El Shaddai lightening bolt

Verified 26 Reviews
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About El

I was always very active as a kid, I grew up playing soccer. I was born and raised in Haiti where soccer is a big part of our culture. I moved to the states when I was 15, then 2 years later I joined the junior varsity basket ball team, and that same year I got introduced to the strength training aspect of fitness, which later on became my love and passion and my therapy. I became so attached to working out and love the gym so much, so I decided to become a certified fitness trainer since i was spending so much of my time there


I've been a trainer for 18 years, I've worked for companies like Ballys, New York Sports, and Equinox. I love every moment about training because it's fun, flexible, and most of all very rewarding, there is no better feeling in the world, than when someone tells you that you have change their life because you've helped them reach their goals and improved their self esteem and quality of life. I wouldn't trade it for no other job.

I am a very focused, meticulous, fun trainer, I love fitness and I really enjoy training. I am a perfectionist, I pay attention to every detail and I'm very critical when it comes to form, because proper form eliminates the risk of injuries. I am not a drill sergeant type of trainer, because its just not my personality and also not everyone is receptive to it. But what I am is a motivator and an educator, because not only i push my clients to exceed their own limits,  I encourage them by getting in their minds and by teaching them techniques on how to approach every single workout with a positive mentality in order to perform with the best of their ailities. I also educate my client as well. As a result my clients not only reach their goals, but also become educated about fitness.

I have worked with all types of clients in the past. From young to elder, form athletes to very sedentary clients and even disabled clients. my ideal client is someone who respects me and i respect him or her as well. Someone i can connect with, and who's ready to get busy with every single workout. My motto is "A BAD DAY AT THE GYM IS BETTER THAN A GOOD DAY AT HOME ON THE COUCH." So, no matter what your mood is, come to the gym regardless and it will be better than staying home on the couch. Beside my knowledge and my love and passion for fitness, I believe my ability to adapt to different personalities makes me a distinguished trainer. 

Because the human body moves in 3 planes of motion, My training program is designed to focus on exercises that allow the body function well on all 3 planes, by using every single joint in their natural planes to safely get your body in it's optimal shape. This method not only guarantees results, but also eliminates the risk of having muscle imbalance which can cause serious injuries. This training method works for anyone regardless of your age and goal, whether you're young or an elder, a pro athlete or a desk clerk, whether you want to lose weight or build muscles.

initially I ask some lifestyle and health questions to help me understand your current situation so i can train you better, and then i would conduct a detailed fitness assessment which would be the blue print that i will follow to design a custom training program for you. While my ultimate goal is to make sure you reach your goals, it is also my goal to enhance the quality of your life by improving your mental and emotional wellness, as fitness has the power to do so.


My favorite client story

Any client that trains everyday as if it's their last.

My favorite exercise

Squats, because its one of the best fat burning exercise

My favorite quote

"One day
Or day One,
Only you can decide"

My training philosophy

Train as if today is your last day

My training experience

Been training for 18 years.
Started at ballys total fitness, then Equinox and now private.

Areas of Expertise

  • Weight Loss
  • Muscle Gain
  • Sports Performance Training
  • CrossFit
  • Core and Balance
  • Strength Training
  • Muscular Definition
  • Posture
  • Functional Training
  • Myofascial Release
  • Corrective Exercise

Additional Certifications

AAPT Certified Personal Trainer

Education

PTA (in progress)

Who I Especially Like Working With

Pre/post-natal, Seniors

Additional Languages Spoken

Creole, French

Ell is more than an excellent trainer .. He cares about his clients reaching there goals.. Not only is he an expert in fitness . But he is very serious about the nutritional aspects of his clients health. His most famous statement was ". No pain, no gain" when I trained with him a few years ago. He helped me to reach some of my fitness goals and always encouraged consistency, patience, and good nutrition . Trust me this guy is not a novice . He was born to train !

Charlene

Big Ell was exactly what I needed. I'm a 50-year-old man was getting out of shape and my resistance to working out was huge. I hired BIG ELL and my body and resistance began to change. Great work outs although I would get worked up and hated it sometimes, Ell got me through it. He is professional as well as a very nice guy who really cares about the work out and you. My wife also used Ell and was as impressed as I was and she is a 6 days a week workout girl. I highly recommend Ell.

