COACHES WHO CARE ABOUT FORM AND FUNCTION
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VAL VALDEZ
OWNER AND TRAINER, STRENGTH MONTEREY
ACSM CPT, EIM II
Through my education and personal experience, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for strength training. The human body is composed of countless muscles that work together to support movement, posture, and overall function. As we age, maintaining and building strength is one of the most effective ways to preserve independence and improve quality of life.
One of the main reasons I started STRENGTH is because I truly believe resistance training is not optional—it is essential for the human body. Beyond the obvious benefit of building muscle, it helps protect our bones, supports joint health, reduces pain, and promotes faster recovery from injury. I approach training with the belief that science should guide programming, ensuring that every exercise is purposeful and effective.
With my clients, I focus not only on improving physical strength but also on helping them build lean body mass, increase flexibility, and create a foundation for living a longer, healthier life. My goal is to show people that strength training isn’t just about lifting weights—it’s about giving your body the tools to move well, feel better, and thrive at every stage of life.
ARIEL JOHNSON
TRAINER, ARIEL JOHNSON FITNESS
Ariel has taught a wide range of movement modalities to one-on-one clients and groups for over 14 years with a focus on strength, mobility and body awareness. Whether working with beginners or seasoned athletes, she aims to offer thoughtful individualized programming with a holistic approach that includes breathwork and restorative practices.
In addition to personal training, Ariel is a mom of two teenagers, a backcountry wilderness guide, and an Esalen Institute faculty member teaching various workshops. Her passion lies in helping people discover not only what their bodies are capable of in and out of the gym, but also how movement can become a lifelong source of vitality and connection.
CASEY GAHAN
OWNER AND TRAINER, KAYSEA NUTRITION
Master of Science in Exercise and Nutrition Science, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Certified Personal Trainer by the American College of Sports Medicine, American College of Sports Medicine Exercise is Medicine Credentialed Professional, Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Health Coach, Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certified Nutrition Coach, KaySea Nutrition, INC
From a young age, I discovered the power of exercise and the impact of intentional eating to fuel the body. This realization led me down the path of studying exercise science through magazines and news articles as a teenager. I soon understood that to gain a deeper understanding, I would need to pursue higher education. This desire to learn led me to earn my Bachelor’s in Kinesiology from California State University, Monterey Bay, where I realized fitness is more than exercise alone—it’s about the connection between exercise, nutrition, lifestyle, and behavioral change.
To better understand this connection as it relates to nutrition, I decided to further my studies and earn my Master’s in Exercise & Nutrition Science from the University of Tampa. There, I realized that knowing the science of exercise and nutrition was only one part of the equation. The next step was developing a stronger understanding of behavioral change and lifestyle management. Over the course of the next two and a half years, I became a Level 1 Certified Nutrition Coach and a Level 2 Certified Master Health Coach through Precision Nutrition. These programs were exactly what I needed to deepen my knowledge and practical skills in behavior change and lifestyle coaching.
During my independent studies with Precision Nutrition, I came across the National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach certification, offered in partnership with the National Board of Medical Examiners. This certification encompassed everything I had been working toward—exercise, nutrition, behavioral change, and lifestyle management. After another year of studying, I passed the board exam and became a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach.
Over the past decade of pursuing knowledge and experience, I have helped hundreds of people break down their goals and create manageable action steps to achieve them. By combining my four core realizations—exercise, nutrition, lifestyle, and behavior change—I help clients develop programs that are both structured and adaptable. Exercise becomes a tool for building strength and energy, nutrition becomes a way to fuel progress, lifestyle choices create balance, and behavior change strategies ensure that the results last. Together, these pillars form the foundation of my coaching, allowing clients to create sustainable transformations that fit their lives long term.
DIEGO SEVILLANO
TRAINER, DIEGO SEVILLANO FITNESS
With a B.S in Kinesiology/Exercise Science and a passion for empowering individuals through movement, I've dedicated a big portion of my life to helping people achieve their health and wellness goals. I truly believe that exercise is not just about physical change, but also a transformative tool for mental and emotional well-being.
My 4 years of experience working directly under pain management Doctors and Physical Therapist in clinics has given me an extensive background in training individuals with orthopedic issues. Because of this experience, I am able to I design exercise programs that compliment your treatment plans prescribed by your Orthopedic Doctors and Physical Therapist. These programs are focused on restoring mobility, increasing strength, and improving functionality while considering the specific limitations and requirements of each client.
In addition to working in orthopedics, I have trained a diverse group of people living with Parkinson’s Disease under various Medical Doctors and Physical Therapist. My exercise programing prepares you to increase full body strength, endurance, and balance. I believe balance deficits are common in Parkinson’s Disease and my programing will enhance stability as well as help teach full body coordination. Over the years I have worked with all stages of Parkinson’s Disease.
Let me help you get to your fitness goals by teaching you proper exercise form and technique while integrating exercise science to maximize your results!
LILLY PEAK
TRAINER, STRENGTH MONTEREY
My passion for movement started with volleyball, where I first discovered the importance of athletic performance and body awareness. Over time, that passion grew into a love for strength training, which became the foundation of both my personal fitness journey and my career.
I began my personal training journey earning my first certification through PTA Global and later becoming ACE-certified. Along the way, I developed a strong background in corrective exercise, giving me a deep understanding of how the body moves and why proper form is the cornerstone of lasting progress.
My approach blends strength and mobility- two pillars that work hand in hand. Strength builds power and resilience, while mobility keeps the body balanced, pain-free, and capable. Together, they allow clients to move, lift, and live better both inside and outside of the gym.
By focusing on retraining movement patterns and refining form, I help clients break old habits, reduce discomfort, and feel more confident in their bodies. The goal isn’t just a good workout—it’s building a body that supports you in everyday life.
ZACH BROWN
TRAINER, ZACH BROWN PERSONAL TRAINING
Hello my name is Zach! As a dedicated personal trainer, I specialize in pain management, corrective exercise, movement optimization, and strength and conditioning. With extensive experience working with clients who have pre-existing conditions and those recovering from replacement surgeries, including knees, hips, and shoulders, I tailor my approach to meet individual recovery needs. Whether managing chronic pain or recovering from surgery, I focus on restoring mobility, enhancing strength, and improving overall function.
I believe that healthy movement and consistent exercise are essential for increasing quality of life, reducing discomfort, and promoting long-term well-being. My programs help clients move more efficiently, feel stronger, and live with less pain, empowering them to lead more active, fulfilling lives.
CODY GILLISS
OWNER AND FOUNDER, RESPIRE PHYSIOTHERAPY
DPT, PRC, CSCS
Born and raised in Boston, Cody obtained his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Northeastern University. With certifications in Postural Restoration (PRI) and credentials as a Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCS), Cody is unwavering in his commitment to diving deep with his clients, aiming to understand the underlying reasons behind their ailments. As a natural problem solver, he’s dedicated to uncovering the 'why' and creating effective solutions for his clients' pain.
In 2018, Cody began studying with the Postural Restoration Institute® (PRI) to find more answers for his complex clients that weren’t getting results from traditional physical therapy treatment. Cody uses treatment techniques from PRI to help people relieve pain, feel more grounded in their bodies, and move without restriction.
Cody loves surfing, freediving, cooking, and traveling with his wife.
