Hi, my name is Santiago (Santi for short) and I have been a Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist for more than 6 years. I live in the beautiful Gold coast and I have my own 1on1 studio where I help people to reach their goals (I also work remotely with online coaching but you need to have basic experience lifting weights).
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53 customer reviews
Fernando jabalquinto
I've been training with Santiago for a few months now, and the experience has been excellent. His approach is tailored, supportive, and very knowledgeable. He explains everything clearly, from technique to nutrition, and always makes sure I’m progressing safely and effectively. I’ve seen real improvements in my strength, energy levels, and overall fitness. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a coach who genuinely cares about your goals. More...
Fernando Jabalquinto
I've been training with Santiago for a few months now, and the experience has been excellent. His approach is tailored, supportive, and very knowledgeable. He explains everything clearly, from technique to nutrition, and always makes sure I’m progressing safely and effectively. I’ve seen real improvements in my strength, energy levels, and overall fitness. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a coach who genuinely cares about your goals. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Patty
I'm so glad I chose Santi as my personal trainer! He is not only knowledgeable and motivating, but also incredibly patient and supportive. I've seen amazing results in just a few months, including increased strength and endurance, and I feel much more confident in my fitness journey. More...
Patty Pdmt
I'm so glad I chose Santi as my personal trainer! He is not only knowledgeable and motivating, but also incredibly patient and supportive. I have some back problems and he was accomodating at changing some exercises to suit my needs. I've seen amazing results in just a few months, including increased strength and endurance, and I feel much more confident in my fitness journey. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
skot
It was a huge leap for me to reach out to someone as I had never done anything like this before.
The minute I met Santi I felt he was right and was well comfortable with him.
I suspect however he is sneaking weights on while I'm not looking.
I think it's for my benefit though and he has a StrongReason.
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Rupert Black
Personal Trainers
I have had the pleasure of being trained by Santi and my expectations and experience with him have been incredible.
I was worried to start on my chapter of training but Santi has built my confidence and skills with his patient and meticulous approach.
Thanks Santi
Raina Halilovic
I have been training with Santi (StrongReason) for few months. It’s a wonderful environment & setup for training. Santi is professional & passionate. He is very knowledgeable & knows his field. Since starting I have become stronger and are seeing changes in my body. I actually enjoy my training sessions. I highly recommend (StrongReason) Santi. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Amani Halilovic
Santi is very supportive, encouraging, and understanding when it came to our learning and made us feel comfortable in the learning environment. the programs are easy to follow and has help us get towards our goals. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
A Halilovic
Santi is very supportive, encouraging, and understanding when it came to our learning and made us feel comfortable in the learning environment. the programs are easy to follow and has help us get towards our goals. More...
Raina
I have been training with Santi (StrongReason) for few months. It’s a wonderful environment & setup for training. Santi is professional & passionate. He is very knowledgeable & knows his field. Since starting I have become stronger and are seeing changes in my body. I actually enjoy my training sessions. I highly recommend (StrongReason) Santi. More...
Veronika
We have the pleasure of working with Santi as our personal trainer for our small group of four ladies, and we couldn't be happier with the experience!
Santi tailors each session to meet our individual needs and fitness levels, ensuring that we all got the most out of our workouts. His professionalism, motivation, and knowledge really stood out, making every session both challenging and enjoyable. He always keeps us engaged with a variety of exercises.
Thanks to Santi, we've seen significant improvements in our strength and overall fitness. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a dedicated and inspiring personal trainer!
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Ursula Dodunski
Santiago is one of the best PTs I have ever had. He ensures that my technique is always correct to avoid any injuries and always pushes me to my limits so I could achieve my fitness goals. Still can’t believe he had me deadlifting 100kgs! He is incredibly supportive and motivating especially as I am a shift worker with lacking energy. I really enjoyed the variation in workouts he offered if something didn’t suit me. His expertise is next level! Highly recommend to all! More...
Ursula Dodunski
Santiago is one of the best PTs I have ever had. He ensures that my technique is always correct to avoid any injuries and always pushes me to my limits so I could achieve my fitness goals. Still can’t believe he had me deadlifting 100kgs!He is incredibly supportive and motivating especially as I am a shift worker with lacking energy. I really enjoyed the variation in workouts he offered if something didn’t suit me. His expertise is next level! Highly recommend to all! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
StuH
Santi has played a crucial role in my recovery, helping me regain strength and range of motion following a snow skiing accident. His exceptional anatomical knowledge and understanding of safe weight training techniques have been instrumental in my progress, ensuring that I did not incur any further injuries. I highly recommend Santi as a personal trainer for anyone needing expert care and rehabilitation. More...
