I don't understand this trainers hype. He teaches way too fast in a group fitness setting and you can't even understand what he is saying because again, HE TALKS WAY TOO FAST. And a lot of his yoga movements don't flow very well. read more

Buddy is the best. In San Francisco for a long time, but now in Los Angeles. No wonder he's so popular. Excellent teaching, a sense of humor, a consummate professional, friendly, down-to-earth...who could ask for anything more. Love this guy. read more

Buddy Macuha - Buddy's in front. Denise is behind him with Madeline. I'm in back. - Trainers Near Me

I LOVVVVVVEEE BUDDY! He's the perfect start to my work week! Love his energy, kindness and teaching!

Since adopting my new gym bunny lifestyle I've been trying to make a visit to the gym every day. Even on days when I'm feeling less enthusiastic about breaking a sweat- I'm been forcing myself to go. This new routine has been made a lot easier with the enthusiastic energy of Buddy Macuha. I've only attended two of his mid afternoon yoga classes thus far - but have been thoroughly impressed with his ability to make an hour long class fly by. Buddy's classes at Sports Club LA are extremely well attended. It's evident when you first walk in - that you're entering a room full of regulars. Buddy seems to know many of the class by name, yet still acknowledges new comers in a discrete and welcoming way. He keeps the energy of the class going with fun music, but still stresses form and accuracy in the yoga moves and transitions. You will be wiping sweat off your brow at the end of class, but you will also leave feeling invigorated and alive. I'm definitely looking forward to continuing to take more of Buddy's energizing classes. Trust. read more

You think you know.... but you have NO idea. Just GO to one of Buddy's classes. You will cry tears of laughter and sweat. Trust me, your mind and body will THANK YOU for it. Buddy - thank you for being YOU and for all that you do. Our world is a happier place thanks to people like YOU. read more

A yogi, comedian and motivational master. This is Buddy. I have not found a better yoga teacher than him. My ears stay intently pricked during his class, trying to capture his instructions or next witty comment. His classes are intense and packed--you need to arrive early to practice. The studio ALWAYS fills up long before class starts. No fail, I walk out of his unheated class steaming and drenched in sweat, as if I stepped out of a sauna. He takes vinyasa to a different level of hurt and humor. In a perfect world, Buddy would host more retreats so my hubs and I can attend his classes now that we no longer live in SF (hint hint!!!! :)). We miss your practicing with you, Buddy! read more

Talk show hosts and fitness instructors get my respect, because they can do what I can't. Namely, they are always "on." I have good days, and on my bad days, I can't fake it. I'm growling. Yet this dude is always high energy and super positive. He no doubt has his bad days like everyone else. But you can't tell. I take his spin class, which is very demanding. He manages to change his programs up. Some classes are more aerobic based, and others are high intensity intervals. He has a lot of creativity. The people in the class seem to enjoy the upbeat music. Since I'm usually in a bad mood, I tune it out. Anyhow, five stars and mad props to Buddy. read more

Fair warning, Buddy's classes are awesome. If you do not enjoy having fun while burning a bunch of calories I suggest avoiding his classes. Buddy will work you hard and make you laugh. I highly recommend taking his spin and yoga classes. read more

You have got to be kidding - that was my response when my wife asked me to come along to 'this awesome yoga class'. Yoga is for girls, guys need weights or fight club! I could not have been more wrong. Buddy's class is the best. You think you wouldn't sweat during yoga? You will. You think it's for pansy girls? Nope, it's a workout. But the chanting is too damn esoteric! Not here. No matter how physically battered or mentally off kilt you are, Buddy will set you straight and lift your spirits. Awesome, awesome, awesome. He is so good I committed by buying a yoga mat and a yoga towel! Go and try even if it sounds ludicrous! Do it! It's an experience! read more

Buddy rocks! This is the yoga class that will get you hooked. I first went to Buddy's yoga at my gym, Sports Club L.A. noon-1 Tues/Thurs class. What's great about Buddy's class is that 1. He knows who is and his authentic self really loves sharing/teaching yoga 2. also, his authentic self loves him some chill out ommm music or some pump up the jam or other old skool hip hop! the music is really fun, and there's great energy in the class. He makes you laugh/smile while getting into some crazy poses, so be prepared to sweat like crazy. I have a 'day job', so getting to a noon class is tough, so I stalked him online and found that he has a 8pm Tues/Thurs Castro Yoga Tree class. This is 1 1/2 hrs, and even more intense and fun vs. the hour class. Definitely worth checking out - namaste. read more

