Testimonials
At OPTI, we pride ourselves on the high quality professional training that we offer, and the proven results. However, you don’t have to take our word for it. Our testimonials include an array of clients, colleagues and professionals.
Write a Testimonial for Joe
I have had the pleasure of learning from Joe for the last nine years. Much of my knowledge and expertise has come as a result of time Joe has taken to work with me weather it be bio-mechanical assessments, functional movement,or kettlebell training. Joe continues to excel in his ability to learn understand and apply the knowledge he gains from his professional studies. I consider Joe among the elite of strength coaches today and would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to study under him to take advantage of it.
Joe trained my 14 year old grandson who is a wrestler. Joe succeeded in getting my grandson to move to a higher level of fitness than either he or I believed possible.
Since his training, my grandson is now in high school and he wrestled for his school this past weekend. He wrestled 8 times in 2 days. He won all 8 of his matches and came in first in his weight class. His school won the tournament.
Both he and his father credit Joe for his success. Joe is the best trainer a young athlete can have.
In 2000 I was experiencing lower back problems common to many out of shape, “over-50″ weekend golfers. Several rounds of golf into a three day trip in June finally created a situation where surgery appeared the only relief from pain caused by deteriorating discs.
Although the orthopedic specialist already scheduled me for surgery, my regular doctor suggested more aggressive physical therapy as a last resort before I had a medical procedure that was not always 100% successful.
Thankfully, I delayed the surgery and was introduced to Joe Sansalone in January 2001 and have been a regular client ever since. Back surgery is no longer in my immediate future and I play golf with little or no discomfort. Also, people have told me I look more athletic and younger than some one well into his 60′s. My doctor was so impressed with the results of Joe’s system, she also trained with him.
These results are a credit to Joe’s knowledge of how the body works and his training techniques. His passion, professionalism and desire to increase his knowledge through continuing education set him apart from all the other trainers I have observed during the last nine years. I have complete trust that Joe knows what movements, weights and exercises are best for me at this point in my life, and look forward to working with him well into the future.
He developed and constantly upgrades a core training program that carefully works the correct hip, leg, torso and back muscles to provide the strength and flexibility I need to perform everyday functions and still enjoy golf.
10/10 “A Step Above!”
By Matt Zielinski / Columbia, Md USA
I recently had the pleasure of completing a few classes with Joe at The Colosseum Gym in Columbia, Md. Joe helped answer all my questions regarding nutrition, body screening, corrective exercise, body mechanics, and workout design. His knowledge of Nutrition the human body and how it functions together as one piece along with a natural ability to convey detailed instructions as to how to perform exercises correctly makes this a worthy investment for any Athlete who wants to take their fitness to the next level.
I have been a client of Joe’s for almost three years. Over those years, I have experienced his unique ability to break down each function using smart imagery so that I am equipped to do it right. His knowledge of the way the body works coupled with his genuine desire to teach the fundementals properly prompt me to excel and feel good about myself.
Because Joe is so incredibly self-disciplined himself, he is a great trainer by way of example. He knows when to push me, and he knows when to step back and review the mechanics or articulate it in a different way. He is always thoughtful, patient, attentive and joyful about his work.
Just recently my 13-year-old daughter expressed an interest in being trained by Joe to improve her strength and performance in tennis. She has watched him from the sidelines and has seen first hand how he can transform someone through consistency and dedication.
As an ex-ballet dancer myself, I can say that Joe really knows what he is doing and is the best.
I feel very fortunate to be working as a trainer in the same gym as Joe Sansalone. He was helpful and generous with his time when I was studying for my own certification and the classes I have taken from him over the years have made me a much better trainer. From kettle bells and functional movement screens to nutrition and supplements to power lifting and ESD – I have learned so much from Joe. I appreciate his friendly and comfortable teaching style while marveling at the depth and breadth of his knowledge of his industry. When I think of Joe, I think of the consummate professional – informed, prepared and incredibly enthusiastic.
These are the words I would use to describe Joe Sansalone as a coach and trainer. My family has been training with Joe for over 7 years. Joe has trained both of my children who are high performing athletes. Most recently, Joe prepared my son for his participation this season at the Junior National Ice Hockey level. Matt excelled in his training thanks to Joe’s expertise and coaching which in turn is allowing him to excel in his ice hockey game.
