Train With Jake

I have trained with Jake for six months, I really love it and it’s absolutely worth the time and money!

Jake has been my trainer for three years. He has totally transformed my life. Jake isn’t your run of the mill trainers you find in the box gyms who just spend and hour running you around the floor. Jake starts you at the beginning and takes your on a journey to transform your life by taking control of it. Jake spends time teaching you nutritional needs, mobility, finding out what kind of exercise works for you be it power lifting/​cardio/​etc.
when I started with Jake I was severely overweight, taking multiple medications for diabetes, two spinal surgeries, and the worst concept of nutrition. Being with Jake I have lost over 50lbs stopped all medication and done a marathon, a half iron man, begun to learn about power lifting and been able to keep myself in good shape health wise.
If you need a trainer that really cares about making a difference and you are ready to make changes then Jake is for you!

Jake’s awesome trainer and is a great value for his clients. He’s been an excellent teacher to me on nutrition, posture, exercise form, beginning weight lifting, and motivation.
The program that I am in is a small group (3 – 6 people) meeting 3x per week and a 1 – 1 once per week. The small group setting is a great way to get personalized attention of a trainer and stay motivated working out with others. He gives each person a personalized workouts and frequently changes it up to keep it interesting.
Jakes focuses not on tiring you out with each workout but creating a solid foundation of good form and technique to build on. He’s been a great asset for injury prevention. He’s also been great at keeping my accountable if I start relaxing in keeping my activity level.
Jake has always been very giving of his time and very willing to go the extra mile to help. His energy and friendliness give a great atmosphere to his practice (considering I did not come from a background of working out regularly).
Jake’s working at a fantastic, brand new facility at Sharpend Athletics that has access to a wide variety of weights and machines (even a few things you couldn’t imagine). He’s has a great willingness to try always learning the latest and greatest.
Within a few months of starting, I had easily lost 30 pounds and dropped by body fat below 12%. I always thought losing weight would be hard, but thanks to Jake, it almost seemed too easy. I’ve kept the weight off since, and even though have a higher caloric intake than when I started.
My endurance has also increased. After working with him for a few months, I remember feeling surprised after completing a long hike without needing a break.

Jake has been my trainer for a just a few months now, and in that time, he has helped me lose weight, build strength, and change my diet all while rehabilitating my shoulder from an injury that could have been a career-​changer had it continued to worsen. I came to Jake after witnessing how he helped a really close friend make lasting lifestyle choices that allowed her, as a diabetic, to move from taking insulin every day to managing it with just her diet. She also has lost well over 50 pounds (and that’s a modest estimate) since Jake’s been her trainer, and I can see that he has helped her change her habits – she came to him with the desire and determination, and he channeled that desire, providing her with the skills and mind-​set to make lasting life changes.
Jake’s method of working addresses all aspects of your life that impact your health – nutrition, sleep, exercise and flexibility, as well as the mental habits that impact your choices. He has me keep a food journal, and he actually reviews it, pointing out patterns of behavior that I may not have noticed, and he asks me to analyze what I was thinking when I made a poor choice, and then offers suggestions about better choices I could have made.
When teaching exercises, especially complex ones like dead-​lifts, for example, Jake does not speak of «form» but of body awareness, and he will build up to a more complex exercise by a series of exercises that teach what each muscle group involved in the exercise should be doing, and how they should feel – he’ll make sure you get these preliminaries right before putting them all together. This makes it far less likely that you’ll injure yourself by lifting or moving inappropriately, and this has allowed me to do real weightlifting in spite of my shoulder injury.
But one of the aspects that I’m most grateful for is that Jake has helped me get rid of the all-​or-​nothing, emotional responses I have to my own failures and mistakes – he’s helped me to see these as opportunities to re-​evaluate, modify, and press on toward the goal with new information – and this has really helped my mental and emotional health immensely.
Jake’s small groups are an excellent opportunity to have a personalized training experience while being motivated by working out several times a week with three or four other people. Each person is following Jake’s personalized routine for him or her, but there’s a supportive aspect about working out with others who are also working toward their goals, and Jake is there watching and supervising as you work out. These are not like cross-​fit or other sessions that focus on a one-​size-​fits-​all, high energy boot-​camp-​style workout for everyone in the room. These boot-​camp style trainers are focused on visible short-​term results, and keeping you coming back for more, but at the end of the day, you will not have learned much real information or techniques to help you make lasting changes, and when you stop going, the results you’ve seen will gradually disappear if a healthy lifestyle hasn’t become a habit.
Jake’s training, whether in small group or individual sessions, is about giving you knowledge first, and this knowledge will produce the long-​lasting life changes you’ve always wanted for yourself – if you have the motivation and desire to implement that knowledge. When you’re ready to make that choice, I recommend Jake as the best guide to direct your path – especially if you’re ready to embrace real, lasting life change, rather than a quick fix.