Buddy is one of the most, if not THE most intuitive while also simultaneously positive teachers I've met within the fitness community of San Francisco. I was long overdue to take one of his classes after being urged by several friends and colleagues over the years. Let me tell you, I am SO happy I finally made it in and incredibly grateful to have been a part of his practice this morning at Equinox on Union St. His spirit is playful, energetic and both magnetic/contagious. All the things that create a great experience in group fitness. He teaches a variety of different classes, but I've only had the pleasure of attending Yoga, which is clearly a passion of his. I've never left a class feeling more happy to be alive and thankful for movement as a part of my life. His experience, education and knowledge shines brightly. I've taken so many bad Yoga classes where I felt intimidated or like the teacher was being too militant or worse, careless. I have a feeling you would never experience this in one of his classes. Thank you so much, Buddy. What a wonderful way to start the week and a great addition to the new journey I've chosen for myself in fitness! I look forward to many more uplifting and challenging sessions in the future. Namaste : o ) read more

I have taken Buddy's spinning classes at Equinox and he is an amazing teacher/character. He motivates you, makes you laugh, pushes you, sweats you and then does a little dance and fixes his hair. lol. I went the 2nd time to spinning class ( i am not a spinning person-no really!) b/c i liked the way he thought the class. Very energetic, positive and vibrant... If you catch him teaching anywhere, anything, you should try it=) read more

Though it has been many years since I've last taken a class of Buddy's, he still remembers me when we run into each other around the city. He has such a good, positive energy to him and he never fails to motivate you to do more! When he was teaching a the gym I belonged to I tried really hard to attend his classes and I really did miss them whenever I couldn't go. I still miss those classes to this day. If you ever get the chance to have Buddy as a trainer or instructor, do it! You will not regret it. Well, you might regret the soreness but that's about it. read more

I was turned on to Buddy Macuha from one of my girls and was told he is highly respected as a trainer in SF and does a great job. Buddy is now my buddy :) He is a machine and kicks your butt into shape (in a good way) He is not bad to look at either :P read more

Buddy is an amazing, kind and thoughtful yoga instructor. He changed everything I ever thought about yoga, for the better. I've also used his workouts on i-train which are great too. As a plus size person it's not always easy to find trainers/instructors so patient and willing to work with you and not make you feel as though you're not trying hard enough. He does this with ease and class. He's just the best, and as someone else has said here, 5 stars is not nearly enough for him. read more

Buddy is the only reason I do yoga. He makes working out fun, but at the same time makes you work your butt off! I heart Buddy and you should too. Check him out at Yoga Tree Castro Tuesdays and Thursdays. read more

(This review is about Buddy's vinyassa class at Sports Club LA.) Buddy is one of the most energetic and fun yoga instructors I've ever had. If you like the type of yoga class where you sweat like you're in boot camp, laugh in between poses, and do downward dog to a playlist that often includes Madonna and Black Eyed Peas, you'll love the style of his classes. He also makes sure you know that you can take a break when you need it, or modify poses if you can't do them all. However, he's good at making you push yourself to try as hard as you can. (The class was really hard for me at first, but now I'm hooked and feel way stronger because of it.) Other classes that focus more on getting the poses *perfectly correct* are good in order to lay down a foundation of yoga knowledge, but once you have that, a class like Buddy's can help push you to the next level in terms of strength and fitness. I've really learned through his class that yoga doesn't have to be so serious, and that you burn hella calories while doing it. read more

Buddy is dynamic, genuine, hilarious, ridiculously energetic, irreverent and distracting at the right moments (he tells jokes right when I think death is near). In my opinion, his fast-paced class is a "balanced" class. You always get a good all around workout, and it's as challenging as you allow it to be. It's a fast paced flow class that builds heat quickly and has some strength, balance and flexibility components. Everyone is encouraged to up-level or modify as needed. I think most people would describe the class as challenging and fun. Maybe I'm a big sissy, but I honestly thought I wasn't going to make it through the first class, but I did....and it got easier. Buddy's classes, at least in the Castro, are attended by a whimsical group of vocal practitioners, and there's quite a bit of joking and laughter flowing back and forth between the class and Mr. Buddy. Buddy is one of those guys who will try to learn your name, assign you some kind of nickname, or in the very least make you feel personally welcome by the time the session is over. If you want a mellow class with a lot of chanting and some new Sanskrit vocabulary to impress your office mates, then you best move on. It's not Buddy's style. Don't be fooled though, Mr. Macuha is occasionally profound, but that's not really the point. He thinks you're fine just the way you are...It's a transformative process, not a change that's required. Regardless, I wanted to say thanks to Buddy. read more

