client testimonials

Conny Van Dyke, Actress (Before & After)

Sat, 7 Mar 2009 13:12:50 -0800

“It is high-time that I added my more-than-2-cents worth to applaud Sam Page and his Zig-Zag Meal Plan. For once in my life I was smart enough to take advantage of the knowledge of a real expert, my son-in-law, Sam Page.

Sam designed a meal plan, expressly for me. No, it’s not like a page out of Good Housekeeping...and it is definitely not “one-size-fits-all”! Those kinds of meal plans and dietary changes have never gotten my attention because I have never felt as if one plan takes into consideration each person’s unique qualities.

It takes a little more time for the client (in this case, me) to write down exactly what sort of daily menu is ingested. And, it takes time, effort, knowledge and experience for the training professional to use that information and out it together with what makes nutritional sense. I must say that I trusted the right professional this time!

Thanks to Sam, I have now lost 22 pounds since the first of November, 2008. It was not tough to stay with and then adopt. I no longer what I can eat next; I have a real good idea of what I need to give my body to have a better day...with more energy and a brighter outlook on life in general. The first time that I noticed that my clothes were looser on me, I had a happier day and felt as though I was on the right track. I was actually doing something good for myself...I had an active role in becoming healthier.

Thank you so much, Sam. Damn I’m glad I’m part of the family!

With love and a lot of gratitude,
Mom

Kate West, theatre critic

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:20:04 -0700

from Sam Page: Best Trainer in Town

“Long time personal trainer Sam Page is the proud owner of several fitness centers, and one right here in Hollywood. His casual, nurturing and fully-informed style of fitness training will get you where you want to be. He's quite the rage at the moment (check out his sites below and be sure to read the client testimonials and watch him interview the fabulous Kathy Griffin). He will push you as hard as you need to be pushed, all the while maintaining the utmost professionalism and hip savvy. A true find, Sam will give you all his sincerity and honesty and where else can you find that in one package, especially in L.A.? Absolute recommendation!”

Michael Munck, bond trader

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 10:48:01 -0700

“I trained with Sam for about a year and a half, and the man really took me up a couple of plateaus in my training during that time. Aside from the help, and researched advice I received on diet, he trained me in the form of almost a boot camp drill sergeant.
Granted, he helped in form and routine and explaining on how muscles grow separately and together, but more importantly, he pushed me. This was exactly what I was looking for and Sam has been great a filling that role. I see many trainers at my gym that are nothing more than spotters or beginner trainers at best. However, Sam takes it well beyond that for someone who already knows the basics and really wants to push themselves so their body truly does make a transformation.”

John Balma, actor

Tue, 8 Jan 2008 15:30:56 -0800

“To put it lightly, I am not to the Gym Manor born. As with all things athletic, I was concerned about feeling intimidated by Sam before I met him. However, from the start, I felt nothing but encouragement and genuine concern for my progress. Sam’s focus on his client is remarkable during a 50 minute session – nothing distracts him. His knowledge is vast but if you throw him a curve ball, he actually takes time to research an answer for you. His patience is impressive – and trust me, I spent enough session time in the bathroom throwing up to have tested the patience of a saint. Sam simply looked for solutions. Finally, there is his manner – always upbeat, always understanding and completely free of attitude. He really is a gem in the LA fitness scene.”

Denise Cramsey, executive producer

Tue, 1 Jan 2008 16:09:11 -0800

“Thanks for taking such good care of me. And for helping me take care of myself. You're very good at your job."

Editor’s Note: Denise recently climbed Mt. Everest

Jacqueline Lesko, writer (before & after)

Sun, 2 Dec 2007 15:01:13 -0800

“I’d been working out with Sam since October 2006. It was going well; I felt strong and had tons of energy. I loved meeting Sam twice a week to yes, work my muscles, but also to talk through some issues – they always seem to come up in the middle of crunches, laugh at his great jokes and insights, and listen to his wise advice. I am continually inspired by Sam’s kind spirit, fierce integrity and unnerving discipline.

“But honestly, I wasn’t getting the results I had longed for and secretly, deep down, I knew the reason why. It took me five months to finally come to terms, and I have to be honest, it was my impending wedding date that caused me to say those fateful words out loud, as opposed to myself, alone in my bathroom, every morning: “Hey Sam, I can’t seem to stop eating like crap, I’m thinking of trying the Meal Plan you’ve mentioned…” His eyes lit up and I finally exhaled. I was nervous, I knew my day to day living and being was going to change so I meekly tried put up a couple roadblocks: “You know, I’m hypoglycemic, I can’t not eat. Am I going to be starving?” And, even better, “I’m in the film business, I work really long hours, will I be able to find the food I need?” I mean, I was reaching here…I was trying to wriggle my way out… But Sam was gentle and assured me that I would not be starving (except maybe on Thursdays) and that this wasn’t some weird sort of alien food I was going to eat. He explained that it was a simple Zig Zag plan – by daily “Zig Zagging” my caloric intake up and down I would increase my metabolic rate and lose fat—using clean, lean, unprocessed food. AND if I was committed to the process, was honest with my journal, and dedicated to working out, then it would transform my body. And it did.