Jake’s an excellent trainer. I’ve been working with him in a small group setting (4 people, one trainer) since February 2013, and he’s helped me so much.
I have a lot of injuries, and Jake doesn’t just work around them. He rehabs them and creates a routine designed just for you. We’ve been working on flexibility and movement in my feet, knees, back and shoulders and at the same time doing strength training. I have developed a lot of muscle (and now all I have to do is stop eating the donuts, and I’m sure the weight will peel right off).
My boyfriend has informed me that I have a booty now. And it’s made of muscle. Very weird. I’ve never had a booty before.
Alright, and you might not believe this part, but this is no lie. I have a lot of back problems and terrible posture. Whenever I’ve been measured at the doctor’s office before I’ve always been 5′ 9 ¾. When I went in two weeks ago, I measured in at 5’11. Now, I’m 35, so I probably didn’t hit a late growth spurt. I told Jake and he said it was probably a combination of my better posture, and realigning my hips back the way they should be.
I don’t always like it when Jake talks to me about my diet. I don’t think I’m ready to hear it yet, but I can’t deny how much he’s helped me. I’m a stronger person because of working with him.

I have been a client of Jake for 3 1/​/​2 years. His knowledge and constant evaluation of new methods keeps him on the forefront of personal and group training. His attention to detail, modifications and exercise choices, and diet, sleep and general health advice makes him one of the top trainers in Austin.
My stamina and physical health has allowed me to do photography on long assignments with complete confidence. Long days at festivals don’t wear me out like the used to. My strength has improved and my body does not suffer from back pain or tired legs. This is all due to the sessions with Jake.
I strongly recommend you consider Jake if you’re in the market for a healthier lifestyle.

I met Jake a few years ago when I searching for an alternative place to work out. And at that point and time in my life I was tired of the typical fitness centers that I frequented every once in awhile but when I entered «Train with Jake’s» Boot camp I instantly felt right at home and in love with everyone. Everyone at the center made me feel like family right from the get-​go. That was the first time that I felt working out was actually FUN! We all laughed together while encouraging each and everyone to finish out each routine. Jake is amazing at switching up his work outs and keeping everyone on their toes.
I highly recommend Jake and challenge everyone to give it a shot or at least try it for one week! I promise that you’ll see, feel and look much better in a matter of a short period of time plus Jake will give you his personal time and knowledge to get you feeling good about yourself!
Thank you Jake for being a friend and an awesome mentor!

I love love love Jake! He is the BEST trainer out there. I’m a huge fan!!!
He is genuinely committed to helping his clients achieve their goals. He takes considerable time to get to know you and then tailors a workout AND nutrition program that will get you to where you want to be. He is always supportive and dependable!!! He tracks your progress every time you see him, coaches with ease and gives great advice.
Jake is a just a pleasure to work with — great personality, caring approach, VERY knowledgeable… just an all around GREAT person. He is truly devoted to your individual success — both inside and out.
I also LOVE his M-​W-​F morning boot camp. I’ve attended several boot camps in the past and this class BY FAR surpasses all former experiences. This is a FUN class. I know people complain that 6am is early, but it’s so worth it!!!
THIS CLASS WAS NAMED THE BEST PRE-​DAWN SWEAT IN AUSTIN!!!
Check it out:
Best of Austin 2011
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Best Pre-​Dawn Sweat: Train With Jake
Personal trainer Jake Bellonzi conducts his labor of love morning boot camp each day from 6 to 7am right across the street from St. Edward’s University for professionals who don’t have the means to indulge in expensive alternatives. Never caustic or overly severe, Bellonzi takes a helpful, supportive approach to the art of fitness. With the rise of boot camp popularity in Austin, plan ahead and click through the Train With Jake website to learn about training packages and fill out an online assessment. 512−554−9944

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I highly highly recommend Jake… really can’t say enough GREAT things about him!!!

Jake is an amazing trainer. I never thought I would be the type of person to be able to do a boot camp. Here were my excuses.
One: It conjures up the image of being screamed at by a military Sargent in camo while trying to do an impossible obstacle course in the mud.
Two: The thought of showing up at 6am sounded insane since I was already barely dragging myself out of bed at 7:30 am.
Three: I don’t have time. I work full time plus have my own business.
Four: I am a vegetarian that eats pretty healthy and I exercise so I don’t need to do something so drastic.
But honestly I just wasn’t getting the results I wanted.
I wasn’t even looking for a boot camp but happened to read Jake’s reviews here on Unilocal and it sounded so great I had to try it.
ALL THE GOOD THINGS PEOPLE SAID WERE TRUE!
What actually happened:
It is actually do-​able by the average person. It surprised me how quickly I saw results and changes in my body. But what really surprised me what how much better I felt physically and emotionally, I have more coordination and confidence. I am getting so much more done in a day as it feels like I have more time rather than less time, and how I have MORE energy and getting up in the morning is much easier than it used to be. For the first time I feel like the possibility of getting in the shape is real and tangible. Instead of exercise always hanging over my head and yet another thing I need to do I get it done. Jake is a fitness wizard!

