Meet the exceptional team of trainers who are ready to empower and inspire your transformation, both physically and mentally. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting your health journey, our trainers have the expertise, motivation, and insights to help you unlock your full potential.

What Sets Eclipse Apart?

At Eclipse Private Exercise, training is more than just exercise – it’s an opportunity for transformation.

• Personalized Training Plans: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here. Your program will be tailored to fit your personal goals, fitness level, and lifestyle.
• Expert Coaching: With years of experience, our trainers use proven methods to maximize both health and performance.
• Nutritional Guidance: Beyond the gym, we provide insights to fuel your body right. Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand, and we ensure you’re set up for success on both fronts.
• Community and Support: Our gym is a space where fitness enthusiasts connect, motivate, and celebrate each other’s progress.

Now, let’s meet the fitness experts behind Eclipse.

Meet the Trainers

Our trainers are the backbone of Eclipse Private Exercise, blending passion, expertise, and motivation to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Alex Carson

“Fitness is not about being better than someone else. It’s about being better than you used to be.”

An Atlanta native, Alex is a former D1-AA athlete who played football for The College of the Holy Cross. It was during his years at Holy Cross that he developed a passion for physical fitness and nutrition.

Upon graduating, he received his personal training certification and began working at several gyms before joining the team at Eclipse Private Exercise, where he learned what it means to truly help people achieve the best versions of themselves.

Alex competed in his first-ever bodybuilding show, the eight-time Mr. Olympia Lee Haney’s first competition, and won Overall Best Bodybuilder.

Jakes Strauss

“The key to reaching your fitness goals is consistency and finding joy in the journey.”

Jakes is a premier athlete from South Africa whose incredible drive and motivation catapulted him to the top of the Strongman – Strength Athlete – world. He has also qualified for the World Bodybuilding Championships.

In 1998, Jakes held the world record for largest arms. Subsequently, he was asked to join the World Champion Wrestling (WCW) and trained at the WCW Power Plant based in Atlanta.

Since 1991, Jakes has become an established and successful trainer. He joined Eclipse 1-on-1 in 2001 and currently works primarily with Atlanta’s elite, who are confident in gaining from his expertise in personal training.

Jessica Cartee

“Personalized training isn’t just about the exercises; it’s about understanding each client’s unique needs and motivations.”

A native of Long Island, Jessica has called Atlanta home since 1994. As a child, Jessica’s priority was health and fitness, and she carried that focus into her adult life.

With three young children, Jessica understands what it takes to get your body into shape before, during, and after childbirth. She has been a major part of the fitness community in Atlanta, actively training at Eclipse for more than three years and participating in more than 750 classes at Stellar Bodies and fit9.

In 2019, Jessica competed in her first NPC bikini competition – The Lee Haney Games – placing third in two categories. When she is not at the gym, you will find her hanging out with her kids or around town with friends.

Craig Peter

“Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand. You can’t outrun a bad diet, but you can achieve greatness with a balanced approach.”

Craig, a native of Johannesburg, South Africa, is a former professional soccer player. He has been a part of the Eclipse Private Exercise team since 2003, where he has become well known for his stretching regimens to improve flexibility and reduce injury.

Craig’s strength and conditioning background comes from his own intense soccer training, as well as his experience of having worked with young athletes for the past 25 years.

He incorporates flexibility and core training into his workouts, and he is proud to be part of the dynamic and dedicated team of Eclipse trainers.

Noel Pinero

“The most important step in any fitness journey is the first one. Start today, and you’ll thank yourself tomorrow.”

Noel, a French-Italian, was a member of French Special Forces for 14 years and is not only a two-time champion in martial arts, but also a European champion in Wuko.

He began studying martial arts at the age of 5, and he studied Jujitsu, karate, and Aikido with great masters in Okinawa, Thailand, and Beijing.

His goal is to take care of his customers by improving their body and mind and inspiring them to be the best version of themselves. Noel speaks five languages and joined Eclipse in 2001.

Julius Ayinla

“Your body is capable of more than you think. It’s your mind that you have to convince to take it to the next level.”

