The greatest thing about Fit Buddha is the circle of souls who have come together to share the mission with our clients. Our amazing trainers create an environment that is ideally designed to make every person who enters our studios feel a part of something special.
Santa Barbara Certified Megaformer Trainer
Santa Barbara Certified Megaformer Trainer
Why not become a Fit Buddha Certifed Trainer
As a third generation Californian, Marcus naturally grew up with a love of the ocean and the outdoors. He combines his love for fitness with a deep faith and caring for all of humanity. He believes that we can all thrive and live a life of abundance and health. Marcus brings to his training a focus on joy! His goal is to enliven the room with his passion for life and to inspire Fit Buddha clients with a sense of how working out on the Megaformer can help you achieve your fitness goals and a greater sense of peace and symmetry for your body, mind, and spirit.
Marcus has done many things in his life. With a love for athletics, he was a national collegiate athlete on the Crew Team at USC and he’s competed as a triathlete and Master Swimmer. During his many years as a Lagree Fitness Megaformer Trainer and advocate, he has seen the positive results of consistent training to be healthy and whole.
After college, Marcus lived in Washington DC where he worked for a national trade association. He later moved to New York City to work for an international monetary bank. While in New York, he became a holistic psychotherapist, actor, and producer before moving back to his native California with his wife, Eva. Together, Marcus and Eva have a beautiful daughter named Shanti and the family resides in Ojai, CA.
“Living in Ojai allows me the space to breathe and recharge so that every class and private session I teach is vibrant, fun, and a creative endeavor.” — Marcus Kettles
WHY I BECAME A FOUNDER AT FIT BUDDHA:
Throughout my life, my fitness and spiritual life have always been important to me. As an NCAA College athlete and Triathlete, I always enjoyed the challenge of performing at a high level. When I first got on the Megaformer, it kicked my butt and I was hooked. At the time, I was working for my family’s business in sales, but I was looking for more. I was used to doing my own thing, having created a production company in NYC, producing theater and special events, in addition to being an actor and singer.
Fit Buddha allows me to combine my passions and talents and brings me great joy. I wanted to share the love I have for the Megaformer with my community. We named our business, Fit Buddha because we believe that the world is ready to be filled with spiritually conscious, compassionate people, who ALSO have a rocking, fit body.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
I bring a sense of excitement to my teaching, as I believe so much in this workout. My creativity, my humor, and sense of fun are evident in the routines I create. I am fully present when I am teaching, because of my commitment and desire to help people evolve and transform their body, mind, and spirit.
You will have fun.
You will sweat.
You will succeed.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
Love Life. Be Passionate. Care. Let Go and Let God.
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
I love the Spoon. It can be done on either side of the Megaformer. I love it because it engages the upper and lower body and the core and can be completed by doing a move I call the Floating Buddha, where you are on top of the handles with legs folded in a lotus position seemingly floating in mid-air.
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Music is a huge part of the workout for me. Every year I have new favorites, but the enduring most favorite song would have to be: Disco Inferno. (always gets me going!) . Burn baby burn…..
Eva has always been a lover of a vital body and subjects of spiritual nature. Born and raised in Germany, Eva finished Business School in Switzerland before becoming a Holistic Medicine Practitioner with Naturopath. She ran several successful holistic practices in Munich, Germany and Lucerne, Switzerland offering a wide variety of alternative therapy disciplines and specialized in Bio-Photonic Light Therapy (by Darbic, Dr. Acquillera, France), Frequency/ Electrotherapy (megawatt 150), Color acupuncture, Regenaplex Cellular Therapy (Switzerland), Karma work, Hypnosis and Forgiveness work.
Eva has traveled all over the world and also lived in Greece before her journey across the Atlantic Ocean to California. “Living in such a beautiful sunny country warms my heart,” says Eva. “I enjoy the ease of communication here and love America wholeheartedly. I feel very blessed to live here and to be able to take my passion for fitness and evolution with Fit Buddha to a whole new level. Fit Buddha is not only serving our clients as a transformational platform, but it also serves me and my husband, Marcus, to evolve daily into a bigger concept of deepening our understanding of who we are and who we can be.”
To learn more about Eva’s other services, please visit https://www.divinealchemy.co
WHY I BECAME A FOUNDER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I am dedicated to transformation on all levels and Fit Buddha allows me to implement my gifts and share them. I couldn’t be more honored to serve the evolution of the individual journeys our clients are on. I thank each and everyone for your trust and love towards me and Fit Buddha.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Precise alignment in each and every move – with deep intervals
Fast transitions with routines that are crackin’ and reshaping your body from within
Reminders to embody our true selves and love the here and NOW.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
Hugs Heal – Smiles lighten the load and a compliment changes how we feel!
