Alex is amazing. I've worked with quite a few trainers over the years but he has been the best. First of all, I LOVE his studio. It is really clean, classy, and minimalist and totally gets the job done. Alex is very knowledgeable and personable. He made me feel super comfortable with my fitness level. I really appreciated all his insight and advice. He really helped me get into proper form quickly and I LOVE the TRX suspension training. I definitely feel sore after the workouts but I also feel really great and energized. So happy to have found Alex and his studio. He really knows what he's doing and does a great job at personalizing everything. read more

Had my first workout at The Study and it will not be my last. I have not worked out that hard since I played college football. Great space to train and great trainer in Alexander Bruce. This is my new location for getting back in great shape. read more

I came across The Study when I was looking for a personal trainer. Its hard to find a good trainer/instructor in group classes to watch over me and correct my form... I am a person prone to injury. So I decided I needed a one on one type of approach. After searching the Santa Monica area and weeding out all the muscle heads and unskilled candidates I met Alex. He was energetic and motivated to help and it made me excited to sign up for a semester. Well that one semester turned into two and so on and it has now been nine months. I have lost several inches and pounds of body fat thanks to Alex. But even more importantly I have developed overall strength, skills and endurance that encourage me to try harder and want to go faster every workout. You wont find bulky cardio or weight training machines in this gym. Instead you will find a super clean open airy space with good music and all the latest and innovative workout equipment; ropes, sleds, indo board, medicine balls, trx, etc. Alex's personal attention and knowledge of physical fitness and nutrition can't be matched. If you need that extra motivation to get you to the gym, or you love to work out but want to get better results, or you are rehabbing an injury everyone will benefit from working out at The Study. read more

This review is long overdue but so incredibly deserved. Alexander (owner of The Study) is by far one of the best trainers I've ever worked with. The programs he implements are catered specifically to each individual client, and therefore ensuring his clients get the most out of a semester spent with him. Alexander is not only knowledgeable and dedicated to his work, but he's also personable, caring and a stand-up guy. That said, don't be fooled by his friendly demeanor because once you step foot into The Study it's time to WORK! For me, this was a crucial element in achieving my health and fitness goals. I came to Alexander with a goal in mind, and after spending two semesters with him, those goals were far exceeded. He successfully pushed me (in the best, most positive way possible) to go above my complacent mindset to achieve a more sophisticated and beneficial health and fitness level I never thought I could actually reach. A sure sign you're working with a good trainer is when he/she pays close attention to your form, but a GREAT trainer makes sure your form is correct each and every single time before letting you complete a set. That is Alexander, and that's why he's the best. Although I'm no longer training at The Study, Alexander made sure to provide me with alternative fitness suggestions/options to ensure I continued on my path of success. Highly, highly recommend. read more

My 13 year old daughter needed guidance on how to do a proper and effective work out. She wanted be "fit"... We found Alexander through yelp. It was a short period of time but Alexander helped and definitely exceeded our expectation. He not only taught her what kind of work out and how she should do it but he also talked to her about proper diet emailing her material to read so she can learn and understand better --taking a more holistic approach on how to be "fit". Now I understand why he calls his training "The Study" :). Very very nice guy. My daughter liked training with him a lot. Definitely recommend. read more

I came the The Study with a tricky set of limitations, and Alexander worked around them all with patience and skill and knowledge. He taught me to use my body right. Now I can do almost any workout without getting injured. But his are the best! read more

Alexander did an absolutely class job training me and preparing me for Triathlon and Road Bike racing. Finally I found a trainer that listened very well and didn't just prescribe the usual bs exercises but gave me the right exercises for both injury prevention and endurance. I'd easily recommended him for both entry level or advanced training. The new facility is class, had the pleasure/pain of training there Trevor read more

