This gym has been a fabulous experience for me. After haven't been working out for a few good years, I wanted to get back into a healthy, efficient, and correct exercise routine. Michael and Alison were both incredibly wonderful. They pushed me and the other attendants to high levels of health and fitness. After one month only I have seen very Impressive results! If you want a personal vibe, and a great place to workout with people who know and care about what you do and how you do it, and push you to your next level, this is the gym for you! Thank you Most Hated Gym! You've added massive value (and muscle ) into my life. I'm forever grateful! read more

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Mike is the Real Deal! I don't ever write reviews, but felt compelled to do so. I've never worked out at a gym or taken any classes because I am just too shy and scared. I started off taking personal training sessions with Mike and he slowly integrated me into his morning classes. It's been two months and I've already seen small changes. If you're looking for a personal trainer who brings energy, expertise, and a genuine love for what he does, Mike is your guy. From the second you walk into a session, his loud and fun personality fills the room -- you can't help but get hyped up. He's serious about form, technique, and pushing you to hit your goals. Mike is passionate about training. You can see and feel how much he cares. He's not just counting reps -- he's coaching, motivating, correcting, and celebrating every bit of progress with you. Every workout is challenging but tailored, and he always finds a way to make it fun. If you want someone who's going to make you laugh and sweat -- while actually making progress -- Mike's the trainer to go with. Highly recommend! read more

What I appreciated most is Michael's attention to detail when explaining the importance of learning the right form and movement during an exercise. He wasn't interested in selling me his classes or personalized one-on-one session; just gave me good information and encouragement. He has remained helpful although he recommended a gym closer to my home. 10/10 read more

If you need motivation to work out, this gym is for you. Trainers Mike and Alison keep you on your toes and challenged with their customized workouts. No matter how hard each session is, they manage to keep it fun and ultimately glad you came. The time is now to work on that summer body! read more

This will be a love/hate relationship for sure! But not the toxic kind like you had with your ex. Lol. Michael will make sure your form is on point and will certainly build the foundation you need to reach your fitness goals. You need this guy! Why go to another gym to work out alone and hate yourself when you can go to the Most Hated Gym and hate Michael instead when he's pushing you through your workout?! You won't regret it! read more

It's easy to hate this gym when you're getting your butt kicked in a workout. But it's impossible to hate it for long because Michael and Allison make their hardcore workouts so fun! I'm happy to be back in the gym, getting in shape with a trainer who makes sure my form is correct, who pushes my body further than my mind thinks it can go, and whose playlist keeps me pushing through. The people who train there are cool and supportive, too! Come check it out - I am doing more than I ever thought possible and I bet you will, too. read more

I love Mikey!! With all the food I eat, I need a good workout to burn it off 3-5 times a week!!! or I would seriously be a fat ass!! I've trained with Mike for many years at the gym, he is an excellent trainer and very professional. What I love about him is that he works with my schedule, a lot of trainers in hollywood have a "you have to accommodate me" attitude. I have learned a lot about healthy diet and muscle composition/physiology from Mike over the years, everyone's different, and I've learned a lot about my own body by just paying attention to details. Mike is also very encouraging, I'm late all the time, I love it how he'd call me in the morning before the work out and motivate me when I feel lazy. If you're looking for a trainer in LA, give Mike a try! he's fantastic. oh, PS. please don't hire people from 24 hour fitness, I swear I had 3 different trainers from there, and I have more knowledge then each and every one of them, plus one was eating while training me! WTF? Needless to say I fired his ass right after! read more