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Heavy squats with standing outer thigh pulses mixed to the gazoo
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Shakira: Try Everything
A former competitive athlete and active women’s health nurse practitioner, Drea believes in teaching movement and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Drea has been with Fit Buddha since the studio’s opening and describes herself as a “lifer.” Always up for a challenge, Drea believes the Megaformer keeps a body able to do what it was born to do, “play outside.”
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
It seemed like a fun new job. I stayed because I love it.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Humor, honor, humility.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
No Rain No Flowers
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
(I invented it) The Can Opener
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Lodeza
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I am a Lagree and nasm certified trainer. I have been a sports and fitness enthusiast my entire life and have tried everything from barre to Pilates to cycling to traditional strength training to yoga. And while I love different components from all of them, nothing lifts my seat or tones my obliques quite like Lagree!
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
A client taking my class should expect to work their entire body from head to toe, get a deep burn and hopefully quite a few shakes, and leave the day’s stress behind as they focus mind and body on moving with intent and purpose.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
My motto in life is to embrace all the little moments and be present (a work in progress ?).
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Can’t pick just one! Heavy squats/skating and French twist to twisted pike to plank.
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Right now, Sweet Sensation by Flo Rida
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I was ready to take my health and wellness to the next level while being of service to others and deepening my relationship with myself. I love a good challenge especially when it comes to personal growth.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
High vibes, fun, and appreciating our strengths while challenging our weaknesses.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
I choose to see the Divine in everything. Let go and let God.
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
2 favs! Spider and Reversed Oblique Crunch with Thread the Needle.
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Flames by David Guetta and Sia
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I thought this was the perfect opportunity to build more connections in Santa Barbara and just enjoy the new experience.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Sweat, challenges, and accolades
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
Go out into the world and be AWESOME!
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Core: Planks and more planks Legs: Fifth Lunge and Floor Lunge Skate Arms: Serve the platter and bicep curls Obliques: Kneeling Torso Twist and scrambled eggs
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
I’ve got eclectic taste in music so there is a broad range. Lately, I’ve been working out to a lot of Thievery Corporation. Madonna is also an excellent choice.
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
Since first setting foot in the studio in 2013, Fit Buddha changed my life – in mind, body, and spirit. Each class leaves me feeling stronger, happier, and more confident thanks to the incredible trainers and community. I’m ecstatic to share that passion with others as a Fit Buddha trainer.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
High energy, a supportive environment, and a lil dancing.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
You can’t take care of everything else if you don’t take care of yourself first – prioritize your mental and physical health.
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Bunge kicks – it’s a love/hate thing
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Wale always brings a good vibe
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I love the family atmosphere, friendly clientele and, of course, the kick-ass workouts. I love that I have always been encouraged to be, unapologetically, my loud and crazy self. Fit Buddha has felt like home since the moment I wandered in 7 years ago and I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to share and grow with the community in this sacred space.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Loud Music, Laughter, and Lots of Sweat ?
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
The path to happiness is discovered through compassionate service and generosity ?
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Jackknife!! ?
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Make it Bun Dem by Damien Marley and Skrillex ?
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I’ve always enjoyed situations where I get to teach people new skills or help them expand on existing skills. After taking classes at Fit Buddha for four years, I felt like I had a pretty good understanding of Lagree. I love the genuine positivity of the community at Fit Buddha, and it’s really special to be able to experience it as both a client and a trainer!
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
You can expect a good variety of moves and thorough explanations.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
Be kind!
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Chuck Norris and leg sweeps!
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
“Dancing on my Own” by Robyn
Hello, I’m Veronica Taylor Black. Mom, wife, wardrobe stylist, and now I’m proud to say Lagree instructor! When 20+ years of Pilates led me to Lagree Fitness Method I knew I’d found something I loved. And now the student has become the teacher! I love the challenge of the Megaformer, I find great joy in teaching, and I can’t wait to share this transformative practice with others in the community.
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
When 20+ years of Pilates led me to Lagree Fitness Method I knew I’d found something I loved. And now the student has become the teacher! I love the challenge of the Megaformer, I find great joy in teaching, and I can’t wait to share this transformative practice with others in the community.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
My classes will be challenging, high energy, and fun. Even at 6am I love to get those heart rates pumping and make sure I get at least one smile out of my students while I challenge them to go beyond their comfort zone.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
Stay on your own mat. Stop comparing yourself to the person next to you. Concentrate on your own practice.
