What our clients have to say...

When I first met Joel, I was six months into a world of pain and decreasing mobility.  My HMO prescribed pills, injections, and recommended a laminectomy for a bulging disc and sciatica in my lumbar spine.  Joel did a functional assessment, assigned isometrics and light exercises and programmed an anti-inflammation diet.  Next, he scheduled me with another Optime’ specialist who treated me with chiropractic and other therapeutic modalities. Within two weeks the pain, sciatica and numbness in my legs and feet were gone.  My doctors were stunned.  Six months into working with Joel I am pain free, stronger than I have ever been, and resuming an active lifestyle. For the first time in my life, I feel my glutes when riding my bike.  I am very grateful to him and his team and the interest they took in helping me get well and strong.

Tom H, 4/1/2023

I’ve worked with Joel for ten years now. He keeps me in shape and keeps me committed to my fitness regimen.  When I turned 50, I made the decision to use a personal trainer, and found Joel. It was one of the best decisions I have made. He is relentlessly optimistic, and dogged in his efforts on my behalf.  He understands the body’s physiology and diagnose problems, fix them in real time, and keep me running strong for the Impala Racing Team. He’s my biggest cheerleader! 

Jennifer R, 3/31/2022

Joel does a wonderful job identifying the sources of instability tailoring my workouts to address these weaknesses. For example, while doing body weight squats, I had knee instability and discomfort. None of the past trainers I had worked with could resolve this. Joel rather quickly identified that my glutes were imbalanced. After working with resistance bands to engage and strengthen them, my knee pain was gone! I now squat 200+ lbs plus my body weight, stronger and leaner than ever! Thank you, Joel.

Jim H, 4/1/2022

I’m a male in my early 60s and have worked with trainers off and on over the years but nothing compares to the past two years working with Joel. My priorities are optimal health/fitness and golf. I can state that I’ve achieved maximum levels at both. My flexibility and range of motion is as good as when I was 30. My balance has improved tremendously, and my strength has increased greatly. Joel often speaks of reversing the aging process, and through the Optime' program, I’m achieving this. Additionally, Joel explains the muscle groups and methodology involved, which helps make sense of it all and keeps it interesting. Lastly, my golf is better than ever.

Mark R, 2/1/2022

I wanted to get stronger and leaner. I've always kept myself in good shape from gym classes, but I found it harder and harder to stay in my best shape. Joel did a complete health assessment, and designed a program. In three months, I surpassed the goals I once thought unreasonable. Here is the amazing thing; everything was doable and my coach was with me every step of the way. The Optime' method is complete and it works!

Sally S, 11/1/2019

I'm a 56 year old man who enjoys cycling, tennis and skiing.  At 54 I was shocked to learn I needed hip replacement surgery.  20 years of running off balance wore my right hip out.  After successful surgery I hired Joel Ramirez to help me rehabilitate.  My goal was to stay in the game.  Rejoin my cycling, tennis and skiing friends.  Joel enthusiastically took a holistic approach to my training.  We focused on strength, flexibility, nutrition and endurance training. He measured my performance and we set short term goals.  I quickly recovered to 80% fitness, felt great but couldn't keep up with my cycling friends.  Joel motivated me to train 2-3 days a week and now after 2 years I'm at 110%.  I look and feel great.  I beat my cycling friends up the mountain play singles tennis twice a week.  To stay in the game, improve your health and enjoy your weekend activities I recommend you hire a great coach like Joel and start a tailored fitness program.

Scott R, 9/1/2016

…I would have to say that training with Joel and his coaches has been the best decision I have made to set and reach my fitness and life goals.   

Chris M, 12/1/2014

I came in 50 pounds overweight, recovering from a broken spine, four herniated disks, and serious shoulder and lower body nerve compression. Despite my injuries Joel worked with my doctors and PT to get me in shape. In six months I've lost 50 pounds and I'm in the best shape of my life…. Turned my life around! 

Jason Y, 12/27/2014

 Working with Joel not only changed my life but it probably saved it. In my 30's and 40's I was a marathon runner (pb 2:54) and was on the podium at bike and biathalon races.  In the last few years I got sloppy, gained weight and totally got out of shape...  After heart to heart with Joel. He told me he would train me if and only if I was serious. I committed and I can assure you he committed.  9 months later, I am back in shape and in fact better than I was 30 years ago. Results: body fat 30% to 13.2%, weight 201 to 168. Couldn't do three push ups can now do 50 in a minute. I won't bore you with any more details but if you want to change your life and be the person you always wanted to be then go see Joel. He along with you can make it happen.

