AREAS OF SPECIALTY. 

• Strength Training

• Increase muscle strength and size

• Improve bone density 

• Long term program design 

• Specialty techniques and strength ratio optimization for advanced trainees

• Corrective Exercise

• Mobility training

• Breathing mechanics

• Structural balance protocols

• Adaptive training programs for injuries or differently abled individuals

• Body Neutral 

• Encouraging acceptance and respect of one’s body

• Reducing or eliminating physical appearance as part of a person’s self worth

Joanna’s BIO.

she/her/hers

My approach to strength training centers around what I consider to be "the basics" when it comes to exercise selection. They are compound movements like variations of squats and deadlifts for lower body, upper body pressing variations and upper body pulling exercises like chin up, row and pulldown variations.  Each individual I work with is assessed on an ongoing basis to determine their current fitness level, training experience and any extra attention a given muscle or movement pattern needs.  Typically using 3 - 4 week training phases in addition to progressive overload of the compound lifts (or their regressions as needed) I also program accessory and remedial work including core, arm, shoulder, calf and neck isolation exercises to support optimal structural balance and progress in the most safe, systematic and efficient ways possible. 

I truly enjoy working with absolute beginners and those new to strength training which will involve starting slow and building a strong and balanced foundation.  I also really enjoy working with people with some or even lots of training experience wherein I can implement advanced program design strategies and fun specialty techniques to stimulate the body and mind in new ways.  I have experience working with individuals with pre-existing neck, shoulder, back, hip, knee or foot pain and or restriction and have plenty of exercise modifications and mobility exercises in my training toolbox to keep you moving and as pain free as possible. On an interpersonal level I believe my coaching style can be described as calm, patient and deliberate (no yelling!).

Born in Oakland and raised in Berkeley, California, I started working out at the YMCA in high school to kill time between school and sports practice under the tutelage of personal trainer and bodybuilder, Simi Tufunga. He generously provided guidance to the many high school kids who frequented that gym after school. I fell in love with the natural high lifting weights provides as well as the satisfaction of making measurable progress in the gym. I started working in the fitness industry while a college student teaching multiple weekly yoga and spin classes at the UC Davis ARC.  I completed my first personal training certification on my 21st birthday and fast forward many, many years to the present day and I am a personal trainer with over 15 years experience helping others improve their mental and physical health and strength through strength training. I aspire to be body neutral in my own life and with my clients so you can expect me to prioritize your long term strength, function and health over any aesthetic goals.

I draw training inspiration from many sources, but especially the teachings of Stephane Cazeault and the team at KILO Education.  Pre-pandemic I competed as an amateur pole athlete and continue to train pole for fun and the possibility of performing/competing again someday. I enjoy traveling, good food, reading and hanging out with my four rescue cats.

EDUCATION.

• Bachelor’s Degree | Psychology | University of California at Davis

• Bachelor’s Degree | Sociology | University of California at Davis

• NASM | Certified Personal Trainer

• NASM | Corrective Exercise Specialist

• NASM | Certified Performance Enhancement Specialist

• PPSC | Pain-Free Performance Specialist

• B3 Band Blood Flow Restriction practitioner

• KILO Strength Society | Program Design and Periodization Specialist Level 2 | Strength Level 3

• Advanced Studies in TRX, Kettlebells, Restorative Yoga, Pilates, Developmental Movement Patterns and Postural Restoration

TESTIMONIALS.