The Trainer Who Keeps Me Coming Back I've worked with a few trainers over the past 30 years, but Ray is truly exceptional. He is the only trainer who not only challenges me but also takes the time to stretch my body and work with my injury. He explained why stretching is an essential part of strength training, which has made a huge difference in recovery journey. Ray tailored my workouts to include rehab for my arm, customizing sessions to my needs. He is a true motivator--encouraging, knowledgeable, and resourceful. He provides valuable feedback on what I need to improve while keeping workouts both challenging and fun. I always stay motivated because he keeps things fresh with different types of exercises. If you're looking for a trainer who truly cares about your progress and well-being, I highly recommend Ray! read more

I have been working out with Ray Vargas as my trainer for the past 2 years. It has been a wonderful experience thus far and has benefitted me greatly in terms of not only improving my physical strength but also with my mental and emotional well being. Ray is extremely accommodative towards his clients' needs and is able to cater the workout sessions based on how the client is feeling. Recently, he was also kind enough to have my 5-yr old son workout with me in a joint session, which was really helpful! Training with Ray has helped me understand how "getting fit" and "weight loss" are lifestyle decisions that require patience and perseverance but are not difficult to achieve ... and in fact the process can be a lot of fun if you find the right trainer like Ray. I would highly recommend Ray!!! read more

I have been training with Ray for 3 months and I couldn't be happier with the results. From the first session he took the time to understand my goals, fitness level and limitations. He has a positive energy, is very knowledgeable about all things fitness and makes each session something I look forward to. I have seen improvements in my strength and confidence. I highly recommend Ray!!! read more

I've been working with Ray for two years now, and he has truly helped change my life. Not only have I gotten physically stronger, but I've also greatly increased my endurance and energy thanks to Ray. My health improvements speak for themselves--I'm losing fat, gaining muscle, and reducing my cholesterol. Additionally, Ray has helped me rehab a serious ankle injury through hands-on massage and rehab therapy. I couldn't have done any of this without Ray's guidance about what to do in the gym, out of the gym, and what to put into my body. I truly couldn't recommend working with Ray more highly. read more

I came to Ray in March '24 as a rehabbing collegiate athlete. He not only helped with my injury, but revitalized my career. If you are looking to go beyond your limits and find strength you did not know you had, Ray is your man. read more

I have been working with Ray for almost 10 years now and couldn't recommend or more knowledgeable or personable trainer. Truely devoted to his craft and will move mountains to get you the results your looking for. read more

I reached out to Isotonex based off the reviews on yelp and met with Ray. We had a one on one session and he walked me through the program. I have done quite a few things in past such as MMA, cross fit, OTF and so on and all those required daily frequent workout on my side to keep my body lean. So when Ray first told me we would meet only twice a week, I was skeptical about the progress that we would make. But Ray kept telling me it's quality over quantity. I decided to give it a shot and register for 10 sessions. I was getting into being active after quite a few months off, but Ray reads your body way better than you, yourself know your body and he eased me into the program. Every session I was excited about the workout and I could see the difference in my strength, cardio and endurance . Ray stays laser focused with his clients and is extremely professional and very easy to work with. He is able to correct minute changes in form which once you implement them, you actually feel the difference. He also has a very good way of communicating those pieces that is easy to understand and remember. Ok all that being side, ultimately what matters are results, right? I finished 20 sessions with Ray last week. At the beginning I was close to 183 lbs - 23% body fat. After 20 sessions I dropped to 160 lbs - 18.9% bf. Lost 20 plus lbs, in a very healthy manner. When I was doing OTF and cross fit, I felt like I was breaking my body. All this being said as Ray tells me I am just getting started :) looking forward to continue working with Ray! read more