It's pretty funny that I found Michael on yelp by accident while searching for a restaurant in Sherman Oaks. I ended up on his page here and read all the reviews. I have really been wanting to get back into shape for a long time but I knew I needed some one on one training to get me motivated. I had looked into it but anytime I've had a trainer, they seem more interested in time passing or standing there while I repeat the same moves over and over. Boring. So fast forward. I contacted Michael even though the "most hated trainer" scared the hell out of my out of shape self. When we finally touched base, he was so cool on the phone that I went in the following day for my first session. I was totally intimidated because I literally had not worked out ages. My workout consisted of lifting a wine glass to my mouth and occasionally walking.... Michael was awesome! Scary yes, but awesome. I guess going in, I didn't have the confidence or belief to think I could get through a whole session without passing out or giving up. He really makes you believe and push yourself. AND.....he texts or calls you the day after every workout to see how you are feeling! I am totally addicted. I love love going to see him and for the first time in my life I love and enjoy working out. This CrossFit style training is completely different than just going to the gym and lifting weights. Michael teaches you the correct form for every move and actually watches you and gets down with you when you are working out. It's amazing to find out how much we can actually do and how resilient our bodies are. Just when i think I can't do one more rep.....I push myself and I realize I can. So big thanks to Michael......everyday that I am there I feel more motivated and like it all that much more......(yes...I even curse him out less than I did when I started a few weeks ago....under my breathe of course) . read more

10 reasons why I hate Micheal Lopez 1. When am dying and all I want to do is walk out of the gym --- micheal makes me do another set !!!!! 2 He never let's me quit and trust me sometimes thats all I want to do . 3 He keep texting asking me if I ate right -- how does my body feel -- leave me alone ! 4. He is always in such a great mood -- and always have lots of energy ! 5 . Makes me do man makers ( which I hate ) 6. My office is right across his gym so I can never Ditch a workout 7. He is in perfect shape that am Jealous. 8 There are too many amazing beautiful skinny bitches at the gym ( gosh I wish I looked like them ) 9. He makes me sweat !! 10 I have to buy all new clothes ! I hate micheal cause he actually makes you work and never let's you give up on your goal ! Love ya Your best client Raina read more

I hate Michael Freaking Lopez. I hate that he texts me all the time like some pyscho ex about where have I been. I hate that he texts me to ask how I am doing after a hard workout. What the hell. I hate that he always yells my name when I enter the gym. "JOSUEEEEE" I hate that he makes me do death by ___________ (enter hard exercise here). I hate that he's always smiling and having a good time when we are all working hard. Now replace all the "hate" I wrote with "love". Mike is such a great trainer. He is so genuinely concerned about your health goals! The guy is relentless in keeping you motivated and encouraged. The other day he told me that my health goals are his health goals and he isn't joking around! The guy is knowledgeable, helpful and the absolute BEST!!!! read more

Michael.... my goodness, this guy is seriously the absolute best at what he does! you can tell from the first five minutes of training with him that he cares about his clients. He is always early to the sessions, pushes you as hard as your body will let you go, and best of all not only does he promise results, but the results actually show! i have been working out with Micheal for about a month now, and with a few slight changes to my diet habits and his amazing work outs i have lost about 2 inches on my waist!!! you will be in pain the next day, that's probably the only negative thing i can think of, and its not even a bad thing! i work out 5 days a week, and have never made myself feel as sore as he makes me feel after a workout. his workouts are short and intense with high reps, Michael is a perfectionist with form and posture which only improves your results, and you don't badly hurt yourself when lifting weights of doing any type of workout. most hated trainer? DEFINITELY ! I tell him every time i hate you! but its all with love! hahah he has an amazing personality and the workout goes by really quickly because its really all about having fun! read more

It has been almost a year since I wrote my last review about Mike and I wanted to say that I am still a member and happier than ever! In fact can no longer imagine my life without the Most Hated Trainer! Working out between 2-4 times a week my body is toned, muscular and I feel strong. I wish I could give Mike 20 stars - he totally deserves it! If you're looking for something to shock your body and only have 30-45 minutes - Mike is the man! He will work with you on the best times/ dates and situation. 2.30pm class is my favorite - we combine cardio and strength training in a boocamp/crossfit style and we come to WIN! Don't you be fooled when the warm up is as rigorous as the actual session. You'll LOVE IT! What I love most about fitness with Mike is that he is 200% attentive, genuine and effective. He cares about your progress and YOU! Plus there is no wasted time - you are in and out feeling FANTASTIC, which is excellent for busy professionals. I will personally vouch for Mike anytime - come try his training for yourself! read more

