Osvaldo Aponte was born in Cayey, Puerto Rico. At the age of 13, he began practicing Chinese martial arts, under Victor Perez and William Rodriguez, and continues to do so today. He wrestled for the University of Puerto Rico, Cayey campus, for two years under Dimo Kustov from Bulgaria. At 21, Os joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in San Diego at the Southern CA District and Veterinary Command, in Seoul, Korea at the 106th Medical Detachment, and in the home of the Airborne Fort Bragg, N.C. In January 2004, after 6.5 years of service, he was honorably discharged as a Sergeant from the 248th Medical Detachment.
After years of training, and numerous satisfied clients in San Diego, Os discovered Kettlebells from Sarah Lurie at Iron Core in 2005, and currently instructs at the Pacific Beach facility.
Os Aponte: Images
With the master, Mr. Brett Jones at my home Iron Core in San Diego.
San Jose RKC. Thanks Sara, Chuck, and Logan. You Rock!
Customer reviews of:
Os Aponte
Average Rating: 10.0 in 38 reviews
Phenomenal!!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os is an astonishing trainner! He's so patient making sure that you are safe at all time. He's commited to making you reach beyond your goals and he still manages to keep a sence of humor making workin out enjoyable. I'am in the best shape Ive ever been in thanks to Oz. Hands down I would recommend Os to any one. Thank you Oz!
Anyvette Robles - Bradenton, Florida
Hands down....THE BEST!
Rated 10 out of 10
Before I met Os, I had a stubborn approach to fitness and strength. He has opened my eyes to TRUE fitness and TRUE strength! I have never met anyone more patient, more knowledgeable, more committed, more passionate, and more humble than this man! And to top it all off, I have never met anyone more willing to teach and share his expertise.
I feel blessed to have met this man. Honored to have trained with him. And blessed to be able to call him a friend!
Thank you Os.
Felipe Acevedo - San Diego, California
OS IS MY ATHLETIC MUSE...
Rated 10 out of 10
Os knows how to put you to work while having fun. His training is a total body workout. Each training experience is creative and challenging. I am stronger and leaner because of his knowledge and abilities using ketle bell training. Kettle bells has changed my body. Os helped me achieve my goals faster than any other workout I have tried.
Thanks Os!!!
Lauren Sautkulis - San Diego, CA
The best trainer ever...
Rated 10 out of 10
I had tried many different exercies before but nothing that would keep me intrested. When Oz introduced me the the kettlebells I was hooked. I have never felt better or more comfortable about myself in a long time and i enjoy working out. He makes it so much fun and takes his time with you to make sure your doing it right. He has helped me reach my goal and so much more. If you want to get in shape and enjoying doing it go see Oz he is the best.Thanks Oz!!!!
Sary Robles - Bradenton,FL
Oz has the mad skills to take you there, each and every time
Rated 10 out of 10
I trained with Oz in other gyms before finding him here at Iron Core. He introduced to me the use of Kettlebell training with other forms of exercise and I was hooked. I trained with him until he left the gym and went to training full time with Kettlebells, so I came here to continue my training with OZ. I feel so lucky to have found someone who has so much knowledge and experience to guide me in the right direction. He motivates me to do my best and keeps my energy high while keeping sure I have good form. I don't know how he does it, but I'm glad he does. I've had many trainers in my day, but never had one as enthusiastic and smart as him. All that and still keeps a down to earth, friendly attitude.
Scott Swiech - San Diego CA
Experience beyond belief
Rated 10 out of 10
As a professional dancer and instructor, I am constantly surrounded with high levels of fitness and respect for the body as an instrument to be cultivated. After meeting Os, I realized that he has the most "body knowledge" and experience of anyone I have ever trained with. He knows how to train you from exactly where your fitness level allows you to, and to progress you beyond where you ever thought you could achieve. His level of disipline exceeds most fitness professionals and his motivation drives you to success. I would recommend his training to anyone.
