If there’s one thing I’ve learned in the past 25 years of coaching, it’s this: never give up on a dream, and never silence that inner voice urging you to become something more.

Over the past two and a half decades, I’ve had the honor of supporting thousands of people as they accomplished what once felt impossible—losing weight, summiting some of the world’s highest peaks, running their first marathon, recovering from chronic back pain, or simply getting their confidence and energy back.

Each journey has taught me something new. I’ve been blessed to experience a wealth of knowledge, not just through education and certifications, but through real life, side by side with real people doing the hard work to transform themselves from the inside out.

As a United States Marine and a veteran myself, I have a deep and personal passion for helping fellow veterans reclaim the strength, resilience, and purpose they once carried with pride. I know what it feels like to question your path, to feel disconnected, to wonder if your best days are behind you. But I promise you this: they’re not.

You still have mountains to climb.
You still have greatness inside you.

Whether your goal is physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual—I want you to know that it’s not too late, and you don’t have to do it alone.

If you’re ready to take that first step—or even if you’re just thinking about it—I would be honored to walk beside you on your journey. Let’s reconnect with your purpose, reignite your passion, and help you become the most powerful version of yourself.

This is your time. Let’s begin your Powerful Human Journey.

— Ruben Payan Jr.

"Two years ago is when I finally decided to take charge of both my mental and physical well-being. I have always struggled with my appearance and how I felt about myself—feeling “overweight” and not looking or feeling my best. When I took that leap and made that life-changing call, I can tell you I don’t regret a single minute.

Meeting Ruben has been life-altering. Literally. He has given me a sense of self-worth that I didn’t know I had. I’ve struggled with going to the gym and knowing what to do when I get there. I’ve tried things at home and it never stuck. I am someone that needs to be pushed and held accountable. Ruben does just that.

He is incredibly knowledgeable and explains the exercises in a way that is understandable. He makes working out fun and pushes me to be my best. I have developed a love for fitness and going to the gym, when I never thought that was possible. I feel incredible and get excited every day to make it to the gym.

I can honestly say that I owe it all to Ruben! An amazing coach and great friend. I’m incredibly grateful and blessed to have a trainer that believes in me and supports me in my fitness journey! Thank you, Ruben!!!"

- Stephanie Duncan

"I’ve had the privilege of working with Ruben for several years, and I can confidently say he’s nothing short of amazing. When I first started training with him, I had no idea what truly sets a top-tier trainer apart from the rest, but now I do: Ruben’s expertise, his deep understanding of the human body, and his ability to make real, lasting changes.

Before Ruben, I had always maintained my fitness, running trails and staying active, but after a foot injury, I learned I had one leg shorter than the other. A podiatrist gave me a lift for my shoe, and I used it thinking this was the norm. But after working with Ruben, something remarkable happened—my body became symmetrical again.

The work we’ve done together not only restored balance but also brought back my mobility, strength, and muscle growth. My massage therapist has noticed the transformation in my body as well and has even started training with Ruben herself!

Ruben is a world-class trainer with the experience of training UFC champions and summiting the 7 summits. His qualifications are incredible, but it’s his dedication to my progress and his ability to make my body feel whole again that has made all the difference. I’ll continue to work with him as long as he’ll train me because I know I’m in the best hands possible."

- Shaunna Larson

"I’ve been working with Ruben Payan for 5 years! I began at age 62 with knees that were going on 82! At my age, my goal wasn’t to become a bodybuilding champion—I just wanted to keep up with my kids and grandkids!

It’s been the very best of experiences, benefiting from Ruben’s impressive knowledge and insight. Workouts are NEVER boring and always physically and mentally rewarding!

Not only are my knees in great working order, but my core is strong, my outlook is happy and positive, and I’m enjoying an active later life with strength and enthusiasm.

Ruben is loyal and dedicated to each and every one of us… A World Champion UFC fighter AND a 67-year-old grandmother!"

- Michelle Pipkin

"I worked with Ruben for two and a half years—I requested him specifically due to his experience in mountaineering as I wanted to be a better climber. From the very beginning, I was impressed with the depth of his knowledge, his passion for fitness, and also his desire to help others reach their goals.

Ruben was always encouraging and supportive of what I wanted to accomplish. His positive attitude and motivation for continuous improvement was infectious. Not only did I achieve what I set out to do, but I also gained confidence in myself and appreciated all the amazing things my body allowed me to do.

If you’re looking for a trainer who is dedicated, knowledgeable, and truly cares about you accomplishing your dreams, I highly recommend Ruben. He has made a significant impact in my fitness journey and I know he can do the same for you."

- Nikki Roller

📞 Contact Us Today

Let’s begin your transformation.

📧 Email: Ruben@PowerfulHuman.com | Ruben@StrideGym.com

🌐 Website: www.PowerfulHuman.com | www.StrideGym.com