Need help getting started? Hitting plateaus? Personal Training with Rain City Fit can help.

It doesn't matter how long you've been working out, everyone can be benefit from personal training. If you're new to the gym, personal training at Rain City Fit can provide the guidance you need to develop a new workout routine. Feeling stuck? Personal training can give you the personalized instruction you need to get more from your workouts. Trying to set new personal records? We can help you do it!

At Rain City Fit, we have a small hand-picked group of personal trainers who run their own business, seeing their clients at our gym. Each trainer sets their own schedule and their own prices. This enables Rain City Fit to have higher quality trainers, and they get to keep a higher percentage of their earnings, versus the commercial gym model. On this page you’ll find short bios of each trainer and how to connect with them. If you still need further assistance, you can email training@raincityfit.com. - Thanks!


Sophie Evans (she/her) | sophieevansfit@gmail.com

Hi, my name is Sophie! I am a NASM Certified Personal Trainer who has found a love for fitness through athletics and Powerlifting. I have been playing volleyball for 18 years, having played for the University of Ireland Galway (UNIG), as well as led UNIG’s mountaineering club and have competed in Powerlifting – all of which have led to my passion for athletic based functional fitness.

I discovered my passion for exercise and functional movement over the last few years, especially for those that fitness may not come easy to. I worked in juvenile rehabilitation right out of college and found that bringing the kids to the weight room, where they learned how their bodies could move and how strong they have the ability to become, was an incredible confidence booster and allowed them to hold themselves accountable. There I learned that the mental impact exercise holds is incredibly valuable and I strive to teach others the same.

My training methods stem from functional and athletic based fitness – moving your body in all planes of motion that are best for you, whether you’re training for a specific sport or just want to build overall strength. Together we can work on your goals and create new ones as we go!


sam ballenger (he/him) | blackcatstrength206@gmail.com

My name is Sam and I am a NASM-Certified Personal Trainer. I grew up in the Seattle area and played hockey from age 5 through my early 20’s making it to the Jr. A level. I found Rain City Fit in 2020 and immediately felt at home. After becoming a member at the Barbell Club in 2021, I competed in the First Annual RCPU Rookie Meet. Since then, I've competed and placed in numerous sanctioned and unsanctioned meets with a 500lb squat, 400-ish bench press, and 700+ deadlift.

The support and friendships I have made at Rain City Fit have changed my life. Long story shorter, my earlier years included a cycle of addiction and unaddressed mental health which lead to incarceration and homelessness. I got clean in 2018 and found strength training as a positive outlet to support my recovery. Strength training, especially in the community we have at RCF, has changed my life. I have found confidence and empowerment that I never knew I was capable of. I'm now happily married with a new born son!

My goal as a trainer is to help make the world of fitness less intimidating and more welcoming to everybody. No matter what your current level of fitness is, you belong here. I look forward to meeting you and helping you with your own fitness journey!

Thanks!! - Sam


Lexi Johnson (she/her) | alexis.a.johnson1@gmail.com

Lexi (she/her) brings her passion for powerlifting and a wealth of experience to help her clients achieve their fitness goals. An ACE Certified Personal Trainer, she has five years of experience working across the fitness industry and two decades of personal experience within athletics. She has been involved in sports and the gym most of her life, from her dad taking her to the gym as an infant to competing in figure skating, playing rugby in college, and now competing in powerlifting. Lexi has always enjoyed the benefits of being active and hopes she can help her clients discover that same joy.

Lexi’s clientele is diverse, ranging from individuals looking to compete in their first powerlifting meet to those as old as 80 who want to remain active. She specializes in strength-based training and helping those just starting their fitness journey. Her goal as a trainer is to create a space where her clients, regardless of their experience, grow and build confidence in and out of the gym. The combination of knowledge and personal experience allows Lexi to create individualized plans focusing on whatever type of training her clients enjoy the most.

When Lexi isn’t in the gym dancing between sets, she spends time with her dog Bailey, who has more anxiety than she does, and gently forces her girlfriend to go on outdoor adventures. She also works as a research assistant and is in the process of getting her master's. Send an email to alexis.a.johnson1@gmail.com to learn more about training and discuss personalized programs.


Roxanne Miller (She/Her)| roxanne@laurelspt.com

Roxanne Laurie Miller (she/her) is a personal trainer and bodybuilder who has been living in Seattle for the last 4 years. Originally from Indiana, she is excited to work with clients to make the gym accessible and fun!

Roxy has been doing some type of fitness-related activity for over a decade, originally starting out as a runner. Eventually, she got into weightlifting and fell in love with it as a form of self-care.

She wants to share that passion with her clients, especially from the queer and trans community. Being a trans weightlifter herself, she sees weightlifting as a means to celebrate trans bodies and build a better relationship with fitness. No matter her clients’ goals, Roxy is ready to help with the process!