Erica Buechner - La Mesa, CA
unreal!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have had several personal trainers over the years who have worked to improve my body and conditioning level but as soon as the trainer was gone, so where the results and the ability to train at an advanced level. But with Os and the training Os has given me on the Kettlebell, I have been able to not only maintain my gains but constantly improve on them and reach goals I never thought my body could achieve. I just didn't think " I had the genetics" to do what he does. I realize now it's all possible. Thank you Os!!!
Elie Taylor - Las Vegas, NV
Has Ninga skills and POWER
Rated 10 out of 10
Oz has provided me with motivation and instruction to help me reach my fitness goals. He has the ability to solve specific exercise needs for maximum results. He is a true professional.
Joe Ismay - San Diego CA
No One Better for Attitude, Fitness Improvement and Strength Training
Rated 10 out of 10
I trained with Os and was introduced to Kettle Bells by Os for the past 9 months. He brought me farther than I ever could have imagined in fitness ability, strength and muscle development. He is an incredible Kettle Bell instructor and really was instrumental in my catching the KB fever!!
His patience, ability to instruct each movement while always ensuring I was safe and doing it appropriately were amazing. His strength is at pushing you beyond whatever you thought you could do, while you remain injury free and are really learning the correct ways to do the moves.
I would recommend training with Os any day, any time to any one!!!
Sabrina Aery - San Diego, CA
What's Shakin Baby? NOTHING! Thanks to OS and Kettlebells
Rated 10 out of 10
I've always been blessed with a normal body weight and never really had to diet or exercise to maintain. But now, after years of sitting behind a desk with no real structured exercise program I found that I had not only lost a great deal of my strength but balance and coordination weren't far behind. (Not to mention a few extra pounds.) Suddenly I couldn't do the things I used to do. I tried all the usual...24 hr. fitness, weight lifting, bike riding, lots and lots of walking...it wasn't working. When my good friend would greet me with his usual "What's Shakin Baby?" I would cringe at the reality. Then I saw an article on Sarah Lurie's Iron Core Kettlebell gym and decided to give it a try. Everything wonderful you read and hear about Kettlebells is absolutely true. At Iron Core I met Osvaldo Aponte or "Os". He is absolutely amazing. A gifted and knowledgeable trainer with an outstanding talent for inspring each client to reach their personal best. The monthly fee for being a member at Iron Core is the best deal in town. I pay the price for group classes but always feel like the personal instruction I receive from Os couldn't be any better even with a one on one personal trainer. I can once again do the things I used to do, from everyday tasks to endless hours of snowboarding!! Os has the knowledge necessary to help you reach your fitness goals no matter what level you aspire to. His classes are hard and fun at the same time. And never, never boring. He has a positive attitude and a uplifting personality. When your standing there swinging a kettlebell and dripping buckets of sweat Os will say "Keep it up, your almost there, IT's EASY, you can do it" and you'll actually believe him!! Now that's talent!! If you have a fitness goal you'd like to achieve come see Os at Iron Core, he'll help you make it a reality. And now when my friend asks "What's Shakin Baby?" I can say NOTHING!! Thank you Os! See you at the gym.
C Maidhof - San Diego, CA USA
I was introduced to Os and his training methods shortly after attending Iron Core's "start me up" class. I was overweight, weak, and had no energy. I quickly embrassed his techniques and was shocked how fast the weight dropped, my strength increased and my energy shot through the roof. Os is a true professional and a master of physical training. His classes are challenging, fun, and worth every drop of sweat.....I can't wait for the next one!!
Todd Adamson - San Diego, CA
The best trainer!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been training with Oz for about 8 months and have found him to be one of the best trainers I have ever had. Oz has an advanced level of knowledge of the body that enables him to provide the best training program for every individual. He is one of the few trainers that knows how to taylor a work out to deal with the physical challenges of obesity. His training sessions are always safe and fun. Ultimately, he encouraged and inspired me to continue to work out and give my best effort at every training session. I am forever grateful to Oz's help in my journey to better health. In my book, you can't find a better trainer!
