Reid Skory | owner / cpt, tpi, pn1, ces tbmm
My passion for helping others create change both mentally and physically through the power of exercise has taken me on quite a journey. 10 years ago, my dream of opening a personal training studio to help as many people in the community as possible came true. Together with my younger brother Chris Skory we opened Motiv8 of West Bloomfield located at 6319 Haggerty Rd across the street from Meijer in the same plaza as Library Pub. We’ve been loyally serving the members of this community since.
After earning my B.S. in Biological Sciences and Business from Ferris State University, I became a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. I've since completed Titleist Performance Institute's level one certification for golf performance, Precision Nutrition coaching certification, Corrective Exercise Science certification from The Biomechanic Method and many other self studies.
I’ve always been a competitive individual having played 18 years of travel hockey before hanging up my skates due to a major head injury. Needing something else to fuel my competitive spirit, I took up bodybuilding. I placed second in my first show and qualified to compete in the national circuit. Following that I competed in some powerlifting events and even broke the Michigan APF deadlift record for my weight class. These days I enjoy being a new father and living a slightly less competitive and balanced lifestyle. With over two decades of dedicated lifting, I still love these sports and may one day continue competing but am focused on helping others realize their health and fitness goals.
With the Motiv, I’m excited to help as many individuals realize their health and fitness goals as possible. We look forward to working with you!
Tony Bananto, b.a. psychology, ace cpt
The world of fitness opened up to me in elementary school. All it took was a few basic fitness tests and the flame was lit. Practically overnight I set up a home gym and began training regularly and watching what I ate. Eventually, this burning enthusiasm for health and fitness caught the attention of others, and it wasn't long before I was helping friends, family, and acquaintances with their exercise and nutrition. This opened my eyes and heart to the power of fitness mentorship.
I continued to train and to help people over the years, but didn't pursue a career in fitness until after graduating from the University of Michigan with my BA in Psychology. I'm glad I took that route, because my background in psych serves me well as a coach; it helps to have a firm understanding of things like motivation and behavior change.
In 2019, I obtained my certification from the American Council on Exercise, which led to a position as a kickboxing/fitness coach at 9Round Kickboxing Fitness in Dearborn. When the location closed, I continued training clients independently. Now, I am collaborating with team Motiv8 where our goal is to help as many people as possible live fit, healthy, and happy lives. It is truly a pleasure.
Chris Skory | owner / b.s. exercise science
My passion for exercise started in elementary school where I first learned that speed was king on the kickball team. Soon after, I was asked to join the track team and it’s pretty much history from there. I played sports all the way through college. I ran track and field at Ferris State University specializing in javelin, long jump and sprints. I was always interested in exercise, but needed more.
I transferred to MSU to pursue a degree in exercise science where I earned my BS in Kinesiology and Exercise Science with a Specialization in Orthotics and Prosthetics. It was at MSU where I found my true passion for teaching. I joined the MSU Polo Club (horses) and immediately fell in love with the high paced sport and became a coach shortly after joining. I have learned that a great way to learn and to keep with something is to stay positive and have fun. Since I am a goofy and fun guy I like to dance. So feel free to join me and get jiggy with it. Like my brother, it too has been a dream of mine to have my own gym and it’s even better being a partner with one of the best guys I know.
Maki Kamiya | b.s. kinesiology, nasm cpt
Ever since the 6th grade I’ve wanted to be a personal trainer. I learned the power of physical activity when I joined the track team in Elementary school. It gave me confidence, a sense of achievement, and great energy. Ever since, being personal trainer was a dream job where I could be involved with exercise my whole life and share its benefits with others!
I graduated from MSU with degree in Kinesiology (the study of human movement). While attending MSU I volunteered in a program called “ActiveSpartans” which was a program to help people begin living an active life. This opportunity really solidified that I’d chosen the right path. It was fun and rewarding, and I could not wait to start working.
Contact
(248) 295-2748
Want a FREE session with me!? Click here!
My philosophy for fitness and life is sharing positive vibes, enthusiasm for fitness and encouragement to become more active. Let’s enjoy working out together!
Hobbies, interests, etc: I am fluent in Japanese and studied Korean while at MSU. I am trying to be trilingual. Karaoke (traditional Japanese style) is my favorite pastime as it makes me so happy.
Sarah Piggott | amfpt
As a former high school athlete turned busy mom of 2, health and fitness was something I lost sight of after my children were born. I found myself putting everyone's needs before my own. I felt trapped in a body and mindset that was not where I wanted to be. My lifestyle needed to change. I sought the help of a personal trainer and through commitment, accountability and group training support, I found myself living a new life.
I lost over 70 pounds and gained the self confidence and healthy nutrition tools that were needed for my continued success today. My journey began in a small gym and brought me to the competition stage, where I placed top 5 in the NPC Western Michigan Physique Competition in 2014. I have had the opportunity to train with some of the best coaches, competitors and friends. Now, I want to share my passion with others as a personal trainer. This is the time to set a goal for your future and your health and I would be honored to share in your journey.
Contact
(248) 295-2748
Want a FREE session with me!? Click here!
Andrew Soens | NASM, cpt
I began my fitness journey with the broad goal of getting in better shape. After a few months of aimlessly wandering the gym I discovered the barbell. It was a bit overwhelming at first but as my confidence grew I fell in love with the big compound movements a barbell provided. My goals quickly became more focused as my competency improved and I gravitated towards powerlifting intent on getting as strong as possible. About two years into my fitness journey a local trainer began showing me an entirely new set of movements with the barbell called Olympic Lifts. Learning these movements seriously challenged my strength, power, fitness, athleticism and mobility in ways I had not thought imaginable.
Today I balance my training between powerlifting, olympic lifting, and strongman events, all with the goal of becoming the strongest possible version of myself. These strength training experiences had such a positive impact on my life I knew I wanted to share that passion with others. In 2016 I completed my personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and couldn't be happier than I am today. Most recently I took first place at the USAPL (a drug-free, powerlifting organization) in Mt Pleasant 2018! Every day provides me with opportunity to help others become the strongest person they can be, inside and out. I couldn't be more excited!
Ellen Darnall | registered dietitian
Ellen is a registered Dietitian and a wellness advocate. She received her Bachelors of Science degree in dietetics from Michigan State University and completed her dietetic internship at Wayne State University. Ellen spends her days working for Michigan State University Extension as a nutrition instructor where she educates the public about the importance of healthy eating, exercise, food safety and cooking.
Ellen spends her free time enjoying an active lifestyle. When she is not biking, running or doing yoga you can find her in her kitchen experimenting with new recipes. Ellen takes a whole foods science based approach to nutrition and believes that anyone can make positive changes to improve their health. Ellen offers a variety of services for wellness including weight management, personal nutrition plans, grocery store tours and individual nutrition counseling sessions.