***Roxanne still has limited availability for sliding scale sessions for members of our Trans/Gender Non-Conforming community who qualify financially***


Kirsten (Kirt) Terry-Springs (He/him) | NEWGROWTHFIT@GMAIL.COM

Hello my name is Kirsten (Kirt) Terry-Springs owner of New Growth Fitness LLC. I’m a certified trainer through ISSA. Also a proud plant parent! Huge anime nerd, If I’m not in the gym I’m working on plants watching some anime. Being outdoors in nature and embracing life is what I’m all about!

The gym has been a big contributor to me understanding myself, dealing with stress! The gym can be a scary place, but it can be a great ally. My specialties are building confidence, power, strength with clients. And helping others realize their own personal power!

I spent a couple of years coaching football at high school and college level. I believe everyone is an athlete!

I’m looking for clients that want to make a change in their lives not only for themselves but their loved ones and friends. Let’s begin your new growth now!

Instagram: @new_growthfitnessllc


Glenn Solver (he/him) | shadowstrength.seattle@gmail.com

My name is Glenn and I’m a NASM Certified Personal Trainer. For as long as I can remember, I was actively involved in soccer throughout my school years. My lifting journey began when I was 17 and I’ve been training consistently ever since. I have competed in sanctioned and unsanctioned powerlifting events (most recent one was in April 2024) and will probably do a few more in the future! 

In July 2022, I had a severe accident - I slipped and fell off a pretty high flight of stairs that resulted in breaking my left fibula and ankle, which not only physically incapacitated me, but also severely shook my confidence. It was a challenging period where I had to undergo bed rest and then re-learn how to walk over the next 6-7 months. This experience taught me firsthand the importance of mental resilience and the struggle of rebuilding confidence after injury. Now, as a personal trainer, I am committed to helping my clients regain their confidence, whether it's overcoming an injury or any other obstacle they may face on their fitness journey

With a passion for fitness and a commitment to empowering individuals, my mission is to cultivate a safe and inclusive environment where clients feel supported and encouraged in their fitness journey. I strive to foster confidence by listening attentively to their needs, understanding their unique aspirations, and tailoring personalized training programs to help them achieve their fitness goals effectively. Through dedication, empathy, and expertise I aim to inspire and guide individuals towards a healthier and happier lifestyle. 


Josie D’Aquanno (she/her) pendulumstrengthandnutrition@gmail.com

Josie is a Certified CrossFit Level 2 Coach and Certified Precision Nutrition Coach. Josie has always been active. She started playing Baseball when she was 7 years old. As she grew up, she dabbled in other sports such as volleyball, basketball and gymnastics, but ended up coming back to softball. After high school, Josie struggled to establish an exercise routine for several years, until she took up running, eventually training for and completing the Big Sur Marathon. Shortly thereafter, she took up CrossFit and strength training.

“Personal training is the most rewarding work I have ever done. Seeing members and clients grow stronger, mentally and physically, every time they walk into the gym is the most rewarding thing I have ever experienced.”

Josie enjoys working with clients of all fitness levels. She has experience with general strength training, powerlifting, and Olympic weightlifting, as well as various forms of endurance training.

https://www.pendulumsn.com/


Sam Padilla (she/her) | samreachstrength@gmail.com

My name is Sam, and I’ve been in the fitness industry for 8 years. My goal as a trainer/coach is to lead with compassion and empathy first and foremost. I strive to make fitness inclusive and accessible for any and all bodies.

My education background is in Exercise Science and Health Sciences. I’m a Certified Personal Trainer through American Council on Exercise (ACE) and a Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

I specialize in Olympic Weightlifting, strength training, functional fitness and love doing everything in between. 

I have experience working with many different populations, including those who are post-op, recovering from injuries, high school and collegiate athletes, those with disabilities and limitations due to paralysis, those with chronic diseases like MS, Lupus, and Fibromyalgia, and those with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. 

I’m passionate about what I do and and do it all with intention and integrity. I would love to work with you! 


Jacob Tsypkin (he/him) | tsypkin@protonmail.com

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Jacob has been a fitness professional since 2007, working in a broad range of roles including personal training, gym ownership, and coaching competitive Olympic weightlifters, powerlifters, and CrossFit athletes. He has been fortunate to learn from some of the best weightlifting, powerlifting, and endurance coaches in the United States, and has worked in writing and/or consulting capacities for Juggernaut Training Systems, Renaissance Periodization, Complete Human Performance, and Reactive Training Systems.

Jacob brings a broad range of skills to bear when working with clients. Whether you’re a weightlifter who wants to refine your snatch technique, a powerlifter in need of programming to take your strength to the next level, a runner who wants to supplement your routine with strength training, or just looking to improve your quality of life through fitness, Jacob has the tools to help you succeed.