Leticia B. - San Diego, CA
Amazing trainer!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I attended a start me up class and that's when I first met Os. He is one of the coolest, kindest, and knowledgeable trainers you will ever meet. He makes the workouts fun and extremely beneficial. Whatever your goal, Os will help you get there. I told Os I wanted to jump like I used to in high school. I am now 31 years old and still play basketball competitively. I used to be able to dunk in high school and since then my jumping ability has gone away. Two months ago I started working out with kettle bells with Os as a trainer. With my job, I can only make it around 3x a week. In two months, my vertical jump has increased over 3 inches and I am grabbing the rim two handed pretty easily now. If I continue with Os and the kettle bells, I will be throwing it down like I used too!!! I feel soo good after leaving the workouts and am noticing my body looking leaner. Os, you da man bro!!!
Harres Karim - San Diego, CA USA
Amazing trainer!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I attended a start me up class and that's when I first met Os. He is one of the coolest, kindest, and knowledgeable trainers you will ever meet. He makes the workouts fun and extremely beneficial. Whatever your goal, Os will help you get there. I told Os I wanted to jump like I used to in high school. I am now 31 years old and still play basketball competitively. I used to be able to dunk in high school and since then my jumping ability has gone away. Two months ago I started working out with kettle bells with Os as a trainer. With my job, I can only make it around 3x a week. In two months, my vertical jump has increased over 3 inches and I am grabbing the rim two handed pretty easily now. If I continue with Os and the kettle bells, I will be throwing it down like I used too!!! I feel soo good after leaving the workouts and am noticing my body looking leaner. Os, you da man bro!!!
Harres Karim - San Diego, CA USA
Can I have your extra phonebooks?
Rated 10 out of 10
OSsssssssVALDO APONTE is the best trainer I have ever had. He blends encouragement with humor, and excitement with the little extra kick ass mentality that you need to finish off those last couple reps to make a workout really a workout. I do not know how to explain the little bit extra he has that makes him the trainer he is and separates him from the pack; I just know that he has IT. I love that he grows in class with you. I have seen his progression fitness wise as I have seen my own. He now asks for all of the spare phone books we can give as he is developing his ability to rip phone books in half.
Os is not just a motivational trainer, however. He knows what the body is meant to do, can do, and should be doing. This means he is always helping to prevent injury and accomplish an exercise in the way that your body can do it.
Os is a trainer but a peer at the same time. That is truly awesome.
Sean S. - San Diego, CA
Body By Os!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have never seen a more committed trainer that really cares about his students! Os has an exceptional understanding of anatomy and physiology and works with each person to achieve their personal best. Kettlebell training can be awkward and intimidating at first and Os takes the time to make sure technique is mastered to increase strength and flexibility and decrease injury. He also adapts routines taking into account any injuries or limitations someone might have. I have worked out most of my life and I have never been more lean or strong than I am now. I love kettlebells and I love Os!! He is the reason I get up at 5:30 three times a week!
Stephanie - San Diego, CA
I can't believe I can do that!
Rated 10 out of 10
Do you want to be motivated, challenged and do things you thought you could possibly never do? Then I highly suggest Os as your trainer! All Os has to say is, "You can do that." In my head I'm saying, "I can?" With his ability to read my thoughts he says, "You can do that." So, I try and WOW, yes I can, which is always a surprise to me! He amazes me with his knowledge and how he puts that in to practice. He uses imagery, which I love because you can see what position your body needs to be in to complete your workout with the best technique and to keep you injury free! You can feel how much Os cares about what he does and loves what he does. With that kind of PASSION, you just can't help but want to come back for more!
Shay - San Diego, CA
Da' Bomb!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
Hmmmm.....how can I best describe Os? He's a Yellow Pages ripping, hand standing, head banging, dancing maniac bundle of energy! When Os tells you that you just performed the perfect "swing" you feel like you just climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro. He is an amazing motivator and emanates energy that is contagious during his classes. He is incredibly skilled but is wonderfully patient and meticulous when he teaches new students or when he sees a long-timer losing their form. Thanks Os....my abs are finally making an appearance for the first time in ages!!!