My new favorite person!!! This is my second week, and I have along way to go, so it’s nice to have someone in my corner in this tough journey! I have been to a lot of gyms, taken countless fitness classes and trained with a few others, and I have to say Jake is so genuine. He is one of a kind, I am glad I found him!!!

I went to Jake when I needed my body fat taken and didn’t want my trainer boyfriend to do it. Jake is amazing! On the inside and out… he is exreamly knowledgable in the human body, overall lifestyle changes, and the importance of what you put into your body. He isn’t going to tell you what you want to hear, but what you «NEED» to hear. Need someone to help you change your life — — — — train with Jake! :)

Jake has been my trainer for a year and a half now and I couldn’t be happier with his approach. He has a very well rounded training style the includes both training in the gym and eating healthy outside of it. Jake is very encouraging when it comes to making changes that are beneficial to your life and health. I highly recommend him

I have been working out with Jake for a year now and when I started I had no idea how bad off I was. I had awful posture, sway back, and a hurt back that I didn’t even realize was there after getting used to the pain for the past 10 years (not something a 28 year old should suffer from). After working out with Jake twice a week for the past year, I can now confidently say that I am pain free, I stand taller, feel stronger, and feel better about myself. He makes working out fun and enjoyable and knows just how hard to push me to my full potential. I highly recommend Jake for anyone wanting that extra push to get into shape. His knowledge of fitness and wellness is amazing. You can’t go wrong if you choose Jake. I can’t thank Jake enough for being my fitness mentor and for being my friend.

I’ve always considered myself the kind of person who only runs if being chased… be it by serial killer, feral hog, or rabid chihuahua… you get the picture. So when I tell my family and friends that I LOOK FORWARD to going to bootcamp, they are as surprised as I am.
Jake’s bootcamp has brought new life to my previously lagging workout routine. Jake is patient and always explains the «why» of a particular exercise and the physiological effects it has on your body. Unlike other bootcamps, he doesn’t have you running miles and miles through obstacle courses and God-​knows-​what else. That said, Jake WILL challenge you. His exercises are targeted, effective, and will kick your butt. If you have injuries or «issues» (as most us do, for example, from being hunched over a desk 40 plus hours a week), he will tailor the routine to address these issues and suggest ways to work on them outside of bootcamp, too. Jake is the type of trainer who cares more about your progress than the bottom line and expects you to put as much into it as he does.
P. S. If you have been thinking about joining a bootcamp or working with a trainer and are unsure because you think you don’t fit into the typical mold of someone who works out (maybe you’ve never worked out regularly, or have put on a few extra pounds) – think again. The bootcamp I attend has people of all sizes, ability levels, and ages. One of the great benefits is the camaraderie you develop with the trainer and the other people. Give it a try! Like me, you’ll probably surprise yourself!

Good bye back pain. I have changed beds, seen a chiropractor, and finally exercise works. I’m glad I’m doing this… for me.
After every workout, I feel energized. When he encourages me to put in more effort, I sometimes moan, but after it makes it worth it. Between the boot camp and the meal plan, I’m really seeing a difference.
Jake is friendly and very knowledgable. He really explains why we are doing the exercises. And he takes the time to give each person individual attention. It is incredible how just millimeters and correct positioning can change your results. I don’t think he ever has a bad day, because he never lets it show.

I suddenly found myself squeezing into my favorite jeans and decided that it was about time to do something about it. Word on the street was that Jake was the best personal trainer in Austin and after a couple of e-​mails, I decided to give it a go.
Now, let me tell you, I am NOT a morning person nor am I a gym person. But, for six weeks now, I’ve been dragging myself out of bed at 5:30 in the morning with… a smile. I know that not only will I be getting a great workout but I’m also making new friends (the kind that ask you to go on a run with them… not the kind that ask you to go eat a burger with them).
Jake is nothing short of fantastic. He is firm but encouraging and always is mixing up the workouts to keep me on my toes. Don’t worry, it’s called a «boot camp», but I’ve never heard «Drop and give me twenty» come out of Jake’s mouth.
Thus far, I’ve lost almost ten pounds despite my love for all things carb-​y and delicious. I have recommended Train with Jake to all of my girlfriends without hesitation.
One of them said, «You can’t do this forever» and I asked, «Why not?»

