I'm hesitant to leave an honest review because I know that once the word gets out, Jason's classes will be packed to the max and he'll be scheduling training sessions months out.
I attended one of Jason's classes quite a while ago but I recently returned for a few personal training sessions and his group training classes. I really enjoyed both the individual and "small group" (me and another person) sessions. At a Pawtucket location convenient to the East Side with ample parking, Jason tailored a workout for me that was challenging but appropriate for my skill level. He was interested to know my fitness preferences/dislikes and goals. He was enjoyable to talk to and very motivating; no Jillian Michaels nonsense here. The small group session was extremely affordable and I thought I'd be sacrificing personal attention for the savings, but I was proven wrong. He still tailored each of our workouts and walked between us. He would give me an exercise to do, he would walk away, and right as I was starting to get tired or needing a tip on form or some encouragement, he was right there. I really like his calm, attentive, jocular interpersonal style. My only wish about his personal training is that he offered individual sessions on weekends, but I suppose he deserves some time off. :)
...though he isn't actually taking weekends off because he offers AWESOME group classes M/W/Sat/Sun. In nice weather we meet near the tennis courts in Slater Park, and we use an inside space nearby in inclement weather or winter. Parking is better at the park but doable in both places. Check the Facebook group shortly before class or get in contact with Jason to determine if the class needs to move inside. (Note that while there are A/C and fans inside, the inside space can get warm, so you may be most comfortable if you bring a small towel and extra water bottle). There are also bathrooms at/very near both locations. Your first class (as of right now) is free, individual classes are $10, and a 10-pack of classes is only $80 (cash or check preferred, credit card happily accepted), making it one of the most affordable (but still challenging!) fitness options in the Providence area. Unlike some of the other fitness options in the area, Jason is a straight shooter. No gimmicks or issues with payments, and he always delivers on promises (e.g., you don't need to worry about paying for a package and then having a ton of classes cancelled). He cares about fitness and his business, and he is very committed to running his business with integrity.
Most of the classes (including all outside classes) function in a high-intensity circuit training format. We tend to spend 30-60 seconds on a station and then switch (sometimes with a similar length cardio exercise in between). Plan on doing a ton of squats, lunges, planks, push-ups, burpees, jumping jacks, med ball slams, etc. We use resistance bands, jump ropes, kettle bells, wreck bags, bosu balls, med balls, battle ropes, and sleds; equipment are generally medium or high resistance and 10-60 pounds. He typically puts a few weight options at each station (e.g., 10, 15, and 20 pound med balls) so you can choose what is best for you. We always have a warm up, and when we're inside we also stretch after. If we're inside, some classes use a slightly different format, and you may want to bring your own yoga/fitness mat. He blasts awesome music and comes around to give you form tips or jokingly mock you when you rest (I swear he ONLY notices me when I need to rest for a second!!). He is happy to provide modifications if you have an injury or need to reduce (or increase) the challenge. And if you understand one thing from this review, let it be this: THIS CLASS WILL BE CHALLENGING. I don't care if you haven't left your couch in 6 years or if you do an Iron Man every morning. This class will be HARD, but you can adapt it to be right for you. Prepare to sweat and go home exhausted. You will sleep really well the night after class. :)
And while this isn't the most important thing in a fitness class, I just have to add that the group of "regulars" is absolutely wonderful. These are some of the warmest, most welcoming, fun-loving people around. I'm vaguely new to the area and after a few classes I felt like I had a whole new network of friends. The classes have been a great way to meet awesome people who are professionals in the area and who know how to have a good time. Everyone is very welcoming and encouraging to newcomers, and though you'll be working hard, the class format facilitates socializing if you want it. Everyone has a great sense of humor, and the only person you're in competition with is yourself.
I love attending 3-4 of his group classes each week, and hopefully I'll get back to personal training with him soon. I'm extremely happy with Bileau Built, and I can't recommend Jason highly enough. read more