If you’re dealing with an injury, recovering from pain, or simply tired of feeling limited by your body, you’re in the right place.
I’m Derek, a Certified Personal Trainer with 15+ years of experience helping adults in Palm Beach County move better, recover stronger, and build lasting results.
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45 customer reviews
Nicole
I started training with Derek after dealing with some nagging aches and just feeling out of shape. I didn’t want anything extreme, just something consistent and effective—and that’s exactly what I got.
He keeps everything simple, explains things clearly, and makes sure you’re doing movements the right way so you don’t make things worse. It doesn’t feel like a typical workout, it actually feels like you’re improving how your body moves.
I also like that he brings everything to you and works around your schedule. Makes it really easy to stay consistent.
Definitely recommend Derek if you’re looking for someone who knows what they’re doing and actually cares about helping you improve.
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Joe
Personal Trainers
Derek is reliable and tailors the workouts to our level of ability. He also gave us modifications where needed and individualized meal goals and workout plans for between sessions.
Tekira C
I’ve been training with Derek Roper Jr. for the past few months, and it has honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my health and fitness.
From the very first session, they took the time to understand my goals, fitness level, and any limitations I had. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, every workout has been personalized and thoughtfully planned. The sessions are challenging but never overwhelming, and I’ve seen consistent progress in both my strength and endurance.
What really sets Derek Roper Jr. apart is their ability to motivate and encourage. On days when I feel tired or unmotivated, they know exactly how to push me just enough while still being supportive. They also explain the “why” behind each exercise, which has helped me improve my form and feel more confident working out on my own.
Beyond the workouts, they’ve offered helpful advice on nutrition, recovery, and building sustainable habits. It’s clear they genuinely care about their clients’ long-term success, not just quick results.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, professional, and motivating personal trainer who truly invests in your progress, I highly recommend Derek Roper Jr.
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Merryl
I trained with Derek for about 18 months. He is a great trainer . Derek kept me in line with workouts and nutrition. He’s so knowledgeable in each aspect of exercise /nutrition. Besides a wonderful trainer he is an amazing listener and makes sure to design the program to your own needs. Highly recommend Derek. More...
Larry
Derek was training my wife for the Tokyo Marathon. She was so inspired by his knowledge and coaching skills that she suggested I train with him as well.
After about a week and a half, Derek and I had a discussion about my goals. He asked me what I wanted and truly listened. He was pleased to hear that I wanted to improve my body control, balance, and coordination. I was already committed to going to the gym, stretching for long periods, and riding my bike, but this type of training was different—and essential for developing dexterity, body control, and long-term longevity.
I have completed three sessions so far, and I can already tell this will be an essential component of my future health and well-being.
Derek is easy to work with. He communicates clearly and explains the purpose and benefits of each exercise, so I understand the impact of every routine. He is also positively affirming throughout each training session.
If your body and health matter to you, Derek will add value. I highly recommend him.
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Fela
We've been training with Derek for three years now, and we couldn't be more grateful for his expertise and dedication. What sets him apart is his ability to consistently push us beyond what we thought we were capable of—we've gotten so much stronger under his guidance.
Every workout has a clear purpose, and you can tell he puts real care into designing routines that challenge us while keeping us safe and injury-free. He also took the time to create a personalized meal plan for me that's been instrumental in helping me reach my goals.
If you're looking for a trainer who will invest in your success and bring both knowledge and motivation to every session, we highly recommend him.
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Fela Chrzan
We've been training with [Trainer's Name] for three years now, and we couldn't be more grateful for his expertise and dedication.
What sets him apart is his ability to consistently push us beyond what we thought we were capable of—we've gotten so much stronger under his guidance.
His programming is incredibly thoughtful and well-structured. Every workout has a clear purpose, and you can tell he puts real care into designing routines that challenge us while keeping us safe and injury-free. He also took the time to create a personalized meal plan for me that's been instrumental in helping me reach my goals.
If you're looking for a trainer who will invest in your success and bring both knowledge and motivation to every session, we highly recommend him.