Julie C. (IronCore Newbie) - San Diego, CA
Talented, smart, motivating and gets you to commit
Rated 10 out of 10
Os started me off just where I needed to be -- nice and slow-- helping me rebalance my body. And now, I am pleased to tell you he has actually motivated me to commit to coming to kettlebell class. Os is full of positive energy and encouragement-- each and every time I see him. His coaching is motivating and easy to understand. He helped me every step of the way-- giving just what I needed as I slowly progressed to being truely comfortable with kettlebells. (I had tried them before-- but never felt very good after the workouts.) I am actually looking foward to waking up oh so very early and getting in a training session before the kids wake up... and reclaiming my body and my health. Thank you Os.
L. Wallach - Pacific Beach, CA
Motivated to the next level over and over and over again
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been involved in some sort of disciplined exercise since the age of 9; ballet, tennis, boxing and now as an adult I have finally found a form of exercise that can achieve amazing results in less time-kettlebells. This does not mean less discipline and motivation. Os is an amazing individual and trainer; he keeps you engaged both spiritually and physically to reach your goal. He takes the time to talk to you about what it is that you want to accomplish whether it be strength training, body sculpting, weight loss or nutrition. His work ethic, knowledge of fitness, and enthusiasm are a forced to be reckoned with! It is a privilige to have the opportunity to work with him.
annette - san diego,ca
Shoulders Back...and face the world with more balance!
Rated 10 out of 10
Somebody already said it best: Os is my athletic muse! I don't think it could be described any better for myself. He is the inspiration and motivation I find that makes me improve. His style is more than that of student/teacher, but more of a friend. I find that I strive to do better so I won't disappoint Os. But...even if I am slacking off he doesn't make you feel too bad about it. When I started, I was completely physically worthless, but with Os, I no longer feel intimidated about so many physical activities. With his guidance I have developed more fitness, strength, and confidence to go more 'balls out' with activities that I thought I could never do again to trying those I thought I could never do.
Ashlie Robinson - San Diego, CA
Outstanding!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os is probably hands down the best trainer I've ever had. I was new to Kettle Ball trainig and he made me feel like I knew what I was doing from day 1. He has such amazing energy you can't help but feed off of it!!! I never was bored as he was always switching things up and making me try new things each and every time. His belief in my abilities made me want to be better day after day. I would recommend Os to anyone wanting to better themselves physically and mentally. It was a great experience!!!
Mandy F. - San Diego, CA
Os is simply............THE BEST!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os is knowledgeable, enthusiastic, energetic, and fun! He keeps you going even when you don't want to. He keeps you motivated to accomplish things you never thought you could do. His workouts are ever changing and always challenging to keep your body in its best shape. Os is willing to spend the extra time and effort it takes to make sure that EVERYONE is using proper form and benefiting from each and every workout. As I said, he is simply the best!! Thanks Os for keeping me motivated to want and do more for my mind and body. I have become stronger with more energy to chase around my two small children. I love it! Kettlebells AND Os! ALL DAY, ALL NIGHT!
Monica - San Diego, CA
Steady as She goes!
Rated 10 out of 10
I have been training with Os for about 9 months now. On my first class I couldn't even execute a single pushup, it was pathetic! After years of physical neglect, sedentary lifestyle and a very high pressure job mixed with lots of rich food and alcohol I had lost all sense of my physical self. Os, using kettlebell instruction, Z-Health and a lot of patience and dedication (on his part) has brought me back to the physical world. My experience with Os has been one of steady progress. Each passing month, more strength, more flexibility with better endurance. No fireworks, no marching bands, just rock solid, one foot in front of the next progression. To date I have lost 38 pounds of fat and gained almost 11 pounds of muscle (I got tanked.) Not bad for an old guy! I have a lot of gratitude to Os, I only regret that I can not somehow give him a 20 instead of a 10 because he most certainly deserves it!