I first met Buddy when I was going through a tough time. I kept attending his yoga class because I quickly realized the hour I spent with him was the best part of my day. Buddy's classes are an awesome workout of his very own brand, but that's not the secret of his success. It's his vibe - this ability to soak someone else in positivity and humor. You walk out coated in it, happy to live another day. To me, the ability to give joy to others is the ultimate act of generosity and he is tireless in doling it out. This is why every class he teaches is packed and worth standing in line for. Do yourself a favor and attend any one of his classes to experience the power that is Buddy. Bonus tip: get a fancy pedicure. He will notice. read more

Buddy is a walking dance party yogi acrobat. If I were Madonna-rich and putting a power posse together to travel the world, Buddy would be my first choice to be my trainer/yoga instructor/fun factory. Basically, if you are reading this Madonna, you should really call Buddy and offer him a million dollars to keep that body tight cause he is THAT good! read more

Buddy is the reason why I've fallen in love with yoga. He is AMAZING! Take one of his classes and you'll understand that yoga can be both fun and an internal experience. Any of my friends new to yoga, I always introduce them to Buddy's class and they leave feeling like they can be a yogi for life. That's what you do Buddy...you inspire people to be better! Check him out at a few studios around the city...notably YogaTree Castro and Equinox. read more

Buddy is the best at getting his spin and yoga classes pumped up to work out. He is incredibly motivating and after over a year of going to both classes, I have never been disapointed. If you are feeling tired and unmotivated to work out after a long hard day at work, take one of Buddy's classes at Equinox! read more

Buddy, you inspire & help so many people. 5 stars are not enough! Woohoo! you are as good as it gets!!! I think you should create a Buddy Bobble head!!! Woohoo!!!! :-) Love you!! read more

I pay too much for my Equinox gym membership. Especially in the past few months where I have hardly gone because I get caught up with work, am too tired, am unmotivated, (insert your gym excuse here). However, I noticed that the only days I go are Tuesdays and Thursdays for Buddy's yoga class. I love it! He's a great teacher who challenges you but most of all, he is hilarious. Just the greatest personality. He plays a variety of music during class (from Brittney to New Order - so awesome) and the time just goes by quickly. I always leave Buddy's class feeling rejuvinated, elongated, and most importantly - happy. But he still knows how to challenge you because I am always sore the next day. I hope Buddy opens his own studio someday so I can stop paying Equinox when all I want is Buddy! :) read more

Buddy is a force of nature. His overwhelmingly positive vibe resonates in every class he teaches. Back when he taught cardio kickboxing I left his class completely winded with blisters on my feet. His knowledge of Mind/Body and Fitness is unparalleled and he is a wonderful mentor to all of his students. I highly recommend his classes. read more

I have been going to Buddy's class at Sports Club L.A. noon-1 Tues/Thurs class for about 4 years and still addicted. I miss him and the class when I don't go because the class is so intense that I can forget about everything else and just focus on the presence which Buddy keeps on telling us. Luckily my work place is close by, so I go when I can because I know I will feel like a brand new person when I finish the class and rejuvenated for the afternoon. Time goes by fast in Buddy's class as he makes us work hard with his well thought sequence and fun music like Madonna, Prince, etc, and the energy in the class is always high. Sometimes Buddy plays traditional/spiritual music too and give meaningful words for guidance in life, and just make my yoga experience complete. Take Buddy's class and you will be glad. Just go early as his class is always packed. read more

Buddy single-handedly got me addicted to yoga - I cannot stop going to his Tues/Thurs night Equinox classes!! Somehow he manages to make yoga fun (a la Beyonce, Madonna, Prince) and challenging. I walk out of every class completely drenched in sweat and feeling awesome. Thank you, Buddy!! read more

I love love love Buddy Macuha!! I first took his spin class three years ago and I have been hooked ever since. He manages to create this incredible workout that pushes you beyond your edge. His way of teaching is addictive, fun and inspiring. To me, he is the best spin instructor out there--(not to mention he is a kick ass yoga instructor too.) Buddy, thanks for choosing this path. You are changing lives for the better and I could not imagine spin without you! read more

Buddy was just in Montana and did a training at our club. Excellent information and high energy! Looking forward to putting the new drills to use! read more

Oh Buddy! You are my favorite teacher! I guess you could teach anything and I would love it. Your yoga class is so much fun! It's like partying without the headache the next day. When I'm down you make me laugh, when I'm in a good mood you make me even happier! Thanks for being so full of positive energy and humor! And Happy New Year! read more

