida.
4. What are your current go-to physical activities?
I play hockey in Boca in the Gold League as my avenue for athletics, and outside of that, I am usually in the gym training six days a week!
5. How do you motivate and encourage people during their workouts?
I make sure the people I train can see the results firsthand. I tell them to not worry about the numbers on the scale and worry about the inches dropped from their waistline and the number they put up in the big chain movements like squats and deadlifts. I let them know that they can easily hit their goals if they keep working hard.
6. Do you have any tricks for motivating yourself?
I used to motivate myself by wanting to be the best at whatever I do. Now, my prime motivation is wanting to set a good example for my son and show him what hard work and determination can do.
7. Have you ever considered experimenting with a side gig as a motivational speaker?
I think being a motivational speaker would be fun! I always loved helping people realize their potential, and if something I say can have a lasting positive effect, then that’s a damn good day!
8. What’s the best part of your job?
The best part about my job is the amazing people I have met along the way. From co-workers to members to clients, I have so much love and admiration for the people who make this the best job I ever had!
9. Do you have a favorite class to teach?
I LOVE when we do an Athletic Performance class! That is my bread and butter, and it’s so much fun to coach! Also, leg days are a fan-favorite class to teach!
10. Do you have a favorite class to take?
My favorite class to take right now at PIT is Upper Pull! I’ve been obsessed with building a strong wide back and having that V-taper from shoulders to hips!
11. What’s your unpopular gym etiquette opinion?
I absolutely HATE when people sauna in zero clothes. Especially at a place like L.A. where the sauna is a selling point, put some pants on.
12. Have you ever considered getting a whistle?
We use whistles at PIT, so I already own several!
13. What’s your advice to someone hesitant to start attending classes?
TAKE THE LEAP! I know a group fitness class can be intimidating, almost like being a new character on a TV show with several seasons already in, but if you take the leap, you’ll never regret it!
14. How do you feel about all the New Year’s Resolution sign-ups?
I love anyone who wants to take control of their health and life regardless of the time of year! Obviously, New Year’s resolutions are massive, so if you’re looking for a change, call me, and I’ll take care of you!
15. What are your must-haves for successful workout recovery?
COLD PLUNGE is a must! I swear by my cold plunge, and it has been a MASSIVE recovery tool I try to use daily! Only issue is buying 40 pounds of ice every time to get it to the temperature I like!
16. How do you spend a rest day?
My rest days are usually active recovery days, so often I’ll walk/jog on the beach, or I’ll do a little technical work on the ice and work on stickhandling and shooting with a light skate, and if the ocean is nice, I’ll surf a bit!
17. If you could only choose five exercises what would they be?
In no order, I would pick pull-ups, squats, power cleans, deadlifts, and pushups!
18. What exercises do you avoid like the plague?
I love every exercise and definitely don’t avoid Bulgarian split squats!
19. What makes you most proud about your fitness journey?
In my fitness journey, I’m proud that I can still compete at a high level of athletics at the age of 32 and outwork the college kids. Professionally, the impact I’ve been able to have on people’s lives has been my favorite part!
20. What fitness goals are on the horizon?
I hit the maxes I wanted in all of my big lifts, so now I’m focused on staying lean and explosive so I can continue to excel in athletics!
21. Plug your sign-up link, class schedule, exciting news, etc.
You can find me on Instagram @the_brian_pease, where I post my workouts often! I am currently working on getting PIT’s third location in Wellington up and running. I’m always around Palm Beach County surfing, running, skating, etc.
Sarah McCaffery and Natalie Taylor
Co-Founders of The LAB: Fitness & Social Club
1. What is your training philosophy or approach?
Natalie: Our training philosophy revolves around building strength— not just physical strength but mental resilience, too. At The LAB, we focus on combining the benefits of personal training with the energy of a group setting, fostering connection, accountability, and results. Sarah: We believe fitness is about creating a sustainable lifestyle. It’s not about quick fixes. It’s about finding what works for each person and building a supportive community to help them thrive. Creating an environment where people can grow, share and connect is a huge part of that lifestyle. That’s why The LAB was created.
2. Do you have specialties or areas of focus?
Sarah: Functional strength and conditioning, specializing in barbell and kettlebell movements. At The LAB, we specialize in creating scalable workouts that cater to all fitness levels, helping everyone feel challenged yet capable.
3. When did your fitness journey begin?
Natalie: My journey began as a teenager. I was an athlete who loved the discipline and empowerment of training.
Sarah: I have been a mover, groover, shaker my entire life. After growing up as a competitive dancer traveling the world as a professional singer, dancer and actor, I discovered my love for teaching others to be the best version of themselves through movement. I have spent the last 15 years teaching others to move and feel better through strength training.
4. What are your current go-to physical activities?
Natalie: I love functional strength training—movements that improve not just gym performance but everyday life.
Sarah: Same here, but I also like to mix in conditioning, whether it is a run or a partner-style workout.