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
5th lunge, tricep extension, french twist
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
I love music! Anything from Whitney Houstons “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” to Otis Redding’s “Love Man”… I love to keep things grooving.
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I fell in love with the energy and vibe of this studio. Initially, I started as a spin instructor, but once I discovered Lagree, I was hooked. I knew I had to learn more and share the joy I feel every time I tap into this workout.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Get ready to break a sweat, embrace the challenge, and feel that satisfying burn in your abs and booty.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
– Be the energy you want to attract.
– Nobody can do it for you; you have to do it yourself.
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Runner’s Lunge or combo moves in Mermaid.
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Choosing just one song is impossible, but some of my favorite artists include Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, Etta James, and Iya Terra.
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
I loved the art of lagree and how it made my body feel when I put all of me into my time on the machine. It is a beautiful free flowing and disciplined experience. When Eva asked if I wanted to train, I felt compelled to help others experience that same feeling while doing Lagree.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Calming energy, Focus on form and alignment, A lot of love
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
All in good time ✨
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Curtsey lunge
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Valley of the Ocean//SAULT
A Fit Buddha Megaformer Instructor is enthusiastic and passionate about fitness in general but truly understands what Lagree Fitness has to offer. You love to inspire people to become their best. You are confident, reliable and radiate passion for health and wellness. You are caring, genuine and flexible, are quick to learn and a good team player. You love to live a life of purpose and your energy reflects inner harmony, joy, and creativity. You understand that consistency is key on the path of evolution to create results and can inspire others to live a healthy way. If you feel you are a “Fit Buddha” – please send us your resume in form of:
Please submit a 60-90 second video on how you intend to inspire others. Email submissions to eva@fitbuddhafitness.com.
TRAINING RESPONSIBILITIES
– Attend a weekend instructor training course in Burbank with Lagree.
– Observe and take classes taught by our current instructors
– Shadow current trainers while teaching
– Teach mock classes until you feel ready
– Audition to be placed on the schedule
QUALIFICATIONS:
– Availability to teach at least 2 classes a week
– Availability to attend team meetings and workshops
– Prior fitness experience a plus
– Experience with the Megaformer a plus
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
My passion is to help each person find their own unique balance of physical and mental wellbeing. I am committed to providing an environment to empower each person to reach their health and fitness goals.
In 2019, I stumbled into my first Lagree Fitness class in LA. That day changed my life! After I injured my back in a car accident in 2007, I never thought I would find a workout I could do again without pain. The slow controlled movements with a focus on form and strength training allowed me to strengthen my core and over time significantly reduce my daily pain! I knew after my first class that I wanted to share this foundation with others. In January 2020, I taught my first Lagree class and feel incredibly blessed by the connections I continue to find with each client.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
I love empowering each client to find their own mind-body connection to push themselves one step further than they thought they could go. Each class will be tailored to different fitness levels and modified for individual needs. I provide personalized feedback to clients during the class, offering tips for improvement and celebrating individual milestones.
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
Encourage everyone to embrace life’s challenges! I strive to be a source of positivity and inspiration, and let others know that I believe in their ability to overcome obstacles and thrive.
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Anything CORE-related makes me smile!
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Girl Talk All Day
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
The reason I wanted to become a Fit Buddha instructor was because of my love for both fitness and community. I enjoy keeping my body strong and fit and would love to help others achieve the same goodness for their bodies. It’s a good feeling to make a difference in another person’s life.
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
Three things that a client can expect from my class are energy and fun, good tunes, and a workout that makes you feel good all over. (Even if it is a little painful).
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
My motto in life is 3 B’s: Be Bold, Be Beautiful, Be Better! Coincidently my kiddos are also the 3 B’s: Brooklynn, Blake, and Braden
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
The Mega Donkey Kick. It feels soooo good!
FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO:
Don’t Stop Me Now by Queen or any song that makes me want to get up and rock out or dance!
WHY I BECAME A TRAINER AT FIT BUDDHA:
3 THINGS CLIENTS CAN EXPECT IN MY CLASS:
MY MOTTO IN LIFE:
MY FAVORITE MEGA-MOVE:
Flying scrambled egg
MY FAVORITE SONG TO WORK OUT TO: