Trainers
The Roster
The professionals who shape HQ Athletics. Each one is here by reputation - and they prove it with every session.
Owner & Co-Founder
Andre Hernandez
Andre has spent 22 years building athletes. High school prospects, Division I rosters, and pros have all moved through his programming, and the through-line is the same at every level: get stronger, move faster, train with intent. As co-founder of HQ Athletics, he set the bar for how the space operates and who works inside it. His door is open to anyone genuinely passionate about getting stronger and more athletic - credentials and starting point optional, effort isn't.
Specialties
- Strength Training
- Weight Loss
- Body Recomposition
- Athletic Performance
- Speed Training
- Rehab / Injury Prevention
- Beginner Training
Strength & Body Recomposition Coach
Ryan Balderas
Ryan's path into coaching started with his own - growing up overweight, he spent years learning nutrition and movement until he understood them well enough to teach others. That experience shapes how he coaches: methodical, encouraging, and focused on habits that outlast any program. He works across body recomposition, weight loss, strength training, and circuit training, helping clients build real strength and confidence along the way. Outside sessions, Ryan holds himself to the same bar he sets for his clients - because showing what's possible is part of the work.
Specialties
- Strength Training
- Weight Loss
- Body Recomposition
- Rehab / Injury Prevention
- Beginner Training
What clients say
“This dude has changed my life. Helped guide me through lifestyle changes that lead to losing 100+ pounds while gaining muscle and probably a number of years to my life. If any of y'all are looking to get back in the gym and could use some help getting into a routine this is your guy!”
“Even though I am now 70 years old, Ryan has helped me weigh the same weight I was in high school, while also being the strongest I have ever been in my life. Ryan has added years to my life, and made me feel like I keep going like this forever.”
“With Ryan's direction and programming he helped me find my passion for working out again, he also helped me figure out how to navigate my busy schedule and still be able to eat a healthy diet and hit my macros.”
Athletic Performance Coach
Thomas Tutogi
Thomas competed at the highest level - Division I and professionally - and carries that experience into every session he coaches. His background gives clients access to performance knowledge that only comes from having done it. Whether you're an athlete looking to gain an edge or someone just getting started, Thomas meets you where you are and builds from there. The work ethic is non-negotiable. The results follow.
Specialties
- Strength Training
- Athletic Performance
- Beginner Training
Strength & Performance Coach
Christian Buenviaje
Christian coaches with a clear philosophy: movement quality first, then load, then results. He has worked with everyday clients improving their health and physique alongside high school and Division I athletes focused on peak performance - and brings the same precision to both. He holds a B.S. in Applied Health Science from Point Loma Nazarene University and is NASM certified as a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES), and Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES). His goal is an environment where clients grow physically stronger and develop the confidence and habits that carry into everything else.
Specialties
- Strength Training
- Weight Loss
- Body Recomposition
- Athletic Performance
- Rehab / Injury Prevention
- Beginner Training
Personal Trainer
Ty Buenviaje
Tyler started training with a clear goal: help people get stronger, healthier, and more confident through intentional training and real accountability. His background spans Applied Health Sciences, athletics, and years of coaching and mentorship - and his approach combines performance training, functional movement, hypertrophy, and sustainable lifestyle habits. He works with clients of all experience levels, building programs tailored to each person's goals, whether that's weight loss, muscle growth, improved athleticism, or simply building lasting consistency. At HQ Athletics, Tyler trains clients in-person and online. The community he has built reflects his belief that growth - physical and mental - is the product of discipline, encouragement, and showing up.
Specialties
- Strength Training
- Weight Loss
- Beginner Training
Chief Morale Officers
Onai, Koah & Churro
These three put in more hours at HQ than most members. Onai and Koah hold down the turf - usually sprawled across it, occasionally raising a head to supervise a set. Churro patrols the floor at full speed, ready to deliver cuddles to anyone within range. Between the turf shifts and the cuddle deliveries, they're responsible for more PRs than anyone will officially admit.
Specialties
- Morale Support
- Rest Period Supervision
- Unconditional Encouragement
- Foam Roller Security
Not sure who's right for you?
Every trainer here has a different approach. We'll help you find the one that matches yours.
Get in touch (opens in new tab)