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TJ hails from New Jersey. Those who know him best would say that the Jersey in him makes for some of the most appealing aspects of his character, including a powerhouse work ethic and an ability to relate effortlessly to people from all walks of life. A lifelong athlete who took time to grow into his large physical frame and excel at sports, TJ has always had a foot in the fitness realm. After college, he taught PE at a school in his hometown. While he liked the job, he decided there was more to explore; he moved west, landing in Marin County in 1992. After many years as a personal trainer, TJ opened his own gym in San Rafael in 2002, shortly before the birth of his first daughter. At that time, it was a place where he and other personal trainers could work with clients without the hassles of larger, less personal facilities.
While TJ loved his work as a personal trainer, by 2007 he found himself itching to expand his knowledge and recharge his training batteries. This happened when he found CrossFit, an exercise program involving functional body movements executed at high intensity and with great variety. TJ credits CrossFit for introducing him to a new way of thinking about fitness, and he still incorporates many elements of the methodology with his own clients and the thousands of Marin County people he has welcomed into the gyms over the years, creating his own brand of fitness and community.
Like that of many small business owners, TJ’s success can be attributed to a number of factors. However, those closest to him emphasize the same interpersonal qualities that allowed him to retain his first clients over 30 years ago. Although TJ holds certifications in various aspects of fitness training, he finds that it is his independent learning that has been most applicable to the success of his gyms. A driven researcher, TJ's goal is to constantly delve into smart science behind fitness, health, medicine, nutrition, psychology, in order to adapt and innovate for the benefit of his members. His passion is helping people set goals, stay accountable, and lead better lives. He meets individually with everyone who walks through the doors of the gyms, a practice reflecting his deep desire to connect with each of his members and help them succeed in their fitness and lifestyle goals.
TJ feels fortunate to mentor and work with other fitness professionals who love their jobs and bring their own personalities and interests to his gym. He is most proud of the amazing community of people he and Allison have been fortunate enough to bring together at TJ’s Gym. While life is sometimes stressful and always very busy, TJ is inspired by the athletes in his classes, his personal coaching clients, and the daily opportunities he has to help people live longer, more fulfilling lives.