I love working out with Ray! I started working out with him several weeks ago and have enjoyed every second. In the past, I had just worked out with ClassPass doing workout classes, but with the COVID shutdown, I was left working out on my own. Video classes weren't really cutting it for me, so I joined my sister and dad, who have been working out with Ray for the past couple of years. He definitely pushes you, but I love the sense of accomplishment after every workout. He's also super attentive and aware of any injuries you may be working through and modifies accordingly. I would whole-heartedly recommend him to anyone looking to attain their fitness goals! read more

Ray always kicks my butt with a great workout! Seeing the results & can't wait to see the end result

Ray is THE best trainer. I have been working out with him over a year now . Because of my sessions with him , I have amazing form for all the exercises and have gotten compliments for it from multiple fitness instructors. Over the time, I have not only Gained muscles but also a deep sense of what's the right long term sustainable way to get the fitness results one desires . Ray is very positive and keeps encouraging in the sessions to go above and beyond. He does not waste any of the valuable session time and does not repeatedly make you do same stuff. At times with my consent , he would send me videos of my exercise which helps realize incorrect form and promptly correct it . I have learnt a lot about fitness both conceptually and exercise wise since I have been working out with Ray. Also the facility has plenty parking . Ray is very passionate about helping folks get to where they want to be with fitness goals if one is willing to work for it ! :) read more

Ray is an amazing trainer! I have had neck and shoulder pain for over a decade and after only a month of training with him twice a week, the pain is at least 80% better and continues to improve (something I haven't been able to achieve by going to chiropractors, physical therapists, etc. over the years). I didn't even go to him to rehab this area, but through his training you learn to strengthen all of your weaknesses :) Couldn't recommend him more! read more

Team Ray all the way!! I have been working out with Ray 4 times a week for the last 10 months. I am a very active person and have been working out for the last 4 years, but with Ray I am in the best shape of my life, physically and mentally. Ray is very encouraging, workouts are intense but fun. He is a straightforward no BS kind of guy which I really appreciate. If you are looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable trainer Ray is your guy!! read more

Ray IS THE BEST TRAINER I have met so far. He's very knowledgeable as well as nice to deal with. He's definitely not intimidating, and looking at him and his wife is walking advertisement enough. I currently work out at Club One and although he trains at the Gold's Gym its making me change my mind about where I work out at or even adding another gym to my monthly expenses to have more training sessions with him. It's definitely true that he works with your schedule. My schedule is quite hectic being a mother of a three year old and so my work out times with him is at 6am. CRAZY ME I KNOW!!! He's definitely so much fun to work out with. All workouts are different and challenging, but fun and I've learned so much about my health and fitness that I never knew before. At first I wanted to train for 3 months, but now I'm considering of extending that to 6 months. After the first month, I lost 5 lbs and lost 3.5% BODY FAT....HELL YEAH DAMMIT...He's GOOD!!! My clothes are starting to fall off too!!! It's also nice to see my improvements from day one. I'm able to keep up with the intensity of my personal training sessions and my world around it just feels so much better. I'm not as stressed out with life when I can hit the gym and I know that Ray has helped. read more

Ray is hands down the best trainer in the bay. I started working out with him a few months ago after consulting a few trainers in the area, and so far every single workout has been killer. I'm a pretty active person and I've worked out consistently on my own (lifting, competitive breaking, basketball), but working with Ray has definitely helped me take everything to the next level. He definitely takes the time to get to know you and your goals and tapers the training program accordingly with a no-BS approach, and always gives you that extra push you need to get that last rep and maximize the output of your workout. He also pays close attention to form and provides live feedback so you can perform each exercise/lift safely and efficiently. In terms of the facility - the location is convenient and parking is always available. The gym is kept clean and properly sanitized, and provides a very welcoming atmosphere. Don't sleep on Ray if you're in the area! Highly recommend booking a session with him. read more

This place is really great! Location, equipment, good vibes, and of course master trainer who actually cares and not just selling a program. I have been training here for 8 months and loved all my workouts and results!! I'm very satisfied with it, from beginning to end! read more