Clifford MOSS AKA COOL BREEZE

I have known Ell for 17 years and during that time I have always returned to him as a personal trainer. He is so professional that he will have trainers cover for him when he has to be away and although they were very good, none compared to Ell. His total commitment to your progress, safety, and personal best is outstanding. Ell coaches the body, the mind, and the spirit. Definitely one of the best.

Gwenevere

I've know Eli for 15 years and he as always been professional on his craft.

Joseph G.

The best Trainer in NYC. When you meet Ell realize that he’s underpaid. Not only is he training you to get the best out of your body, he listens to your personal problems and off his life experiences. You learn to appreciate your what have and what you need to do get right physically, mentally, and spiritually. Not only do you get a Trainer, you get a Therapist and most importantly a Role Model.

Gerald D.

Ell helped me out for the wedding for my sister. Getting ready I needed help - this personal trainer fixed me up and helped me get a six pack with strict dieting and hard training.

Kednel R.

He is the perfect trainer. I had the pleasure of working with this guy. Amazing trainer, he knows what he's doing, always makes sure you have the right posture. He's motivational and talks to you about your goals and never misses a day. Always punctual. I can't wait to start my next session with him.

Marc h.

Ell is a very knowledgeable, professional personal trainer.

Ozzy L.

I had this man as my personal trainer for years. I must say the results are always remarkable and for longevity. I will always refer Ell as a personal trainer.

Nersa

I have tried many different trainers in the last 15 years but none of them has been effective like Ell. Since I have trained with Ell I have seen tremendous results in a very short time. I’ve seen improvements in my ability to complete more sit ups / core exercises, lift progressively heavier weights & generally push myself harder throughout each session. I actually look forward to my workouts. Ell inspires me to be great, pushes me to the limit where I can reach my ultimate goals. He ensures that my technique is always correct to avoid any injuries. He is extremely reliable & punctual – always set up & ready to start training ahead of time, with an exercise routine planned. I would recommend Ell to anyone who wants to achieve his or her personal health goals... Mind over Matter!

Ducarmel Durandisse

Ell got me back on track and I was able to focus on my goals. He is motivating, patient and most of all he made sure to reach out on the days we were not working out as an extra support to keep my head in the game. He is an exceptional master trainer.

Jean C. D

Ell has been such a dedicated personal trainer. Always on time, smiling, cheerful and a pleasure to work with. I have seen so many positive results with my health and weight. I would highly recommend him.

Dr. Angela Maria Caba

He's an excellent trainer. One of the best I have had in 30 years of training.

Anonymous

I know that you are in excellent hands when working out with Ell. He's results are like no other a sexy, Sleek and firm body is what you will be happy with... that's he goal!! So don't hesitate I didn't and it shows. Thanks Ell you're awesome

Anonymous

I felt as though my previous trainer did all that he could for me. So I hired Ell to take me to the next level. This guy trains beast mode style! Whenever I felt as though I had no more to give. He would tell me to "Own my workout" and get it done. Cause when it's done... it's done. If you are looking for someone punctual, laser focused and knowledgeable. You can't go wrong with Ell..I highly recommend.

Shell-I

For me, Ell is cut out to be a good trainer. He has passion, he is a good coach, and he possesses a large character and a lot of skills. When I look at myself today, I feel great and very proud and self-confident, after spending a few months with him .That’s why I never regret when I refer someone to Ell Schaddai.

Henri .

I came to Ell when I was over weight and definitely out of shape. I was lazy and only wanted to do the bare minimum. Ell was able to motivate me with his positive attitude and knowledge of fitness. When I first met Ell, all I wanted to do was lose a few pounds and get rid of my stomach. I was scared of weights. I didn't want to bulk up. Ell explained to me that strength training was just as important as cardio and if I wanted to see change I needed to do both. I was still a little reluctant but he was there to motivate and encourage me ever step of the way. I was not only able to lose the weight and my stomach but I gained muscle and toned as well. Ell is one of the best trainer hands down.