My New Year's Resolution was to stop using profanity and to get a personal trainer. Well, when Michael Lopez is your trainer, that no cussing rule goes out the window. I've dropped more F-Bombs in one 60 minute session with Mike than most people do in 60 days. I've been fit before and had trainers before and no one has worked my ass as hard, AND been as encouraging and supportive as he has. Even that time I pushed him when he tried to help me up after I was pissed off from doing pushups, burpees, then having to run (I hate to run!), Mike kept smiling and motivating me. Working out with him I can go from laughing to damn near crying because my body is screaming "CAN"T WE JUST STAY CHUNKY?!?! LIFE WAS SO SIMPLE - DON"T LET HIM DO THIS TO YOU!!!!" The addictive workouts are some of the hardest I've ever done, but I am stronger, leaner, and my butt looks darn good for a mom of 2 who is about to hit 40! - I just love to hate Mike!! read more

I really can't say enough good things about working with Michael. He is like totally focused on what you need, not what he wants for himself or the group or the gym. And he really brings it each and every workout - the fun, the structure, the motivation - and it works. One thing to note is that there truly is no insider/outsider dynamic at this gym at all. Show up, and you're part of the fun. Work hard, and someone will fist bump you afterwards as you're sweating and gasping for air. Choose not to work hard, and you'll be playfully ridiculed until you do. I love this stupid gym. I'm seeing crazy results. I can't believe I look forward to going to a hot sweaty gym with a bunch of guys in an industrial park three afternoons a week. But I am and I do. This place is a great find. read more

For the past 15 years, I've had a dozen personal trainers. Most of which have disappointed me, that is until I met Mike. He is a professional and pushes you to challenge yourself. Mike told me he was not like your average trainer and he was absolutely right! He is always on time and doesn't answer his phone during training sessions. Yes, that's right! No texting, BBM or Facebook while you are working out. Michael was the first trainer to actually call me after my workout to see how I was feeling. Talk about customer service at it's finest! I've never had such personalized service before. If you are looking for the run-of-the mill training service that allows you to relax and talk shop while training, then look elsewhere. However, if you would like a professional trainer that is going to get you the results you want then Mike is your man! Afterall, he is the "Most Hated Trainer", but you will absolutely LOVE the results! I highly recommend using Mike as your trainer! These work-outs have literally changed my life! read more

If you are looking to commit to yourself to getting in shape, Mike (aka The Most Hated Trainer) is the person to go to. If you are like me and have been struggling to get in shape but have NO IDEA what you are doing at the gym or with your diet...Mike will ease those nerves and educate you. The biggest step for me was just picking up the phone to call Mike. I was so nervous, simply because I've been in horrible shape for so long. The second I meet Mike, he completely put me at ease (he is a bit of a charmer). In a couple of weeks he taught me the basics with a heavy emphasis on form and I started participating in group workouts once I was more comfortable. Every time I see Mike is a proverbial ass kicking, so despite his shining personality, you will be cursing him through those last burpees. But that awesome feeling post workout will reassure you that Mike is pushing you to get better and you will DEFINITELY see yourself improving. Mike, unlike most trainers I have encountered, actually cares to know how you are doing after a workout and about your diet. It's really refreshing, especially as a person who has participated in every fad diet and trendy workout. I am finding that I don't dread going to the gym anymore and that I look forward to the challenge and awesome post workout feeling. read more