Eric S. Naegle - Carmel Valley, CA USA
See?! I can do it!!! :)
Rated 10 out of 10
So this review has been a long time in the making because, seriously, what can you say that hasn't already been said? Everybody is right, Os is the best there is. He works with your fitness level. He's generous with his time and energy (especially in his early 6am workouts!). And his classes are always different, interesting, and challening. Since I've started working out with him, the weight has just melted off. I'm able to swing and snatch heavier weights that previously intimidated me just by the sheer size of them. I have a level of confidence while working out that I never had before. One day I know I'll be able to do a pull-up and it'll because of him (literally, haha) supporting me.
Marlena Alford - San Diego, CA USA
Off To See The Wizard...
Rated 10 out of 10
First and foremost Os is a wonderful person. This single fact is one reason why he is such a dynamic trainer. Os started training me when I was pregnant and he completely kept me focused, balanced and strong throughout my entire pregnancy. As a result, I was ready to begin training again within two weeks after giving birth. Os's expertise, dedication and caring helped me lose all the baby weight (and more) and by the 3 -month mark my body fat was down to 12%! That is why I call him the Wizard of Os- he has the experience and credentials, but his focus on the client and their needs is what works magic. Don't be fooled- Os serves up some really tough love in the form of kick-butt workouts designed to get maximum results. Truly an expert in his field and an excellent person- thanks Os! -Sarah Lurie, Owner, Iron Core Kettlebell Strength and Conditioning
Sarah Lurie - San Diego, California
Fun, fun, fun!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
I've been working out with Kettlebells for several years but not until working out with Os have I ever had this much fun (yes, FUN!). He truly 'brings it' during every class and keeps you motivated and feeling like you can conquer anything. He's the most enthusiastic and fun trainer and that makes working out desirable rather than necessary. His workouts are no easy task, that's for sure, but that's also what makes them so effective. Aside from the fun stuff, Os is a tremendously talented trainer and his passion for excellence certainly has an impact on everyone he teaches. He's extremely focused on proper technique and form and he takes the time to make sure that each and every student is on the right track. Os is simply awesome!!
Karin - San Diego, CA
He is positively Os-some!
Rated 10 out of 10
I've been taking classes with Os since he arrived at Iron Core Kettlebells about a year and a half ago and continue to be so impressed with him. Not only is he a delightful, caring, bright, funny, sensitive and compassionate man, but he is also a powerhouse and creative genius who inspires us to be the very best that we're capable of. He gently and persistently encourages us throughout the sessions and knows us all individually so well, that he constantly inspires us to challenge ourselves, while he reinforces that our form is correct. Take the grace of a dancer mixed with the strength and conditioning of a career in the military (you wouldn't think of those two disciplines in one sentence, but that's the genius of Os to make them work) and you have the ingredients for the most fun you can have while working really, really hard to reach - and surpass - your goals.
Monica Cochrane - San Diego, CA USA
Makes you want to work extra hard
Rated 10 out of 10
Os is very aware of the desired exercise levels of his students. He seems to have an innate sense of what people want to achieve and directs them to that goal. It is unusual when you can find a trainer that can insert his personality into the workout and at the same time be aware of the technical corrections necessary for all participants. His enthusiasm is contagious and that is defintely neccesary to get through his workouts. He makes a difficult KB workout as close to fun as possiple. I am older than most of his studenta and have been woking out for a long time and Os is by far the best trainer, and motivator, than I have worked with and appreciate all he has done for me.