Stuart Harmer
Santi has played a crucial role in my recovery, helping me regain strength and range of motion following a snow skiing accident. His exceptional anatomical knowledge and understanding of safe weight training techniques have been instrumental in my progress, ensuring that I did not incur any further injuries. I highly recommend Santi as a personal trainer for anyone needing expert care and rehabilitation. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Brent Doust
Santiago from the beginning of my training journey has been incredibly professional. With his wealth of knowledge as a personal trainer, I have been guided in correct technique, nutrition and how to optimally structure a training regime.
Since working together my schedule fluctuated a number of times but Santiago always provided a solution. My physical growth has been significant but more importantly I learnt how to functionally train my body. Above all he is a great human being with the ability to connect on a personal level and it has made training that more enjoyable. I would highly recommend his services to anyone looking to improve their knowledge in the gym and how to train effectively.
Santi is a legend- do NOT hesitate to start training with him!
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Brent Doust
Santiago from the beginning of my training journey has been incredibly professional. With his wealth of knowledge as a personal trainer, I have been guided in correct technique, nutrition and how to optimally structure a training regime. Since working together my schedule fluctuated a number of times but Santiago always provided a solution. My physical growth has been significant but more importantly I learnt how to functionally train my body. Above all he is a great human being with the ability to connect on a personal level and it has made training that more enjoyable. I would highly recommend his services to anyone looking to improve their knowledge in the gym and how to train effectively. Santi is a legend- do NOT hesitate to start training with him! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Whitley
Santi is a god-send. He’s helped me regain my strength (and get my body back) after me being off training due to multiple surgeries. I can highly recommend, he’s also really approachable and knows his stuff. More...
Whitley Bejah
Santi is awesome. He helped me regain my confidence and strength after being off training for a while due to injury. He explains things really simply and produces great results. Can recommend ❤️
Reviewed on Facebook
Melissa Burton
Santi really knows what he’s doing. Anytime I wanted a simplified version of an exercise, he explained it perfectly. Highly recommend him as a PT
Reviewed on Facebook
Caryn Broad
I decided to get a personal trainer after the osteoarthritis in my knee got worse. The doctors advice was to strengthen the muscles around my knee etc because I was not using my muscles properly and was getting muscle waste. Santi has designed programs to fit my needs for a while now and I have noticed the benefits in my everyday life. I have alway felt comfortable working with Santi to achieve my goal of delaying knee replacement surgery. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Peter Sinfield
I’m in my mid-60’s and was looking for a PT who understood my limitations, but who would also help me see my potential. Santiago at StrongReason is that guy. He tailors your plan to get the most out of each session. He can work within any constraints you may have, such as injury rehabilitation. But most importantly, he’s a great guy to work with! You can’t go wrong with StrongReason!!!👍👍👊 More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Nikki Knights
A great personal trainer that is knowledgeable about all areas of wellness and fitness. Great results!
Reviewed on Facebook
Christine Ward
I recommend Santiago he really knows his stuff as i use him when he was in NZ & he got my knee right after 2 years of trouble as he gave me a certain exercise to do so recommend him he is so passionate & very knowledgeable! ❤️😀
Reviewed on Facebook
Dylan Atkinson
Santiago is a passionate and extremely knowledgeable trainer. He is undertaking further studies that put his knowledge above most PTs and is great to work with.
Reviewed on Facebook
Jamie Whitehead
Santiago is truly a great PT, super knowledgeable, very motivating during training and you can tell he’s really passionate about his work! 100% recommend!
Jamie Whitehead
Santiago is truly a great PT, super knowledgeable, very motivating during training and you can tell he’s really passionate about his work! 100% recommend!
