Hottest Trainer Contestant #8: Maria Ramsdell

Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

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 eight hottest trainer contestant is Maria Ramsdell, co-owner of Studio City's Chain Fitness. A certified personal trainer since 2009, the bubbly brunette is also a certified battling ropes coach, a Russian Kettlebell instructor, an expert in corrective exercises and movement screening, and a fitness nutrition specialist. In short, she does it all—and not just in the fitness arena. "In my former life, I was a director of photography for reality TV shows," she reveals. "I am so grateful for the world travel, the friends I made, and the insane stories I have from that time in m life. But after 10 years in the industry I began to feel less and less fulfilled."

After discovering her love of fitness while keeping in shape for her physically demanding job, Ramsdell dabbled in Muay Thai kickboxing, olympic weightlifting, running races, group classes at the beach and sessions with personal trainers, which eventually lead to a full-time career. "Making the transition was super scary but I'm so glad I took that leap of faith. It's changed my life for the better."

So, what can you expect while pumping with Ramsdell at Chain Fitness? "Our methodology is a blend of old-school, tried-and-true techniques mixed with unorthodox tools and programming." she explains. "We all know that squats, pushups and pull-ups work, but now throw in some boxing drills and add in a deck of cards, furniture moving pads and a football agility ladder, and this workout has become an experience. We stick to the things that are proven to be effective while adding fun twists and toys to keep things fresh." Check it (and her) out.

Grid View

Expand

· Chain Fitness [Official Site]
· All Hottest Trainer 2013 Coverage [Racked]