Earlier this year, I decided to start taking my health more seriously. Like many out there with demanding jobs, I often find myself feeling too exhausted after work to work out. I finally decided to invest in private training sessions at The Study and I am so glad that I did! The Study is situated in a clean, spacious location and is even equipped with a cold tub and sauna! As someone who spent years paying for gym memberships at major health club chains, I am thrilled to have made the switch to The Study, an independently owned and operated studio that focuses on personal, customized training. The trainers helped keep me accountable for my fitness goals and customized a program that accommodated my work schedule. Alexander is a knowledgable and professional instructor who seems truly invested in the progress of his clients. He has a deep understanding of exercise physiology, and is skilled at developing workout plans that maximize results and gradually build in intensity over time. My sessions with him are always challenging yet fun. On top of that, he is pleasant to be around and easy to talk to. I always look forward to my sessions with him and I cannot recommend him enough! The Study also recently expanded their offerings to include electromyostimulation (EMS) workouts, which involve wearing a suit with built-in electrodes that target and stimulate specific muscles while you exercise. I was initially reluctant to try this out, but after completing a session led by Karen, I can say it was a unique and interesting adjunct to conventional strength training. Karen was friendly & enthusiastic and I hope to have more sessions with her in the future. I am very pleased with the progress I have made since starting at The Study. I feel stronger and more confident with each session, and give my unreserved recommendation! read more

If I could give 6 stars I would! I've gone to a lot of personal trainers and have never experienced the level of knowledge that Alex and Julian bring to each training session. I have hip bursitis and have tried all forms of PT but it wasn't until working out with them that they identified the root causes. Their attention to detail with form, creativity with exercises, and knowledge of body mechanics are unrivaled. I'm also pregnant with twins and both guys knew how to safely guide me through strength training so that I'm ready for delivery and recovery! read more

Awesome private gym. I like their format of private training sessions so it's never crowded. It's always a maximum of 1 trainer and 1 "student" which makes it easier to focus on your own workout. I worked with Manny Serrano who definitely knew his stuff. He had me warm up with some exercises to open up my hips since I sit for long periods suiting the day at work. Seemed to make a difference immediately! Then he had me do exercises that mimic natural athletic movements. It was definitely new for me and I felt a different soreness that was great. You guys rock! read more

This gym is awesome. I trained with Alexander and it was a much needed session. One thing I have to work at is my form and he stayed focused on keeping me in check. I am definitely to keep going back. YAY!‍ Also I really loved how clean and pristine everything was! read more

The Study - Gyms Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Love this spot, has a great overall vibe. The trainer by the name of Alex Keywood, may be the most knowledgeable trainer I've ever met. Not only did he take care of me at this beautiful new and clean facility, he pushed me passed where I thought my limits were with a nice grin on his face. Facility seems minimalistic, they have EVERYTHING, you need to get a great workout. read more

I rarely write reviews unless something exceptional catches my eyes. I am a former track and field athlete and have had experiences with various trainers and training techniques in past. I decided to try out one session with Alexander and was extremely impressed!! Within one session with Alexander I found out not only that my body was imbalanced but also discovered points in my body where movement was significantly hindered and could lead to long term issues. In just one session I felt the pain in my left neck and shoulder already better as I felt something opened up with the exercises and movements crafted for me. The trainer was patient and very diligent in his thought process. Unlike most trainers, he understands the science behind it. I was truly impressed. Training session was all comprehensive with movements, balance, cardio and weights. Gym has an open layout and a private/very quite outside/ooen training area. It's very clean and the shower is great as well. I will be getting more training session at The Study read more

I've been working out with Julian and couldn't be happier. He tailors every single workout to your goals, your body, and your energy levels. He has a ton great advice, explains things clearly, and describes how each exercise builds into everyday life. He also watches every movement to ensure you are doing things correctly. He knows exactly how far he can push you, which has helped me break through barriers. The semester is broken up into three parts, which has given me the ability to see how different elements of fitness build on top of each other. There is a real focus on functionality that has helped me lay the foundation necessary for push forward. Also, the gym is amazing. Having all of the best tools available in your own private environment really makes for a fun and enjoyable experience. read more