Aaron Freiser - San Diego, CA, USA
Mr. Motivation!!!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os Aponte is the best fitness class trainer I have ever experienced. As a relative newcomer to kettlebells I like the fact that he takes the time to give very specific instructions and gives demonstrations to show what to do and what not to do. His classes are always varied and challenging and they go by so fast because he is so high energy, and is constantly encouraging everyone to to their best and keep going. I have never been any good at getting out of bed early to exercise before work, but since finding Os and kettlebells at Iron Core in San Diego I now even make it (occasionally) to Os's 6:00am class. Os is a very humble, patient and generous person. I love going to his class because his energy is infectious. He always has a quick smile and a gentle word for everyone...and he plays great music!!! Thanks Os, you totally ROCK!!!
Alison J - San Diego, CA, USA
Awesome!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os was one of my team leaders this past weekend at the RKC San Diego.
There are 4 words to describe Os and his teaching.
Patient! Enthusiastic! Fun! And of course Awesome!
Thanks for all your help Os, I can not thank you enough.
Gary Gant, RKC - Victorville, Ca
Os was a great instructor
Rated 10 out of 10
Os was very patient and supportive in the course. He was always there to help. I really enjoyed having him as instructor and hope that others would have such a great trainer as Os.
Thanks for all the help and staying patient with me.
Joey Barbera
Nashville, TN
Joey Barbera - Nashville, Tennessee
Thanks!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os was one of the assistant instructors on my team (Team Franz) for the San Diego RKC. Os was encouraging, motivating, and knowledgeable. It was a pleasure to work with him, and I look foward to training with him again!
Ryan Harmer, RKC - Westfield, NJ
VERY Inspirational and full of energy!!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os is one of those guys that always seems to have limitless energy and a great attitude. Os works very hard to involve everyone in his classes and is always approachable. His expertise with kettlebells is obvious once you see him and listen to him. From basic to advanced, Os is able to instruct with ease. His classes are always challenging yet fun; at the end of the session I always feel like I've accomplished something and usually have learned something new. I wish there were more people like him around!! We're very lucky to have him as an instructor at Iron Core. Keep it up, Os!
Ron Skolnik - San Diego, CA
Awesome!
Rated 10 out of 10
Os is the best thing that has happened to me since I stopped running. He is a very dedicated and motivating instructor. He will help you do things you never thought possible (like pull ups). I look forward to every class with Os - each one is always different and challenging, which gives me the motivation to keep going. Os is very knowledgeable in his field and is always interested in meeting and exceeding the client's needs. I can say that thanks to Os, I am now addicted to kettlebells! You are the best! Gracias!!
Pilar - San Diego, CA
For those who take their fitness seriously, go with OS!
Rated 10 out of 10
I work in federal law enforcement and my fitness is important to me. Besides that, I was an all-state wrestler in high school, studied kinesiology in college, and have been a pretty big fitness buff all of my life. Regardless, it only took a few classes with Osvaldo and knowing his background to know that participating in his classes was the way to go. I've improved my conditioning and even beat my old high school deadlift record by pulling 325 at a bodyweight of 165 and I haven't deadlifted in over a year! Can't wait for my next class!
Danny S. - San Diego, CA
Positive health results
Rated 10 out of 10
I am going to come straight to the point. I agree with everyone's comments about Os Aponte as a trainer and motivator. Os has helped me increase my strength, lose weight, and improve my overall body tone. More importantly, I was able to decrease the affects of osteoporosis. Recent medical tests indicate a decrease of bone loss and has allowed me to stop taking medication. What a great positive result! I was the last person you would expect to get involved in such a difficult strenght exercise program. Os has made me a believer. In addition, his classes have become a Freiser family affair which is wonderful.
Jean Freiser - San Diego, CA USA
I am stronger than I have ever been thanks to Os!
Rated 10 out of 10
I discovered Kettlebells about 2-1/2 years ago and immediatly felt the cardio and stamina benefits, and saw strength development in my legs and butt. However, it wasn't until I started taking Os's class that I added significant upper body strength. Os's method of teaching safetly pushed me to challenge myself with heavier weights. It's very satisfying to see the improvement and Os is incredibly motivating and inspiring.
Sharon Simmonds - San Diego, CA
