Duane Deorka

25 years experience in personal training

Certifications: CPR. National Academy of Sports Medicine. American College of Sports Medicine. Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

Other expertise: Nutritional counseling

Bio: Duane may be the most experienced trainer at Eli's Studio with over 25 years experience including working with professional athletes in both football and baseball. But that expertise shouldn't intimidate a new client. "I really enjoy working with beginners who don't think that they can do it," said Duane. "I love to see them when they do and then they realize it."

Duane grew up watching his father train bodybuilders and athletes. From the early years when he was used as extra weight on some of the training equipment to later years he always enjoyed the growth that occured in the gym. Not just the physical growth but also mental and self-esteem. "I liked being around coaches and what they did," says Duane. "They were teachers. They taught people how to be better. I still love that. I love watching people blossom and improve themselves."

The key to success in fitness is motivation and consistency according to Duane. Of the three components of bodyshaping...nutrition, cardiovascular and resistance...Duane feels that nutrition is the most important and hardest to master. "Anybody can sweat," says Duane. "But it is what you do when you are on your own that makes the difference." Duane gives examples of proper meals and uses a food diary with his clients which is reviewed weekly. He finds that his most succesful clients are the ones that use their diary regulary in the beginning. Clients are often surprised by what or how much they really eat and without writing it down you forget. It isn't easy but it is crucial to success.