Almost two years away from tennis because of a hamstring avulsion injury and the mental trauma associated with it, I knew that the only way to return to competitive tennis, the way I knew it, would be through fitness. I knew that once I had made up my mind that I was going to return to the highest level, physical therapy and fitness would have to play a crucial part in me achieving my goals.
Being a division I tennis player at a top 5 program requires a great fitness level that can be achieved through a meticulous attention to detail. Not everybody is built the same. Every injury, especially those that could be career ending, demand a very specific regimen of exercises. James Shapiro came to me highly recommended by friends in the tennis community, and I can honestly say, without a doubt or equivocation, that he is responsible for the body I have today, and he is a vital part of the results I achieved in the past year at the ITF level as well as at the collegiate level with Wake Forest.
What I love about James is his positive attitude, his passion for helping people believe in themselves and achieve their goals whether in sports or in life. When an athlete spends so much time with a trainer, the work goes beyond the strictly physical part of healing. His ability to assess a person’s strength and weakness is uncanny, and communication skills are one of the kind. He is able to articulate the exercises in a way that one, I, could continue to do them even if I were 2000 miles from him. Above all, James is always available to talk or educate, either in person or via zoom… or a simple phone call. Having personal training sessions with James since 2021 has really enable me to regain the confidence I had lost after the injury. He has given me the ability and belief to compete knowing that my body will no longer give out on me and collapse after a strenuous effort.
I am forever grateful to him and look forward to what the future holds for me knowing that with James Shapiro, I couldn’t be in better hands.
Eduardo N, Wake Forest Men’s Tennis
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Caroline S. – CPT
After getting to know James professionally and personally, I can confidently say he’s one of the best trainers I’ve met—his dedication, character, and example have greatly influenced my own growth as an aspiring personal trainer.
J.J. Miranda Licensed Masssage Therapist
Coach James brought expert knowledge, mindset coaching, and real results to our strength program—helping clients move pain-free while also elevating our digital content and team energy.
Sofia R.
Despite training inconsistently due to health issues, working with James has brought steady strength gains, personalized nutrition guidance, and a focus on feeling good, moving well, and achieving real, lasting results.
Drew V. Niagra University Hockey
Training with James Shapiro over the past two summers has been key to reaching my goal of playing Division-I hockey, helping me gain muscle, lose fat, and reach the best shape of my life.
Peter B. Black Belt BJJ
At 42, I turned to James Shapiro for his expertise, professionalism, and proven results—and after experiencing firsthand how effective his personalized training is, I now confidently refer my own students to him, knowing they’ll benefit just as much from his guidance and commitment.
Dorcas C.
In under two months, James helped me go from fit to fierce—deadlifting 230 lbs, squatting 185, and dropping from a size 4 to 0 with incredible strength and definition.
David V., Williams College Hockey
I have been working out with James now for two summers and have made significant gains throughout that time. I’ve absorbed so much valuable knowledge during that time that has helped me grow as an athlete and excel in the gym.
Riley H., University of Pacific Men’s Tennis
I had the privilege of working with James Shapiro, a key member of my team, as I rehabbed from an ACL Reconstruction & Meniscal Repair surgery.