Having seen what training with Joe can accomplish, I decided to begin the very focused training system that Joe teaches. I have worked with many trainers over the years and none have had the insight into the biomechanics necessary to reach my body’s potential. Learning how to move properly using the appropriate muscle groups has helped me correct the compensatory movement patterns my body had adopted. Working with trainers that are mentored by Joe and using Joe’s system of coaching and training is the best investment I have ever made in myself.
I have trained with Joe for over two years. His knowledge of biomechanics and the ability to adjust exercises to my ability level is amazing. Joe constantly changes my exercises to help me improve. Just when I think I have maxed out on my ability to master a difficult exercise or lift, he will stop and explain the biomechanics that will allow me to do it better. He is focused on his client and approaches each client as an individual. Never demeaning, but always demanding. He knows my limits and pushes me to achieve levels that I did not think possible. I have watched a lot of trainers at several gyms and Joe is unequaled. I feel very fortunate that I have the chance to work with him.
Passion is what I think of first when I think of Joe as a trainer or anything else he does.
I have been training with Joe for probably 8 years now and he was a great instructor when we started and he has only gotten better over the years. It is Joe’s passion that sets him apart from the many instructors that I have seen over the years.
He is always seeking to learn more about his profession and this has set him apart from the others. In our gym Joe is the go to person for the other instructors and their respect for him is evidenced frequently by his mentoring of the other instructors.
I have never met another instructor with his level of knowledge which is not surprising since he is always taking advantage of continued education opportunities. Look at his resume…
I can’t say enough about Joe with regards to his professionalism, motivation, knowledge, and most importantly results!
Write a Testimonial for Neghar
Neghar is truly an exceptional instructor. She is passionate about her students doing each movement meticulously whether it’s a burpee, a pull-up, or a KB exercise. I have tried many different exercise programs. I will definitely stick with Neghar’s KB training because she is motivational, dedicated and incredibly knowledgeable about what she does. The KB training goes beyond the different classes I attend. I find myself constantly thinking about my movement in my daily life. Neghar instills that in each of her students, the importance of correct movement. I am so glad to be working with her.
Neghar?s class was recommended to me. I made an appointment to meet with her, not knowing what to except of her class. I was impressed from the very first moment we began talking. She accessed where I was physically and has been a strong motivating force ever since. I always look forward to kettle bell class. She is extremely meticulous about every movement. Everyone is performing at their individual, appropriate level and getting the necessary instruction each person needs regardless of the amount of students. She has eyes in the back of her head. The work outs at OPTI are unlike any exercise program I have every participated in. The strength training and stability have become a regular part of my day. I think about how I function and apply these movements to whatever task my body is doing. I feel fortunate to be involved in this program and I have recommended it to all my friends looking for something challenging and life changing. Neghar?s commitment and dedication is unrelenting.
I feel very lucky to have found Neghar’s class. After some time trying to teach myself basic kettlebell exercises from videos and even a couple of sessions with a certified instructor, I wandered into Neghar’s beginner class to see what it was about. When I saw this teacher (half my weight) swinging the same kettlebell I was using, but with the real power and elegance that comes from proper form, I realized I had considerable room for improvement.
Neghar takes the time to make sure you are getting things right. She structures a program including tried and true exercises that develop core strength and body awareness for strong kettlebell skills. She has an uncanny ability to observe your form and fix even the subtlest flaws. She will challenge you to increase workload, but never if it sacrifices form. It’s always a great workout – very focused and efficient. Neghar’s dedication is contagious.
Neghar is an awesome personal trainer. She’s very detailed and always makes sure that your doing everything the correct way. She focuses on minimizing injury and having fun at the same time. I’ve only been going a short time, but already I feel strong and see results. Neghar exemplifies patience; she will take as much time as needed to make sure you understand the mechanics of the movements. I really enjoy her teaching style and it works for me. I fell in love with Kettlebell a year ago, and it changed my life. Neghar continues to challenge you and push you to your full potential. She feeds my passion for Kettlebell!!!
I can’t even begin to describe how wonderful Neghar’s coaching is!! I was first introduced to the concept of kettlebell training last year by a friend and fellow service member who began to explain the benefits of working out with kettlebells and how wonderful her trainer was. At the time I was getting board with the typical grind of going to the gym, grabbing some dumbbells, jumping on the treadmill or elliptical machine (depending on how my knee felt) and doing what everyone else was doing. Right around that same time I had also begin training in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and noticed that my cardio, strength, and flexibility needed some serious improvement. So naturally I was curious to see what kettlebell training was all about and contacted Neghar. Boy was I surprised that first day!! I had never had a total body workout as intensive without feeling the typical burn/rundown effect of only working a specific set of muscle groups per day that I was used to doing.
