Find a Personal Trainer Near Me in Los Angeles

Transform Your Body and Life with Shawn Phillips Training

Are you tired of staring in the mirror, struggling to fit into your favorite clothes, or feeling constantly exhausted? If you’re searching for a “personal trainer near me” in the Los Angeles area, including Santa Monica, you’ve come to the right place. At Shawn Phillips Training, a division of Perfect Body Inc., we specialize in holistic personal training and nutrition coaching to help you overcome these frustrations and achieve a stronger, healthier you.

By the time most clients reach out to me, they’re fed up with endless diets, inconsistent workouts, and the demands of a high-stress job. As a former Financial Advisor at Smith Barney, I know firsthand how challenging it is to lose fat, build muscle, and stay toned while juggling 50-60 hour workweeks in LA’s fast-paced environment. But here’s the good news: with our doctor-approved programs, personalized guidance, and proven strategies, you can reshape your body and reclaim your energy. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, or nearby, let’s make fitness fit your life.

Ready to get started? Contact me today for a FREE consultation or call (310) 720-8125.

Frequently Asked Questions: Your Guide to Weight Loss, Muscle Building, and More

As a certified holistic personal trainer and nutrition coach in Los Angeles since 2003, I’ve answered thousands of questions from clients just like you. Below, I’ve compiled the most common ones to help you on your journey. If you’re looking for a “personal trainer near me” or a “nutrition coach in Santa Monica,” these insights will give you a head start.

Can a Personal Trainer Help You Lose Weight and Build Muscle Faster?

Absolutely! In today’s busy world, staying committed to fitness can feel overwhelming. We all start with motivation, but life—stress, work, and fatigue—often derails us. A dedicated personal trainer changes that by transforming not just your workouts but your mindset. Here’s a deep dive into the top questions about weight loss and muscle building.

What Are the Best Ways to Lose Weight Sustainably?

Losing weight doesn’t have to be a battle. Focus on science-backed habits that fit your lifestyle. Here are my top recommendations:

Prioritize High-Protein Breakfasts: Starting your day with protein (like eggs or Greek yogurt) can curb cravings and reduce daily caloric intake. ajcn.nutrition.org Protein & Appetite Control – American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Shows how a high-protein breakfast reduces hunger and calorie intake.
Read Full Study
Eliminate Added Sugars and Sugary Drinks: Sugar spikes insulin and promotes fat storage—cutting back can lead to significant weight loss. hsph.harvard.edu Sugar and Type 2 Diabetes – Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Links sugary beverages to 26% higher diabetes risk.
Read Full Study
Balance Your Plate with Protein, Healthy Fats, Low-Carb Veggies, and Root Vegetables:
- Protein Sources: Opt for lean options like grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, wild-caught salmon, or plant-based alternatives like tofu for vegetarians.
- Healthy Fat Sources: Incorporate avocados, olive oil, and nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts) to stay satisfied and support hormone health.
- Low-Carb Veggie Sources: Load up on nutrient-dense choices like spinach, broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts for fiber without the carbs.
- Root Vegetable Sources: Include fiber-rich root veggies like sweet potatoes, yams, carrots, and beets for sustained energy, easier digestion, and no gluten concerns.
Incorporate Strength Training: Builds muscle and boosts metabolism by ~7% even at rest. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Strength Training & Metabolism – PubMed Study
Demonstrates metabolic benefits of resistance exercise.
Read Full Study
Boost Soluble Fiber: Foods like root vegetables (e.g., sweet potatoes, beets, and carrots) can reduce belly fat by promoting gut health and fullness. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Soluble Fiber & Visceral Fat – National Institutes of Health
Details the link between fiber intake and reduced visceral fat.
Read Full Study
Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep disrupts hunger/fullness hormones, leading to overeating. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Sleep & Hormonal Regulation – PubMed Study
Explores the impact of sleep on ghrelin and leptin levels.
Read Full Study
Stay Hydrated: A glass of water before meals can suppress appetite and boost metabolism.
Integrate Mindful Eating Apps or Journaling: Improves awareness and reduces overeating for better weight loss results. harvard.edu Mindful Eating & Weight Loss – Harvard Health
Shows how mindful tracking improves eating habits and weight loss.
Read Full Study

How Long Does It Take to Build Muscle?

