About Us

Building a solid body and mind have always been two of Ara’s most important focuses. For as long as he can remember, he worked hard to overcome physical and mental challenges and strived to learn, grow, and get stronger. He has helped hundreds of adults and athletes achieve their fitness goals since 2008. He opened The Foothills Gym in 2020 during the pandemic to build a strong and healthy community. He has built an excellent reputation based on his work ethic, character, loyalty to his clients, and dedication to improving himself as a coach. Ara is also a Kinesiology professor at Los Angeles City College, and he shares his years of experience with the next generation.

Hi, I’m Leslie!

I’m one of the coaches here at The Foothills Gym, and fitness has been a lifelong passion of mine. I joined my first gym at 13 and have considered it my happy place ever since. Over the years, I’ve explored a wide range of training styles—from dance cardio and step aerobics to CrossFit—but three years ago, I discovered The Foothills Gym and immediately felt at home. I found a welcoming, supportive community and an exercise program that was both challenging and fun.

After spending 25 years as a molecular biologist,   I started feeling the pull to do something more personal, something that would let me help others on their own health and wellness journeys. When my son graduated high school, I decided it was time to take the leap. I earned my Functional Medicine Health Coaching certificate, where I deepened my understanding of nutrition, stress management, and sleep. But for me, the cornerstone of wellness has always been movement, so I continued my education and became a NASM-certified personal trainer and started coaching here at The Foothills Gym.

I’m passionate about all forms of movement, but I’ve especially fallen in love with kettlebell training, recently earning my Functional Kettlebell Training certification through PPSC.

Now, I’m excited to help others feel stronger, healthier, and more confident, and to make a positive impact right here in our community.