
I had worked with Joe as a trainer and boxing instructer for more than a year before our band took him out on the road with us. He was a great personal trainer to begin with. I'd gotten in much better shape and become a pretty good beginner boxer in the time we spent together previous to the tour but it was on the tour that I made the real improvement. Lifting and running workouts at the hotel in the mornings were followed by boxing workouts in the afternoon at the venue after soundcheck.
Still, the most impressive work wasn't the work he did alone with me but the work he did designing workout plans for everyone in the band. The morning workouts were conducted in groups, sometimes two, sometimes four or more of us. Joe was able to design workouts that were challenging and interesting for all of us. They were designed so that we could all workout together yet they varied according to each of our abilities. He pushed us to progress at our strengths yet took careful notice of our weaknesses and difficulties and took steps to improve our conditioning in those areas while taking care not to exacerbate earlier injuries. I, for instance, have bad knees and several of us, being in our late thirties and early forties, have back problems.
Perhaps the greatest testimony I can give is that with a band of seven semi-lazy musicians, he managed to get six of us working out nearly every day. And he did it without driving anyone crazy, which is something almost impossible to pull off for a new guy on any tour. Hell, most of the time we're ready to kill each other at the drop of a hat.
Adam Duritz- Counting Crows
Joe makes working out fun. Painful, but fun. He is the most well rounded trainer I’ve ever seen. Joe will have you kick boxing one session, pumping iron the next and then doing yoga.
David Bryson- Counting Crows
I started training with Joe during, quite possibly,
the most difficult time in my life. His unconventional
methods focused not only on my physical, but also on
my emotional well-being -- incorporating the two into
a holistic unit. He instinctively infused valuable
healing lessons into a vigorous and creative workout.
I left everyday feeling physically and psychologically
revived. It was my therapy... the only regret I have
is not being able to train with him more than twice a
week...
Oh, and he kills at impersonations!!
Nikki Varhely- Television Producer
My session with Joe felt about 500 percent more for my body than the hours I spend sweating it out at the gym (not to mention way more fun!). As a trainer he exudes a very considerate authority that says “You are in good hands,” which is both comforting and inspiring. I have never had a better workout.
Lauren Lister- Staff writer for Movieline, Hollywood Life, and Maxim
“I have worked with multiple trainers in Los Angeles and Joe Rivera is the only one that “truly” brings a multidisciplinary approach to workouts. He combines yoga, boxing, martial arts, calisthenics, and strength training all into one workout. He makes every workout unique, helps you achieve results quickly and cares about his clients. I have worked with Joe for several years and I still look forward to every workout!”
Jeremy Milken –Milken Foundation
Working out with Joe is one of the best things you can do for yourself. You will never find a more versatile trainer, who will keep you challenged, motivated and interested. My energy levels were soaring, I lost weight and I have made changes that will last a lifetime.
Jim Bogios-Counting Crows
I hadn't worked out in fourteen years. Joe came on the road with us and I lost forty pounds and am in the best shape of my life. Joe is patient and funny and he can really get you to move in ways you never thought possible. Joe's the best.
Charlie Gillingham- Counting Crows
What can i say that hasn't been said? Joe Rivera ( pronounced
RIVV-AIR-AAAA, with a splash of vim and an ounce of vigor!) is a great motivator who keeps the process of getting in shape interesting, and overall, very painless - no easy task as we all know. Joe's bedside manner is as good as it gets...........his ability to tour the country with rock bands however leaves a bit to be desired!
Dan Vickery-Counting Crows
Four months ago, I added training with Joe in boxing and kickboxing - for the challenge, and for more cardiovascular and strength training. Not only did any extra fat melt off my hips, but I became functionally stronger, more physically confident and balanced.
Joe is intuitive, creative, highly trained, and fun. I highly recommend his talents for those looking to take their workout and body to the next level.
MC Sungaila-Attorney