My first time in the gym and the space was so cool!! In addition to the big indoor gym area it has a nice turf space with a sled and a tire. I can't say enough great things about the trainer (Manny) - he listened intently to my goals and challenges, and built an outstanding session for me, as well as recommending recovery exercises for me to do at home. If you're looking for a pristine gym with really knowledgeable trainers, I highly recommend The Study!! read more

Tucked away in an alley in Santa Monica is a secret place with no signage. Open up the loading dock doors and you enter a training facility that prioritizes custom tailored programs to suit virtually anyone's goals. Julian, one of the founding trainers, has been helping me through my goals despite not one, but two prior injuries, both of which have required surgery. The philosophy of The Study is functional based programs with an emphasis on good alignment and precise movement, which reduces risk of injury and increases efficiency. If you want to bang out big weights and prioritize reps over precision, go elsewhere. If you're looking for long term changes to strength and body composition, then The Study has something to offer you. read more

Worked with both Alexander and Zac. Can't say enough good things about these guys. Both work hard to give a personalized work outs and were flexible with my crazy work/travel schedule, even giving me things to take on the road. Still had results move in the general good direction despite the crazy schedule. I also have some minor limitations/injury in the lower back area that Zac was pretty familiar with this and was able to make sure I was working on strengthening the areas that needed to help remove the pain and tactics for stretches between sessions to help alleviate and loosen. If you are looking for some personal training with trainers that will really care and give you a kick-butt workout, this is the place to go. read more

I've been training with Alex Keywood for about 8 months now. As an athlete, training with someone who has extensive expertise in fitness - specifically Muy Thai and boxing, is something that is extremely hard to come by--his mitt work is exceptional. Not only is Alex extremely knowledgeable in his craft, but he is passionate about training others, makes working out fun, and is extremely accommodating to my ever-changing schedule. When I'm done working with Alex for an hour--I'm dripping in sweat. He always makes sure to challenge and push me to my limits in each of my sessions. I would [and have] highly recommend Alex as your next trainer. It also doesn't hurt that The Study is absolutely stunning. read more

My now husband and I worked out with Manny for for 2 semesters and highly recommend. Our goals were mainly getting pre-wedding ready. And we couldn't have been happier with the results. every session was challenging, unique and so much fun. Manny really tailored each class around our goals but also our personality. We also loved the facilities and the studio. Such a great space! read more

While I will tell you a few of the things that I really like about coming here, I'm going to try not to repeat what others have already said (and it's all true) and instead give you the reasons why I chose to go with Alexander Bruce at The Study over a DVD. Alexander (and he prefers Alexander over Alex) keeps an immaculate place that is spotless and odor free. In fact, the first exercise you will learn is the two-footed shuffle (which is what he will ask you to do on the Astroturf outside and/or the door mat before entering his establishment). I assure you that you will not want the embarrassment of seeing your waffle iron shoe footprints cascading across his nice clean floor if you forget (like I did on my second visit). But Alexander is always very nice about gently encouraging you to help him keep his place clean and germ-free. He cleans the areas where you worked out right after your session and makes plenty of filtered water available for you as well. And he maintains his own filtration system by regularly changing the filter (nice!) Now if you're like me, you may be trying to decide between using the services of an experienced personal trainer, or using one of the many available DVD programs for your exercise regimen. I don't think I would've realized how many advantages there are to using a personal trainer had I not gone in for the initial free evaluation workout that Alexander provides for new clients (and it's a very good idea to take him up on this offer, whether you think you need his services or not). You may think you will be able to work out effectively with a DVD, but here is what you would miss: 1. Alexander watches your movements from every possible angle to see if there are any problems with your execution. And when I say every angle, I mean he literally walks a 360° circle around you watching you from every possible angle. A DVD doesn't watch you at all. 2. Alexander notices your breathing pattern and reminds you to "breathe out" on the work, a DVD doesn't. 3. Alexander notices when you scrunch up your face when exerting yourself and reminds you to relax, a DVD doesn't. 4. Alexander notices your form and offers you ways to modify it to make it easier for you to do an exercise properly, A DVD doesn't care if you do the exercise properly or not. 5. Alexander tailors your workout to the goals you discuss with him as well as your current level of fitness and continues to increase the complexity of it as you progress, a DVD doesn't. 6. Alexander makes you want to come to The Study for your regular workout and he will call you if you are a minute late for your session, a DVD won't care if you miss your workout or not. 7. Alexander takes regular measurements of your body mass and progress through weight loss and muscle gain every two weeks, a DVD doesn't. 8. Alexander has a sixth sense about what to follow up with you about so that he knows that you are addressing the issues that he brings up with respect to your progress. After giving you a new assignment, like a food plan or stretching out or using a roller to work out the kinks in your muscles, he will follow-up in the coming weeks to make sure you are addressing it, a DVD won't. 9. Alexander can tell if you're not doing an exercise properly and he will immediately correct any mistakes that you are making, all while providing extremely motivating encouragement aimed at making you want to do things correctly so that you will obtain the maximum benefit from the time spent developing each skill, a DVD won't. 10. And finally, Alexander will make sure that whether you choose to continue with him or not, by starting with a personal trainer, at least if you later move on to working out on your own (with a personalized workout that he will design for you) or using a DVD, you will at least have developed a very good skill set with good habits on how to continue your training. A DVD will never be able to provide that! So all in all, when I first went in for my evaluation workout with Alexander, I really didn't know whether I would be using his services or not. But the time and attention to detail and expert skill level and advice that Alexander provides is something that you really cannot put a price on. And though I will acknowledge that a personal trainer is a bit more expensive than a DVD, I have to say that I think the investment I have made in myself is very much worth it. And I'm pretty confident that once you try one workout with him, you will agree that an investment like this -- an investment in yourself -- is one of the most important and worthwhile investments you will ever make! read more