I’ve been taking Jakes boot camp class for a few months now. Definitely worth the price… I have much more energy and better muscle tone, lower blood pressure and little or none of the joint pain i had when i started.
It can be hard to get up so freakishly early sometimes (my class starts at 5:15am), but by the time class is over, i am ready to take on the day.
The best thing about working with Jake is the personal attention you get. It’s not one-​on-​one like personal training at a gym, but the classes are small and there is always alot of feedback.
i recommend Jake’s classes to anyone looking to add something new to their fitness routine. He offers a one-​week trial — so there is no excuse not to give it a try!

I’ve been in Jake’s 5:15 am boot camp class for about 5 months. I started the class after having been consistently working out for about 4 months prior to that, so I didn’t just start cold turkey. Even if you are a beginner, the class is easy enough anyone can join in at any time and fit right in with the rest of the class. You are in control of each exercise, how much weight you use, and if you need to rest, you can rest. I’ve tried other boot camp classes and have been sadly disappointed in the amount of running that’s gone on in the class. We warm up each morning with a little jog, but then we do a ton of different exercises that are sequenced in order to help use the correct muscles in the subsequent exercises. We use kettle bells, tension bands, ropes and our own body weight to work each muscle group effectively.
Jake genuinely cares about people and truly wants to see them get into the best shape they can be in. He’s not just in this for the money, he’s in it to train people and teach them unique, interesting and effective exercises in order to increase their strength. He takes time during the class to make sure each exercise is thoroughly explained and stresses which muscle group you should feel the exercise in. He monitors the class to ensure everyone is doing the move the correct way. His blog and emails are very informative and encouraging as well.
I recommend Jake’s boot camp class to all of my friends. The price is affordable, classes are constant – there’s no «break» or sessions to have to worry about, and the work out you get is defintely worth it. He has several different classes at different times that work with lots of different schedules. You won’t be disappointed training with Jake!

I hate working out at gyms. Which is really something when you consider the time and money that Golds and 24 Hr Fitness and the like put into making their gyms into ideal environments. And I love how Planet Fitness is the «Judgement Free Zone» … so long as I don’t wear sleeveless shirts or a bandana or grunt too loud when I work out because I make the old ladies uncomfortable because I’m just so gangster. Thanks for not judging me, guys. I’ll keep my membership, though, for the unlimited tanning bed usage for $ 20/​month.
But my beef with Planet Fitness aside, how much does it suck to work out in a big gym? The size of the place makes me uncomfortable. You have to wait for the equipment if you go at the wrong moment. The music sucks (come on … techno smashups of the Scorpions?!?). There’s never anything interesting on the TVs. It smells bad. The employees are usually annoying (don’t you hate that wholesome, breathey enthusiasm?)
Jake does his evening boot camps in a small rented gym, full of equipment, but he has no use for mere machines and complains that they get in the way. (I recommended that he sell it all and pocket the cash, but he didn’t listen to me.) But the classes are small and sociable, everyone is friendly and supportive. Jake is helpful and teaches you how to do the exercises correctly and without the false «No pain no gain» corny enthusiasm of your stereotypical trainer. Also, Jake came to one of my band’s shows, which I thought was awesome, and keeps us appraised of the cool things he’s doing around town and invites us along.
Good exercise, good company, good class. Keep it up!

I have had a membership at every chain gym there is. I’ve done Golds, 24 hr, Planet Fitness, The Y… you get the point. I’ve tried working with personal trainers, I’ve tried group yoga, working out with friends and I’ve even ordered those lame late night magical workout machines. EVERYTHING I have flaked out on and dropped off. I’ve finally found what works for me! I can’t say that I love going to boot camp, because let’s be honest no one really loves to work out. It took me awhile, but I finally found what works for me.
I think why all those testimonials work so well for us, it is because the programs really does work for the ones giving the testimonials. You have to find something that you can stick to, something that you don’t dread going to and that makes you feel good about yourself. This is all the reasons I love going to Jake’s classes. I go to his evening boot camp in central Austin. It’s not outside, it’s at a good hour for me and I really enjoy having the same group of people in my class. He is a good trainer for beginners, he explains the exercises and makes sure that everyone in the class is doing the exercise correctly. I really didn’t like going to classes that the trainer expect you to just know how to do everything, and Jake’s class isn’t like that.
I’ve also done a few personal training seasons with him and that helped me jump start my workout. I’ve found that the boot camp is more social, which I really like and it is way easier on the pocket book!