Rehabilitation & Corrective Exercise Personal Trainer in San Francisco
Chronic pain, a nagging injury, post-surgery recovery, or years of sitting at a desk — whatever brought you here, you deserve a trainer who understands how to work with your body, not against it. One who knows the difference between pushing you forward and pushing you into setbacks.
As a certified Orthopedic Fitness Specialist and Corrective Exercise Specialist, I work with clients who need more than a generic workout program. I build training around your specific movement patterns, your history, and your goals — so you can get stronger, move better, and get back to doing what you love without fear of making things worse.
Who This Is For
This isn't just for people recovering from surgery. Rehabilitation and corrective exercise training is for anyone who:
Lives with chronic back, knee, hip, or shoulder pain
Has been told by a doctor or physio to strengthen specific areas
Sits at a desk for long hours and feels the physical consequences
Has movement imbalances or postural issues affecting their daily life
Wants to return to sport or activity after an injury
Has tried regular training but keeps getting hurt
How It Works
Every rehabilitation program starts with a thorough movement assessment to identify imbalances, weaknesses, and compensation patterns. From there I build a progressive corrective exercise program designed to address the root cause of your pain or limitation — not just manage the symptoms.
I work closely alongside your physical therapist, chiropractor, or doctor when applicable, so your training complements your broader treatment plan rather than working against it. Communication with your healthcare team is part of the process.
What Makes This Different
Specialist credentials — I hold certifications as an Orthopedic Fitness Specialist through MedFit Classroom and a Corrective Exercise Specialist through the Biomechanics Method — two of the most respected credentials in rehabilitative fitness. Combined with my NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist certification, I bring a comprehensive understanding of how the body moves and compensates.
Root cause focus — most trainers work around pain. I work to understand and address what's causing it, building strength in the right places so your body can support itself properly.
Progressive and safe — every session is designed to challenge you appropriately without aggravating existing issues. We move at the pace your body dictates, not a predetermined program timeline.
Collaborative approach — I work alongside your existing healthcare providers so your training and treatment are always aligned.
Real Results From Real Clients
"As someone living with chronic pain, Marcellis has been able to adapt my workouts to meet where I'm at each day. He's truly changed my attitude and mindset towards fitness and overall health and wellness."
— Samantha S., In-Person Client
"Before working with Marcellis, I was regularly hurting my back and knees. Since working with him, I have stopped hurting my back and learned how to move to ensure I don't hurt my knees. For the first time, I look forward to working out."
— Gina R., In-Person Client
"He's responded to new injuries and pushed me to PRs and exercises like pistol squats and pull-ups that I never thought would be possible for me."
— Susannah E., In-Person & Online Client
How We Get Started
We'll start with a free consultation call to talk through your history, your current limitations, and what you're working toward. I'll ask about any diagnoses, treatments, or restrictions from your healthcare provider so I can build a program that works within and around your situation from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctor's clearance before starting?
I always recommend informing your doctor or physical therapist that you're starting a corrective exercise program. If you have an existing injury or post-surgical situation, a clearance letter helps me understand your limitations and design your program safely.
Can you work with my physical therapist or chiropractor?
Yes — and I encourage it. Coordinating with your healthcare team means your training and treatment are working together rather than in isolation. I'm happy to communicate directly with your providers when helpful.
Is this available online?
Yes. Many corrective exercise and rehabilitation programs translate well to online coaching, particularly for clients who prefer to train at home or have mobility limitations that make travel difficult.
How long before I notice improvement?
Most clients notice reduced pain and improved movement quality within 4-6 weeks of consistent training. Longer-standing issues may take more time, but progress is typically steady and measurable from early on.
Is this different from physical therapy?
Yes — I'm a certified personal trainer with specialist credentials in corrective exercise and orthopedic fitness, not a licensed physical therapist. I work in the fitness space, focusing on strength, movement, and long-term resilience. For acute injuries or post-surgical recovery, physical therapy comes first — I complement that process.