Ray is the BEST! I hired him originally to help me prepare for my wedding day in November. He helped me achieve my goals in time for the big day! After the wedding I took a ~3 week hiatus from training and was unsure about going back since it wasn't part of the original plan. I just signed up for an additional 10 classes because my body was craving those workout drills - can't get a workout like I get with Ray anywhere else (Orangetheory, Barry's, etc just doesn't compare). If you're looking for a trainer who will help PUSH you until "failure" which I learned is a good thing, is responsive & reliable, is willing to take videos for you for the gram, and make each workout different/fun, look no further! read more

I've been with Ray since mid-November and I am truly AMAZED at what he's been able to do to me. In January I'm competing in my second pageant on the Miss America circuit, and I started with Ray to get in "swimsuit shape" so I could become a real competitor. In the first three weeks I dropped seven pounds and countless inches off my legs and upper body. (I'll update this review with my total numbers and results from my pageant when I know them!) What's truly incredible is I started a complete novice, and horribly out of shape. When we began I had limitations on what exercises I could do because of a bad back, and he worked around them. Then two and a half weeks in I sprained my knee (freak accident having NOTHING to do with Ray), and he still managed to work me to the bone! He's fantastic at pushing you to your very limit, and beyond, without making you feel weak, or like a failure. I always leave our sessions exhausted, but very excited about the work we've done. Ray emphasized working out correctly and maintaining a healthy diet to complement the exercise you do with him. It's an incredibly healthy approach that anyone can follow and see results. (He really works you smarter instead of harder) Iso-Tonix is worth every penny, I know Ray could make anyone look good for any occasion!! **Update: Didn't win the pageant...(the judges went for a much leggier blonde...oh well), but I looked AMAZING in the swimsuit and never felt more comfortable in my own skin. It's amazing to think how even three months ago I was living so un-healthfully, or that I was carrying around 15 extra pounds! (That's right, 15 pounds in 10 weeks!) Pics to follow shortly! read more

Being a stay-at-home Mom who also works from home, it is hard for me to get in a good workout. After starting my training with Ray, I saw quick results after a very short period of time. Ray really knows how to maximize the little time I do have at the gym to get the results that I want. He put together a nutrition plan that let me incorporate the foods my family eats, so that I did not have to prepare two separate meals. It is obvious that he knows what he is doing; he customized my personal training to everything I could have asked for. He made the training session's fun and interesting, incorporating new things each time. I had a personal goal for myself to run in a 10k, and had a short period of time to train. Ray gave me a training plan to accomplish my goal. I was able to finish my first race in a quicker time than I ever thought and I felt great! I see Ray training other clients, and have to say that he seems to really train each person as an individual. He tailors the training to the needs of his clients and it is a great thing. I have had trainers before, but Ray was the first one to get me the results I really wanted. He is a great trainer and I would definitely recommend Ray to anyone who is looking for a great workout, with great results! You will not be disappointed! ~Shirene Stay-At-Home Mommy & Beginning Runner :) read more

As much as I enjoy group exercise, I found I was not getting the desired results. Enter Isotonex. You know a trainer's value when, despite the per session charge, has such a full schedule that finding a time for an introductory meeting, much less a regular session, takes a month. Well, it was worth the wait and the expense. From my first introduction, I was impressed by Ray's knowledge and professionalism. He offered a holistic approach, combining fitness sessions (of strengthening and fat-burning cardio) with nutritional guidance all based on experience and informed knowledge which other trainers I spoke with did not seem to have. Ray lives the lifestyle he promotes you undertaking to reach and maintain your optimal physical condition, not only being in excellent condition himself but continually striving to physically challenge himself. I had completed a mini boot camp before signing up which, in a lot of ways, dictated what I did not want in a trainer. I felt like the marketing photos and bio reflected a trainer from a few years before who had clearly fallen off the health wagon. So much so, that he didn't even demonstrate the exercises. But, I digress... That is not Ray. First, he demonstrates each activity showing correct form. Then he is focused throughout the session, gauging at which moment to assist or add a little more resistance, helping make sure you maintain correct form throughout. In my case, being unfamiliar with equipment and lacking in strength, quick enough reflexes to to jump in at a moment's notice to prevent embarrassing catastrophes. Ray also varies each session. When combined with the ongoing gauging of your abilities and progress, you are continually challenged and find yourself completing activities you would not have imagined possible. I can not give enough credit for how helpful his nutritional guidance and evaluation of my meals was. That, in itself, has been transformational and I can only say "thank you" again. read more

