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Welcome to Racked SF's search for San Francisco's hottest trainer. Over the coming weeks, we'll profile sixteen smoking hot candidates who work at local gyms and studios. Then, once you've gotten to know everyone, we'll host a March Madness-style showdown in which you get to vote for your favorite. Let the games begin!
Photos by Arlene Watson
Have you checked out Basic Training's new digs at Proxy SF? It's like a playground for adults. Better yet, working out there means chances are high that you'll be treated to some major Alex Ho eyecandy. The trainer has hearts aflutter with his lean runner's bod, fun-loving personality, mesmerizing green eyes, and a growing list of racing accolades. He also knows how to "Ho-tivate" his students with a few words of encouragement and by leading by example. Growing up in Colorado and attending college in Seattle, Alex is all about the outdoor workout and there's nothing sexier than a man who knows his way around the wilderness—plus, he knows how to make good use of the city's landscape. Join him for a run through the hills as he shows you the most stunning, secret views, then follow his lead through a few yoga poses and you'll be so glad that he's... your trainer.
In one line, tell us about yourself.
I wasn't always the best at sports but I could pick them up pretty quickly and grew up playing tennis, baseball, and volleyball in Denver.
Why did you become a trainer?
I became a trainer six months after starting as a client with Basic Training [in 2009] and seeing how happy the trainers were [with their work]. I was still working in my construction management job when I became certified and I started training clients before and after my work days. After one year of working both jobs, I quit construction to become a full time trainer. I wanted to instill the same confidence and happiness that exercise gave me into my clients—as well as to help inspire people to push their limits and challenge themselves. I truly believe that everyone has an inner athlete that wants to come out, and my goal is to bring that out in each of my clients.
What advice would you offer to someone who is just starting in your class?
I would tell them to just have fun connecting with their body and the surroundings. I never want my clients to go all out in their first class because they are most likely moving their body in a completely new way.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself.
A fun fact about myself is that I've finished two 100-mile trail running races and finished top 10 in both! That and I am learning how to play flamenco guitar.
If you weren't a trainer, what would you be?
If I wasn't a trainer I would probably spend my time as an outdoor trail guide. I don't see myself sitting behind a desk ever again.
· Basic Training [Official Site]
· All Hottest Trainer 2014 posts [Racked SF]