Muscle building begins the moment you challenge your body, creating micro-tears that repair stronger. As Albert Matheny, CSCS and RD from SoHo Strength Lab explains, “It’s during recovery that muscle cells grow bigger.”

Beginners: Expect visible changes in 6-8 weeks with consistent training (3-4 sessions/week) and a protein-rich diet.
Experienced Lifters: Notice gains in 3-4 weeks, but results vary based on frequency, intensity, and nutrition.

Pro Tip: Track your progress with photos or measurements, not just the scale. If you’re in LA, my in-person sessions can accelerate this with custom plans.

Is Hiring a Personal Trainer Worth the Investment?

Yes—especially if you’re serious about results. Here’s why my clients rave about it:

Injury Prevention: Proper form is key; I’ll spot issues like knee alignment in squats to avoid costly injuries.
Goal Setting and Tracking: We’ll set realistic milestones and celebrate wins to keep you motivated.
Personalized Push: I know your limits and how to safely exceed them for breakthroughs.
Accountability: Scheduled sessions mean no excuses—plus, you’re investing in yourself.
Custom Expertise: Tailored workouts and nutrition advice for your unique body and goals.

Being fit is a lifestyle, not a quick fix. If you’re googling “personal trainer near me in Los Angeles” or “holistic nutrition coach in Santa Monica,” reach out now to start your transformation.

Client Testimonial: Amarie from Los Angeles, CA

“Shawn’s holistic approach changed my life! I lost 15 pounds, gained energy, and finally feel confident. His nutrition tips made healthy eating enjoyable.” – Amarie

Reducing Body Fat and Building a Sustainable Lifestyle

Reducing body fat isn’t about extremes—it’s about smart, enjoyable changes. Let’s break down common pitfalls and solutions.

Top Exercise Mistakes Women Make in the Gym (And How to Fix Them)

Avoiding Heavy Weights: Fear of bulking? It’s a myth—women build lean muscle. Start with 10-15 lb dumbbells and progress.
Skipping Fuel: Eat a pre-workout snack with protein and carbs; hydrate with at least 16 oz of water.
No Warm-Up/Cool-Down: Spend 5-10 minutes stretching to prevent strains.
Unrealistic Goals: Aim for 1-2 lbs/week loss; celebrate non-scale victories like better energy.
Routine Rut: Switch routines every 4-6 weeks—try something new like a yoga class.
Shortcuts: Focus on quality reps over quantity.
Avoiding Carbs: Exercise requires energy, which is what carbs give us.
Over-Training: Rest 1-2 days/week to recover.
Poor Form: Mirror check or trainer guidance is essential.
Excess Cardio: Balance with strength; too much cardio can burn muscle.

Effective Strategies to Reduce Body Fat

Strength Training: Builds muscle to torch calories 24/7.
Protein Power: Eggs, chicken, or plant proteins can reduce hunger and appetite. healthline.com 10 Reasons to Eat More Protein – Healthline
Explains how protein reduces hunger and supports weight management.
Read Full Study
Sleep Smart: 7-9 hours regulates fat-storing hormones.
Healthy Fats: Avocados and oils support satiety.
Cut Back on Refined Carbs and Sugar: Refined carbs include white bread, white pasta, white rice, pastries, and sweet desserts. Swap for root vegetables like sweet potatoes and yams, which provide soluble fiber, are easier to digest, and have no gluten issues.
Nutrition Coaching: Personalized plans from a pro like me.
Probiotics: Improve gut health for better metabolism—try yogurt or supplements.
New Addition – HIIT Workouts: Incorporate HIIT workouts 2-3 times/week; studies show it may be more effective at reducing abdominal fat than other types of exercise. verywellfit.com HIIT vs. Steady-State Cardio – Verywell Fit
Compares HIIT and steady-state cardio, showing HIIT’s effectiveness for abdominal fat loss.
Read Full Study