I began to take my personal fitness seriously in 2009 after reaching an all-time weight high. I started off with DVD systems like "P90X" and "Insanity" with the mentality that the DVDs were just as good as any personal trainer if not better. This year, my girlfriend convinced me to join Ray's summer boot-camp. I really didn't know what to expect, but I figured since I've been doing "Insanity," this should be the same. I'm very excited to say that I was wrong. The first thing I noticed on day one was Ray's energy. You can tell that he's a genuinely positive person and very passionate about his work. He's never fake and never slacking on the job. He pays close attention to detail; you can tell that he cares about each person in the program. I felt that within the boot camp setting, I would be just another face in the crowd; like a kid in a big class, being lectured but not being taught. But no matter how many people attended, Ray was able to spend time with every person on every station and give them individual tips on how to cater the workout to them. With the DVDs, you go through the motions, but you don't have any guidance, direction or coaching. The DVD can't correct your form, tell you to push harder when you're slacking or modify a move for you when you're obviously exhausted. Ray does all this, but never in such a way that you feel discouraged or that you're coming up short. He knew exactly what to say and what to do to get me to give everything I had in every workout. I became excited, looking forward to going to boot camp, as opposed to dreading the time I would have to spend with the DVDs. There would always be something fresh and new. I used to struggle and feel old trying to keep up with my younger cousins when playing sports, but not anymore. Training with Ray has raised my fitness and athleticism to the next level - to all time highs. Everything about him and his program is the real deal. read more

Ok, so my fat ass has yet to train with Ray... but I'm working on it. The reason for the five stars is because I have referred him to a couple of clients and they cannot stop RAVING! about him. They both tell me that his workouts are fun and productive, and he keeps them motivated! Best of all, the results are phenomenal! Maybe I need to stop sending clients his way, because he is making them look too good, and they may not have a need for me again! Slow it down, Ray... hahaha... I am usually very leary of recommending people I have not used myself because my reputation is on the line. But, Ray came so highly recommended I decided to send people there, and I am so glad I did! Ray didn't let me down. I will definitely continue to recommend him to my friends and clients! read more

Before I trained the Isotonex way, I thought I worked out hard. Then I realized the true meaning of a good workout. For years, I always thought of myself as a pretty active and fit person. I hiked regularly, went to the gym, did various workout DVD's, but nothing I have done or will do, can ever compare to a training session with Isotonex. Isotonex epitomizes everything personal training should be. The genuine attentive care I received enabled me to safely push my limits, build my strength, and inspire me to become better. I have had personal trainers in the past that seemed disinterested and didn't motivate me at all. I have seen the personal trainers on TV screaming and belittling his or her client to "motivate" them. So naturally, when I went for my first session with Isotonex, I really didn't know what to expect. What I found was encouragement that not only motivated me to complete the work out session at hand, but also lit a fire inside of me to ultimately become better. Every time I wanted to quit, every time I thought I was too tired to continue, I heard a genuine voice telling me I could do it and that in this sport, failure is a good thing. Failure is a good thing. It's only been a day since my training session and I'm still in awe of how amazing my workout was. I cannot stop raving to everyone I know about it. The Isotonex method is so incredibly dynamic. Trust me, you will be blown away. Even if you think you know it all, done it all, you don't. I got the hardest and most intense workout of my entire life. There's something inexplicable about the level of training offered here that words truly cannot express the immense expert care one will receive. I can only urge everyone to contact Isotonex and find out for themselves. Addiction is inevitable. read more

