Ava Feingold

Coaching Philosophy

I coach with a holistic mindset — I’m here to support you, help you build a strong foundation,

and push you past physical and mental barriers. I love working with people to find that point

where training feels good, discipline grows naturally, and confidence expands into every part of

life.

My approach is intentional, and I understand that showing up is the hardest part. Hopefully I can

take some of the guesswork out of the “fitness” category and help everyone find a bit more

balance in life. I aim to make sessions a challenge that elicits growth while also fine-tuning

things to keep it fun.

Experience

I earned my B.S. in Kinesiology at Cal Poly SLO, where I studied exercise prescription across a

wide range of populations and completed multiple years of research involving fitness testing,

movement analysis, and program design. As part of my coursework, I also taught group classes

to my cohort in different formats, which helped me build clear communication skills and

confidence leading people through movement.

Outside the classroom, I’ve coached youth soccer clinics and worked as a physical therapy

aide, guiding patients through rehabilitation exercises and learning how to adapt training to

individual needs, limitations, and goals.

As the friend who was “working out to earn a degree,” I’ve had plenty of chances to apply my

knowledge in real life — helping friends get started in the gym, writing training plans, and easing

the intimidation that often comes with being new to strength training.

The Rad Stuff!

I grew up in Bellingham with a family that loved exploring the natural beauty of the PNW. As a

kid, I focused on soccer, which I still enjoy today through pickup games whenever I can.

In my first year at Cal Poly, I discovered weightlifting and followed a strict bodybuilding-style

program. I also rediscovered my love for adventure and the outdoors by going on multi-day

backpacking trips around California whenever classes and work allowed. 

Backpacking helped me develop a more holistic view of health and movement, and I adapted my gym training to

support multi-day hikes, trail running, and — moving forward — hopefully a longer cycling log.

Since moving back, I’ve been lucky to work seasonal jobs that combine teaching and adventure,

including backpack guiding and ski instructing.

You might also catch me on the pickleball courts, walking my dog Brinzo, doing hot yoga, biking

around town or dancing—any way I can stay active and enjoy being outdoors.