A gentleman, a fashion junkie, Alexandria's best trainer. You can tell by my choice of words to describe Remi how I feel about him. I've known Remi just shy of four years and over the course of that time, I can honestly say the more I get to know, the more I love.Remi is kind. He is thoughtful. And, he observes non-verbal communication better than any instructor I've met. He knows how to adjust the session according to who walks in the door that day, not simply the "program for the day." He makes it for you. It is not a "one-size-fits-all" with Remi.He seems to put all of us in his company first. As trainers, we are used to this. One of the first tips I was given when I decided to take this "leap" was to make the session about the person you're training, not you. Remi takes this to a different level. He listens and makes those of us in his company feel welcome and truly heard. I observe people's listening skills. Remi has a way of hearing and listening to what you say. He gives you the chance to complete not only your sentence but also your thought.So it was no surprise to my husband when I told him I was going to ask Remi to step up into management at FOR and become our Head Trainer. Bill says of Remi, "He makes you feel like you are the only person in the room. Remi brings fresh approaches to every session and helps you feel comfortable trying new things."Remi has stepped up to the plate as Head Trainer, helping to deliver results for our clients. He is focused on making our personalized sessions even more personal with fun introductions, noting big life events and celebrating successes of all clients.Remi is passionate about fashion, like all of you Stylebook readers. Sarah Marcella used him as a model recently; we ask him fashion advice at the gym and he even developed his own label!Last, as our Head Trainer, he is a gifted instructor. No two sessions or classes are the same. He keeps you moving without raising his voice or making you feel "less strong" if you can't complete a movement. He always offers alternative movements for those who may be injured or if it's just a slower day for his clients. But the most compelling characteristic about Remi is his uncanny ability to work with clients from ages 9 to 80 years old. They all adore him, consider him a close friend, and know if they miss a session, something's missing in their week.Remi has a cult-like following. The time he provides for Personal Training sessions are full and his classes fill weeks in advance. Need I say more?Eva Alexander says of Remi: "What a fabulous trainer! Remi is perfectly attuned to his clients' needs and capabilities. His infectious and upbeat personality makes you feel like you can achieve anything. I love working out with Remi!"Cindy Creelman says, "Remi is not only a fantastic trainer, he is an amazing person. Some of our classes get pretty boisterous and he takes it all in stride, with a smile or a laugh. His knowledge, dedication, and good humor make his workouts challenging, fun, and sometimes even cathartic. I love working out at FOR and Remi is one of the main reasons I'm there."And from a member of the FOR training team, Heather: "Remi always welcomes everyone with a genuine 'How you feeling today' and a smile! He is quick to help out around the gym helping others to get or put away equipment. If I'm putting balls away he'll start taking them and stacking them up for me. He's always eager to try new things to improve himself and for enjoyment like yoga, hiking, and bike riding."  

Photography by Sarah Marcella Creative

ABOUT YOU

 How do you spend your time? Reading, podcasting, biking, and hiking. Anything outdoors.Neighborhood: Old TownHow long have you lived in Alexandria: One yearWhat is your hometown? Baltimore, MDWhat brought you to Alexandria? My great job! Fitness on the RunWhat would surprise people about you? I used to trade currencies on the Forex Market, A LOT!You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? To heal the sick, feed the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless.Favorite cocktail: Lemonade MimosaLast book read or movie seen: Conversations with God by Neale Donald WalschGuilty Pleasure: French friesPhrase you overuse: Really, bro?Facebook or Instagram? Twitter (sorry I’m a bit of a rebel)Latest binge-watch: Black Mirror on NetflixBucket list travel destination: DenmarkIf you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Wine  

FASHION

 Define your style in three words or less: Geek meets StreetThe go-to piece in your wardrobe: WatchFavorite trend ever: ConverseFavorite current trend: I love that the 90s era is making a comeback. Those were my teenage years, so I love the 90s.Beauty product you can’t live without: Vitamin EFavorite fragrance: I love 1 MillionHeels or flats? Ehhh…Vans? LOL 

HOME

 Favorite room in your home? Loft spaceAntiques, modern, or a mix? ModernLast item bought for your home: A dresserNext planned purchase: A standing desk for the officeFavorite way to entertain: Music and vegan foodClutter-free or well-lived in? Clutter freeWallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: No. No. NO.  

FITNESS

 Your go-to work-out: Anything with a kettlebellMost fun way to exercise: OutsideGroup exercise or solo: Solo, but I don’t mind groupsFitness goal: To do great at my next competition in AprilHaven’t yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: JudoProudest fitness achievement: Being a Fitness on the Run Instructor 

ALEXANDRIA

 Favorite spot in Alexandria: The Potomac. Anything on Union Street. I love being by water.Last purchase in Alexandria: Groceries from Trader Joe'sBest coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Sunday at SaigonFavorite charity: Carpenter's ShelterFavorite annual Alexandria event: I love the farmers market! Always some fresh veggies there.