“I love my arms now – look at those muscles!!
And yes, those are carbs on my plate.”

—Jacqueline Lesko, writer & director

Eufe De La Torre, therapist, actor, father

Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:14:31 -0700

"What a journey—after six years as a stay-at-home dad and just about to hit the big "40" (yikes!) I needed a big kick in the rear to lose the 20 pounds I'd slowly layered on (I was 189 pounds and 25% fat). With Sam's amazing support, killer routines and tailored workouts to fit my specific needs, I reached my goal of 169 pounds in six months. Three months later, I've continued the routines on my own and have maintained my weight. Now i'm toned, back to my 32" waist, healthy and with tons of energy. You've inspired me to stay healthy and active, not only for myself, but for my kids as well."

in español:

"Fue increible! Despues de 6 años de estar en casa cuidando a mis hijos y a punto de cumplir los 40 (horror!), necesitaba un buen empujon para perder las 20 libras que poco a poco fui acumulando (189lb - 25% grasa). Con tu gran apoyo, rutinas duras y entalladas a mis necesidades, alcance mi meta de 169 libras en 6 meses. Tres meses mas tarde, he seguido las rutinas por mi cuenta y he mantenido mi peso. Ahora estoy en forma, con 32 de cintura, buena salud y mucha energia. Sam, me has inspirado a seguir en forma, mantener buena salud y volver a ser esa persona activa que antes era. No solo por mi, sino tambien por mis hijos. Gracias!"

—Eufe de la Torre
Therapist & Stay-at-Home Dad

Deborah Raznick, writer

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 13:39:32 -0700

"You make me want to work out. It's not just your boyish good looks and charm that kept me motivated. I had the feeling that you really cared. And that made me want to take better care of myself too."

Olan Wicker, elementary school teacher

Sat, 21 Apr 2007 10:12:36 -0700

"You are one of a kind in the professional business of personal fitness training. During this past year, you've pushed me, motivated me, and most importantly, taught me how proper nutrition and exercise go hand in hand. What you've taught me is a lifestyle. The result of your dedicated and professional knowledge has helped me to be in the best shape of my adult life. You are truly a unique individual in your profession. I thank you—and my body thanks you."

Olan Wicker
Elementary School Teacher
Center For Early Education
West Hollywood, CA

Diane Korman, producer

Thu, 5 Apr 2007 17:00:34 -0700

"Sam—you are the best! Love, Di"

Brad Brusavich, artist

Wed, 4 Apr 2007 16:15:40 -0700

“I’d never worked with a trainer before, and approached this experience with a fair amount of trepidation. I didn’t know what to expect, but I know what I didn’t want: a macho guy all into muscle and nothing else. Working with Sam far exceeded my expectations. Sam welcomed my approach to my body as an exploration and challenge of my perceived limitations, and a celebration of my emotions and spiritual well-being. Sam welcomed my questions, incorporated my requests into the routines, and provided consistent unwavering support.

I was impressed with his dedication and commitment to helping me be my best at each moment, and his willingness to listen to my insecurities and challenges, as well as what I felt were great strides in progress. I was quite impressed with his ability to stay focused, present and completely attuned to me (my favorite topic) at each of our sessions. The experience for me was a continual unfolding of new awareness and lessons about what barriers I construct for myself and how to overcome these obstacles with Sam’s feedback and help.

I have a new appreciation for my body, for myself and for what I am capable of. I am surprised how conscious I am of the choices I am making on a daily basis concerning my health on every level. Where I used to automatically reach for the candy bar or remote control, I now make a protein shake or take a walk (ok, truth: if not, I at least think about it). Sam, you’re the bomb (and pretty macho too)!”

Brad Brusavich, Artist Pasadena, CA

Carlos Rosario, costume designer

Thu, 1 Feb 2007 16:23:30 -0800

"I'd been looking for a good trainer for quite some time, trying a few for the last 12 years. Then I found the trainer everybody dreams to have: Sam Page. In a city (Los Angeles) where every trainer trains their clients the way they train themselves, (incapable of adapting their training to the physical chalenges of their clients) Sam is definitely a rare catch. He designs the perfect program for you based on not only your physical evaluation and lifestyle, but also the mood you're in when you start your session with him. He's always ready to change the workout with an incredible repertoire of creative exercises to fit the needs of your mind, body and spirit.