Reviewed on Facebook
Peter Hamilton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I can't say enough good things about my experience with Santiago. From day one, he showed a genuine interest in helping me achieve my fitness goals and pushed me to challenge myself in ways I never thought possible. Santiago’s knowledge and expertise in fitness training are truly impressive. He developed a customized workout plan that was tailored to my specific needs and abilities, ensuring that I not only saw results but also enjoyed the process. His enthusiasm and encouragement kept me motivated even on the toughest days. Thanks to Santiago’s guidance and encouragement, I have made significant progress in my strength, endurance, and overall fitness level. I wholeheartedly recommend Santiago to anyone looking for a skilled and passionate personal trainer who truly cares about their clients' well-being. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Megan Lowrie
Santiago is a pleasure to deal with and very knowledgeable with exercises that meet your needs and he pushes to get results. 😀 great 👍
Reviewed on Facebook
Josh Wilson
Santy is a great down to earth trainer not only is he there physically for you but also mentally. He knows his clients he knows their strengths, their weaknesses and knows how to push you to the next level. Couldn’t recommend a better trainer More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Kate Te Oka
Santi is an excellent personal trainer. He is extremely knowledgeable about the body and makes sure you learn the correct techniques, so that you can exercise on your own safely and efficiently. He brings positive energy to our sessions which always leaves me feeling motivated afterwards. He’s overall a great guy, I highly recommend him! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Callum Wordingham
I would have gave more than 5 stars if I could, brilliant PT and even better person, easy to get on with and is very knowledgeable and experienced in the industry, knows exactly what’s best for you and your ability’s and helps you achieve your goals with ease, would definitely recommend.
Reviewed on Facebook
Callum W
Personal Trainers
I would have gave more than 5 stars if I could, brilliant PT and even better person, easy to get on with and is very knowledgeable and experienced in the industry, knows exactly what’s best for you and your ability’s and helps you achieve your goals with ease, would definitely recommend
Savannah
Santiago is a great trainer who is very science based with his training. He explains exactly what the reason is behind the exercise which I’ve never experienced before. Would definitely recommend.
Raelene
I enjoyed my training with Santiago. He is very knowledgeable and explained the exercises very well.
Josh Wilson
Santy is a great down to earth trainer not only is he there physically for you but also mentally. He knows his clients he knows their strengths, their weaknesses and knows how to push you to the next level. Couldn’t recommend a better trainer More...
Kate T
Santi is an excellent personal trainer. He is extremely knowledgeable about the body and makes sure you learn the correct techniques, so that you can exercise on your own safely and efficiently. He brings positive energy to our sessions which always leaves me feeling motivated afterwards. He’s overall a great guy, I highly recommend him! More...
Pete S.
I’m in my mid-60’s and was looking for a PT who understood my limitations, but who would also help me see my potential. Santiago at StrongReason is that guy. He tailors your plan to get the most out of each session. He can work within any constraints you may have, such as injury rehabilitation. But most importantly, he’s a great guy to work with! You can’t go wrong with StrongReason!!!👍👍👊 More...
Megan Lowrie
Santiago is a pleasure to deal with and very knowledgeable with exercises that meet your needs and he pushes to get results. 😀 great 👍
Brent
Santiago from the beginning of my training journey has been incredibly professional. With his wealth of knowledge as a personal trainer, I have been guided in correct technique, nutrition and how to optimally structure a training regime. Since working together my schedule fluctuated a number of times but Santiago always provided a solution. My physical growth has been significant but more importantly I learnt how to functionally train my body. Above all he is a great human being with the ability to connect on a personal level and it has made training that more enjoyable. I would highly recommend his services to anyone looking to improve their knowledge in the gym and how to train effectively. More...
Ashley Garget
Santi and I have been training regularly for over a year and a half. Throughout this Santi has been keeping me consistent and has improved my strength and endurance. Santi has been flexible with scheduling which help keep in on track. I highly recommend him for achieving all your fitness goals More...
Peter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I can't say enough good things about my experience with Santiago. From day one, he showed a genuine interest in helping me achieve my fitness goals and pushed me to challenge myself in ways I never thought possible.
Santiago’s knowledge and expertise in fitness training are truly impressive. He developed a customized workout plan that was tailored to my specific needs and abilities, ensuring that I not only saw results but also enjoyed the process. His enthusiasm and encouragement kept me motivated even on the toughest days.
Thanks to Santiago’s guidance and encouragement, I have made significant progress in my strength, endurance, and overall fitness level. I wholeheartedly recommend Santiago to anyone looking for a skilled and passionate personal trainer who truly cares about their clients' well-being.
More...
Jaime
Santiago is a great personal trainer. He is very committed and knows exactly what he is talking about. He is intelligent and very personable, I would highly recommend him to anyone at any stage of fitness. Thank you for everything Santiago. You have been amazing. More...
Simone Young
Santi is a great coach, he has helped me achieve my goals with my fitness and has helped me with building muscle and stronger.
I highly recommend him in every way from muscle building to nutrition.
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Melissa Burton
Santi really knows what he’s doing. Anytime I wanted a simplified version of an exercise, he explained it perfectly.
Highly recommend him as a PT
Katrina
Santiago is possibly one of the most patient and understanding trainers I have been trained by in the 15 years I have been going to gyms.
