SF's Hottest Trainer 2015: Jason Haller of Crunch, Contestant #6

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Jason Haller, who trains at Crunch Gym Polk Street, wants to let everyone know he believes in fitness. (No kidding, you're probably thinking.) He makes the point because while serious about helping others get "mo shredded," he's a real class-clown type. He also comes across as  the boy-next-door-football-star that everyone lusted after in high school. (He did spend four years playing NCAA Division III football as a tailback at Occidental College in L.A.)

The ability to laugh at one’s self and not take things too seriously—even when you don’t think you can make another ripple with that battle rope—is essential to Jason’s brand of workout and nutrition programs. "I’m a simple man with a simple plan: Get shredded and be happy," he says. "Luckily I get paid to help others adopt my philosophy; otherwise, I'd be screwed!" See? Funny.

In one sentence, tell us about yourself.
At age 12, I was 319 pounds, had bad skin, no respect and low self-esteem. Now, I eat success for breakfast, with raw milk.

What inspired you to become a trainer/fitness instructor?

I just wanted my life to be like one of the training montages from Rocky IV.

What advice would you offer to someone who is just starting in your class?

Time to wake up, clients! Today is Evaluation Day. The key word is value. Do you have any? Not yet. But before summer is over, this class is going to be full of skinny winners. And, never challenge me to a chocolate cookie race.

Fun fact...go!

In fact, I have reached the 18th level of the PerkiSystem.

If you weren’t in fitness, what would you be doing?

I would see if there is more to life than being really, really, really ridiculously good looking.

What are your top three workout jams?

"Danger Zone" by Kenny Loggins; "Danger Zone" by Kenny Loggins; and "Danger Zone" by Kenny Loggins.

Follow Jason on Instagram: @jasonswastedlife