I travel back and forth between Emeryville (you know... where the Ikea by SF bay bridge is) and San Jose for work and am busy 24/7. I work all day, attend mixers/launch parties/visit businesses/etc. at night (FOR WORK) and STILL manage to have my personal play time during the weekends. Even with ALL that going on, Ray has always managed to make time for my appointments! He is THE BEST trainer EVER! He is motivating and upbeat and never lets me fail even when my arms and legs feel like they are about to fall off. I'm lazy, eat junk food like no other and yet, am toning up, losing weight and have more energy than ever. I definitely recommend Iso-Tonix to everyone and anyone because they are so versatile and can customize your workout regimen to fit your lifestyle. I LOVE ISO-TONIX!!! read more

I returned to the gym earlier this year (late April) after many years of slacking with the hope and intentions of getting into the best shape of my life. I'd considered a personal trainer earlier in my life but always figured I could get by, and nobody ever stood out as exceptional. When I opened the binder at Gold's and saw Ray's slot missing business cards it prompted me to think there was something going on here & that I needed in on it! So I scheduled a meeting and was delighted with the professional attitude and presence Ray exhibited. Not only did he explain his plan, he made a connection to what I was looking for and translated it to a workable goal. Ray examines your status (health, lifestyle, day-to-day demands) and structures a plan based on your goals. The one-on-one training is like nothing like I've ever experienced (and I'd trained with the best for the Wildflower Triathlon over 10 years ago). Not only does Ray teach step-by-step exercises on the machines, etc., he instills correct form and execution to enable you to benefit to your fullest, working smarter not harder. Isontonex's plan is to equip you with the overall mindset of health, fitness, & performance not only from the esthetic aspect but also from a functionality standpoint, all while knowing the man has your back, pushing you further than you'd ever expected from yourself. He is there cheering you on, talking the negative thoughts out of your head and believing in you when you don't! I did the Isotonex 8-wk boot camp this summer and was nervous at first as I am older than the other participants. That feeling was null and void throughout the workouts as the sheer spirit of teamwork and absolute joy was the in the air every single Saturday morning at 7am! It was THE best experience and I am looking forward to the next opportunity. I've signed on for the remainder of this year and I'm sure next year and the so on. I'm sold that Ray is THE trainer to side with when looking to put yourself first, both in body and mind as well as spirit. He is the essence of a great personal trainer and I only hope everyone allows themselves a few sessions with Ray to experience not only challenging yourself to be your best but to experience someone who gets and stays in the game with you, day in and day out. I have lost inches of body fat, gained muscle tone, strength and most of all confidence and the sense of well-being in these first few months. I'll update this as time goes along...and I climb higher to the top!! Hoorah...Isotonex baby!! read more

I've had personal trainers on and off for the last 7 years, but no one has ever stood out to make me want to sign up with them again... until I met Ray. I started searching for a personal trainer a few months before my wedding and uppon some research on Yelp, I came accross Isotonex. Based on such stellar reviews, I decided to give Ray a try, but I have to admit... I was a bit skeptical, after all, who can have so many reviews all of them 5 stars, right?? Well, Ray can and after you meet with him, you just know that you are in good hands. From the food plan (which includes, daily food journal monitoring and trust me, he will make you accountable to do it and you want that), to the personalized exercise plan that will fit your lifestyle and get you results, to the support and energy to get you motivated... Ray covers everything and he will never give up on you, even when you start giving up on yourself. Every workout with Ray it's like working out for the first time. Not only does he keep changing the routine making it fun and exciting, he makes sure that my entire body is worked out, which makes me feel amazing when I'm done. Ray is such a great genuine guy, who always cares about his clients and always makes sure, the client he is with is his main priority. His sessions are 60 minutes and that means nothing less than that - for those of you who have experienced careless trainers, who are always looking at the time, rather than concentrate on the client, you know what I mean. I first signed up for a 3 month plan, to get me ready for my wedding, which was on October 2, 2010. I've had my ups and downs, but Ray was right there fighting with me, supporting me and making sure I would not give up... I felt amazing on my Wedding day, therefore I decided to sign up with him for another 3 months. If I was getting married now, I would make sure I would meet with him 1 year before the wedding... He is that worth it!! read more