Tracy

Ell Schaddai is the real deal. He is incredibly knowledgeable, he has a wonderful personality, and will push you beyond your mental and physical limits. There's no question that Ell knows exactly how to train you to get the most out of your body, mind and soul. I highly recommend Ell. Hire him if you want the BEST body and mind you've ever had.

Judith Danastor

When I first met Ell, I knew I was going to hire him because I knew he knew his stuff! Within 3 months of working twice per week, I am seeing and experiencing the results - 5 inches off my chest; 2 inches off my waist, and 6 inches off my abdomen; with 1.5 inches off hips. Lost four lbs, yet I am able to decrease my six-mile jog by approximately 30 minutes less (from 100 minutes to 70 minutes), sometimes running 3 miles without stopping. Ell is the best, and is highly recommended! Each workout is intense because I am sweating, and simultaneously shedding and becoming stronger. I don't regret hiring him. And above all, it is the greater joy, health, well-being, and self-confidence I am experiencing. Thank you, Ell!

Kevin

Elle is a great trainer, he takes great care to design your program based on your needs and goals. The results from our work together far exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking a personal trainer whether they are a beginner or highly experienced.

Kathleen O.

El was very knowledgeable and helpful. He was patient and made sure I performed each exercise effectively. Most of all he was encouraging when I wanted to quit. I definitely saw a difference after a few sessions.

Camilla

I've had the pleasure of working with Ell Schaddai at different phases in my life. The first time was in the early 2000's when my goal was to get my body back to my 34-28-38 measurement after having giving birth. He was always professional and pushed me harder each time to hit my target within the time frame we set. 2016 to 2017 and Now in my 40's my focus was much different, my goal was to increase strength toning and endurance training. My schedule is hectic but with Ells assistance I was able to get and stay on track. I love the individualize routine and focus training he implements in our sessions. The fact that I searched for him more than 15 Years later says something. If I'm to spend on something I want professionalism, consistency and results. He provides all or the above!!!

Sonya P.

I must say Ell is truly amazing at what he does. When I started training with ELL, I was weak and not tone. He took his time to assess my strengths and weaknesses before we started the journey. He made sure he had an understanding of what my goals and what I was trying to accomplish. Ell motivated me to push myself though different levels of training when I get comfortable with the routine. I must say I'm extremely happy and proud of my transformation from the time I started with ELL. He's a keeper and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. I would recommend him to everyone because he's good. You want results, Ell Your Guy! I mean look at his body, he lives and breaths fitness!

Joanne D.

El. Is a great trainer I enjoyed working with him , He is always on time And very Professional he is always prepared with new tools and equipment to help get my post baby body back in the shape the way I needed it to be He always has a program ready for the me, and keeps my progress file with him when I need it, We trained several places gym outdoors .He is also knowledgeable health information I need especially on changing my diets and being a vegan myself he igave me some interesting recipes. He is a good motivator , at time the workouts can be tough , end results are great , I always reccomend El?.

Sophia M.

Ell has helped me to transform my body. He is patient and will work with you to develop the correct techniques when working out. He also assisted me with a diet plan to further aid my progress. I saw results very soon after working with him.

P-Money

From Day 1, El has proven to be a very knowledgable trainer that puts you at ease. He thoroughly talked me through his training style, my goals, and asked that I trust in his methodology. Because of this thoroughness, I agreed to put my trust in him and haven't regretted it. The breadth of his experience comes through in every workout: he mixes it up with a variety of exercises that engages multiple muscle groups at a time, and is able to adapt on the fly when there are challenges with equipment availability. I always feel like I'm getting the most out of every session. Additionally he motivates not by being aggressive, but by being a calming presence that pushes me to fight through every last rep, overcoming mind over matter. Finally, he shows that he truly cares about me achieving my goals in that he took time to put together a training program for me to do while he was away on vacation, so that I would not regress. The excitement he shows when I've shown progress in getting fitter and stronger exemplifies how much El loves what he does as a trainer.

Fleur M.

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