OWNER & TRAINER, STRENGTH MONTEREY

My approach to strength training is deeply rooted in science, anatomy, and years of exposure to physical therapy and post-rehabilitation training. Through my education and experience working alongside physical therapists, I developed an extensive understanding of the muscular system, human movement, and the role strength plays in restoring and maintaining physical function.

That foundation ultimately shaped the philosophy behind STRENGTH Monterey. I believe resistance training is one of the most powerful tools we have to support long-term health and longevity. Building and maintaining muscle and strength helps preserve bone density, support joint health, improve mobility and balance, and maintain the physical capacity needed to remain active and independent throughout life.

My training philosophy is grounded in foundational science and evidence-based practice. Every exercise should have a purpose, and programming should be intentional—whether the goal is building strength and lean muscle, returning to exercise after physical therapy, improving movement, or simply maintaining the ability to do the things you love for as long as possible.

With my clients, the goal extends far beyond lifting heavier weights. I want to help people understand their bodies, become stronger and more capable, and build a foundation that supports them through every stage of life.

Strength training isn’t simply about what your body can do today. It’s an investment in what you want your body to be capable of years from now.

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.

TRAINER & NUTRITION COACH, KAYSEA NUTRITION

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.

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.

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!

TRAINER, CSCS

Erica Mansaray is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, with additional certifications in Prenatal & Postpartum Coaching through Girls Gone Strong and Precision Nutrition.

Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Erica’s husband’s military career has given their family the opportunity to live in several communities across the country before ultimately bringing them to Monterey. She is grateful to now call the Monterey Peninsula home and to be part of the local fitness community.

Erica brings experience working with a wide range of clients, including military and tactical athletes, CrossFit and hybrid athletes, youth athletes, prenatal and postpartum women, and individuals looking to improve their overall strength, health, and quality of life. Regardless of someone’s training background, her approach remains consistent: help clients build strength, move well, and develop confidence through purposeful, sustainable training.

Outside of the gym, Erica enjoys spending time with her husband and their daughter, Westyn, along with their two 120-pound German Shepherds, Quincy and Zeus.

Erica is excited to bring her experience to STRENGTH and help members become stronger, move better, and feel more confident in what their bodies can do.

TRAINER, SLACK STRENGTH

Sahana specializes in helping clients build strength that translates beyond the gym. Her approach is centered on meeting each person where they are and developing the strength, movement quality, and confidence needed to perform at their best through every stage of life.

She works especially well with youth athletes, helping them develop a durable foundation of strength, coordination, and confidence before the physical demands of competitive sport increase. Her focus is on building strong movement patterns and physical readiness that can support both performance and long-term athletic development.

Sahana also has a strong background in working with clients transitioning out of physical therapy, particularly those recovering from knee and shoulder injuries. She helps bridge the often-overlooked gap between being medically cleared and feeling truly strong, capable, and confident returning to training, sport, and everyday activities.

Additionally, Sahana enjoys working with older adults who want to maintain their strength, mobility, and independence. Her training focuses on preserving the physical abilities that allow clients to continue doing the activities they value most.

Whether you’re a young athlete working toward a starting position, returning to training after an injury, or looking to stay strong and independent as you age, Sahana will meet you at your current level and build a thoughtful path forward.

OWNER AND FOUNDER, RESPIRE PHYSIOTHERAPY

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.

OWNER, MIND & MOVEMENT PT

Preston earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Duke University. He treats a diverse range of patients, from elite athletes and weekend warriors to individuals recovering from surgery. Preston combines manual therapy, movement analysis, and strength training into thoughtful, personalized care. He also carries special certifications in treating headaches, vertigo, and dizziness. Integrating his background in mindfulness, Preston helps patients connect mind and movement to build confidence in their recovery and reach their wellness goals.