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I have been training at the Study since January 2021 and wanted to share my experience working with Julian Hess. Julian is an incredible trainer! He is passionate, dedicated, and extremely knowledgable. At the beginning of each session, Julian takes the time to check in with me about my energy level, stress level, sleep quality, diet etc. With this information, he offers modifications to tailor the day's workout to meet me exactly where I am. Julian is also incredibly detail-oriented and has helped me work through past injuries and chronic pain. Not only am I stronger -- lifting heavier than I ever have-- I also have greater range of motion, more control and coordination, and an overall deeper connection to my body. These changes have translated to multiple areas of my life and have significantly improved my day-to-day experience. As a result, I'm sleeping better, breathing better, I have more energy, more clarity, and I'm more comfortable and confident in my body and my abilities. If you're interested in improving you're overall well-being, I highly recommend training with Julian! read more

TheStudy has it all: excellently maintained facilities, knowledgeable staff, and a really straight-forward system for seeing progress. It can be a little daunting to get a trainer and feel like committing to a relationship -- I like the 60 day program, its phases, and can't recommend it more. Working with Julian - he pointed out a ton of now-obvious-to-me weaknesses in my form and posture. Run don't walk if you're looking to lock in for 2 months and get in the best shape of your life. read more

UPDATE: (session: January 6 - March 3) Still giving this place a 5 star rating. I completed another semester with Alexander (and my two workout partners) and it was another successful 2 months. Now: 130lbs, 20.5% body fat. Over the course of 8 weeks I: - Lost 2 pounds body fat - Gained 4 pounds muscle On top of these numbers, I've increased my endurance, stability, flexibility and of course strength. The numbers tell the story folks, great trainer, has a fantastic attitude and clearly knows how to help you make a difference! :) Thanks Zanman! read more