UPDATE 8/9/2013 Still goin strong at Steel Barbells! A great friend of mine came with me to one class and immediately signed up, hooked just like me and anyone who gets their butt in there. It doesn't get better!!! So much fun, best workout EVER, and speaking of butts....mine is lookin pretty damn good. Every time someone says I have a nice body I say a silent thank you mike (just as some would to Jesus). I don't even go consistently and my body is tighter and am much stronger, also my energy level is up and more consistent throughout the day. I freakin LOVE this gym, love the people who go here, and looooooove Michael lopez, with that A.C Slater smile of his. So So So happy I took a chance and tried something new. ******************************************************************************************** yep still a 5 star for sure!!! I just loooove going and look forward to the next session and what I am going to learn next. I always leave feeling so good! Why do i continue to go wearing foundation?!?! have to break that morning habit because by the time I walk out of there my face looks like a zebra :) Do yourselves and your bod a favor, try this out. This puts going to the gym to shame and I am a certified gym rat. ohhhhh yeah. read more

I moved to LA mid last year from New Zealand and quickly found Michael, (of steel barbells fame.) All I have to say is.....THANK YOU, to whatever it was that led me here. I think I would have lost my mind in a new city and country if it wasn't for the training sessions I had with Michael. He really has been my sanity! I started out with one on one training sessions, that he fitted in around my schedule, easier said than done believe me. Then once I got the hang of the exercises and was using the correct technique I moved onto small, 3-4 people, group trainings. And talk about a workout, wow! I always leave training shattered but on a complete high, like I could take on the world. Michael shows you the correct form for every exercise and works with you so that you're targeting the correct muscle groups. I've had trainers before that showed me once, then ignored me and showed no interest in whether I was doing it right or not. There's none of that here. If your form slips even a little Michael will let you know, as he's always watching. He will push you to give it your all. And there are no excuses! After training sessions I get a call or text the next morning checking up on how Im feeling. A real personal touch that goes a long way. Ive been training with Michael now on and off (my job involves travel) for 8 months. I am so much stronger. Never thought I'd be able to do pushups or ring dips, ever. But they're just 2 of the exercises I've mastered. Oh and box jumps. I couldn't jump to save myself, but with practice and encouragement from Michael I am now able to do them! Favorites are the 2.30 trainings. It's a small group of ultra competitive, sometimes smack talking, individuals who are all there to win!! And I do mean win! There is nothing easy or half hearted about the training. You leave after 30-45mins of a mix of cardio and strength training, sometimes with legs and arms shaking. Michael really is THE best trainer I've ever worked out with. And I always look forward to training sessions. He is a consummate professional, who is friendly and really passionate about what he does. His enthusiasm infects you and pushes you to try harder and attempt things you never thought you could achieve. I can't say enough good things really, and highly recommend him with no hesitation. read more

2 years ago I grew bored with kickboxing/boxing classes. I did a quick google search, found Mike "The Most Hated Trainer" and decided to go. I'm so glad I did because he introduced me to circuit training and a healthier way to eat. Before having Mike as a trainer I didn't pay attention to food. I thought "Hey I work out so I can eat whatever I want!" ...*BZZT!* Nope! Hes not letting me slide with that one, So he gave me a quick start guide to paleo and zone diets, which helped immensely. Fast forward to 2013, I'm training with Mike again so I can get my strength back postpartum. After 2 weeks of training with him, I feel stronger already. My muscles definitely hate him, but the results are so worth it. read more