Last spring I signed up for Alexander's 60 day challenge and in just a short amount of time, I saw more positive changes in my body than I have in years working out on my own. He completely changed the way I think about my own health and fitness. Before signing up for Alexander's 60 day program, I was typically at the gym 3-4 hours a week, but did not feel that my time there was well spent - I was also bored and didn't look forward to going. During my time with Alexander, he was able to teach me what excercises were right for my body and created a custom workout for me at each training session. I have gone to other personal trainers and attended various fitness classes in past, but they seem to be a one-size-fits-all. Alexander tailored my nutrition and training sessions to make sure I achieved my personal goals for my body type. Over the last 9 months I have continued to use Alexander's training routines and have maintained my results. I actually look forward to going to the gym because each time I go, I can utilize the the knowledge I gained from him to create workouts that are fun and challenging. Last month I was able to travel to Santa Monica to do a training session at The Study and it was awesome. The studio is bright and open and doesn't look like a typcial gym. It has all of the latest equipment and Alexander also plays great music during your workouts! I would highly recommend The Study no matter what your individual goals are. Alexander will not only improve the way you look and feel, but he will also change your whole outlook and attitude towards health and fitness for the better. read more

I'm so passionate about my time about the study that I've signed up to Yelp just to be able to write this review. I just finished a semester with Alexander and it was a life changing experience. I lost 2% of body fat, have more energy and focus at work and was able to finish a 10K , which has been a life goal. I've tried all different types of fitness regimes: classes, group session, DVDs, bar method, spinning, pilates, yoga, even other personal trainers and my semester at The Study has by far had the most impact on my life. There are 4 main areas I'll review: Trainer: Alexander is fantastic to work with. He is able to change his personal style to suit your needs - I respond best to steady, positive encouragement, which is what Alexander gave me throughout the semester. We are a team and he is excited to help me reach my goals. He is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of fitness and is able to make every session feel new and exciting. A+. Extras: Alexander also takes the time to send you nutrition notes and fitness tutorials for you to enjoy during your time outside of the studio. Extremely motivating. Studio: The studio is gorgeous. Well sized, light and Alexander makes sure smells nice and not like a sweaty gym. I often find regular gyms intimidating but the privacy of only have a few people in the studio make me less self-conscious and more ready to work. He is always happy for you to come early and roll out your muscles and stretch before training. Amenities: Alexander has a fabulous shower room stocked with fluffy towels, shampoo/conditioner and hairdryer. He has purified water for you to fill up your water bottle before training. read more

Zach is awesome. He was 100 percent focused on me while in session. He kept correcting my form continuously till I was perfect. He kept pushing me just the right amount to get my best workout performance every time. His dedication to his clients is commendable. Will love to work with him again. read more

I found The Study after looking for personal trainers on yelp. I reached out to maybe 3 people and Alexander was the first and only person to reach back out to me. I'm so happy he did. When I first came to The Study, I was the biggest I've ever been, and clueless how to properly get rid of the weight. I was at the point where none of my clothes were fitting me anymore, and I knew that I needed to make some major lifestyle changes. That's why I decided a personal trainer was the way to go. I wanted to do this the right way, and also I wanted to learn. Alexander is literally one of my favorite people. He was perfect the whole way through. He made me feel comfortable, and was incredibly encouraging. He helped with with my nutrition, and gave me the tools to continue even after my session was over. It was hard work, but it was every bit worth it. Not only do I now fit back into my old clothes, but some are even too big for me! My goal was to get back to my previous size before I turned 30 in August, and he absolutely helped me get there. If you're looking to get into shape, or even to just stay in shape, The Study is definitely worth a try! I'm forever grateful! Thank you Alexander!!! read more

If you are serious about working out or serious about starting a work out plan, this is the place. Very professional, clean, organized, effective methods. Each session is very personalized and provides the appropriate focus on form, technique, and ability. Nutrition and recovery are also effectively integrated. I would absolutely recommend the Study to anyone. read more

Zach is one of the best personal trainers that I've worked out with. He doesn't use a turnkey approach and tailors our workouts to my goals and body type. He also has a true understanding of the body and fitness. I highly recommend him. -Eddie read more

This review is long overdue. I started working out with Alex in the summer of 2013. He is absolutely amazing to work with. He has such a positive energy and vibe that it becomes infectious. Even though I personally HATE working out, I would look forward to each of our sessions because I knew I was going to feel amazing afterwards. After only a few sessions I was able to see results which was amazing because it only pushed me to work harder. Each workout we did catered to the results I was looking for. He was also very sensitive to areas I was having difficulty. He has so much patience because I know I am not easy to work with. His studio is also pristine. Everything is well kept and clean! That's a huge plus for me because that's one thing that I can't stand about public gyms. I can't stand how poorly they're kept. The equipment he has is also comparable to what you would find at the gym. Overall I had an excellent experience training w/ Alex and he's definitely the only trainer I would go back to! read more