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Becky
Running and Jogging Lessons
Derek is such a fantastic coach. He has prepared my body and mind for 2 marathons one right after the other Tokyo Marathon and then Boston Marathon. He helped me heal through an injury along with training my body so I can be stronger and faster. I would highly recommend him. He is beyond excellent. More...
Cassandra Krasne
I’ve been training with Derek for almost four, maybe even five years now, and I can honestly say he’s been one of the most important factors in my health and fitness journey.
After having three babies, I needed more than just workouts, I needed structure, accountability, and someone who truly understood how to guide me step by step. Derek has been that person from day one.
He’s personable, professional, easy to get along with, and incredibly consistent. He doesn’t just hand you a plan and disappear, he stays involved in your nutrition, your training, and your real day-to-day lifestyle. His goal-oriented approach and structured coaching style kept me focused and motivated even during the harder phases.
Because of his guidance, I’ve been able to lose weight, rebuild strength, and now shift into toning and refining, something I once thought would be out of reach for me. I truly could not have done this without him.
If you’re looking for real change, real accountability, and a coach who genuinely invests in your progress, I highly recommend Derek.
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Sara
Derek has been an amazing personal trainer! After working with him for two years, I have learned what workouts are best for my body. He is patient with his clients and adjust moves / workouts based on what’s best for each individual. I have learned so much about nutrition, cardio + weight lifting under his guidance. More...
Emily
Working with Derek was absolutely incredible! He was kind, passionate, and extremely flexible. Throughout the process he was there for me every step of the way and was the biggest supporter. Absolutely recommend to everyone!
Tabitha
I realized that I’ve been trying to get fit for a long time but just needed structure and support that’s exactly what I got with Derek!
Devin
Been struggling with weight loss for sometime now, but finally happy I got structure and motivation to put me on the right track. Thanks Derek
Tess S
Working out with Derek is great! He tailors the workouts to your abilities, skill level and what you’re looking for! I especially love that he focuses on weight and strength training using methods I had never tried before! Every workout I feel stronger and like I’ve had a great training session! More...
Kris.S
I started working with Derek 6 weeks ago. I’m a 57 year old female who hadn’t exercised in a few years and had never done weight training. Derek has been fantastic working with me to help me achieve my goals and I’m thrilled with how much strength I’ve built already and how my body is toning. Derek has been extremely flexible working with my schedule. More...
Robert Jones
I could never find motivation to get myself to start getting in good shape. I needed a push and someone to hold me accountable. Derek has created a plan that is realistic for what I can handle now and holds me accountable to make sure I'm successful. Looking forward to continuing our success. More...
Jackie Carlson
I really like how Derek created a plan for my goals. He also was able to work around my schedule. I started seeing results immediately and will continue to workout with Derek!
Paloa
Derek has been training me for a couple weeks now and I can already see the differences in my body! He is very knowledgeable and pays close attention to my form and the muscles I engage during each workout. Every session is different and he is prepared. He also does a great job suggesting habit changes that are easy to include in my daily routine to help speed my progress. Derek is punctual and communicates well- I would highly recommend him as your trainer! More...
Brittany
Deciding to work with Derek was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve made and has already been LIFE-CHANGING. He has consistently delivered high-intensity, high-quality workouts, has been amazing at explaining everything I could possibly want to know about fitness and nutrition, and has such an awesome personality, which is just the cherry on top. . If you’re looking for someone to push you, challenge you, and produce visible results, work with him. You won’t regret it. I feel better, more fit, and healthier overall and am getting closer to my ideal body weight and size with each week. Best trainer ever, seriously. More...