Not only is Michael Lopez a great trainer, he's also one of the most supportive and generous human beings I've ever met (and I say that as a lifelong cynic). That combination may matter more than you think, because even when you've had a bad day or feel low on energy or are re-thinking your commitment to fitness, Mike will not only greet you with a smile, but help push you to do things that will surprise yourself. I know I have! I first met Mike back in 2006 after going on my own to the gym off and on since I was 19. He promptly showed me that almost everything I thought about working out -- especially form and the amount of weight I was using -- was just flat out wrong (good for me, bad for my ego!). But as the weeks turned into months and I remained committed, not only did my body change, but so did my attitude, my eating habits and, most of all, my confidence. It's nice getting hit on! I'm now attending the cross-training classes offered at Steel Barbells and have boosted my endurance and strength levels even more than when I was training one-on-one. But don't worry about not keeping up -- he'll work with you one-on-one until you're ready to join a group. Most of all, Mike's enthusiasm -- EVERY SINGLE TIME -- is so infectious and the other students so supportive of each other that believe it when I say you'll likely finish a session and think to yourself, "Wow, I didn't know I could do that!" Exactly. If you're serious about losing weight, building endurance or even becoming that athlete you always wanted to be, you owe it yourself to give Michael Lopez a shot. People drive from 50 miles away to train with him! I PROMISE you you won't be sorry. read more

Mike's the best. I was already in decent shape when I looked him up, but he took it to another level. After each workout, I feel as though I'm completely destroyed and it's awesome. Within weeks, I noticed considerable improvement in my strength, speed, and endurance. Mike is always upbeat and is a great motivator. He pushes me to my limit and is always focused on making sure my form is correct so I'm efficient and performing at my peak. Most importantly, he's a huge 49ers fan. Go Niners. read more

Michael Lopez aka Most Hated Trainer deserves every one of these 5 star reviews. He always has a positive attitude and a smile on his face, is extremely knowledgeable and great with clients, but above all else he is a genuinely nice guy. The best way I can illustrate this: my wife and I recently joined his gym, Steel Barbells, and while I previously had some experience with weight training, she didn't know the difference between a squat and a kumquat (actually, that's not true.... she probably knew what kumquats were :) It might have been challenging at first, but Michael worked with her on this and many other exercises, and before long she was squatting and doing pull ups like a champ--and she's ready to come back for more! I can only attribute this to Michael's fantastic manner with her and everyone else that walks into his gym. Michael is also great at communicating with clients (usually via text, which is fine with me). We get messages after workouts to see how we are feeling, on our scheduled days to make sure we are coming in, etc....Michael must send about 10,000 text messages per month!! He even texted while he was away on vacation to see how we felt after taking a class with a new coach at the gym. It really shows how dedicated he is and how much he truly cares about his clients. read more

I've never had as much success with any other trainer as I have with Mike the "mosthatedtrainer". Its funny that he's called "mosthatedtrainer" because he is actually quite the opposite. His nickname should be "mostloveabletrainer"! He teaches, coaches, and guides using positive reinforcement and encouraging words! He is not a drill sergeant. Don't get me wrong, He will not let you slack off! He definitely pushes you. He loves to smile and have a good time. Working out should be challenging but FUN and he makes that evident. You'll find him bumpin' the tunes to keep you pumped up. He's got great energy and its contagious! He is very knowledgeable and serious about proper body mechanics and he is professional at all times. You'll never have a boring workout with Mike. Since working out with Mike I have become stronger and more energized. My stamina has increased, i look better, and my confidence has increased! I dont enjoy working out... Lets face it, its work! But I always look forward to my next gym session with Mike because I consistently feel great everytime I leave! The best feeling is when you are sore the next day... you know you've worked your butt off. Mike is so great, he text messages you and always follows up to see how you are doing outside of the gym. He stays connected with each of his clients and genuinely cares about their health and progress. Bottom line. He's awesome. read more

Without a doubt, Mike is the most caring trainer around. He probably knows my endurance and stamina better than I do, so he tells me when to stop my workouts even if I think I can work longer, and he's always right! He isn't all about "trying to lose this many pounds" or anything like that; Mike wants to make a healthy and strong person out of you!! I went for 2 months straight and started fitting into my clothes better and feeling more energetic, but then had to stop abruptly due to school. In my absence, I noticed that I was getting a little slower and was tired again. It's amazing how much his sessions and classes change your lifestyle for the better. I even recommend Mike to all of my friends at school! read more