Let me start off by saying that working out with Alexander at The Study has by far been the best personal training experience I've ever had...yes, ever! That's not because I haven't had good trainers...it's more a reflection of how exceptional Alexander is both as a trainer and person! Over the years I've worked out on my own and had my fair share of trainers, each of whom taught me a new technique or approach, but none kept me as challenged and motivated as Alexander. Even on days when I didn't think I'd have the energy to put in the work, he somehow found a way to pull it out of me. Training sessions are typically scheduled in a semester format which consist of 3 workouts a week for about 2 months. Though the frequency of the workouts seems daunting at first thought, you quickly realize that you're making significant progress and getting results...even if you didn't do any extra workouts on your own. Each session/week offers a new routine focused on challenging your balance/core, cardio, and strength training or a combination of the three. Of course, with a name like "The Study" you can expect to receive "homework" which you'll gladly do to get better at the various jump roping techniques, mastering the box jump (or in my case a standard push up), or using your foam roller for stretching and muscle recovery. As an added benefit, Alexander will design a meal plan based on your diet preferences (something you'd normally pay a nutritionist to do) and provide ongoing tips (e-mails of articles) and training guidelines to help keep you informed and motivated. Finally, The Study has all the amenities of the top sports clubs in LA..shower, towels, bottle service ;) (water bottle..that is) Trust me when I say how hard it is to go back to my regular gym ((whose idea of clean is sketchy)) after having worked out at The Study for 2 semesters! Good luck and HAVE FUN! read more

I was recommended to the study by my roommate. I had not worked out regularly in 20 years and I was hesitant to go to a gym where I would be surrounded by a bunch of "hot bods". Plus I was concerned about injury if I did not know how to use the equipment or by using bad technique. So the fact that it was a private studio where I could get one on one attention was very appealing to me. My goal was to get a healthier lifestyle and get in better shape but I wasn't concerned about a six pack. Alexander Bruce was my instructor and instead of a "Nazi" instructor he was very cool. He pushed me further than I thought I could go but NEVER had me over do it. He used low impact exercises and gave me diet tips and workouts I could do at home. My endurance increased DRAMATICALLY and the compliments from co-workers felt really good too. When we worked out Alexander spent the entire hour concentrating on me and not his iPhone or any other distractions. Even when people came off the street to inquire about sessions he would politely ask them to call back later because he was in session and I really appreciated that. Oh, and his "bad" jokes really kept me going when I wanted to give up! A genuinely good guy and I'm happy to call him a friend. I would recommend him to anyone of any age or fitness level. He helps males, females, and couples. And he is obsessed with keeping a clean studio which is awesome. read more

Honestly, I don't even know where to begin, I never leave reviews but this time it's a must. When I showed up to my first session with Alexander, immediately I knew that this was completely different than anything I had ever tried before. Mind you, I had tried working out with other trainers in the past, but for some reason, they did not create the environment that got me to keep going. This time was different. Going to The Study was the best decision I could have made and could not have been at a better time...Alexander CARES about you and is devoted to helping you ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS :) Here are a few things worth mentioning from my personal experience with Alexander: * #1 Great connection, it feels more like you're training with a friend * THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL TRAINER, Oh NO!! Alexander helps you bring the best out of you, and the results expand outside of the workout sessions * No matter what level of fitness you are in, he will base the program on your specific goals * Typical training can be frustrating, but not with Alexander. He will challenge you, but you don't leave feeling like you don't want to return, in fact, he makes training fun, and you leave feeling better after every session * He helped me create a healthy nutrition plan that completely changed the way I eat * HE GENUINELY CARES ABOUT YOUR SUCCESS, and the sessions are 100% ABOUT YOU * In the past, I felt lost and would get overwhelmed with directions but Alexander pays much attention to detail and making sure you are using the correct form * The environment is very positive and will make you want to keep coming (great upbeat playlist too ;) * He always followed up and sent me new recommendations on things to try * Breathing was a huge issue for me. I never realized that I was not breathing properly all my life and he encouraged me to take Breathwork sessions * The results that you see outside the training are incredible, "you're training for life." * He is not the trainer yelling and screaming on the back of you, he is actually patient and If you can't do something he always finds an alternative for you. I can go on and on...but overall if you're reading this just like I was before, JUST STOP and email/text Alexander and show up for at least an intro session so you can decide for yourself. I got much more than just a great workout, and THERE IS NO PRICE TO BECOMING ACTIVE, HAVING MORE ENERGY AND FEELING MORE EXCITEMENT IN YOUR LIFE. BEST INVESTMENT HANDS DOWN!!! read more