A native of Lagos, Nigeria, Julius moved to the U.S. in 1982 after playing two years of minor league soccer in England.

A graduate of Tallahassee Community College, Julius also played football at Florida State. Following graduation, he moved into bodybuilding, winning numerous competitions.

He represented the USA in 1998 at the Natural Trinidad and Tobago Invitational and won the heavyweight class.

Julius joined Eclipse in 2010, where he specializes in full-range training. He is an intense trainer, which has resulted in the titles of Masters Mr. Georgia and National Masters Super Heavyweight Champion.

Max Creasman

“Strength isn’t built in the gym alone – it’s also in the decisions you make outside of it, such as rest and nutrition.”

Max is a powerhouse of talent and ambition. Not only did he conquer the soccer field during his time while playing in the club league at Wofford College, but he also delved into the fascinating world of bodybuilding. Max’s passion for the sport led him to explore its intricate connections to masculinity, sexuality, and genderization in his senior capstone project – a historiography of bodybuilding. Max took his dedication to the next level by competing in the prestigious NPC (National Physique Committee), making his debut at The Dutch Strength Upstate Classic in August 2022.

Max’s love for fitness extends beyond his personal achievements. Since 2019, he has been inspiring others as a personal trainer, sculpting bodies and transforming lives. His journey began back in middle school when he first set foot in Eclipse, where he discovered his true calling. Max founded the Wofford College Weightlifting Club, bringing together like-minded individuals in pursuit of strength and excellence. He is also the charismatic host of the “Let’s Talk 360” podcast. Here, he dives deep into the realms of mental health, fitness, and the rollercoaster ride of being a 20-something-year-old in today’s world. Before his days at Wofford, Max honed his soccer skills at Pace Academy.

Sydney Kaufmann

“The hardest part of any workout is starting, but the best part is finishing stronger than when you began.”

Sydney is the newest trainer at Eclipse Private Exercise, bringing a lifelong passion for fitness to the team. Born and raised in Buckhead, Sydney’s connection to fitness started early, with her mother being one of the pioneering trainers at Eclipse. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a business degree and spent the last two years in IT sales.

Although Sydney enjoyed working with people, she always knew her true calling was in fitness, a dream that is now coming to fruition. Beyond her role at Eclipse, she is furthering her education by pursuing a master’s degree in public health at Emory University, specializing in Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, with a focus on Mental Health. Sydney is eager to help clients achieve their goals and looks forward to making a positive impact in their fitness journeys. She is ready to help you achieve your goals!

The Eclipse Training Approach

Our curated training methods are crafted to deliver results while keeping your workouts engaging and enjoyable. Here’s what you can expect when training with us:

• Personalized Programs: Each client begins with a comprehensive consultation and fitness assessment to ensure their plan fits their individual needs.
• Community Support: At Eclipse, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who celebrate your wins as much as their own.
• Tasting Strength at Home: Can’t make it to the gym? No problem. Our trainers share exclusive tips for at-home workouts that don’t require fancy equipment. Here’s one from Alex Carson himself: “Start with 3 rounds of bodyweight squats, push-ups, and plank holds for 30 seconds each. It’s simple, but trust me, you’ll feel it!”

Expert Tips for Fitness Enthusiasts

To further enhance your fitness routine, here are some tips from our trainers that you can integrate into your lifestyle today:

• Start Small: “Even just 10 minutes of movement a day can make a difference.” – Jessica Cartee
• Fuel Your Body: “Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and staying hydrated for optimal energy during workouts.” – Craig Peter
• Set Realistic Goals: “Track progress over time and celebrate small wins. Transformation doesn’t happen overnight.” – Jakes Strauss
• Practice Consistency: “Consistency is key, even on the days you feel unmotivated. Show up, even if it’s for a lighter workout.” – Noel Pinero

Take the First Step Toward Your Fitness Goals

At Eclipse, we’re committed to empowering you with the tools and guidance to achieve your goals. Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your training to the next level, our team is here to motivate, guide, and celebrate your progress.

Are you ready to experience the Eclipse difference? Book a free session today and join the community that’s rewriting what it means to achieve fitness success.