Hottest Trainer Contestant #1: Maurizio Pelone

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Welcome to Racked LA's search for Los Angeles' hottest trainer. Over the coming weeks, we'll profile sixteen smoking candidates who work at local gyms and studios. (Not only do they look hot in spandex, but if you take their classes, you might someday look nearly as good.) 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!

Our first hottest trainer contestant is Maurizio Pelone. Hailing from Italy, the former pro athlete is a co-founder and head trainer at indoor cycling studio AuraCycle, also known as LA's premiere psychedelic sweat fest. When he's not leading super-intense 45-minute workouts (his motto is "Pain Today, Glory Tomorrow"), you can find Pelone lounging in speedos. (More on that later.)

Pelone's training style is tough, but with a smile—and a charming one, at that. "I'm here to make you sweat; if you want to chill out, book a mani/pedi session!" he exclaims. "That said, I always pay attention and consider clients' particular limitations, needs, and special requests. My training style has to be safe, productive and entertaining. You might have time for some laughs."

Although he just launched AuraCycle this April, Pelone has been unofficially training since he was a teenager, when he was part of the Italian Junior Olympic Team as a competitive swimmer and won the bronze medal at the World Junior Championship in France. With a packed schedule that requires working out at least two to three times per day, this US Reebok Brand Ambassador has no time for laundry. So, he improvises. "I often wear speedos," he graciously reveals. "They're super easy to wash and I'm always ready for a splash! At the end of the day, I'll always be a swimmer."

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· AuraCycle [Official Site]
· All Hottest Trainer 2013 Coverage [Racked]