Jacob emphasizes the development of skills and habits designed to build a productive and sustainable training process. He offers personal training, exercise programming, and a hybrid of the two – especially valuable for clients who travel frequently

https://www.anarchostrainingmethods.com/


LENA HEMMER (SHE/HER) | LENA.R.HEMMER@GMAIL.COM

Lena is a NASM certified CPT and Level 1 USAW Coach. She recently stepped away from being a full time mountain and water sport guide to take on a greater role in the Rain City Fit community. Her passion to empower folks both in strength sports and outdoor pursuits makes her a great option for those looking to learn and or improve upon weightlifting and powerlifting, as well as those looking to better equip themselves for safety and performance in the outdoors (running, climbing, backpacking, mountaineering…)—with both in person, online, and/or hybrid training.

If Lena’s not in the gym Oly lifting, she’s likely out climbing a glacier, swimming in the sound, or playing with her nieces and nephews (all pit bulls ages 1-5).

“There is space for everyone in the gym, in the alpine and on the water. I am excited to help you find yours!”

Contact Lena for in person or online training at: Lena.r.hemmer@gmail.com


KIT SPRUDZS (she/he) | 2BUCOACHINGWITHK@gmail.com

Kit is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. She also holds a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Dance with a minor in Sexuality Studies from The Ohio State University, and completed the Yoga Sculpt Teacher Training through CorePower Yoga in 2019.

Kit’s approach to personal training is informed by queer theory, a deep and thorough commitment to food + body neutrality, and more than two decades exploring countless different embodied practices. She cannot wait to share her love of strength training/functional fitness, fascination with anatomy and exercise science, and admiration for the human spirit with her clients.

Your goals are her goals, so come as you are and Kit will meet you there. What she wants most, is for you To Be You!

Instagram: @2bu_coaching


Kyle McKee (he/him) | kyle@capitolstrength.com

Exercise programming is most effective when it fits your lifestyle. Kyle works with you to find movements and build a routine that will help you reach the goals you find meaningful, and also fit with the other activities you enjoy. Whether you are a barbell athlete, an avid hiker, or a wine and cheese connoisseur, training should have a positive impact on your life beyond the scale.

Kyle holds a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Athletic Training, and holds certifications with Pre-Script (Level 3 & Barbell Coach).

Currently training as a powerlifter, Kyle has worked with many types of clients, ranging from individuals with low back pain to professional athletes. Across these different disciplines, a major theme is setting a meaningful goal. Pulling from the athletic background, Kyle will work with you to set a performance goal you can measure within your current interests and activity level.

Send an email to kyle@capitolstrength.com to chat about if this is the right coaching environment for you.


Elijah Jordan (he/him) | Emjgains@gmail.com

Elijah Jordan is a dedicated personal trainer with a strong background in martial arts, combining a deep understanding of both fitness and movement principles to help clients achieve their peak potential. With a focus on building strength, he incorporates versatile training styles such as powerlifting, kickboxing, calisthenics, and kettlebell flow movements.

Elijah's approach is rooted in the core principles of mobility, stability, and functional strength, ensuring clients develop well-rounded athleticism. He also emphasizes primal flow movements, which promote fluidity and agility while enhancing overall body control. Elijah is passionate about tailoring programs to meet individual goals, whether it's building muscle, increasing endurance, or improving overall fitness. His expertise extends to physique work, helping clients sculpt and tone their bodies while maintaining a focus on long-term health and wellness.

Clients often appreciate his holistic approach, which balances strength development with the prevention of injury and functional performance. Through his guidance, Elijah has helped numerous individuals become stronger, more resilient versions of themselves.

Website: emjgains.com

Instagram: @elijahhjordan | Tiktok: @elijahhjordan

Youtube: @elijahhjordan


Emily Strahan (she/her) | Strahanfitness@gmail.com

Emily is a certified ISSA personal trainer, L1 CrossFit coach, Olympic Lifting certified and NASM nutrition coach. She is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and affirms that strength is for everyone regardless of age, ability, or gender. 

Emily has trained in many forms since high school, when she fell in love with the strength and confidence that resistance training gave her in everyday life. A former soccer, track and rugby athlete, her favorite exercise modalities include CrossFit, olympic lifting, kettlebell training, mobility training and corrective exercise, a technique that addresses muscle imbalance with the intent to improve pain symptoms.

Emily’s goal is to make fitness enjoyable, accessible and sustainable. She believes in celebrating all the wins and fostering an environment where you feel supported in your goals. Emily is also passionate about changing the way we view fitness. Exercise shouldn't be about how a body is supposed to look. We are made to move! Emily's goal is to help you find movement that inspires love and appreciation for your body and all it is capable of. 