Ray @ Iso-tonix is the best trainer in the world. Not only is he professional and fun, but his nutritional guide and workouts are realistic, and diverse, which keeps me motivated. I am not one who LOVES to workout, so, I need a lot of support and encouragement, which Ray is great at. He also is in constant communication via e-mail or texting so if you have a question you get a quick response. He actually gets mad when I DON'T eat, which I love! I very highly recommend Ray & Iso-tonix. You will be very pleased with the experience! read more

I was a competitive rower for 14 years, and I contacted Ray because I have having a hard time putting on any muscle. I have been training with Ray for the last 2 months and I have seen more progress during this time than I have in years. I have been able to gain muscle while loosing fat. Ray's program is very comprehensive and tailored for each person. He covers nutrition, weightlifting and cardio. His workouts are intense and he pushes you to your personal limit while encouraging you in a positive way. I would suggest Ray to any of my friends who are looking for an excellent trainer. read more

Ray Vargas has been my coach and trainer for over a year and a half, before we worked together I struggled with my eating habits and was not sure about my workout intensity. Since working with Ray I have established health eating habits and have made it as a National Level Figure Competitor. Ray's passion and commitment can not be compared. His continual strive for excellence, drives him to provide, nothing but the best service to his clients. Ray's energy is contagious, his continual support goes above and beyond what other trainers provide. His integrity and genuine caring attitude are truly a rarity. If you are serious about reaching your fitness goals, it is with out question you should contact Ray Vargas. read more

Ray is simply awesome. I'm starting with nothing and he 's getting real results. He works with your limitations and yet knows when to push. In addition, he has real in-depth knowledge of how the body works and uses it to really address long-standing problems. The bonus is he's really a neat guy with a fun sense of humor. I actually enjoy working out for the first time! read more

UPDATE TO MY UPDATE: I've completed a 5K, 1/2 marathon and a Muddy Buddy race since training with Isotonex. Who would have imagined?! UPDATE: I am seeing results bigtime! Inches are being lost. New clothes are in the closet because my other ones were too baggy. Whooo hooo an excuse to shop and feel good while doing it! : ) Ray has been amazing. He has helped me a tremendous deal with my ankle strength and stability. Since having one-on-one sessions with him, I have gone the longest in my adult life without a sprain or injury. If you choose to met him, be prepared...your life will not be the same. His positivity, passion and knowledge for what he does will effect you. If you put in the work, he will show you how to push yourself to new limits. read more

Ray is a really outstanding trainer. I have been exercising for quite some time but wasn't really seeing the results I wanted and needed some major help getting on track with my diet. Since I started with him two months ago i have lost 3% of my body fat, kicked my really horrible eating habits to the curb and am well on my way to a much healthier lifestyle :o) Plus, he makes every session interesting and unique, he really knows his stuff and most importantly he makes working-out a fun experience. Basically... he is the best! read more

I've just started out on my journey with Ray and Iso-tonix - it's been about 4 weeks. That might sound like a long time to some but, for anyone who has tried to lose weight or get back in shape, you know that's not long at all. In the few sessions I've had with Ray, I am already seeing a difference in both my body, my attitude towards food, fitness and life in general. My energy has increased, my appetite is under control and I have found myself actually WANTING to work out. Every workout with Ray has been different but just as challenging and rewarding as the last. Not only am I working out, feeling better and less stressed but I'm having lots of fun too. I cannot wait to update this review at the end of my 4 month session with Ray and Iso-tonix and share with everyone the progress we made because I can already tell it's going to be exceptional. read more

