Avi Adlerstein
When I started lifting weights in September 2015, I weighed a mere 140 lbs at a height of 5’10”, with minimal muscle mass and excess body fat that left me feeling soft and undefined. I initially believed I could make progress on my own, but quickly realized I needed proper guidance. Fortunately, I was introduced to experienced coaches who guided me through Starting Strength—a no-nonsense, old-school training method focused on building strength through foundational barbell lifts. This approach transformed my training and laid the foundation for my growth in both fitness and nutrition, ultimately enabling me to become a certified personal trainer and compete in powerlifting and natural bodybuilding.
By 2016, I was documenting my journey on Instagram @aviatraining, sharing my experiences as I applied Starting Strength’s principles. In 2017, I apprenticed under Dr. Nick D’Agostino, a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, Starting Strength Coach since 2012, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), with extensive expertise in strength training and athletic performance. This experience strengthened my skills in coaching clients through the core principles of Starting Strength, enhancing my ability to deliver safe, effective training for consistent progress. In 2018, I earned my NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Nutrition Specialist certifications, officially beginning my coaching career.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of training clients at New York Sports Clubs in Forest Hills, Woodmere, and Oceanside, as well as at Equinox Park Avenue and Movement Lab Hewlett. My clients have successfully built muscle, lost fat, and significantly increased their strength while gaining confidence and resilience. Recognizing a need for flexible, personalized training, I created Induced Fitness to offer remote coaching, tailored to each individual’s unique lifestyle and goals. If I was able to overcome my challenges and achieve what once felt impossible, I know you can too—with the right plan and support. My mission is to help you grow both physically and mentally by eliminating the guesswork and focusing on effective, lasting results. I’m genuinely excited to support you on your journey to becoming your best self!
Powerlifting
On November 30th, 2015, during my sophomore year of high school, I tore my ACL, lateral meniscus, and sprained my MCL in my right knee during a casual basketball game at my HAFTR High School gym. Just a few days before the injury, I had squatted 210 lbs for 3 reps, making solid progress in the early phase of the Starting Strength program. The injury was devastating, completely disrupting my momentum. Physical therapists estimated it would take two years for me to squat 200 lbs again, but I refused to accept that timeline. I underwent surgery on January 12th, 2016, at Hospital for Special Surgery, performed by Dr. Frank Cordasco, after completing a month of rehab at Peak Performance Lynbrook to prepare for the procedure.
Throughout the recovery process, I stayed committed to doing what I could, including training my upper body. I even refused to use the elevator at school, choosing to crutch up the stairs for extra upper body work. Determined to overcome the setback, I worked closely with Starting Strength coach Nick D’Agostino, along with the physical therapists at Peak Performance. Their guidance, combined with my dedication to rehab and strength training, enabled me to exceed expectations. Just nine months later, on October 30th, 2016, I squatted 300 lbs at the Starting Strength Fall Classic, competing as the youngest lifter at 16 years old, weighing 164 lbs.
This journey taught me the power of resilience, and it fuels my passion for helping others reach their goals. Whether it’s training, nutrition, or behavioral strategies, I’m here to provide the support and tools you need to achieve your best self. Volunteering as a physical therapy aide at Peak Performance Lynbrook in the summer of 2016, where I’d also done my knee rehab, gave me a helpful perspective on rehab techniques and strengthened my interest in fitness.
Bodybuilding
On February 26th, 2022, I competed in the OCB Double Down Natural, an experience that tested my discipline and pushed me to new levels of focus. Getting stage-ready required meticulous attention to detail—tracking every meal, staying consistent, and pushing my limits to achieve a lean 150 lbs at 5’10”. This was a stark contrast from powerlifting and Starting Strength, teaching me a different approach to fitness.
While powerlifting and Starting Strength laid the foundation for my strength and commitment, bodybuilding shifted my focus to achieving a lean, vascular, and defined physique. I draw inspiration from legendary bodybuilder Frank Zane, whose emphasis on symmetry, aesthetics, discipline, and psychological techniques like remaining calm aligns with my own philosophy. Through my experiences, I’ve learned to blend insights from both powerlifting and bodybuilding to offer a balanced, well-rounded coaching approach.
Whether your goal is to build strength, enhance your physique, or find the perfect balance between the two, I’m here to guide you on a personalized journey. Together, we’ll focus on efficiency and results, ensuring you experience the best of both worlds and achieve your goals.