Neghar brings the key attributes of knowledge, skill, ability, and enthusiasm to each and every training session she conducts. She continuously challenges each person in her training sessions and adapts the sessions to the skill level of the individuals in attendance. Neghar does a wonderful job of tailoring exercises to individual skill level and ability in a group setting and while keeping each session challenging for everyone. Most importantly she keeps fitness fun, interesting, and ensures you want to come back for the next session.
I was looking for a class that would be something different from my normal fitness training and saw a sign for Neghar’s kettlebell class at the gym. Neghar takes the time to really help each new person master form and technique before getting down to the real work. Her passion, commitment, and positive energy have been inspirational to me. I highly recommend her classes to anyone looking to change their life.
Neghar is an excellent instructor who is very patient. I have been attending her Beginning Kettlebell class and even tho I have worked with Kettlebells for more than a year now, she has put a whole new prospective into my training. She is extrememly detailed in breaking down each movement and she is very precise in making sure that you are in the correct position, making slight adjustments as needed.
I feel as a visual learner she has really made me think about my body when I am doing Kettlebell work on my own. If you have fitness goals, Neghar is the person to get you the results you are looking for. She works with each persons limitations, and also makes training fun.
I knew Neghar in her previous life in the military. Years later we reconnected in Maryland and she asked me if I was interested in trying out kettlebells. At the time my fitness regimen only included Bikram yoga and half-marathon training. I was bored and definitely ready for something new. I was still intimidated by lifting heavy weights but I knew I could be stronger. Neghar pushed me to embrace strength and to challenge myself physically and mentally. I have now trained with Neghar for 7 months and I love it.
From the first class I was impressed with Neghar’s depth of knowledge in fitness training, anatomy and movement. She is a wonderful teacher and has about 27 eyes. She gives every student in the class personalized training and is able to tailor her coaching to several ability levels simultaneously. All she requires in her class is motivation and a willingness to give 100 percent. She provides consistent feedback on technique and form. She communicates to all her students regularly, providing informational blog posts and videos to expand our training horizons. She is a consummate professional, always prepared and always ready to wrench the very best out of us all. Each workout is different from the last, I never feel like I’m doing the same tired grind.
I have recommended this class to everyone I know. I believe that this training has improved my life. If you are considering something different, something that will challenge you, this is it.
I have had a few very good trainers in the past, however, none as passionate about the industry and people as Neghar! Neghar sets high standards for herself , therefore holds her ‘students’ to high standards.I began taking Neghar’s kettlebell classes in June and have learned tremendous lessons about body mechanics that the ‘average’ trainer does not always emphasize.It is such a pleasure having a trainer that truly cares about all aspects of training from nutrition to building muscle to ensuring that every person, no matter what their fitness level,becomes educated.There is never a question that goes unanswered!
Neghar is meticulous about proper form and execution. Every class she reinforces correct movements and provides new techniques for improvement. She is very encouraging and motivating when coaching her class to their optimal potential. Even in a class environment she gives each client intense attention. I always look forward to her kettlebell classes and highly recommend her.
I met Neghar at one of her free Kettlebell workshop that she held in Elkridge, MD. From that point, I was amazed at her knowledge of Kettlebells, her attitude, and her leadership skills. Neghar is a powerhouse of personality and personal training that exceeded my expectations. I have been working with Neghar for the past six weeks, and I plan on continuing working with her to achieve my goals.
In the past, I have had personal trainers that were more interested in performing the same mundane movements, but Neghar has put my faith back into personal training by identifying my weaknesses and incorporating new movements to fix my weaknesses.
I have some lower back and mobility issues that have plagued me for most of my adult life. I have worked out with other trainers, with moderate success.
I began working out with Neghar two years ago. From the moment she assessed me, it was clear that she truly understands how the body is supposed to function, and how to enable her clients to work through and overcome their physical limitations. She developed a routine to address my specific issues, and has helped me to become stronger and more physically fit.
For each new exercise, she explains what we are doing and why we are doing it. She demonstrates the exercise, and emphasizes the importance of using the correct form. If I am using the wrong form, she provide the verbal cues to help me to correct it.
Neghar pushes, but also encourages her clients. She is a very positive person that makes training, while sometimes grueling, a positive experience. Her passion is evident in her instruction.