Steven V, 5/18/2009

I try to give five stars only when a business excels in quality and service, and goes above and beyond expectations.  Joel Ramirez runs such a business.  I had stopped all manner of strength training and running for several months due to an extremely painful pinched nerve/neck issue.  Tired of apathy, and even more tired of recommendations to get steroid shots and other procedures I wanted no part of, I visited Breakaway just out of curiosity.  I have had trainers of the large health club sort, and this business seemed more focused on training in general.  Even though I was pretty sure (before meeting the staff) this was more of a professional athlete-focused company, Joel (the owner) was very welcoming, knowledgeable and interested in helping- it was clear that they help athletes of any level.  We discussed my goals, which Joel promptly set higher than I did, and started.  First, Joel connected me to a local Chiropractor, Dr. Kane Bixby, who he worked with to assess my neck/nerve problem and design an exercise and health regimen focused on goal 1- to eliminate this problem.  I will elaborate on that in my review of Dr. Bixby's business.  Suffice it to say that within 4 weeks I no longer had pain, and I was able to start rebuilding strength where I had none from the injury.  My coaches worked closely with Dr. Bixby to ensure that my exercises were supporting my recovery.  

Since then, I've been ecstatic about my progress, and am on track to completing my first half marathon in years (my second goal) a few weeks from now.  Other ways they helped include a running analysis that has helped me improve my running form and strength, tuning and fitting a road bicycle (an activity I am eager to try for the first time imminently), nutrition guidance, and more.

George S, 1/18/2013

I love working with Joel....  I compete with an elite women’s running team and Joel helps me stay healthy and super strong so that I don't get injured.  As a corporate professional with limited time, Joel finds a way to push me to work harder than I ever have before, through encouragement and enthusiasm.  He's also been an excellent resource when I've needed additional training help with chiropractic, physical therapy, etc.   My team mates and friends have all commented on the level of strength and fitness I’ve achieved.

Jennifer R, 12/8/2014

You get more than a good workout, you get globally healthy. They take an approach that makes you strong, lean and healthy by strength training with a focus on flexibility, cardio work, and nutrition. The plans are specific to the individual and are based on your needs. The workouts are intense but you walk away feeling great. They're great people and treat you like a person, not a potential sale. After a month, I felt like a different person. Joel and the gang really have something special here.

Kanad D, 1/2/2015

I'm an experienced triathlete and I've worked with coaches before, back in the UK, but I came to the US determined to step up a level, and Breakaway gave me that. My 'A' race this year was Escape from Alcatraz, where I wanted a top ten in my age group, and apart from the need to increase my bike speed, the swim was always going to be a massive challenge. Starting last August, we developed a program to improve my core strength, build up my wattage and improve my endurance. …. I never once got injured over the last year, which speaks volumes. But, I wasn't just working with one coach; I was working with the whole team. I had a number of issues during the year and each time it was the team's strength in depth that developed the response. One was with my swim, where I got disheartened by my lack of progress. Joel Ramirez, the director, insisted on stepping in and doing a 1:1 session that was really helpful. Another came when I couldn't break through a wattage barrier on the bike. Joel discussed this with his coaches and acted jointly to work with me to achieve the breakthrough I was after. The latest example is Joel giving me direct help in overcoming my apprehension at facing the Alcatraz swim. He took me out into the Bay and coached me directly. Then he gave me loads of tips that he's picked up on his own Alcatraz races, and topped that off with final week pep talks. Regardless of the result I got at my target race, I went into it feeling as ready and well-prepared as I could, and better prepared than I have ever been. I did beat my targets, beating even my most hopeful ambition, and being part of this team played a big part in that journey.

Pete S, 6/9/2015

Training with Joel is unlike any training experience I've ever had. He offers a one stop resource for EVERYTHING to get you to the best shape of your life. I came in with an injury and was hooked up with a physical therapist, massage therapist, nutritional consultation, workshops and training sessions to not only help me recover, but feel healthier and stronger than I've ever felt.  I practically limped into this place in November of 2009 at 18% body fat (my lifetime high) feeling gross and out of shape.  I'm now around 14%, strong, healthy and training for a marathon in May, hoping to qualify for Boston next year. My goals have never felt so achievable. I can't speak highly enough... If you want to train for something you never thought you could achieve, come here. You'll feel the difference between working to be fit and working to be an athlete.  Lighter, leaner, stronger, faster. I'll take a serving of that and pass on the side of mediocre. Thanks Joel!!!

Florence R, 1/30/2010

My time with Joel and his holistic approach towards health and fitness have benefitted me greatly over the past four years.  I am a 70+ year old legal professional and appreciate the process of evaluation, planning and execution.  In my case, Joel’s thoughtful coaching helped me by directing my fitness program to include strength training and working with other top flight people to assist with nutrition and physical therapy to optimize my health.  He has guided this 70+ year old body for over 4 years to some top physical achievements through humor, cajoling and firmness. I always look forward to my sessions with Joel

 Bill  M, 8/1/2018

I initially went to see Joel for a bike fitting and cycling diagnostic but came away with a lot more. I was properly fitted and I also learned how to cycle more efficiently. I've been having back issues and Joel showed me exercises to help ease the back pain that I was experiencing on long rides. I just completed an 80 mile ride with 4,500 feet of climbing without any pain. In a short amount of time I have become a better cyclist and with their program/classes my improvement continues. I'd recommend this training to anyone seeking positive results in achieving their athletic goals.