The Study - Working on perfecting Superman (or woman)! - Gyms Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Sometimes when something is so great you just take it for granted and forget to get the word out, so this review is long overdue. I've been coming to "The Study" and training with Alexander since the 2nd "semester" they were open in Santa Monica, so for many years now. The word "semester" sounds like school, which of course is appropriate for "The Study", but in this case you are committing to train for a period of about two months. It's an excellent way to start working with a trainer and truly see how much you can optimize training, nutrition, and recovery. Over the semester, you'll get a real measurable sense of the improvement possible depending on how diligently you stick to the excellent training and nutrition advice you will receive. I've trained with probably 5 different trainers at The Study over the years and all have been excellent and will give you different specialized focuses, but you will always receive an elite training session. Don't underestimate the value of a trainer, no matter how good you think your form is when under stress or pushing for that last rep having a trainer there to make sure you not only don't get injured but get the most out of doing a rep properly is invaluable. The work on your diet and recovery is up to you, but they will give you the advice/tools to meet your goals. The environment is what really sets this place apart from any place I've ever worked out, it's impeccably clean (I'm scared to walk in with any dirt on my shoes). I've trained at Sports Club LA, Equinox, and other private facilities but none compare to The Study. It's perfect for Covid, you are one on one with a trainer in a clean environment with great airflow, a large garage door at one end, and an artificial grass strip area outside. Alexander and the other trainers are always encouraging and great to talk to as you struggle to complete that last set. Alexander is a smart entrepreneur who has figured out how to deliver a five-star training experience considering all variables and making everything as smooth as possible - if you are looking to take your workouts to the next level, this is the way. read more

The Study - Gyms Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Wow where do I start? This place is unsuspecting, it's a beautiful space. Everything is clean and the energy is great. Julian is my favorite trainer who has extensive knowledge when it comes to pain. He is almost like a PT and personal trainer in one. He helped me so much in just two visits so far. I am excited to continue my journey with him leading the way. He gave me hope when I was hopeless. He wanted to help and you can tell he really genuinely cares which is a nice feeling. He is someone you can trust and wants to create a plan of action and takes time to evaluate your specific situation understanding that EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT! That's so important and one of many beautiful attributes in Julian Hess. They have have state of the art equipment and a massage / stretching table. Their bathroom is clean and the hand towels were a really nice touch. There is nothing bad I can say about my experience. Not to mention there is private parking right in front of the gym! read more

I met Alexander through a mutual friend and saw his very hip and functional studio gym. I recently asked him to teach me how to properly dead lift. He got back to me right away and slotted a time for me within the same week. I expected him to simply demonstrate correct form, but he graciously dedicated an entire hour for me. While leading me through a warm up, I casually mentioned that I have been having trouble with double-under jump-roping. Without missing a beat, he trained me up to being comfortable with that exercise. He then in a step wise fashion demonstrated how to do a dead lift. He helped me maintain correct form, and I now feel confident that I can safely do this exercise. Alexander keeps his gym in immaculate shape. He is an outstanding personal trainer. Highly recommended. read more

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Enjoyed the workout with Alexander. The initial assessment was very informative and motivated me even more. The place is very clean! Super excited for this semester :) read more

The Study is easily the best gym in Santa Monica - the space is meticulously set up, the location is convenient, and the instructors are world-class. Manny in particular is the best trainer I have ever worked with - he is highly knowledgeable, encouraging, and genuinely cares about his clients. Would recommend The Study to anyone looking for their next gym in the city. read more

Spent the early parts of my life playing competitive sports and was looking for a trainer who had experience working with high level athletes. I've been training with Julian 1v1 in a cool intimate training space in santa Monica and have had nothing short of a wonderful experience. Would definitely recommend to any other athlete looking to challenge themselves and develope sustainable exercises to get the most out of their bodies. read more

I've had some sessions with Julian and he has showed me so much about my own body and how to get the most out of it. We've worked on some unique training methods with some interesting movement patterns that I'd never seen or heard of before. He encourages play and exploration with your body and through that model, I've found new ranges of motion, new power, and new ways to recover. Julian is super observant and a great listener, he was able to pick out several asymmetries in my body, and we discussed how and why they exist. Through this I've become way more in tune with my body and a better listener to what I see and feel. Julian will optimize your health from all standpoints. read more