Mike is an arrogant bastard who thinks he's Iron Man tryna Superman! And his freakin fairy dance!!!! ugh!!!! He's even making me write this! Ahahaha! Just kidding! (except Mike really did want me to write that beginning part lol) Mike is a great trainer who understands the difference between you giving up and you on the verge of passing out. I had never had a personal trainer or even workout in gyms. I always thought trainers will teach you in the beginning then leave you to do the rest on your own, but not Mike. He's very attentive and never leaves you hanging. He will push you and loves it when you cuss him out (hence his nickname), but at the end it's all worth it. In just ten sessions (a mix of personal one-on-one sessions and classes) I lost 10 pounds. And that's without changing my diet. It may be a little scary at first, but it becomes instantly fun as the session continues. I highly recommend Mike to all, beginners and experts. ^_^ read more

I hate michael because he constantly pushes me and cuts me no slack when he knows I can do more. I love Michael because I've seen my body transform. I hate Michael because he constantly correcting my form. I love Michael because he makes me do it right and I see results. I hate Michael because he holds me to my goals. I love Michael because he's sweet and encouraging but still tough. I hate Michael because he makes me stretch, warm up and roll out before and after every workout. I love Michael because my body doesn't hurt anymore because I warm up, stretch and roll out. i love Michael because he's nice, caring, fun and funny and human. Maybe he should be called most loved trainer!? read more

I first met Mike at the Spartan Sprint last year. I was concerned about what to wear. Meanwhile, Mike was dressed as Superman. Who does that? Mike does. The man tackled those obstacles like he was skipping through the meadow. I saw him throw a javelin perfectly at his target without even trying (I took two tries and STILL didn't even get close). The only reason I was even able to keep up with him was because he was staying behind to encourage his clients and to take action videos with a GoPro. Needless to say, the man IS Superman. Since then I've gotten to know him at various events and most recently at his gym Steel Barbells, where I've been taking classes. I've always been horrible with flexibility and Mike has been great at helping me work on that. He pays a lot of attention to form, and doesn't let me get away with doing the exercises wrong. In addition to a lack of muscle flexibility, I've also had a hard time with schedule flexibility. Mike has been great with that too, offering alternate times, and being completely understanding when things come up. Sometimes, because of my schedule, I have to get to his gym early. Like 5:30 in the morning. Even then, Mike is upbeat, happy, excited, and ready to work. I can't imagine doing a workout that early without his positive energy. He makes going to the gym feel like something actually worth doing. Like I said... he's Superman. read more

Michael Lopez definitely deserves a 5 STAR REVIEW for sure. I have been coming to Crossfit Steel Barbells for the past 3 weeks and training with him, and I absolutely LOVE everything about Michael approach, determination, PASSION and ENERGY he puts daily for each of his clients. The atmosphere at Steel Barbells is phenomenal. Michael is such a nice, energetic and ALIVE person that really knows his stuff- and really knows how to push each individual to there highest potential to reaching their goals, while making working out FUN! Oh, the music is always fun and upbeat during his training sessions too. The individual and group workouts are intense & and extremely fun. You not only get to get a full intense workout for yourself, but you also get to compete in smaller groups with each other. This is by far my new workout spot! I am so happy that I was able to come across Michael as my new AWESOME trainer! read more

All the 5 star ratings herein are 1000% true but I have something different to add. I'm a little different because it was predicted in 1961 that I would be dead by now due to diabetes. Mike has that special something, positivity, encouragement, skill, expertise, patience, great work ethic, diverse training, and joy in his work, among other great traits. He is a major reason that I am not only alive but VERY WELL. He is one of the top people on my short list of important people in my life. If you happen to brag about your success he'll brag along with you; "...go ahead and pop that collar..." , he'll add. If you put yourself down, he'll not allow that and point to the things you've done well. I've been with Mike for over EIGHT YEARS!! I owe him a lot that I can never repay, especially in his minimal training fees... hardly enough to cover what he has given and continues to give back to me. Every time I train, paraphrasing the words of Forrest Gump, "training with Mike is lock a bocksa chucklits; you neffa know wut ture gunna git." Whether you're preparing for a modeling shoot in 6 weeks or want to live well past 50 with Type 1 diabetes beginning @ 2 years old, or ANYWHERE in between, Most Hated Trainer is THE ONLY choice to make. Woohoo! As good as it gets! read more

