Jeffrey Esakov

Jeff was recommended to me by a friend who suffers from lower back pain like I do. I learned Jeff also suffered from back pain and was closer to my age than other trainers. He recommended exercises specifically for my scoliosis and partially fused vertebrae. He monitored my every move and eased me into new routines, assuring each exercise helped without hurting. Since training with Jeff, I have not had any spasms, which used to really impact me. It is now clear my former workout routine was doing more harm than good. Jeff helped me get strong without pain. He is punctual, personable, interesting, articulate, and a joy to work with and know.

I met Jeff while enrolled in the Cardiac Rehab Program. We met three days a week, during which he continuously presented me with challenging goals while monitoring my vital signs. He ensured I found my performance edge without overreaching. Jeff’s diligent approach to maintaining proper form helped me correct my body alignment, reducing unnecessary physical stress and further risk of injury. Jeff re-introduced me to interval training to improve my cardio fitness. I worked on speed and distance, and learned the value of the incline. It’s very easy to work with Jeff. His friendly personality adds value to your workout, making it less a chore and more a desired activity. At the end of the program, Jeff retested my strength and cardio. My performance levels dramatically improved from my initial test. Many thanks to Jeff’s training, the transference of his technical knowledge to my individualized workout, and his caring and motivating approach. No matter what your health or fitness level, Jeff is the right trainer for you!

I suffered for years from chronic inflammation in one leg and chronic rotator cuff pain in both shoulders. Occasional physical therapy dealt with the symptoms, but never with the underlying causes. After I stopped physical therapy, the symptoms inevitably returned. I was lucky to find Jeff. He carefully, purposefully helped me change my body’s dynamics so I am now completely free from pain. Jeff is a gift!

I came to Jeff as a formerly dedicated “gym rat” who devolved into a couch potato over the past few decades. No longer happy with the way I looked or felt, and too many years away from self-training to know my limits while in my 50s and out of shape, I thought it prudent to ask Jeff to help me train safely and effectively. I couldn’t be happier with the results! I lost 30 pounds and gained muscle, flexibility, and coordination. Jeff challenged me as a weightlifter while staying within safe (but not babied) limits. He varied our weekly routines, emphasizing core strength and total-body workouts, while closely monitoring my form and well-being. He demonstrated and explained everything. He was friendly without being overly chatty. He was an ideal workout partner as he retrained me to exercise properly for my age. If you are a lapsed fitness nut who has let years of physical inactivity go by, I urge you to get off the couch, walk (don’t run until you get back into shape!) to the Reception Desk at the Center, and sign up for training sessions with Jeff Esakov. He is a gem.

I first noticed Jeff while he was training clients. I observed how extremely helpful and professional he was. My friend recommended Jeff to help me gain strength and flexibility. I needed a post-therapy program from a fractured shoulder and torn rotator cuff. Jeff devoted himself to improving my condition. He customized a workout to address my shoulder problems. He is always pleasant. He explains, in detail, the purpose of each exercise. He frequently adjusts the program so it never grows boring. The results of training with Jeff recently became clear. I was playing tennis and realized I no longer needed to be hesitant. I actually had forgotten about my injury and was ecstatic. Thanks so much, Jeff!

I had been going to Princeton Fitness and Wellness for quite a few years and felt I had become stuck in a not very efficient routine. One day a floor trainer suggested that I should take some private training lessons and suggested Jeff Esakov. Jeff really changed my work-out life for the better. Shortly after starting my training with him I broke my wrist and was out of commission for several months. Jeff patiently helped me get back into shape, always careful to calibrate what I could do and could not do. Working with Jeff is great fun because he always comes up with something new, always with a good reason that relates to my own goals for fitness. And I truly appreciate his flexibility with scheduling: I work in a city far away and am in Princeton only every two weeks. Jeff always finds time for me and every time I come home I look forward to our work-out sessions!

This is the first time I have ever belonged to a gym. I have been training with Jeff on a weekly basis for six months now. There is no question that I wouldn’t go to the gym if it were not for Jeff. I really appreciate his patience, good humor and non-judgmental style. I really love working out now. I can’t imagine my life without it.

I suffer from problems with my spine, which cause a very painful back, hip, and knee condition. For many years, excruciating pain made it impossible for me to walk and function in everyday life. In the past, I worked with several physical therapists. Each time my attempts failed. The pain made it impossible to accomplish anything. I signed up for sessions with Jeff as a last resort. I had little hope. Jeff guided me cautiously through basic exercises. He knew my exact limits, so my pain did not have a chance to overwhelm me. As my routine progressed and became more challenging, he made adjustments. I slowly regained the ability to transition past the pain. After weeks of his patience and compassion, I now can control my pain level as I exercise. I am working on increasing flexibility in my joints and muscles to regain functionality. I always will be astonished at what we have accomplished together. I am sincerely grateful to Jeff for his work.

About two months ago, I decided to try the Center. Jeff asked what I was looking for in a trainer. I responded, “Someone with patience.” He said, “That’s me.” He was right. I am in my late 60s. I had not exercised steadily for several years. I needed clear direction and patience for slow and (I hoped) steady progress. After two months, I feel the improvement. I am stronger. And, I like Jeff so much that I encouraged my husband to sign up for training with him, too. Now, we are both training–and we both look forward to it. Thank you, Jeff. You make such a difference!

After three months of cardiac rehab following a heart attack, I began working with Jeff. I have been working with him for over a year and a half. I could not ask for a better trainer than Jeff. He has been patient in helping me achieve peak fitness. He varies my routine and pays attention to my form, which has helped me immensely. He understands each client’s goals and strengths and tailors programs to improve their fitness. Despite my bum shoulder, Jeff has worked a near miracle in helping me improve my upper-body strength without straining it. He explains each exercise and its target muscle group. He emphasizes proper form and works to help me meet my fitness goals. I highly recommend him.