I had a great experience getting back in shape with Alexander at the The Study! Over the past year, my fitness had been steered off by a knee injury - I unsuccessfully tried rebuilding my strength on my own and realized I needed the expertise of a knowledgeable trainer. Enter Alexander and The Study. Upfront we talked about my main goals: to rebuild my strength, build a consistent habit, and learn the tools to exercise on my own. The Study is run in 9-week training "semesters" of three sessions a week - which was perfect for me to create the change I was looking for. The facility: The Study operates out of a convenient and pristine private gym with 1-2 trainers and clients exercising at once. Parking is easy, nice facilities and shower, towels provided. The training: I have worked out with three other trainers at various points and have to say that Alexander is in a league of its own. Not only he is a great athlete and teacher, but he comes from a place of very deep understanding of the body and its physiology, and truly cares about holding you accountable to your goals inside and outside of the gym (nutrition, foam rolling, sleep, etc.). Beyond teaching me about nutrition and strength and endurance training, he provided great resources for employing new habits at home (i.e. home gym equipment recommendations, articles on nutrition, resources for building at home workouts). The results: By the end of the semester I was down 3.5% body fat, had much higher energy and endurance, rebuilt a lot of the strength in my knee and leg, and had the tools to keep it going. I am really thrilled by my experience. Thank you, Alexander and The Study! read more

This review is definitely overdue, but couldn't go without saying! This past year I decided to try and pick back up running (after a 6 year hiatus). Unfortunately, I couldn't get my mileage up without getting slowed down by injuries. Luckily, I met Zac through one of my workout groups and he invited me in for a session. Zac was very thorough! We started off by reviewing some of my goals as well as level setting before we began. Seeing how a lot of my injuries stemmed from leg imbalances, we spent most of the session working out my core and legs (front squats, lunges, etc.). I really liked the one on one training without the crowd of a LA Fitness or 24 Hour and a huge plus, it felt much cleaner and organized than any big name chain gym! If you're ever in the Santa Monica area, stop by and ask for Zac! read more

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I've been working with Zac for the last few months and it's been amazing. I've had a ton of knee pain for the last 5 years so his main focus has been to help me relieve that pain while building my strength and endurance. I'm sitting all day for work which has only made my knee pain worse. Zac's given me homework to do on my own outside of our sessions and my knee pain has significantly reduced. I've also never been stronger! He really knows his stuff, he changes workouts up every time and keeps it interesting! It's been a huge change from a crowded gym to having 1x1 training time and it's exactly what I needed to get me in shape and out of bad habits. The studio itself is pristine, smells good, and parking is always available. If you're looking for a awesome trainers and workouts that will kick your butt then I highly recommend The Study! read more

I've been training with Zac for about 2 months now, and it has been a fantastic experience so far. I would echo all of the positive reviews already written - the accountability I'm held to (both to show up, and to push myself through the tough moments) are worth it alone, but the ultimate value is the individual attention and holistic knowledge Zac brings to me as an individual, as this stuff is all so interconnected with what I'm doing outside of the gym. Our non-workout focus lately has been a lot around optimizing sleep and managing stress, but I expect that will evolve to other aspects of life as we start to see some real improvement in these areas. Can't recommend The Study enough! read more

So many things to love about Alexander at The Study! I worked with Alexander for two semesters at the Study (roughly 4 months?). I had hit a plateau with my fitness - already working out 4-6 days a week at HIIT classes and yoga and tracking nutrition on an app on my phone. So while I didn't think I was starting from zero, I really appreciated that we started with the basics. Things I learned that I hadn't known before: - My kettle bell swings were all wrong! - How to do a Turkish get-up (yes, you will look like a bada** doing this in the weight room) - How to properly stretch and foam roll - How effective jumping rope can actually be - How to design a full body workout, or how to create several workouts to work different areas over the course of a week In addition to the new skills and confidence, there were also the RESULTS (and yes, part of this will be on you in terms of changing your nutrition and what you do on days off from the Study). Over the last month at the Study, I lost 2% body fat (woohoo!). My posture improved, and my muscle tone definitely improved. I can't recommend Alex enough. In addition to being a great trainer, he is also a lovely person to spend a few hours a week with--he's a coach, confidant (pretty sure he knows more about me than my therapist at this point), and cheerleader. He also knows what music will keep you pumped up and is a great DJ. You may wonder - what happens when I'm ready to be unleashed into the wild and go workout on my own? Alex has been incredible in helping me formulate a 12 week plan to use as I hit the gym without him. While I'm sure I'll never train myself as well as he does, it is empowering and exciting to get out there on my own. Also, there is ALWAYS parking (yay!) and the shower/restroom is great - the gym is a private gym so you won't be competing for time in the shower or in front of the mirror, which is definitely a plus if you're going straight to work or out for the evening after your sweat sesh. read more

