Arlington Personal Fitness

Mike's Story

Having been constantly frustrated with weight issues all my life, and equally frustrated trying to develop an exercise program by myself, a good friend recommended that I contact Paulo for advice.

Little did I know the day I first met Paulo that I had found an mentor who would selflessly provide an achievable approach to a healthier way of living. Paulo is much more than a 'trainer.' Paulo is a fountain of knowledge with health matters, a coach who helps me to build my training plan, a confidant after a brutal day at work, a friend who shares my hopes.

With Paulo's expert knowledge, friendly enthusiasm, and 'can do' spirit, I've been able to lose weight and to gain muscle mass, but more importantly, to gain confidence that I can achieve goals never before considered - like running a 10K race in 20 degree weather in little over an hour - Not bad for a 50 year old who had never run more than the distance from the sofa to the refrigerator during commercial breaks.

Sharon's Story

I’ve had a nearly 20 year association with Paulo Mendes.  He has continually and consistently kept abreast of changes, improvements, and innovations in the health fitness arena.  He is a committed individual with very good business sense.  I trust him with my body; what more is there to say!

Brian's Story

I have been working out with Paulo Mendes four days a week for twelve years.  Beginning in May 1993, I suffered chronic lower back pain diagnosed as degenerative disk disease.  The radiologist said that I had the back of a 75-year old man.  I was 42.  Motrin became part of my daily regimen.  Options presented were immediate surgery or try exercise.  I tried to exercise on my own and then tried a personal trainer, but I still had discomfort.

When my trainer recommended that I try Paulo, we spent most of my first session talking about my goals, physical limitations, etc.  He then designed my workouts with the primary goal of alleviating back pain by strengthening other muscle groups to compensate.  It worked.  Within six months, my back felt better than it had in three years!  I have not had to take any pain relievers for lower back pain since 1996.Like personal training, Paulo excels at massage. I have tried several other massage therapists, but Paulo is the best.  He has also coached me with nutrition, and as a result, I have reduced my overall body fat index significantly.  He has taught me stretching exercise, and I am more limber and flexible today than ever before.

Ron's Story

I began training with Paulo Mendes in 1998, about six months after I attained age 60.  My previous participation in physical activity had been minimal, and I had the body to prove it.  I reluctantly started training with Paulo after much pushing by my partner.

To my surprise, I actually enjoyed the first training session.  So I went back again and again, and I have continued going back at 6:00 am three days a week for almost ten years.

As for my reasons for going back, I’ll make a long story short by telling you about a question that a much younger body-builder type gentleman asked me on an elevator a couple of years ago.  He asked me, “do you lift weights?”

Tom's Story

Having trained with Paulo for 10 years, I have come to truly appreciate his relentless focus on proper form and technique.  In addition, his creativity is limitless.

Whether preparing me for a week of intense windsurfing or rehabbing from my shoulder surgery, Paulo has taken the time and effort to structure very sport-specific training to prepare me as well as possible to achieve my goals.”

Dana's Story

Paulo has been my trainer for the past seven years.  During that time, I have moved from body-builder to power lifter to long-distance cyclist to triathlete. He supported each new goal, modified my existing workout to achieve whatever I want to accomplish, and pushed me beyond what I thought possible.

With his encouragement and expertise, I am in better shape now (41) than I was in my early 20s, can outsprint my husband during leg training, and know that, with proper preparation, IronMan Hawaii is possible.

Jeff's Story

During the few years I’ve been working out with Paulo, I’ve watched my body change into the physique I’ve always wanted.  My time is limited, and Paulo takes that limited time and maximizes the results.

As a physically active landscape designer, being in shape is essential, and Paulo has really helped me achieve that goal.  Plus, his massage skills work out all of the kinks from my stressed and worn-out body when I need it.  I simply will not go to anyone else for personal training and massage.

Bill's Story

I have been Paulo Mendes’ client for about 18 years.   I have changed health clubs twice so that I could continue to have him as a trainer.  I work out with him three times a week.  His careful and knowledgeable attention and skill have kept me injury-free and fit from my early 30’s to my late 40’s.  I am extremely happy with the results of what we have achieved together over the years.  I have several friends who have also become Paulo’s clients, and I know that they share my enthusiasm.

Dennis's Story

When I met Paulo Mendes in 1995, I weighed 135 pounds - soaking wet.  A colleague of mine gave him such a glowing reference that I decided to pay him a visit - and the rest is history.
Over these 14 years, Paulo has guided me in transforming my physique.  In addition, he has helped me understand that the combination of proper diet and exercise leads to fitness.  It's very simple; no tricks, no fads, no shortcuts.

Eating and exercising properly have become a lifestyle for me.  I enjoy eating healthy food (especially Stephanie's) and training with Paulo three days a week.

Paulo leads by example.  His own commitment to fitness in his life is an inspiration to his clients.  We see the positive results, in him and in each other, and that's what makes this journey so fun!

Erica's Story

I have been a client of Paulo’s for two years. During this time, Paulo has helped me to lose 30lbs and become healthier.  Paulo always has his clients’ best interests in mind and works with them to achieve their goals.

Paulo is concerned with the whole person, making sure that his clients are not only training properly, but that they are also getting proper nutrition.  Paulo is a demanding, knowledgeable trainer and one of the best I have had the pleasure of working with.