Ray was brought up in a conversation I was having with a few friends about trainers. What I kept coming back to was how unique he was. How his focus is always on his clients. Time and again we hear of trainers who just "show up", get paid and go through the motions. Ray on the other hand makes it personal. He "gets" his clients needs. He "gets" why they are training with him. He "gets" IT. (How many people in our lives actually "get" IT? Really, ponder that a moment.) He is like that song you hear on the radio where your adrenaline races a bit, you just feel yourself get pumped at the mere thought of working out with him. So you crank that song up... all the way. That is exactly how he makes you train. He makes you crank it up within yourself full blast. Focusing on YOUR needs, YOUR goals while making you a better person... both within as well as your physique. read more

I started window shopping for a new trainer in April of this year. For my research, I carefully watched the trainers at my gym - their style, demeanor with clients, expertise, etc. Ray caught my eye because he was always smiling with his clients and he looked like he really knew his stuff. I thought he was very sharp and cutting edge. My instincts were right. I had to get into fighting shape for a fitness test for a potential government job. There were very strict guidelines and scoring protocol to this test that I shared with Ray. He tailored my training regimen to my individual needs with what would get me to my goal in the most efficient manner given my tight time constraints. Ray got me beyond that point and I passed my fitness test! I also got into the best shape of my life. Ray was very focused, incredibly dedicated to what became "our" cause, and stayed the course through the hard times (we had a few!). He's all heart ... with a little muscle wrapped around! Our training regimen was intense and serious, but he still made it fun. I built muscles (and stamina) I never knew I had. Ray showed me proper technique and educated me while kicking my new body into the most fabulous shape ever! Over the four short months that he trained me, I shed 15 pounds, dropped 4 pant sizes, and a total of over 20 inches!! By our two month mark, I had already lost 4% body fat! I have been a gym rat most my life and know my way around. I have also had other trainers who were great. But my body never achieved the level of fitness that it did with Ray's guidance. The difference is that Ray trains holistically - meaning he addresses the whole person taking into account factors such as diet, mental and physical fatigue, schedule, lifestyle, etc. And he incorporates different training techniques (i.e., plyometrics, cardio, weights) so you don't have a chance to plateau and are constantly improving. Every training day was a pleasant surprise! He changes your routine based on your feedback and results. Whether you are training hard or not, you hit plateaus - mental and physical. Ray is the first trainer I had who recognized and addressed this connection between physical and mental well being. There were times when I hit my wall, he was there to support me no matter what. He went the extra mile and it's because of his dedication and care for his craft that I surpassed my fitness goals. I know I could not have achieved my goals without his guidance. I still grab Ray whenever I can for adhoc sessions. Toward the end of our regular training days together, I could see people watching us, thinking - "that trainer is always smiling with his clients"... now I know - he's smiling because he's inflicting some good pain!! read more

Ray Vargas by far is the most professional down to earth guy you can deal with. I've known Ray since 2005 seen him train his clients, always stayed professional always produce results. I am a former Manger at the Golds Gym in Campbell home-base for where Ray trains out of. This man is very consistent never received any complaints about Ray. Members would Tavel from all areas of the bay to train with this guy. Ray is the man! read more

Best trainer I've ever had! He's friendly, knowledgeable and on point dealing with a list of injuries I presented to him. No two workouts are ever the same and always a challenge. He's always punctual and dependable which is very important when sticking with a routine. I highly recommend Ray and I love the facility where he trains 5 read more

Fantastic. I've had 14 one hour sessions with Ray, and I've seen results that are nothing short of phenomenal. I've lost at least 6 pounds, and I feel STRONG. I can pick up my 35 lb toddler with ease now. My body composition has changed significantly, as well. I had a bit of an epiphany this past weekend. I went shopping for the first time in over a year, and as I stood in the dressing room, looking at myself in the 3-way mirror, I realized that it was the first time in a very long time that I hadn't looked in a 3-way mirror and hated my reflection. Ray is a very big part of that. Because of the cost, personal training isn't something that I will be able to do forever. I decided to try personal training to give my pregnancy weight loss another kick-start, and I'd have to say that I got everything I wanted and more out of my sessions. Thanks Ray!! read more