Alexander is fantastic! He's extremely professional and is both encouraging and motivating. He also has extensive knowledge about building a program geared specifically toward his clients' needs. More than a workout coach, he focuses on teaching proper technique and provides guidance on your nutritional regimen. Most importantly, I saw results after only a few weeks. Can't beat that. read more

A very long overdue review... Let me start by saying that I have never been much of an athlete and have drifted in and out of gyms, off and on, for as long as I can remember. I also happen to be the type of person who gets super excited about trying some new workout program only to abandon it a month or two later because it's either too boring, too hard, I didn't like the teacher, got injured, etc., there was always an excuse...until I found The Study. From the minute I met Alex I knew this was going to be a different experience for me. First, his studio is immaculate with all types of interesting equipment. Second, while talking to him I could sense his passion for what he does and what he could offer me if I put in the effort. And third, he's an Athlete not a muscle head, which was really important to me because I wanted to train with someone I could relate to. He explained his program, including the cost, and had me do a short workout to gauge my fitness level, which was pretty nonexistent. He then did what no other trainer has ever done before...he encouraged me to go home and think about whether this program would be right for me. Wait, what? I don't know if that was some sort of reverse psychology or not but regardless I signed up with him on the spot because I thought, "what an honest guy, and seriously how hard could this be?" Well let me tell you how hard it was... I'm not going to lie, it was VERY hard and a huge struggle for me the first few months and all I did was whine and complain...poor Alex, but he never gave up on me, never gave into me, and was so encouraging, patient and supportive that eventually it all started clicking into place. Fast forward to a little over a year later and I am still training at The Study three times a week, which says a lot for someone who could never stick with any workout program. One big reason why I think his program works for me is because he mixes up every session and never lets me get bored. This is because he designs each of his clients sessions in advance based on our individual needs, which is key for getting results. Btw, Alex is huge on healthy eating and will go over the importance of this with you, listen to him because once I changed my eating habits; I really started to see drastic results. I am so happy that I found Alex! Training with him has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I could literally write another whole page of compliments, but just go train with him and see for yourself! read more

Alexander Bruce's study has really changed my life - i know - dramatic! I've always been someone that liked being active - i took classes here and there, maybe went for a light jog - but i was never one that took my health into consideration with regards to fitness. After a year of marriage, I had gained some very stubborn weight and i just didn't feel as energetic or healthy as I once was. We ate out a lot, we would go out for cocktails a lot, i would sleep in, instead of workout on weekends. I just didn't feel good. So, after a lot of research and careful consideration I decided to give THE STUDY a shot. It is a bit of an investment but after having trained with Alexander for 2 semesters, I can confidently say it is worth it! Hence why I signed up for yelp and made this my first and possibly, only review. Trust me, I'm not the same person as I once was when I first started with Alexander - I now workout 4-5 times a week - and I REALLY love it - I used to hate it! It's quite remarkable how much things have changed. As stated in previous reviews - the place is immaculate, the workouts are extremely varied and effective, the instruction is top notch...the largest value I've found has been the amazing journey that you take when you work with Alexander. His method of encouragement and the partnership that he offers during the start of the journey to achieving your fitness goals, is the real reason I was able to overcome some of my biggest fitness challenges. It can be overwhelming and at times frustrating - Alexander's workouts are never meant to be a short cut to getting skinny, or a fad 'insanity' approach - he wants you to understand how your body works, how to build strength and feel strong and how to challenge yourself without giving up. It's hard work, dedication and finding the right workout for you, that Alexander promotes. I don't know if everyone can relate, but losing weight and changing your body can be a bit of an emotional rollercoaster - Alexander understands that and works very hard to cater to not just helping you improve form, get strong and get results, but also to mentally prepare you for the tough times, pushes you when you need it and comforts you when you feel like giving up. I am now more fearless about taking the classes at the gym that I know will hurt the next day and now, I actually enjoy setting a goal that seems impossible and beating it - I gained all of that from the time I spent training with Alexander and for that I am SO grateful. Alexander is an incredible motivator, a patient teacher and encouraging friend. I recommend his training to everyone and I can't wait to hear how he is changing others people view of fitness and nutrition like he did mine! read more