Emily offers personal training, nutrition coaching and programming. 

https://strahanfitness.wixsite.com/strahan-fitness


Jacq (she/her) | gainswithjacq@gmail.com

NASM CPT | PN-L1 | B.S. Kinesiology

Prescript L1 (ongoing)

Evolve Biomechanics Mentorship (ongoing)

Instagram: @gainswithjacq

Hey there!  My name is Jacq and I’m a personal trainer, online powerlifting coach,  and competitive powerlifter.

I started my fitness journey in 2015, and in 2020, decided to start powerlifting and competed in my first meet in 2021. Since then I’ve competed and placed in numerous sanctioned Powerlifting meets both locally (WA) and nationally (Indonesia).

In 2021, I decided to start coaching so that I can help others accomplish their goals without making the same mistakes I did early on in my fitness journey.

My goal as a coach is to  empower you in your pursuit of self-improvement, to develop a growth mindset, feel strong and confident in the gym! Whether your goals are to break through PR’s in the gym, move without pain, perform better in your sport, prepare for a powerlifting meet or simply to improve your health & well-being, let me help! My approach focuses on strengthening the whole body while improving mobility through selecting the most optimal exercises & intensity to target your unique movement capabilities. Attention to technique is my priority as I believe that it’s the foundation to making progress in the gym while minimizing risks of injury.

Besides personal training, I also offer customized programming and online coaching! Thanks, -Jacq


Angel Flores (she/her) | arkangel.athlete@gmail.com

Angel Joy Flores is a coach, athlete, and creator focused on helping her community get into the gym, under a barbell, and out into the world. She is USAW Level 2 certified, holds a Kinesiology degree from the University of Texas, and has years of competition in sport, ranging from football to Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting. She specializes in teaching and training the strength sports and their movements, as well as sport specific strength and conditioning, and can coach all levels, from beginner to experienced athlete. 

Angel holds a strong interest in Olympic Weightlifting. It’s her passion to bring more individuals to the sport and to the functional movements themselves. She first trained and competed with the team down at the University of Texas. Then switched sports and competed on her own in Powerlifting, out and proud as a transfemme athlete. She grew to appreciate how training like an athlete can improve anyone’s life, and how fighting for her right to compete was a key part of her identity. 

Most importantly, as a trans woman of color, she strives to bring more people like her into the strength and fitness space. While the LGBTQ+ community has a strong presence in the fitness space, Angel draws from her own personal experience to understand the difficulties that trans people face in getting through those doors and into a session. It’s her mission to provide space and support, and to make you feel good about being in the gym.


Theo Harris (he/him) | theo@discofsteel.com

Trainer at RCF Barbell Club

Hi! My name is Theo (he/him), and as a father of 3 and a strength enthusiast, I understand how hard it can be to find time in our busy lives to train. It is my goal as your trainer to help build an informed and enthusiastic relationship with the gym, regardless of skill or experience level. 

Stress is stress, your body and mind can’t distinguish between a hard week of work, or staying up all night with the baby and a tough workout. It is an essential part of my coaching that the programming works for you, and meets your needs so that you can create a fruitful training regiment that meets your goals.

My intention for everyone is to discover what they are truly capable of, and make intelligent training decisions.

So whether you want to be able to walk up a flight of stairs without knee pain, have more energy in the morning or see if you can finally break that deadlift plateau, I’m here to help!


rain city fit needs based personal training

***We are working on bringing in our next sliding scale trainers. We use this program as a way to get new trainers some experience, with the goal of graduating them on to full price sessions.***

Personal training can be expensive, and we want our trainers to be able to charge what they need to charge to make a living in our expensive city. We also wanted to find a way to offer personal training to folks who could benefit from it, but maybe don’t make enough money to afford $80-$100/hr.

We want to focus this program on our LGBTQIA2+, BIPOC, and womxn-indentified members of our Seattle community. At this moment, we aren’t setting a specific income threshold to qualify for this program, we are looking for folks who make at or less than the median income, about $55,000/year.

We have two new trainers who will be featured for this program, their bios are listed below. They are both experienced lifters, and fully certified personal trainers. They are being mentored and coached on a daily basis by our more experienced coaches. I have full faith in their ability as trainers, and as people, to provide excellent training to folks who qualify.

Currently, rates will be $25-$35/hr, depending on the client can afford. 100% of the money will go directly to the trainer. We request that folks who have the ability, try to buy a few sessions at a time, 5 or 10 packs of sessions are pretty standard. That gives the trainer the ability to make long term plans with you based on your goals and where you are currently, instead of just having it be a once in a while type of thing.

You can email us at training@raincityfit.com with any questions or to get started!

Thanks! - Ben