I would recommend Ray to anybody willing to work to get results - there is not a doubt in my mind that he will help you achieve the results you desire, and results you didn't even think possible. Whether you're looking to get fit, train for a particular goal, lose weight, etc. - Ray is the trainer for you. I was looking for a trainer to help me get back in shape. Not necessarily to lose weight, but to overall tone and strengthen. I am a fairly active individual. I enjoy working out and some somewhat adventurous sports - wakeboarding, snowboarding, hiking, jogging, etc. After incurring numerous basketball injuries throughout my university career, my knees were left a little weakened and needless to say these above mentioned activities caused me to injure both my right and left mcl as well as my left ankle, and all within the course of a year. I was not so happy about these injuries and wanted to take matters into my own hands. I interviewed with a few trainers, as I wanted to make sure I got a trainer who listened to me, could work with my injurie,s and really work with me and motivate me to achieve my goals. Ray did and continues to do just that. In fact, he did this and then some. I am more agile, flexible, toned and stronger. I have achieved results I did not even ask for or expect. I have lost significant inches and weight. I have had co-workers, friends and family comment about my positive changes, which were not easily achieved as I was already in fairly good shape. Ray has a way of helping everybody go beyond what they expect from themselves and he does so with a willing ear and a smile. Believe me, Ray will not disappoint you if you are looking for a trainer. read more

First off let me just say that Ray has changed me for life! I enrolled at Golds gym over 10 years ago and was a casual gym participant. I would go to the gym 3 times a week, maybe 4, and would try and just lift heavy with little to no cardio at all. I was sitting around 200 lbs and had little motivation to improve. In 2005 my wife got pregnant with twins and I put on the baby weight right along with her. We had the girls in Aug of 2006 and I stopped going to the gym right around when they were born. I cancelled my gym membership. I kept on putting on weigt and got up to around 210 lbs. In the beginning of 2009 I started racing motocross and lost some weight just from doing that. I got back down to around 195 lbs. At the beginning of 2010 I decided to start back up at Golds gym. I got my membership back and went right back into my old routien of 3-4 days a week and just lifting, no cardio. I had met a few new people at the gym and in June I entered into a bet with a co-worker as to who could lose more weight and get in better shape in 3 months. Our bet was to be from July 1st till Oct. 1st. I decided to take this very seriously and a few of my new friends at the gym told me to talk to Ray, he was an incredible trainer and would whoop me into shape. I emailed Ray and set up a meeting with him to talk about some training and nutrition. After talking to Ray for 5 minutes I knew this was the guy that I wanted to get me into shape. He is very motivated about health and athleticism and he's just an all around great guy. He placed me on a nutritional plan, and I attended a few training sessions with him. The results have been INCREDIBLE!!! I went from around 192 lbs in July to 170 lbs on October 1st. That's a little over 20 lbs lost in 3 months! As you would expect I WON my bet. =) Thanks to Ray! He has transformed my diet and I am so much healthier than I was in the last 10 years. I never thought I could get a six pack ever, but I've got a great 4 pack going and am working on the last 2! Anyone who is interested in losing weight NEEDS to contact Ray. I'm a firm believer now that ANYONE can lose weight if you just have the right combination of diet and excersise. I don't care what kind of shape your in, Ray will get you where you want to be as long as you listen to him and follow what he says. I'm living proof that it can be done! Thanks for everything Ray! See you at the gym!!! read more

It had been a few years since I did any kind of strength training. On the recommendation of a friend I went to see Ray. Whether you're a novice or more advanced, I recommend him highly. He is a very knowledgeable and the workouts are never boring as he changes them up. He is very patient and encouraging and builds you up (mentally & physically). He's a really good person with great energy and enjoyable to be around. read more