Turning Fitness into a Lifelong Habit

Meal Prep Mastery: Portion out weekly meals for control.
Gradual Changes: Swap one unhealthy habit at a time.
Snack Smart: Keep macro-balanced snacks handy, like veggies with a protein source.
Cook Creatively: Experiment with healthy recipes.
Share the Journey: Inspire friends and family.
Variety in Workouts: Try mixing things up with something different, like a yoga class or a Zumba class. If you want to workout at home, borrow a friend’s exercise DVD, or rent one from your local library.
Realistic Goals: Break them into weekly wins.
Journal Progress: Log workouts and moods.
Hire a Trainer: Consistent support for motivation.
Rest and Recover: Listen to your body. Start small, stay consistent—contact me to make it happen! Overcoming Weight Loss Challenges Hurdles are normal, but conquerable. Here’s how.

Start small, stay consistent—contact me to make it happen!

Overcoming Weight Loss Challenges

Hurdles are normal, but conquerable. Here’s how.

Is Skipping Meals a Good Way to Lose Weight?

While intermittent fasting (IF) has gained popularity as a weight loss tool, as a health coach with over 20 years of experience, I've observed that it often leads to chronic under-eating in many clients. This can cause muscle loss, slowed metabolism, and even mimic the effects of yo-yo dieting, where initial fat loss stalls or rebounds due to inadequate fueling. To maintain energy, preserve muscle, and support long-term fat loss, it's essential to consume a sufficient amount of calories and nutrients tailored to your needs. Intermittent fasting isn't suitable for everyone and can backfire if not managed properly—always pair it with professional guidance from a nutrition coach to ensure proper calorie intake and avoid these risks. jeffersonhealth.org Intermittent Fasting & Muscle Loss – Jefferson Health
Explains risks of muscle loss during intermittent fasting and how to avoid it.
Read Full Study healthline.com Intermittent Fasting & Muscle – Healthline
Discusses how intermittent fasting can impact muscle mass and how to prevent losses.
Read Full Study dietdoctor.com Muscle Loss & Intermittent Fasting – Diet Doctor
Covers how to minimize muscle loss while following intermittent fasting protocols.
Read Full Study

What Is "Skinny Fat" and How to Fix It?

“Skinny fat” means normal weight but high body fat, increasing risks like diabetes. Signs: Muffin top, low energy, family history.

Fix: Build muscle via weights, eat clean, exercise regularly. A personal trainer can assess and customize.

Why Can't I Lose Weight? Common Roadblocks

1. Low Protein: Boosts metabolism—aim for 1.6g/kg body weight.
2. No Weights: Essential for fat loss.
3. Insufficient Cardio: 150 minutes/week burns visceral fat.
4. Poor Sleep: Links to 55% higher obesity risk comprehensivesleepcare.com Weight Loss & Sleep – Comprehensive Sleep Care Center
Discusses how poor sleep contributes to obesity risk and strategies for better sleep.
Read Full Study
5. Dehydration: Water ramps up calorie burn.

Other Factors: Hypothyroidism, medications (e.g., antidepressants). Check my detox and weight loss blog for more.

Conquer these with expert help—book your free session today!

Why Choose Shawn Phillips Training?

Experience: Over 20 years as a certified personal trainer in Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
Holistic Approach: Nutrition, lab testing, body sculpting, and mindset coaching.
Custom Programs: Doctor-approved, tailored to busy professionals.
Results-Driven: Clients lose fat, gain muscle, and feel energized. New for 2025: Virtual sessions available for flexibility!

About Shawn Phillips

As a Certified Personal Trainer in Los Angeles, Shawn Phillips is a renowned Health Practitioner and Fat Loss Expert specializing in body sculpting, nutrition, lab testing, and exercise coaching. Certified Holistic Lifestyle Coach and Nutrition Coach in Los Angeles, serving Santa Monica and beyond. For a FREE consultation, call (310) 720-8125.

Ready to feel fit and fabulous? If you’re searching for a “personal trainer near me,” don’t wait—contact Shawn today and let’s build your best body!