I have trained at The Study since June 2015 and this review is long overdue. I can't even count the number of semesters that I've completed with Zac, but I'll continue to train for as long as I can. Alexander and Zac have created an environment and program that is optimal for personal and physical development. They follow a core curriculum that includes training phases, but ultimately, the workouts are designed to focus on your individual goals and push your endurance further as each week passes. The Study itself is clean with minimal but top of the line equipment. The trainers are constantly wiping down the equipment and mats so I never feel like I'm going to pick up something viral from working out. Alexander and Zac are super positive and it's encouraging seeing their other clients showing up early to warm up and working out harder day after day. My body has changed, I'm stronger and my confidence and well-being has improved so much in the past two years and I attribute a lot of it to the work I put in at The Study. Zac works me hard and although I'm not always confident that I'll get through the workout, I always feel amazing afterwards. Zac is encouraging in and outside of the gym and leverages his degree in Kinesiology along with his passion for movement and exercise to keep my workouts fresh and optimal. This is the healthiest I've been in years. Personally, I've never been successful training on my own at gyms. Classes (Cardio Barre, Pilates, Spin, Yoga) were more my thing, but lacking in the accountability and intensity you have working out with a personal trainer. The three day a week commitment over sixty days is a game changer and if you can afford it, I wholeheartedly recommend investing in your body and well-being at The Study. read more

Julian Hess is passionate about making his clients stronger, healthier, more fit versions of themselves. I would 100% recommend The Study to not only get in better shape but also learn the tools to continue to improve. read more

I had never seen a personal trainer before Alexander, and had a hard time motivating myself to work out on a consistent basis. If/When I did make it to the gym I found myself doing the same exercises and using the same machines. Alexander is really easy to talk to, and I didn't feel intimidated to see him without already being in really good shape. He asks what your goals are and target areas. He creates a nutrition plan for you that he personalizes with foods you already eat & is able to adjust it. Every training session was different, & after 4 sessions in 2 weeks I was already noticing how much easier some of the positions were for me. The training sessions are challenging, but Alexander focuses on good form over speed. He's also really interested in music, and asks his clients what they would prefer to listen to while working out. I think that's very unique, and makes the sessions that much more personalized. His studio in Santa Monica is big and open. It doesn't look like a typical gym with every machine under the sun. Instead he focuses more on calisthenics- using walls, straps, an exercise ball, boxing gloves, etc. In this sense the work out is more creative and varied at every session. You never feel like you are jogging on a treadmill with a bored trainer checking his watch waiting for the session to end. I definitely recommend Alexander for anyone seriously looking to get in shape or meet any weight goals. read more

I've trained with Alexander for two semesters and will continue to train moving forward. He is incredibly professional, dedicated, and most importantly, an extremely knowledgeable trainer who takes pride and passion in what he does. I am consistently impressed by his excitement to challenge my fitness in new ways! His studio is kept immaculately clean, and has pretty much anything you could need-- free weights, kettle bells, ropes, Bosu, Indo boards, boxing equipment, rings, boxes, tires, bars, even an outdoor run area with turf. In addition, a kitchen and spaciously appealing shower for those who need to head to work after training. Most importantly... Alexander helped me focus in on exactly what I wanted/needed and tailored my workouts to my specific needs. As an ex-collegiate athlete, I'm no stranger to working with personal trainers, but firmly believe Alexander is the best (and most fun) I've ever had! I think you'd be hard pressed to find a trainer who is as devoted to creating a customized and challenging routine. If you are willing to put in the work and time on your end (i.e. good nutrition, recovery stretching, and follow his plan), you will see the results you've always wanted! I've recommended him to my friends and will continue to do so. Bottom line, I highly recommend him to those who are serious about reaching their goals. Send him a note, go in for a trial session and see exactly what we're all talking about here on Yelp-- you'll find its all true, and then some! read more