Rashida
I have been trying to loose weight and get fit for a long time but was never successful. I would sign up for personal training sessions at the gym for two hours per week but never saw results. Hence, started googling for nutrition consultants/dietitians. Read through several profiles in various platforms until I came across Derek’s profile and a few others. I sent intro messages to a few and the first to respond was Derek. I read through all of his reviews and was amazed at the transformations. I was not still sure if this can be true. Nevertheless, desperate to get fit and loose weight, I wanted to give a try. We set up our first call to discuss the needs and I could feel his passion to help people transform. After contemplating for another couple of days, I signed up. Within eight weeks, I lost about 20lbs. His diet and workout plans + motivation and daily accountability pushed me beyond my limits. It helped me transform not only my physique but also the discipline to hit the gym 4 times a week. I cannot stop going to the gym now and its a lifestyle change for me. I am now 196lbs from 222lbs in 10 weeks. Thanks so much, Derek. You’ll always be a coach and a friend. More...
Rebecca
I hired Derek for a ten-session personal training package in my home, to kick-start my fitness journey after an extended illness. My experience with him has been wonderful. Derek shows up on time and gets right to the warmup and work out. I set up some personal parameters that I wanted to work within, and he has designed our sessions within those. He is friendly, encouraging, and makes the workouts fun. He watches for form to prevent injury and gives tips on what to be cautious of to stay safe in different moves. We have integrated some yoga moves and even a bit of meditation at my request. I will be sorry to have our sessions end. Great job, Derek!! Thank you for getting me on my way! More...
Alea
I've been working with Derek for nearly four months now, and it's been a wonderful experience. As a plus-sized woman, I'm intimidated by the fitness world, and wanted a trainer who could help me foster a positive relationship with my body -- no diet talk, no weight loss talk, just focusing on feeling strong and capable in my body at any size. From the start, talking to Derek on the phone, I felt totally heard and understood in those goals. Derek met me where I was at right away; he brings kindness, patience, and a good sense of humor to every session, and I've learned so much from him. I highly recommend Active Body Recovery!! More...
Jennifer B
The most amazing and relaxing massage. Derek was professional, punctual and mindful. He immediately made me feel relaxed and the tension and pain melted away. Would definitely bring him back again. More...
Karoline
Derek is an amazing massage therapist!
For the past 2 months I have been having weekly massage with him.
He is a great guy, professional, honest and caring.
Derek really listen to the client and customize the therapy in order to make you feel better.
I highly recommend!
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Lara
Derek has always listened to my goals, and finds time that fits my schedule. He always is listening to my ever changing wants for my fitness.
Julie
Derek is awesome! His attention to detail and his ability to be available for any and all questions is amazing. He truly cares about you hitting your goals and not just sending you off with a program to fend for yourself. Derek is also personable - he understands that life is unexpected and he makes adjustments to your plan based off those bumps in the road. I highly recommend Derek to all individuals from experienced to inexperienced! More...
Reply from Active Body Recovery
Thank you Julie I really appreciate this!! But it comes down to you! You’re the one that has to do the hard work to get your results and you’re the one that has to come to me with your questions/concerns in the first place. Your communication is super helpful and I truly enjoy working with you!! You are doing a FANTASTIC job!!
Diyai
I’m am a picky eater! I didn’t know how to use any workout equipments. I didn’t know where to start when it came to my health. All I knew is I was 282 pounds and climbing!!! I didn’t want to be like this anymore. But I found Derek!!! He sets my meal plans and my workouts each week as needed. When I need help with a exercise or machine he will show me in person or make a video for me so I can understand which is a HUGE help. But the most important part of weight loss is the DIET!!! I hate that part and give into my cravings but he helps me work through them. He helps give me healthier options that will kick my craving as well as help me mentally go through with my personal mental health that is associated with my bing eating!! In 4 months I lost 36 pounds through his guidance!! I HIGHLY recommend Derek as your go to trainer!! More...
Reply from Active Body Recovery
Diyai thank you so much for the review! I’ve loved every moment of working with you! Your dedication, drive, work ethic are all super cool and make me very proud - but most importantly, you are a true joy💜
Paloa
Absolutely love her. Very patient, encouraging, smart and does a great job of explaining every rep, meal and nutrition that is easily understandable. Very motivational and makes training fun easy and goes so quick! More...
Reply from Active Body Recovery
Thanks Paloa! You are absolutely crushing it every day! Keep up the great work!