5. How do you motivate and encourage people during their workouts?
Natalie: We lead by example, and we’re intentional about connecting with each person in our classes. A well-timed high five or personalized cue goes a long way.
Sarah: Music is also huge for setting the tone, and we always keep the energy positive and uplifting.
6. Do you have any tricks for motivating yourself?
Sarah: I remind myself of how great I feel after a workout.
Natalie: I tap into our community. It’s hard not to feel motivated when you’re surrounded by people cheering on each other.
7. Have you ever considered experimenting with a side gig as motivational speakers?
Sarah: In a way, we already do that as fitness professionals.
Natalie: Exactly. Every class feels like a mix of coaching and inspiring.
8. What’s the best part of your job?
Sarah: Helping others tap into their greatest potential and seeing them achieve goals they never thought possible…
Natalie: Seeing members support one another. The friendships built at The LAB are incredible.
9. Do you have a favorite class to teach?
Natalie: Strength classes—they’re transformative.
Sarah: LAB Strength and our monthly community events. They are always fun and social, which is a big part of The LAB, being able to bring everyone together and partner with other local Delray businesses.
10. Do you have a favorite class to take?
Sarah: Strength and mobility classes. I also love partner-style workouts, so Saturday’s LAB Method is a favorite of mine as well.
Natalie: I love a good circuit-based workout with a fun group vibe.
11. What’s your unpopular gym etiquette opinion?
Natalie: Wiping down equipment isn’t optional—it’s a must!
Sarah: Agreed. Also, there’s nothing wrong with saying hello to the people around you—it’s a community!
12. Have you ever considered getting a whistle?
Sarah: Not yet, but maybe for themed classes!
Natalie: We don’t need whistles; we have great voices for coaching.
13. What’s your advice to someone hesitant to start attending classes?
Natalie: Just start. The first step is the hardest, but once you feel the energy of the group, you’ll never look back.
Sarah: Lean into the process and focus on the consistency. Through consistency and patience, progress will come. We’re here to support you at every step.
14. How do you feel about all the New Year’s Resolution sign-ups?
Sarah: It depends on the approach and intention. Any reason to start is a good one, and our goal is to help those resolutions turn into habits.
15. What are your must-haves for successful workout recovery?
Natalie: A good stretch session and hydration are key.
Sarah: I also recommend getting enough sleep and fueling your body with nutritious foods.
16. How do you spend a rest day?
Sarah: Long walks with my dog, walks on the beach, or a bike ride through Delray.
Natalie: Catching up on reading or relaxing with family and friends.
17. If you could only choose five exercises, what would they be?
Natalie: Deadlifts, squats, pull-ups, push-ups, and kettlebell swings.
Sarah: Same! They’re foundational and effective.
18. What exercises do you avoid like the plague?
Sarah: Anything that sacrifices form for the sake of intensity.
Natalie: Exercises that don’t align with proper biomechanics—injury prevention is key.
19. What makes you most proud about your fitness journey?
Natalie: Starting The LAB. It’s a culmination of our passion and hard work.
Sarah: Seeing our vision come to life and witnessing the impact it has on our members and community.
20. What fitness goals are on the horizon?
Sarah: Expanding The LAB’s presence in the Delray Beach community.
Natalie: Continuing to innovate and create an inspiring environment for fitness and connection.
21. Plug your sign-up link, class schedule, exciting news, etc.
Natalie Addison
Co-owner of MVMNT WPB
1. What is your training philosophy or approach?
Simply put: How can we move more often and move better?! I program for clients (and myself) to build immense strength, gain stability, optimize mobility, and expand their mind to other ways of working on their cardiovascular health.
2. Do you have specialties or areas of focus?
I have a very well-rounded background. However, my continued education and experiences have evolved into growing a specialty niche. I now specialize in mobility, stability, pain-free functional mechanics and yoga for the non-yogi. I work with anyone ranging from pro athletes to the general population.
3. When did your fitness journey begin?
I was always active as a kid, playing multiple sports and danced competitively my whole life. At 16, I partially tore one of my hamstrings at dance and found myself going to physical therapy three days a week. I fell in love with rehabbing, getting stronger, anatomy, and the fitness world. Two weeks after high school, I got my first dance gig and went on to dance professionally all over the world for 12 years. I overlapped my fitness career and advanced in it simultaneously while living in New York, auditioning to perform. I have worked in the fitness industry for 20 years, trained clients for 16 years, and have taught yoga for five years.
4. What are your current go-to physical activities?
Strength training, long walks outside, yoga, stair climbs, dance and pilates.
5. How do you motivate and encourage people during their workouts?
I honestly bring great energy to sessions, that’s a big part of what I do. I also educate them. I speak to them about the WHY. I bring up topics about longevity, being pain-free, achieving new goals, and increasing their quality of life. I hand them weights and exercises that challenge them, which in turn allows them to see their innate capability. I encourage them simply by acknowledging the changes they have already implemented and the growth I’ve seen and emphasize them to reflect on how different they feel. It’s all about the energy you give!