"In a city where every trainer feels like they need to be your 'friend,' (or starts off very professional but after three sessions have 'crossed the line') Sam will always respect your emotional boundaries, always listen to your needs. He's discreet and respectful — quiet when he feels you need space, and a very good communicator when you need motivation.

"Working out with him is something I always look forward to. I have fun during my sessions and I've learned very valuable information about the body and weight training. His knowledge on how the body functions always impresses me. Reading all the articles he writes every week on his website has helped me to stay in touch with all the latest in fitness, diets, and has improved my sessions. You'll be incredibly surprised on how fast you can acheive the results you've always dreamed. I've been working out just four months with him and I'm already in the best shape I've ever been!
"I don't think any trainer in Los Angeles gives as much to his clients as Sam does—he's a true inspiration and a joy to be around. Sam's just the best: a beautiful man with a huge heart that loves his work and dedicates 100% of himself to you."

Carlos Rosario Film & TV Costume Designer

Christopher Gable, fragrance designer

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 16:44:59 -0800

Sam's regimen gave me a great and viable template to follow and carry into the rest of the week. A great help!"

Christopher Gable
President
Demeter Fragrance, Inc.

Ralph Maglio, director of retail

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 16:50:43 -0800

"Through your inspiration, I now have a 32-inch waist and weigh 167 pounds. I may sound like an infomercial, but you've helped me change not just physically—but mentally. I'm more confident in every way. You're amazing."

—Ralph Maglio, director of retail
SWATCH, Inc.

Brad Bishop, executive in charge of production

Wed, 1 Nov 2006 16:30:05 -0800

"Part of what makes Sam stand out in a city full of personal trainers is his ability to customize workouts to the goals and abilities of the individual. Before I met Sam, I never really looked forward to working out. But his skill and personality make working out something I want to do, rather than something I have to do. And that's no small accomplishment!"

Brad Bishop
Executive in Charge of Production
Forman Productions

Natalie Skelton, school administrator

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 16:57:29 -0700

“You are a constant amazing inspiration in my life. What you do, who you are and everything you give to people each and every day, like it's the easiest thing in the world to be so wonderful. I'm so glad I know you. Thank you for being a part of my training...

“Sam is the most sincere, caring and nurturing trainer who will still push you to be your best. Sam rocks!"

Jim Cude, film editor & water polo athlete

Thu, 4 May 2006 16:33:04 -0700

"Walking through Sam's door for the first time, I was a bit cocky. I thought: 'I'm in good shape; I play water polo, I work out. Why do I need a trainer?' But a friend I trust suggested I meet Sam—he said Sam could help me take my game further. He was right. Sam, your workouts proved that I still had a long way to go! You kicked my Gay Games training into high gear, and you put me in better shape to compete— not just physically—but mentally."

James Cude  West Hollywood Water Polo Team
2006 Gay Games Competitor

Ryan Bonnell, pharmaceutical representative

Wed, 1 Jun 2005 16:53:48 -0700

"I wanted to tone up before a trip to Hawaii. Sam was an excellent resource, and a great motivator. He helped me keep my focus, and answered my many questions. With his help I was able to lose 8 pounds and cut my body fat by 3%."

Ryan Bonnell  Pharmaceutical Representative

Darrin Heiden, development director

Tue, 1 Feb 2005 16:38:39 -0800

I've worked with a number of trainers over the last five years, and I must tell you that your 'inspiration not intimidation' philosophy is outstanding. I'm so excited about the results I've achieved since starting to train with you. Your motivation and encouragement makes me look forward to our workouts. I feel like I have 100% of your attention and focus during my workouts, and you are genuinely interested in my success."

Darrin Heiden
Development Director

Mike Maloy, executive producer

Thu, 13 Jan 2005 16:45:57 -0800

"My experience with you these last few months has been life-altering. I've noticed huge changes in my overall fitness level—from strength to flexibility to endurance—and it has raised the bar for me in all aspects of my life. From yoga to surfing to cycling, I have more speed, strength, balance, and most importantly—serenity. You helped me get there with patience and focus. You challenge me with innovative workouts, and I always look forward to our sessions together.”

—Mike Maloy, Executive producer
The Fashionista Diaries

René Rodriguez, notary public

Tue, 19 Oct 2004 16:55:56 -0700

Deciding to use Sam as my fitness coach was just what I needed to get myself on the right track. Sam has a way of drawing the best out of you, you follow his lead. He's able to inspire you to test your limits. The information and knowledge he has given me will help me in my battle to reach my personal goals. I know that he is genuinely interested in helping me be the best that I can be—and to me—that means a lot. I'm proud to have Sam in my corner as a coach, a mentor, and a friend.

René Rodriguez
Notary Publlic