Manny Cantor Center’s fitness trainers are certified professionals who coach members across the Lower East Side toward real, lasting results. As a nonprofit community center in NYC, MCC brings together a personal training staff with backgrounds in strength, conditioning, mobility, weight management, and group coaching — and a shared commitment to making expert guidance accessible to every neighbor.

Below, get to know the trainers who’ll be in your corner, whether you’re starting fresh or chasing a new goal.

John discovered the advantage of strength training as a young athlete and has had a passion for teaching others ever since. He especially enjoys kettlebell training as well as strengthening the core to perform kettlebell exercises.

Ricardo specializes in performance and activity enhancement training, pre/post rehabilitation, flexibility training and body recomposition. He works with elite athletes and absolute beginners, of all ages and physical abilities. Ricardo holds multiple certifications including Certified Medical Exercise Specialist, EXOS Performance Specialist, Flexibility and Stretching Specialist, Level 2 Rockstar Spinning (that’s right he’s a rockstar), Kettlebells, and Senior and Youth Fitness.

Tajah is an NSCA Certified Personal Trainer; as well as a Functional Strength Coach, Pain-Free Performance Specialist, and certified in Precision Nutrition, Level 1. Besides helping clients with their fitness goals Tajah enjoys football, basketball and photography. Stop by the front desk to set up your session with Tajah.

Clyde is a long-time martial artist, who specializes in strength training, post-rehabilitation, and overall functional movement. He has experience working in physical therapy clinics, teaching youth kickboxing, and boxing, and has worked with a diverse range of age groups. He’s a certified Personal Trainer (NCSF), Certified Strength Coach (NCSF), Corrective Exercise Specialist (NASM), and XPS Performance Specialist (EXOS). Clyde is a huge fan of deadlifts and boxing!

Michelle is MCC’s Fitness Manager and is  lover of deadlifts, back of the pack running and all things camping. Michelle likes to work with clients of all ages and help them function better in their daily lives. Michelle holds multiple certifications including Personal Training, Group Fitness, EXOS Fitness Specialist, TRX and Pilates.

Affordable Personal Training on the Lower East Side

Because Manny Cantor Center is a nonprofit community center, working with a certified personal trainer here costs less than typical NYC personal training rates — without any compromise in expertise. Pricing varies by package and membership level.

To learn more or book your first session, stop by the MCC fitness desk, call (646) 395-4285, or visit us at 197 East Broadway on the Lower East Side.

Frequently Asked Questions About MCC Personal Training

Are MCC’s personal trainers certified?

Yes. Every Manny Cantor Center personal trainer holds recognized fitness certifications and brings a defined specialty — from strength and conditioning to mobility, weight management, and group coaching.

How much does a personal trainer cost at MCC?

As a nonprofit community center, MCC offers personal training at rates below typical NYC pricing, varying by package and membership level. Contact the fitness desk at (646) 395-4285 for current rates and new-member options.

Does MCC have female personal trainers?

MCC’s training team includes trainers across specialties and styles. Contact the fitness desk at (646) 395-4285 to be matched with a trainer who fits your goals and preferences.

Where are MCC’s trainers located?

MCC’s personal trainers work out of Manny Cantor Center at 197 East Broadway, New York, NY 10002, on the Lower East Side of Lower Manhattan.