While I still struggle at many of the specific exercises, I can see the dramatic progress I have made, and I can feel the difference she has helped me to achieve. I can honestly say that I am in better shape now than I have been in the last 20+ years.
I started working with OPTI about 3 months ago. In February I injured my back and was diagnosed with protruding discs in the L4/L5 vertebrae. I coach football and am usually very active, but this injury prevented me from doing anything strenuous without significant pain. I began working with Neghar after being diagnosed. The OPTI program is unlike any training regimen with which I have been involved. Neghar has worked with me on core stability and strength, along with joint stability/mobility and general strength and conditioning using kettlebells. She has been really consistent and well prepared in making a program specific to my goals and weaknesses. Each session we do Neghar has pre-planned workouts so there is no wasted time- each session is efficient. Her use of Kettlebells in our training has clearly helped me with becoming stable through my core and getting back to the activity level I maintained before my injury.
Neghar is the best Kettlebell instructor I have encountered (Both of the others were very good). Always prepared, fun, she has a great eye for form and the ability to provide practical cues. Cares enough to make sure form is correct. Relentless but patient.
Classes are well paced and she is sensitive to individual needs. If you want to learn Kettlebell Neghar would be a great choice. I expect she is also a great personal trainer as well.
I trained with Neghar for nearly two years focusing primarly on functionality, form and appropriate movement patterns. Through a lifetime of doing things wrong, I had developed unhealthly patterns which resulted in limitations in movement and dysfunctions. Motivation has never been an issue for me. What I needed a trainer for was customization for my individual needs; and someone to focus on ensuring I was getting the most effective training – results, results, results. Neghar is truly passionate in what she does. And she is passionate about ensuring those that train with her make the progress she expects and that is appropriate for them. I only had a personal trainer one other time years ago. That experience was definitely “training lite.” I was given a predetermined combination of excersies with wieght machines and basically the trainer stood there and told me to do x number of reps then move to the next station. No testing before the training started or anytime during the training to determine what the needs were and what was being accomplaihsed. Neghar is focused on results. And she keep herself up on the latest – there is no doubt that anyone who trains with Neghar will be receiving a customized program, personalized attention and the latest and best in training and exercise technology.
I was privileged to train with Neghar for 2 years. She has extensive knowledge about nutrition as well as cardio and strength training. She was a very motivating trainer and she pushed me beyond my limits. I learned so many lifelong lessons from her. She was skilled at addressing any dysfunction or health issue that I had. She was an excellent role model of a healthy lifestyle.
I met Neghar a few years ago when she took over as the instructor for my yoga class. Shortly after, Neghar expressed that her true passion was personal strength training. At that time I felt I had hit a plateau and felt my previuos trainers were only able to take me to a certain level. I began to believe this was “as good as it gets” for me. Neghar was able to open my eyes to an entire new world of strength training, movement preperation and nutrition. She dedicates herself to awareness and education in all of these areas, taking time to specifically fit each one of her clients needs. As a nurse my need for further training and education is a constant and I am always impressed with Neghar’s dedication to continuing education in her field. Neghar truly is a remarkable woman! She continues to encourage and motivate me every step of the way on my journey. In the past two years, I have watched my accomplishments and I continue to set higher goals, realizing that with the right instructor and hard work anything is possible!
I came to Neghar with very specific limitations, due to a severe distal tibia fracture (literally a shattered tibia), which even after two years presents incredible challenges to her as a trainer. I engaged Neghar, not just to get physically fit, working out is an inherent part of my life, but to focus on strengthening my leg, so that I could remove the internal plate which restricts my movement. Neghar is exceptionally knowledgeable about the intricacies of the body, how it works, and how to achieve maximum results for your effort. Neghar constantly challenges me and reinforces my belief in her. Negahar is patient, professional, and has helped me achieve my goals. Neghar is truly the consummate professional.
I have a lot of issues with my body including back, neck, and shoulder pain. Neghar has accommodated all of these issues and come up with exercises that challenge me without making me hurt even more than I already do. She pushes me to do things I never thought that I could do without hurting myself. She is constantly checking my form so that I don’t do things incorrectly. I never thought that I would be able to use the kettlebells with all of my health issues, but she has started introducing them to me in exercises that I am able to perform and working me up to doing more advanced exercises. I always feel like I am being taken to the next level without feeling like I am being forced to do things that are inappropriate for my fitness level.