I feel like the guy in the late-night infomercials, "I am in the best shape of my life thanks to Steelbarbells!". When I first went to Mike I could barely complete the baseline workout on the rower, squats and push-ups without passing out. Now, almost a year later I can complete 1500m on the rower and do things I never thought I would be doing at this age. I've lost weight, I have REAL muscle on my body and I need to buy SMALLER pants! Mike does an intense 30min workout that's fun and demanding. He will often tell us what the goal is and I think that it's impossible but somehow at the end of the session I can put that challenge in the "DONE" column. I have never worked with a trainer and never thought I wanted to do, but I know I would not be this fit with out working with Mike. read more

This guy Mike aka The most hated trainer has CHANGED my life. I came looking for help during my struggle with losing weight and now, I got a new FAMILY. I know I'm far away from my goal but without his help it would be impossible. He showed me how to have fun working out and see the results! If you are looking for a life change, a better life, you should give this place a visit. Mike has also a pretty good team working with him. Come see how its done! Thank you Mike for all the good times and many more to come! read more

Ok So just off the bat, Mike doesn't take bullsh*t! He will make you work and work no matter how much your arms or legs are shaking. You might yell at him and say mean things to him such as "I just imagined kicking you in the face" after doing crazy sets of intervals, Which I must say are MY FAVORITE! LOL! BUUUUTTTT I must say that Mike is SERIOUSLY the BEST trainer I have ever had and trust me I bounced from trainer to trainer trying to find my workout soul mate, LOL, and finally God sent Mike to me. So If you wanna put in the Rocky Balboa work then Mike is for you but if you are looking to go look pretty while you work out then you might as well go get a trainer at 24 hours or Bally Total Fitness. Cus Mike's motto is NO PAIN NO GAIN and THERE'S NO CRYING!!! But Seriously, if you want a trainer who actually wants you to succeed and actually cares for your well-being then Mike is the way to go! Thank you Mike for being my workout soul mate! LOL read more

Michael is an absolutely fabulous trainer. He's attentive, personable and concerned about the important things trainers should be concerned about like correct form. When teaching any new movement, he clearly described what to do and then watched me like a hawk to make sure that I was doing it properly. And once I "mastered" one thing (I use the term "mastered" lightly for me), he added on another and another, all the while going back and checking that everything I learned in in the past was still in tip top form. The gym (Steel Barbells) has a really fun vibe to it, with others working out and encouraging each other, energetic music playing in the background. I highly recommend giving Michael a call. You won't regret it! read more

Michael is AH-MAZING!!! I am a service professional so I am both picky and empathetic when I'm in the position of receiving service. Michael goes above and beyond! He is truly inspirational as a dedicated, passionate pro who is in tune with his students' individual needs. I started working with him with only 7 weeks until my wedding day, after more than two months of trying to reshape by doing 5 days a week of hard cardio and apparently the wrong diet. I needed to lose some very stubborn inches and my old habits just weren't cutting it. Here I am with a little over two weeks left before the wedding day, and I am very comfortable in my dress, ready to smile for the photos at which my grand children will (hopefully) be looking some day! And I'm not stopping! I have more goals ahead but I'm so pleased with the results I'm experiencing after just a few weeks. It's not easy. It takes dedication, for sure. I had been very dedicated but if you're not on the right road you won't get to your desired destination. Michael knows exactly how to direct! He takes time to explain, check in and answer questions. Plus, he's sensitive to your individual needs. I came in with a sprained foot (from too much running!) and he knew exactly how to work around it. My foot is healing very nicely while I work my face off!! So very happy to be a student! He's truly a great guy, that Michael Lopez! read more

