our trainers: larisa goldman

hometown:
Kharkov, Ukraine

where you'll find her:
Club # 536 Hayward, CA

years as a trainer:
Since 1993

favorite workout:
My favorite workout is plyometrics because it allows you to feel strength, endurance, and flexibility all at the same time.

favorite client success story:
I have a client I met in April 2004 after she went through a car accident. She had undergone multiple surgeries on her shoulders, back, neck, and elbows. She could not brush her hair or button her blouse. Six months later she lost 25 lbs and she was happy because she could take care of herself on her own without help from others. I am still working with her and she has more strength and the will to improve even more.

favorite way to motivate clients:
My favorite way to motivate a client is to show them that I have no doubts that they can reach their goals and that I really care. When they see how much I believe in them and how much I contribute to their personal success, they have no choice but to contribute to it themselves.

exercise/fitness philosophy:
I believe that everything is possible if you really want it.

hobbies and interests:
I enjoy figure skating, photography, parachute jumping, cooking, reading, traveling, spending time with family.

most embarrassing moment:
During high school I went body surfing at a beach with big waves and strong currents. After coming back to shore I realized that my shorts were around my ankles.

nickname:
My nickname at work is "Russian Pain." I got this nickname from my clients by making them do "Russian Twists" and other tough exercises.

one day I want to:
Travel around the world.