I just wrapped up my first full semester with Alex at The Study, and I am thrilled with the results! I started out with an old elbow injury and with Alex's help I not only didn't I reinjure it, I finally strengthened the muscles enough that I don't have to worry about the injury any more. Neither acupuncture, physical therapy, nor two other trainers were able to achieve that. I also love the shape the workouts have given me. I get a ton of compliments, and (in contrast to previous training attempts) my shoulders still fit in all my suits. Finally, I love the conditioning I've built up. Hiking, yoga, even walking around NYC - all the things that used to knock me out, I have enough energy for and more! Most amazingly, for the first time in my life, I'm someone who looks forward to working out. I *never* thought that would happen. I can't wait to see what we accomplish next semester! read more

I highly recommend training with Julian at The Study. I had a terrific experience. Rather than devise a generic workout plan, he thoughtfully assessed my particular issues and challenges in light of my fitness and wellness goals. One of the most valuable aspects of the experience was simply learning what my particular challenges are, down to a precise, biomechanical level. I also appreciated that Julian was informed about and interested in a broad range of wellness topics, from exercise to nutrition to sleep and beyond. The facility at the The Study is very nice with plenty of fresh air. Alex and the rest of the community there are friendly and supportive and inspiring. I am grateful for the experience. read more

Just completed a semester (or very close to one) at the Study. This was my first personal training experience and it was a very good one. After not exercising regularly for several months, Alexander whipped me back into shape and improved my muscle tone in no time at all. He has a very holistic view of fitness in terms of diet and exercise, and a very personalized training approach. There was a good ramp so that I never felt like things were getting too easy. All in all, Alexander is great to work with and the Study is really a good place to get results. He's really patient and explains all the exercises. He is very professional and will address any frustrations you have head on (he definitely noticed my aversion to overly complex compound exercises and tried really hard to get me to like them). He'll incorporate fun things like the Indo board to keep things interesting. The only drawbacks to the Study program really lie in the timing flexibility and the way that I personally like to exercise. Alexander will do his best to accommodate your schedule, but he is only one person. A very popular person, at that--makes it harder to schedule time. If you can't make your session, he'll make a good effort to set up another time for you and keep you abreast of openings in slots that might work. The only caveat is that sessions don't roll over to the next week. This is great for motivating you to make that next class, but really hurts your wallet when your schedule can't be accommodated. I had to miss a few sessions because of a hectic project and that added up to quite a bit of money if you calculate the price of a single session. This second point is something that is specific to me personally, but others may relate. I like to exercise in a social atmosphere. Too much focus on me alone can be frustrating. It made early morning sessions really hard to be motivated for. Relative to one-on-one personal training sessions, I'd prefer group sessions or group classes. Unfortunately, the proposed group times for this current semester just would not work with my schedule. Definitely recommend if you want to jump start your fitness routine, get quick results, and build good habits. After my semester, I feel guilty eating bad food and really guilty skipping workouts.. and that's exactly what I wanted. read more

While I haven't been a full time student at the Study for over 2 years, I recently had a workout with their newest trainer, Zach, and walked away very impressed. Zach trained me and my fiancé in a really fun and challenging circuit. Similar to Alexander, Zach pays close attention to form and has a focus on core and balance to go along with strength and flexibility. These were the pillars in my previous experience at the Study and is what sets them apart from a lot of other trainers. As I remember, the workspace is extremely clean, functional, and inviting. They have brought in some new toys since the last time I was here and we were able to use them. I will continue to recommend the Study as well as Zach. He and Alexander are the two best trainers in Santa Monica. read more

Alex has combined his vast knowledge of functional body driven workouts and proper traditional gym circuits to create the most unique training experience i've had. His goal is to train his students in curriculum style environment, leaving you with a foundation you can take with you wherever you workout or train. Nutrition and body understanding are also part of Alex's approach. He'll break down your meals, and help you realize the lack of importance in weight, versus the actual importance in weight to strength ratio and body fat percentage. On top of that he has hands down the cleanest, and most personal studio in the city. Alex is like the Uber of training facilities, he just does it better than the other guys. Thanks man. Always a pleasure to train with you. read more