Gary T, 10/26/2011

I started working out with Joel in November 2007.  Prior to that, I hadn't been exercising consistently for nearly 2 years.  He helped me create a plan for how I could get back into shape - and not just "shape," but incredible shape.  Within 2 months, I had committed to doing my first triathlon. I competed in my first Sprint Triathlon in February of 2008 and have another Olympic distance triathlon (Wildflower) in 3 1/2 weeks!...   Joel Ramirez has been doing this for years and know what works and what doesn't. …If you're serious about getting and being in great shape, if you're a competitor in multisport, cycling, running or swimming, or if you just want to be surrounded by people that live a truly fit lifestyle (not just on weekends or every couple of months)….... Just good solid, healthy and driven coaches who don't wait for life to happen to them.

Seeley R, 4/10/2008

I walked into Breakaway Performance in September 2011 seeking guidance to break into competitive cycling.  I've gotten more than I anticipated.  Joel provided a comprehensive program across several facets - cycling, strength training, and nutrition.  I have improved my cycling fitness, lost 11 pounds, and reduced my body fat % from 18% to 12% by adhering to their program over the last 2 1/2 months.  I am well-positioned heading into the 2012 racing season to compete effectively thanks to their help.….value-added instruction / coaching, results-oriented.  Great find!

Geof B, 11/7/2011

I quite literally limped into Joels Facility in the beginning of March, having hurt my hamstring over years of running.  Multiple stops at various training, massage and physical therapy hadn't yielded me any answers about exactly what was wrong with me.

He encouraged me to run less, and put me on a unique strength training program.  I went there exactly three times between the beginning of March and the middle of May, and I blew away my goals: back running faster and pain free, % body fat going from 17.5% to 12.5%, losing 11 lbs of fat and gaining 5 lbs of muscle in the process!  In addition, unexpectedly my golf game and distance hitting the ball has improved dramatically.  All this after two months.  My next step is training for the San Francisco Marathon, with the goal of hitting my personal best.
Rob B, 5/25/2010

I would highly recommend Joel's facility and staff for anyone interested in achieving their personal athletic goals, no matter what they are, but also for anyone who needs an expert with selecting and getting a great bike fit. Head and shoulders above everyone in the city.   Joel, you ROCK!

David W, 5/25/2009

This outfit is truly amazing. I went in for a complete bike fit, and everything was measured, analyzed, and computed. The people that work there are very professional and friendly, specifically Joel. He knows what he is talking about and has many tips for improvement. I was able to feel confident that my bike had an overhaul prior to my Half Ironman event. Even adjusting my seat a little made the ride more comfortable and less aches and strain on the neck. He also gave me some strength exercises to make me stronger on the bike. …. whether you are a hard core athlete or just want advice for endurance.

Michael T, 10/31/2008

When you are ready to take your training to the next level this is the place. … a secret weapon for not only cyclists and triathletes, but anyone looking to get a better yield from their fitness training.  The analytical feedback from the bio-mechanical testing, coupled with knowledgeable training staff virtually eliminate any excuses you could have. You just have to do it and impress yourself with your results and performance.

Keith O, 2/5/2007

In just one year I have gone from having never clipped into pedals to planning for a half-ironman in 2008. Joel is the mastermind behind it all, and his enthusiasm is contagious. Ok, this personal overhaul hasn't been cheap, but I'm seeing a return on my investment that will last a lifetime.  … The coaching and diagnostics on top of that has made my training time far more efficient.  It's a no nonsense program you can take your fitness and training to the next level. No matter what level you start at or where you want to go. I can't wait to see what kind of athlete I can become with their help.

Robin V, 12/9/2007

I came to Joel’s facility in hopes to get back on the right track to health, wellness and life! From the start he listened to my history, my goals and everything that I had been going through.  Even while going through the assessment phase where I felt like a complete wuss, Joel was encouraging and motivating. Over the past 3 weeks of working with him, I have already began to feel stronger and mentally prepared for my upcoming events. As a competitive tennis player, I had doubts at first that they could incorporate specific workouts but he has done that, doing his own research! He has also put together a strategy to run my first half marathon this weekend, giving me the right guidance to run the race itself but also the confidence that I can finish within my goal time. Even though I'm not a triathlete, their comprehensive approach for my program has already shown results.  Plus these guys are just pretty cool....

Lisa Brown, 7/16/2015

I am in the midst of getting ready for a bicycling trip in the Pyrenees.  I was in San Francisco last week and wanted to get in some preparation for my trip. I had no idea where I could find anyone in the Bay Area to help me, until I asked spin teacher at the SF branch of my gym gym and she recommended BreakAway (and Joel specifically.)  I left a voice message for Joel the same day.  In response to my message Joel called me back promptly.  As my time was limited, he made an appointment for me later the same day and we worked out a program.  The plan that Joel worked out was absolutely perfect.  It gave me the exposure I was looking for and put me on my way to using clipless pedals comfortably.  My endurance level increased dramatically.… Joel knows each of his clients individually and challenges them to meet their goals.   

Tony W,  8/8/2009

Joel is a great coach, very positive, but doesn't let you off the hook. The fact that he is closer to my age is a plus, because he understands how to push the body safely at different times of life. He is skilled at explaining the "WHY" behind our different exercises which helps me to know when I am doing them correctly and safely, and he watches our form like a hawk… 

Red R, 1/4/2010