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Welcome to our search for New York City's hottest trainer. Over the coming weeks, we'll profile twenty-two smoking candidates who work at local gyms and studios. Once you've gotten to know everyone, we'll host a March Madness-style showdown in which you get to vote for your favorite.
Photos by Driely S
Trainer Mike Bell has been in the fitness biz for four years, and he's been with Willspace on West 10th Street since its inception in 2010. He teaches group fitness classes and offers one-on-one training sessions, where one of his specialties is developing energetic kettlebell routines. He explains that "whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness novice, my style is to get all my clients to give me a little more each session—building on that each day, week and month."
What classes do you teach, and which is your favorite?
I do enjoy classes—there's something about the camaraderie of a group—but my skill is in private training. There's nothing like a customized program. When I work out one-on-one with my clients I can focus on precision of movement and specialized routines. I enjoy starting with someone from scratch and helping them create measurable results.
What's one piece of advice everyone should hear before beginning a new workout?
Consistency trumps intensity every single time. I have noticed this with myself and with my clients. Training is not something you do for a few weeks and then let it go. It's also not something you should approach with an expectation of immediate results. Measurable, lasting results is a lifetime mission.
Tell us a fun fact about you. The wackier, the better.
My favorite cartoon character is Curious George. The most embarrassing song on my iPod is "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor. My favorite Disney movie is The Lion King.
Want to train with Mike, or try out Willspace? See info for both below.
· Mike Bell [Instagram]
· Willspace [Twitter]
· Willspace [Official Site]
· All Hottest Trainer 2013 Contestants [Racked NY]
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