I have had a personal trainer before (at Ballys') BUT nothing like Michael. I have been training with Michael for about 3 weeks now (twice a week) and I'm absolutely HAPPY :) ! As the reviews below state, he truly is professional, you will never catch him texting/making calls, having side conversations with others, eating, or simply mentally elsewhere. Instead when he is training/teaching you all his attention is devoted to you, he corrects you till you perfect the moves, he motivates you not just during the sessions but as well outside (he calls/texts to check up on you and to make sure your eating correctly), he has you challenging yourself, he literally has you breaking a sweat within 10 minutes, and he has a charismatic personality (so you feel comfortable). I can keep going on how happy I am with Michael training me BUT, I believe it takes one to experience "The Most Hated Trainer," at least once... What do you have to lose? read more

I'll keep it simple - I've done boot camps, p90x and anything else out there but training with Mike has put me in the best shape I've ever been in!! Love the workouts!! Thanks for kicking my ass so much!! Highly recommended to everyone! read more

Going to Michael's training program is one of the best things I've decided this year! he does personal sessions, where he thoroughly teaches you how to do certain exercises and then group classes, where you join other students and complete AMRAPs and repetitions... months go past and you see you are now independent to train by yourself but now doing exercises in the right way! His attitude is always positive, and very motivating, has definitely been a great 3 months of training with him. not only am i stronger but also healthier. its amazing feeling. he is absolute great Could not be more thankful of once Googling Trainers and finding "The most hated trainer" mike!!! awesome place to work out and be surrounded by motivated and dedicated people. thank you michael for yelling at me to push harder when i felt i couldn't anymore. you always said "your mind gives up before your body does" and that will always stay with me. read more

Don't be fooled by the photo. Mike's personality is as sweet as a strawberry but will make you feel as sour as a lemon during the workout. He will make you sweat, hurt, cry out loud and you will hate him. But only if you want results. He focuses on challenging exercises for the major muscle groups, technique and attention to you. I despise trainers who don't make their client a priority and Mike is not like that. You know he is watching you sweat your pants off but it feels and looks soooo good after! read more

I first went to steel barbells to train with Mike the owner over a year ago. I was very intimidated but Mike made me feel very comfortable and spent one on one time with me. Now I'm killing it and I'm in the best shape ever. I have referred several of my friends to him and they also love it. I highly recommend! read more

I am very conflicted about giving Mike five stars and a glowing review because the more people who find out how amazing he is it might make it hard to find a parking space at his gym. I am lazy, snarky, a complainer with torn up knees and a bad attitude and I'm telling you right now, working with Mike has changed my life. He pushes me harder than any trainer I've ever worked with but not as some creepy yelling drill sergeant (sorry to blow your cover, Mike) but as a very smart and dedicated trainer who knows how far you can go and makes sure you get there every minute you're in that gym. He's not just some STUPID gym doofus he knows his stuff. Not only is he a very caring person (apologies again Mike) but he has a fantastic attitude, is totally devoted, checks in with me after particularly strenuous workouts to see how I'm doing AND he always lets me swear at him. It's his fault I'm swearing so it's the least he can do. Working in just the first few months with Mike I've lost 18 pounds and four inches. My biceps are all cut and I have a lot more physical strength in my legs and core thanks to the hateful stuff he makes me do. Which I should be doing, BTW. So, it is with tremendous reluctance that I rave about Mike. When people find a great place they tell everyone about it. That's the basic foundation of this website, right? A side effect is that more people discover the greatness and the next thing you know you're waiting outside of Jinky's for 60 minutes just to get breakfast. Mike is the best trainer I've ever worked with and I am no walk in the park. If you're even half as crabby as me (and it's a given you are) this guy will change your body and your life. Someone please save me a parking space. read more