All the other reviews are certainly accurate but I'll tell you what I've found here: 1. Results. I'm down 30 lbs since I met Alexander and not done yet, but let's get to the important stuff: 2. I show up. I always have good intentions to make it to other workouts, be it yoga, spin, or circuit training but I'm just not great at following through when it's not scheduled. Here I have a scheduled workout and I show up for it. 3. It's a commitment but a small commitment. When I first signed up my health was in poor shape and I needed something to help me and I found the Study. I was hesitant but then I realized it's 9 weeks of my life and I really wanted to improve my health. When I started it became apparent I had done something great for myself and I was really happy I was doing it. Its' way different than singing up for the gym or classpass and finding a time to make it happen. Here you're in because you decided to be and for me that changed how I approached my health and it's ultimately what led to my results. 4. It's not the gym! I had a trial workout with Alexander and a couple of days later he casually followed up to see if I was interested in working with him. No pressure at all, he just wanted to see if I was interested. It just felt right so I did it. The place is immaculate, and it's all yours when you're there. The workouts are tailored to your needs and ensure you get stronger and fit the right way. There's no shouting or screaming, just a good session. Alexander has your workout ready, all you need to do is show up and let him guide you. 5. Results - I said it earlier but there are more results than just the weight. My health via the doctor and lab tests has improved immensely. I've also become stronger than I've ever been in my life. Alexander himself, is a great guy who genuinely cares about you and your well-being. I'm happy to share the countless text messages checking in on and encouraging me regardless of if we're working together or not. He walks the talk - you can catch him working out when he as a free moment and he's in incredible shape. All told I've picked up a healthy body, a foundation for my fitness, and a friend who I consider a brother for life. And not like the gym bro kind of brother. The brother kind of brother. :) read more

The Study is the bomb dot com. Seriously, I love this place. Alex is a freaking shaman. I've had memberships at different gyms, tried a litany of different classes (zumba, ladies kick boxing, actual kickboxing, brazilian jiu jitsu), P90X, and Crossfit, so this is not my first rodeo. I didn't think I needed personal training until I stumbled upon this place and I'm never going back. Unlike the one-size-fit-all workouts of the other methods, training here is all about specifics. The exercises are geared towards my specific areas of strength and weakness. They are always are always exciting, different, and brutally challenging in the best way. I've learned so many new ways of using the standard equipment, let alone all the other toys in the gym. I always leave feeling thoroughly accomplished, like I really hauled ass for a full hour. How does he know exactly the kind of movements I need to work on? How does he know just the right level of encouragement and push? I don't know! Did I mention that the gym is super clean? That lovely smell of baked-in sweat at your local Crossfit boxes or yoga studios? It's not here. First of all, it's because you're not working out with 20 other people side-by-side, but it's also because Alex runs a tight shift with cleanliness. This place is not just clean "for a gym," but freakishly clean, from the workout space to the equipment to the bathroom. I've actually witnessed Alex hand wash some of the equipment immediately after the session ended for the next person. I get that the price point is more than a gym membership, but seriously, do you like your workouts in a spacious, immaculate clean space all to yourself? Do you like to work with a trainer who's 100% focused on you the entire session? Do you want to leave feeling like you worked your butt off? Do you want to see results in two weeks? Then just do it. Get over the price point, lace up your sneakers, and show up. It'll be the best thing you can do for yourself. read more

STOP HERE! You have found your new trainer. I've had several trainers in my time and I've even worked as a trainer myself. When I was looking for a new challenge, I was lucky to come across this Yelp page and I'm so glad I trusted these reviews. Alexander is simply the best, most professional, most knowledgeable, dedicated, friendly and results-driven trainer I have ever had the pleasure to train with. I let myself go for a while (it happens...) and after just 2 "semesters" with Alexander I am now wearing a jean size that I have not worn in 15 years. 15 YEARS! The facility gets an A++. Alexander's studio has everything you could ever need: indoor/outdoor space, functional equipment, free weights, a giant tire, a rubber sledgehammer, medicine balls, TRX, battle ropes, monkey bars, rings, even towels and water! It really feels more like a playground than a gym. There is also a super clean private shower and changing room so you can workout any time and get ready to go in comfort. Wipe your feet before you come in and then get ready for the best workout of your life. He'll keep it fun, he'll keep it new and he will motivate you! On top of all of that, he's a great guy. He's easy to talk to and he genuinely cares about what he does. There is no ego to deal with, no false bravado and no judgement. His business is changing lives for the better and business is good. Now close this and call him! read more