Carole
I have never had a trainer like this. He catered to my needs and helped modify exercises so I could do them. He is very flexible and patient. If anyone would ask where to go for a trainer I would say Derek by far. Will be going to him forever. More...
Reply from Active Body Recovery
It is an absolute pleasure to work with you Carole!
Shawn
My husband and I had an amazing massage with Derek for our 24th wedding anniversary 💕. He made it very special for us which he didn't have to do and we truly appreciate the kindness this young man shown us. We highly recommend him and will definitely call on him again. More...
Reply from Active Body Recovery
Thank you Shawn! I really enjoyed our time together and hope to get to work with you both again in the future!!
Magda
I’ve LOVED training with Derek. I love his energy! It’s been very challenging but so rewarding at the same time. I can speak highly enough of Derek.
Reply from Active Body Recovery
Thank you Magda!! You are a blast to work with! I very much look forward to our sessions together and enjoy every second of it!☺️
Sammy
Derek is a world-class trainer. I've been training with him for close to 4 months and have never felt stronger. What I love is that there is always variability - we focus on core, mobility, strength training with dumbbells and kettlebells.
Cameron
DEREK is great! Provides great workouts that really push me to reach my goals! If you’re looking for a trainer i would 100% recommend Levi!
Tanyana
I first started working with Derek exactly a year ago today. I got to say I had no idea what I was getting myself into as I have never worked out a day in my life before. Derek help to develop me physically mentally and spiritually I am beyond blessed to have signed up with him. I can now say Im in the best health of my life and I feel better than ever. Thank you! To anybody who is questioning weather transformative coaching will work for them let me tell you it will work beyond your dreams. Definitely would recommend to anyone! In fact now I have my mom and dad training with him on a weekly as well . Looking forward to the next year and many more after that!! More...
David
Working with Derek improved my mindset about what was possible for myself, my ability to process and recognize my own emotions, and get stronger physically. I couldn't recommend him enough
Cathy
Working with Derek definitely is what I needed. He has been pushing me to become stronger. I have been seeing results literally within the first week I started training with him.
He has helped me learn so much about my ability and what I can do.
I definitely would recommend him if you are looking for someone who will help you work on your body goals and push you to the limit!
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Richard
I’ve been training with Derek for 5 months and the results have exceeded my expectations.
Not only has my strength increased, but I’ve also received professional guidance on my form and workout habits, as well as learning dozens of new exercises that I now incorporate into my own routines when training at home.
Training with Derek will help you achieve your fitness goals faster than you can imagine. Would recommend the program to anybody
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Samuel
Derek is the most knowledgable trainer I have ever worked with. He really knows how to customize the workouts to meet my goals, and my strength has already doubled for many of our exercises!
! I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to get stronger, build muscle, or get more toned. I haven't had any joint pain since we started working together.
My back and shoulders usually give me trouble after intense exercise, but I haven't had any pain since I started personal training with Derek!
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Maria
Derek did an awesome personal training session with our team and he provided a well rounded workout for us.
Working with him was easy and he was extremely friendly, responsive and overall a pleasure to communicate with. Would highly recommend!
Darren
I'd never worked with a personal trainer before, but this has been such a great experience! Derek took the time to listen to my concerns and has created work-outs that address those concerns and more. He challenges me to work a little harder each week and I can already feel the difference in my strength and stamina after just 4 weeks. Plus, he gives excellent advice about nutrition and lifestyle changes. Having just turned 60, I'm learning that it's never too late to improve my health and be more active. Thank More...
Nancy
Derek hands down is the best personal trainer. Not only will u see results, but you will be stronger mentally and physically. He is consistent and patient and those are some qualities i look for in a trainer. He really sees the potential in you and motivates you to be the best version of yourself. I will forever be grateful for what i learned and how much my body and eating habits have changed. He is literally the best! More...
Mandy
Derek has been great in recommending me a step by step nutrition plan as well as individual workouts. I’m just starting but since he has walked me through the process I feel like I have a great understanding of what I need to do in order to change my body and feel better about myself. I highly recommend anyone who is considering hiring a personal trainer to set up a consultation with him. More...