6. Do you have any tricks for motivating yourself?
First things first, get the playlist going in my ears! Then plan out in my head or on paper my own program and then follow through it all for myself. A lot of days, it’s about bumping the tunes and igniting that inner will. There are a lot of days when music and commitment to my mental health have been the reason why I start moving my body. You’re not always motivated, but that playlist can kick-start your engine!
7. Have you ever considered experimenting with a side gig as a motivational speaker?
I have certainly considered taking on public speaking roles and educating audiences on everything I’ve observed and learned in my career. I could see myself speaking about all of the years of experience, the stories I have, the lives that have been changed, and more specifically, how the physical and mental parts of health tie into one another.
8. What’s the best part of your job?
The people, for sure! I see these people at their most vulnerable times, and it’s incredibly important to me the relationships that I build. My job gives you the opportunity to help change people’s lives, build lasting friendships, and guide people on a deeper journey to know themselves. Bonus that I get to move all day with them!
9. Do you have a favorite class to teach?
“So Matcha Mobility,” which is a class that I developed as my own a few years ago. I start with diaphragmatic breathing, followed by active mobility exercises to a great playlist, and then finish with calmer passive mobility postures. I bring the energy down in the room, guide the group with a meditation, and then have a local coffee shop provide iced matcha lattes. It’s a class about taking care of our bodies, and our minds, and then there’s a community connection piece at the end. People, MVMNT, and Matcha, what more could you want?
10. Do you have a favorite class to take?
I honestly love attending any fitness class, especially classes that my friends in Palm Beach County are teaching. I don’t get a lot of free time to drop in places, but when I do, it’s always about supporting my local people. I’ve dropped into almost every gym, CrossFit, yoga and group fitness studio in the county.
11. What’s your unpopular gym etiquette opinion?
The bad vibe crowds, yuck. For me, I think it’s quite common for people to make fun of someone who may not understand they’re doing something incorrectly at the gym. In my opinion, it says more about someone’s character that they’re putting another person down for stepping foot in the gym and trying. Proper etiquette would be to let them have their own journey, cheer them on, be a support, or ask them if they’d like some help. Good vibes only.
12. Have you ever considered getting a whistle?
I’ve never had a whistle, but I have one heck of an outdoor voice that’s just as loud as a whistle!
13. What’s your advice to someone hesitant to start attending classes?
Show up for yourself, and face that inner fear holding you back from a whole new lifestyle. Show up because you love your body, and don’t give a H-E-double-hockey-stick about what anyone else thinks of you. Movement is a form of therapy, and you have to honor the place you’re at in life. Go at your own pace, make modifications, and listen to your body!
14. How do you feel about all the New Year’s Resolution sign-ups?
Honestly, anything that pushes people to more movement of their body and a healthy lifestyle, I support! However, I wish the statistics showed more people staying consistent with their resolutions. I believe the fitness industry could be more inviting so that people felt welcome and kept going. Movement is therapy.
15. What are your must-haves for successful workout recovery?
Enough water and electrolytes, consuming a well-balanced meal of high protein, unprocessed carbs, and vegetables. Oh, yes, and adequate sleep!
16. How do you spend a rest day?
I love a great at-home self-care day. Throw on my waffle spa robe, a face mask, under eye patches, tackle executing some of my community events planning on the computer, and enjoy an amazing coffee. If it’s beautiful weather, you’ll always catch me at the beach, in the ocean, or taking a walk at sunset!
17. If you could only choose five exercises what would they be?
Oof, tough call. Bulgarian split squats, deadlifts, pull-up variations, rotational chops, push-up variations traveling.
18. What exercises do you avoid like the plague?
Running, however, I know that it’s necessary to still keep in my fitness vocabulary, so a couple of times a month, I still incorporate it. I don’t love it, but it’s great to keep moving that way!
19. What makes you most proud about your fitness journey?
I was always very hypermobile and, as a young dancer, never was taught how to correctly engage my core. I have suffered from four disc bulges, one intense herniation, a coccyx that’s slightly rotated from a fall, and sacroiliac dysfunction. I have come a long way in educating and rehabbing myself back into pain-free function. Having these experiences has helped me learn an incredible amount about the spine, core musculature, pain patterns, core stability, and what’s within my scope to help others.
20. What fitness goals are on the horizon?
I have quite a few projects up my sleeve! The first one I’m rolling out next will be the “TRAINERS GOTTA TRAIN” event (hosted at my facility, MVMNT WPB) benefiting the Special Olympics athletes of South Florida.
21. Plug your sign-up link, class schedule, exciting news, etc.
MVMNT WPB is the boutique personal training facility that I train at and co-own with my husband Nick. Catch me there most days of the week working with the awesome MVMNT team, teaching outdoor yoga for CityPlace Saturdays at 10 a.m., working with West Palm Police Department, Keiser University athletes, Cressey Sports Performance, local high schools, and non-profits bringing mindful mobility to all who need it!