Working with Alexander at The Study has been the most motivating, engaging, positive training experience I've had to date. What sets Alexander's Semester training program apart is complete customization. Before you start training, Alexander asks you about your fitness goals and your skill goals (i.e. handstand push-ups, goal number of pull-ups in a row, etc.), and you work throughout the semester on achieving these goals. Alexander also tailors - in great detail - diet recommendations to your goals. Mind you, flexibility in adapting his program to changing circumstances is another one of Alexander's strengths: if your fitness/skills goals change, if you fall sick, if you injure yourself outside of the gym, Alexander will mould the training to keep you active and exercising. Alexander's program is designed for those who want to develop superior functional fitness: you will feel stronger in completing activities in your daily life after training with him. I would honestly recommend no other trainer if you want this quality of training. read more

Alex is an awesome trainer! He focused on the areas I wanted to work on and also recommended some areas that might be beneficial for my body type to further build muscle and endurance. He made the 1 hr training feel like five minutes! A very nice trainer and caring of his clients. Definitely recommend Alex as a personal trainer! read more

If you are looking for a personal trainer...then stop your search here. Alexander is an amazing trainer. I did a ton of research and interviewed other personal trainers as well. I started his program in decent shape...and came away in best shape of my life. He made it fun, he gave me a ton of knowledge and built a house on the foundation that I had. I have had experience with personal trainers from Golds Gym, 24hr, and LA Fitness and Alexander completely blows them away. His nutrition advice is bar none the best as well AND he gives you extra exercises you can do on your own at the gym. I am looking forward to continuing more semesters! Go to him and you won't be disappointed. read more

Alexander is the best trainer i've ever been able to train with. The Study, is exactly what it is. Not only am I learning more about MY body, but also gaining the knowledge and techniques to properly train myslelf on my own. My results both with Alexander and on my own following Alexander's advice have been great. I reccomend this gym because he will challenge you in all area's of training while teaching you new skills. read more

Alex is exactly as advertised. A great trainer. He listens to you and understands everyone is built differently. His gym is perfect size for personal training and he plays great music! I would go to him any day over a trainer from some big box gym. read more

Look no further! Zach is an amazing personal trainer with comprehensive knowledge of the body. I've been training with him for several months and my body has totally changed. We have worked through some minor back pain and hip mobility problems with core work and focus on form. I'm now able to do squats and other strength exercises I never thought would be possible again! My physical strength and endurance have increased considerably and I feel AMAZING thanks to Zach. In addition to his knowledge of the body he is smart, fun and our workouts are always a little different. I saw results quickly because he knows how to train effectively and efficiently. Do yourself a favor and call Zach! read more

Alex is an A+ trainer and an excellent motivator. His attention to detail is his greatest asset, and it's evident in all aspects of The Study experience. From the cleanliness and organization of his private studio to his hawk-like observance of your form throughout each and every exercise, he's tuned in. He has an enormous knowledge base of all things health-related, from traditional movements to newer techniques, from diet and nutrition to injury and recovery. His opinions and approaches are researched, reasonable, and very well-informed. He's a one-stop shop when it comes to learning a healthy, fit lifestyle. Personally, I never imagined I would see the kind of results I've been able to achieve under his tutelage. It's clear that fitness is more than just a job for Alex -- it's a great passion. He may not be the cheapest trainer on the block, but darned if you don't get what you pay for. Worth every penny. read more

The study is awesome! I've been working out with athletic trainers since I graduated from college and am typically impressed with their fitness knowledge. But Alexander is the first trainer that shares with me his unique fitness and nutritional expertise. I leave every session feeling encouraged, challenged, educated and I LOVE IT! read more