Kyle Neal
I moved down to Florida a few months ago from New Jersey, so I needed a new trainer. I was planning on trying Derek for one session because I had other trainers lined up but after meeting him and seeing how invested he was in his craft I knew he was it. Been with him for 3 months and I'm in the best shape I've been in a long time. More...
Jason B
Derek is a fantastic person and personal trainer! He gets things done in a very efficient manner and I’m always so grateful for his advice and assistance with strength training! I’m excited to continue our working relationship and I look forward to the future! Thank you Derek!!! More...
Maria
Derek has always been amazing to work with. He shows his passion in health & fitness through actions. He is not only a great trainer with great intentions, but he is also a great model for any person seeking to improve themselves.
How important is a healthy diet to someone’s health and wellbeing?
A healthy diet is essential. It directly affects energy, recovery, performance, and long-term health.
Training alone can’t deliver results without proper nutrition, but it doesn’t need to be extreme. Consistent, realistic habits tailored to the individual are what actually work—and that’s how I approach it with clients.
How do you help your clients achieve their fitness goals?
I start with a free intro call to understand your goals, your history, and any injuries or limitations. From there, I build a fully customized program — training, recovery, and nutrition — that’s designed around your real life, not a template. I track your progress, adjust your plan as you improve, and stay consistently accountable with you so results don’t just happen — they last.
What’s the secret to getting the body of your dreams?
Consistency with the right plan — one that’s actually built for you. I’ve seen clients overcome chronic back pain, return to running after years away, and build strength they never thought possible in their 40s 50s and 60s. It always comes down to the same formula: smart programming, proper recovery, realistic nutrition, and a trainer who stays invested in your progress over the long haul.
What do you love most about your job?
Watching someone do something they thought they couldn’t. I worked with a client who had severe sciatica and hadn’t been able to run in years. After months of targeted work on her back, hips, and stabilizing muscles, she got back to running. That moment — when a client realizes their body is capable of more than they believed — is why I do this work.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I started my business because I saw too many people getting cookie-cutter programs that didn’t fit their real lives.
I wanted to create a more personal, flexible approach where training, recovery, and accountability actually work together—and clients don’t feel like just another number.
Why should our clients choose you?
I'm fully invested into my clients. I don't say that lightly. Working with a trainer is about building a relationship and building trust, you are expecting us to get you to where you need to be. I take my job very seriously and I take my time to truly understand the people I am working with so they get the best. I don't have a one size fits all program, every person I work with has different needs and I do my best to study and educate myself so you get the best results.
Can you provide your services online or remotely? If so, please add details.
Yes. I offer online and remote coaching for clients who want structure, accountability, and flexibility.
This includes customized training programs, check-ins, nutrition guidance, and ongoing support—designed to fit your schedule and equipment, whether you train at home or in a gym.
What changes have you made to keep your customers safe from Covid-19?
Always washing my hands, making sure to wipe down equipment before and after use and wearing a mask.
Personal Training
Mobile personal training, delivered at your home or location of choice in Palm Beach County.
Every program is built from scratch around your goals, fitness level, and any injuries or limitations you’re working around. Whether you’re an older adult looking to stay active and independent, a professional with a packed schedule, or someone recovering from an injury — I design sessions that challenge you safely and produce real, visible results.
No gym required. No one-size-fits-all programs. Just fo
Nutrition Coaching
Results start in the kitchen — and I make nutrition simple, realistic, and sustainable.
As part of my training programs, I provide personalized nutrition guidance tailored to your goals and lifestyle. No extreme diets, no confusing macros — just a practical, habit-based approach that complements your training and keeps you on track between sessions.
This isn’t an add-on. It’s built into how I coach, because I know that training and nutrition working together is what produces lasting change.
Sports Massage
Recover faster, move better, and feel your best with targeted sports massage therapy. Whether you’re an athlete, a regular gym-goer, or simply dealing with daily aches and tension, my sessions are tailored to your body’s needs. I focus on reducing muscle soreness, improving mobility, and supporting overall performance and recovery.