He listens to you and if you feel like you can’t do an exercise, he will go above and beyond to make sure you are getting what results you want. He knows when to push and when to mix things up.
He is so kind and funny as well so you don’t feel like you are being trained by a gym robot.
I honestly couldn’t recommend a more amazing person to help with any part of your journey!
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Bliss
Santi is a great trainer. friendly, makes great personalised programs, very encouraging. i would definitely recommend his services.
Brett
Getting back into weights as a beginner again and moving through to more intermediate lifting, Santiago ensures technique is on point and I’m always pushed to get those last few reps out. Super motivational and easy to train with. Recommended. More...
Felicity
After having a membership at the gym which I enjoyed but it was getting stale. I decided to contact Strong Reason to see if it would suit me to have a personal trainer. After a short time discussing my goals with Santiago, he understood I wanted continued strength as I get older. Santigo talks me through my sets always encouraging me and fixing my technique. I started with one session per week seeing great results not only in my strength but sleep patterns and my ability to focus at work through long days. I enjoy training with Strong Reason and now do two sessions per week, along with my husband who is also loving it. More...
Caryn
I decided to get a personal trainer after the osteoarthritis in my knee got worse. The doctors advice was to strengthen the muscles around my knee etc because I was not using my muscles properly and was getting muscle waste. Santi has designed programs to fit my needs for a while now and I have noticed the benefits in my everyday life. I have alway felt comfortable working with Santi to achieve my goal of delaying knee replacement surgery. More...
How do you help your clients achieve their fitness goals?
The main thing I do is educate my clients so they can achieve their goals by themselves, so they can understand how nutrition and training works to then apply into their lifestyles. There is no "one size fits all" so my job is to know what size fits that particular client, what intervention is going to be more appropriate for the client so it can be as easy and enjoyable as possible.
What’s the secret to getting the body of your dreams?
There is no secret, consistency and knowledge. Now a days everyone wants results yesterday. 5+ years of bad habits, no exercise and poor nutrition can't be fixed in one month, no without sacrificing health (Hormones, lean body mass, mental health and relationship with food).
Knowledge is also important; how can I reach my goal as fast as possible without sacrificing any of the Health factor named above and by enjoying the process.
What do you love most about your job?
This is the best job ever, If I was millionaire, I would probably do it for free! The satisfaction of watching my clients grow mentally and physically is priceless. Seeing how they boost their confidence, self-esteem, feel better, look better and improve their relationship with food and exercise, is my passion. Breaking fitness myths and educating so clients can have a better understanding of how exercise and their body's function.
What inspired you to start your own business?
The fitness industry is very saturated now a days, and there are a lot of "professionals" out there that spread misinformation and put people's health in risk. I am here to fix the course of this industry and hopefully make a change in people's lives.
Why should our clients choose you?
My coaching approach is rooted in scientific principles, ensuring that all methods I use with my clients are backed by research and proven to deliver positive results. I have high understanding of Biomechanics, and this allows me to ensure maximal safety during workouts and the best possible stimulus to the body.
Unfortunately, many personal trainers today enter the industry with inadequate knowledge and spread misinformation. This is partly due to the ease of obtaining accreditation as a personal trainer and the poor quality of many training courses available.
Moreover, social media has negatively impacted the industry by promoting unrealistic body image ideals and spreading misinformation about nutrition, which can harm people's relationships with food and their self-esteem.
Having worked in the industry for six years, I prioritize continuous learning and regularly update my knowledge to align with the latest scientific studies. As a sports nutritionist, I aim to revolutionize the way you perceive food. By working with me, you'll improve your relationship with food and realize how simple and freeing it can be—no more restrictions, no more fad diets, just a straightforward approach.
Can you provide your services online or remotely? If so, please add details.
At the moment I am only working face to face. I do have online clients, but I only accept people that are willing to put everything into it and that have experience in the gym floor with excellent technique.
What changes have you made to keep your customers safe from Covid-19?
In my studio I always make sure that the equipment is clean after every client and deep clean every day.
1 on 1 Personal Training
I offer 45-minute sessions either at my private studio or at Goodlife Nerang. I customize each session based on your specific needs by following a tailored training program, and my goal for every session is to complete all exercises planned for the day with the right intensity and focus on perfecting technique. While I have set intervals for rest and work, the pace is somewhat determined by the client. Some individuals may require additional time to grasp proper technique or because they are fatigued.
I provide the training program for the whole week (tracking of progress), nutrition guidance, before and after photos