Overall, I could not recommend Alex more strongly. He's a great guy, and an incredible trainer. Working out with him was fun, educational, and really changed the way I look and feel. If you're serious about getting in shape - putting in the time in the gym and even more importantly committing to a healthy diet- you can achieve incredible results in a really short time. I lost 5% body fat (from 20% to 15%) and gained 5lbs of muscle in less than 8 weeks. There are a lot of really good trainers, but what makes Alex an exceptional trainer is his commitment to ensuring the sessions aren't just about getting in shape, but also about education and learning. Alex always took time to explain the "science" behind the exercises we did or the goals we set. It wasn't just about doing the exercises and diet, but also discussing the reasons for them and their effect at every step of the way. He explained the effects on the muscular groups, why different nutritional choices were important, etc. Alex takes pleasure in educating his clients which leads to much more sustainable results than simply telling someone to do 20 reps of a given exercise without explaining the why, how, so what of it all. Alex is all about education and ensuring his clients can take their knowledge with them, it's called "The Study" after all! He would even send me additional reading to answer questions I would have. I ended my program with Alex when I moved from LA in June, and he still sends me articles and videos!! The other reason I loved working out with Alex so much was his facility. Alex' gym really made a huge difference for me in terms of the results I was able to achieve. First of all, since he designed the space, he chose all the equipment and the exact setup he wanted. So he's not just "making do" with what's available like some of the other trainers I've had. Also when you're there, it's all about you! There's no waiting on machines, no one watching you as you try and get those last 3 lunges or squats. I felt way more comfortable working out in Alex' private gym than I would have in a crowded fitness center. I couldn't recommend Alex more strongly! If I'm ever back in LA I'll be sure to stop in! read more

So let me start off by saying that I'll never train with anyone else but Alex ever again. He completely changed my view on strength training and made me work harder than I ever thought I could. He works you hard but he understands limits and will never push you too far over. I'm 22 and have a really hectic schedule balancing work, art and now art school but he taught me how to balance and the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. In the beginning of the "semester" he evaluates you and gives you a personalized meal plan and he even goes through the trouble of writing out work outs for you to do at home. That was my favorite part; a lot of the exercises he showed me were things that i could do at home with little to no equipment. He even hooked it up with tools that I can use to exercise with and roll out sore muscles as well as lots of socks because I am a forgetful person :D Other than being extremely knowledgable and helpful, Alex is the sweetest and most understanding guy you'll meet. He's really fun to work out with and just be around in general. It was always hard for me to find a trainer I could connect with or even hold a conversation with but there was never a dull day with Alex! He is good about working with your schedule but always encourages you to make it to all of your sessions, but you'll honestly never want to miss one. Not to mention his private gym is always kept in exceptional condition. This is actually the first yelp review I've ever left, but I had to leave one because Alex changed my life for the better :) read more

I went to Alexander to get into shape for my wedding and I can tell you that I got so much more... Although at points very frustrating, he demands perfection for a purpose. To make sure you are safe and building a foundation for yourself. I was only able to be with Alexander for 2 "Semesters" but I can tell you, it has stayed with me! I ended up moving, but I followed my path that was created and ended up in the best shape of my life. Don't even question, just GO! Bar none, the best trainer out there (and I have seen a few)!! Thank you Alexander - will you move to San diego? :) read more

Get ready for Alex, he is an amazing trainer. I trained with him in S F before he deserted me and went to the sunny shores of Santa Monica. Totally goal oriented, really motivates you and loves to mix things up. You will not regret it. read more

I had a great experience training for two months at the study. My starting goals were achieved in a relatively short period of time in a sustainable way. As many of the other reviews highlight, Alexander is very professional, gave me a method of training I can take anywhere and put together a nutrition plan. Initially I thought three days a week commitment would be overwhelming but I ended up looking forward to training rather than dreading it. I have definitely reached a new level mentally and physically. These results are above and beyond my numerous experiences with trainers and coaches The key for me was working with someone who would know when to push and when to back off, be intuitive and dynamic and I think that's exactly what I got out of the study. I actually had a bit of anxiety around certain elements of exercise, and Alexander ended up being the best possible trainer to work on that because he has modifications for all of the exercises, and is encouraging and non judgmental. Really glad I stumbled upon this studio, would highly recommend the study to anyone. Just a shame I can't continue as I no longer live in LA! read more