Buddy is such an inspiration to all his students. I take both his class at equinox (spin and yoga) and both are incredibly fun. He knows just when to push you and when to back off. I have been doing yoga for almost 7 years now but it wasn't until I started taking his yoga classes that I really started to grow in my yoga practice. He loves what he does and it is evident in every class he teaches. If you are looking for a challenge and some inspiration definitely check out his classes. Warning .. his classes are addictive. :) read more

I have been going to yoga for years, and no instructor has made me sweat and smile more. I love me some Buddy! He fills his classes with so much joy, energy, and humor...and oh yes, great music: Imagine doing down dogs to the likes of Lady Gaga, Kelis, and Beyonce. He has dusted off the traditional, uptight, pretentious, glum yoga class and transformed it into a moving, fun, soulful, meeting of the mind, heart and body. I am completely addicted to his Tuesday/Thursday class at YogaTree. I leave every time feeling like a new, albeit sweaty, man. read more

Buddy is the most hilarious, upbeat and just plain fun yoga instructor you'll have. His music is pop-y and sometimes you end up singing along. Yet his practice is very rigorous (adjustable for different levels) and you'll get the yoga workout of your life. He is a very knowledgeable and well-trained fitness professional and he incorporates this expertise into the practice. I go to his Yogatree classes regularly. The only caveat is that he is not your "traditional" yoga teacher and while his practice has spiritual elements, it is more "secular" in nature and less meditative. read more

Love his yoga class he takes it to the next level, pushes you and makes it fun. Positive high energy and challenging everything I look for in a workout! read more

Buddy is so much fun! I have taken a ton of his classes at SCLA. He makes the hour go by fast, providing an entertaining and effective workout.. Keep it up Buddy! read more

The thought of spinning on a stationary bike has never been fun. I've had boring motivating spin instructors. I belong to SCLA and my friend raved about Buddy. Now, I try to take time during the work week just to take his class. Buddy's workouts also have inspired me to ALC 2010! Thanks Buddy for being such an influence and fun instructor! read more

Sensational, sizzling, superb, sincere Buddy brings energy charm and humor to yoga without losing the tranquility to the practice. His unique practice is good for all levels and does not leave anyone out. Men and women alike come out to enjoy his class with perfectly tailored music. He tells you when to strike a pose and you often find yourself doing poses bigger and better than ever. read more

Buddy is a talented, amazing, and inspiring human being and instructor. I have been a member of Sports Club|LA since December 2012. Only recently did I discover lunchtime yoga & spin with Buddy because of some good accountabilibuddies. I'm hooked, and now, Buddy's schedule matters to me more than my significant other's. ;) I love what my fellow reviewer said about Buddy's energy. This man is always on. I find my loyalty and addiction to Buddy's classes growing not just because of the quality of the workout, but because I leave HAPPIER. Seriously, a win-win situation in every way. Thank you, Buddy! read more

Buddy certainly knows how to melt the fat off my butt and thighs ... and my expensive designer jeans thank him for it! Now that I'm in my 30s and gravity is taking hold ... I found the best way to combat cellulite and a saggy tush is to attend his Spin class two times a week (noon @ SCLA on Wed & Fri). Class is challenging because he uses the Burst training method. He starts at 30 seconds and builds up. During the 50 minute class he spikes your heart rate, gives you a short recovery, then spikes it again and again and again. Basically, you sweat like a prostitute in church! I am addicted to Buddy's class. It's an amazing workout and he's hilarious! Buddy = Comedy Central. He's also a spazz ... but his energy is infectious! Note: his class is ALWAYS packed so make sure you get there early! Once, I rolled in 5 minutes late - the class was full there were no open bikes but Buddy ... the giver that he is ... dismounted the instructors bike, lowered it onto the main floor, re-set the seat to my height, and told me to climb on. He is the best because he wants the best for his students. Love him! read more

Buddy is one of my favorite yoga and spin instructors of all time. He is a highly skilled and competent teacher and is also very funny and entertaining. No reason not to be distracted while you are exercising so hard, right? One time in yoga class, we had just completed a tough series and everyone (namely, me) was pretty exhausted, and he said "okay are you guys ready to push it, huh, are you ready to push it?", a split second later his Ipod plays the song "Push it" by Salt-N-Pepa. I burst out laughing, which I often do in his yoga classes. I highly recommend taking any exercise class from Buddy. read more