If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
I specialize in strategic weight loss while letting you enjoy life. You do NOT have to give up the food you love or spend hours doing cardio to get the results you want. I’ve had my own 80-pound transformation myself and I love helping people change their lives the same way. If you’d like to lose 20 pounds in the next 90 days, send me a message or schedule a free consultation!
Overview
Hired 1 time
Serves Richmond, VA
Background checked
1 employee
2 years in business
Business hours
Sun9:00 am - 2:00 pmMon7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, and Credit card.
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Katia M.
Jan 21, 2026
•
From Google
Training with John for the past year has been one of the best decisions Ive made for my fitness. He truly knows what hes doing and pushes you in a way that makes you stronger without burning you out. Ive seen a huge difference in both my strength and overall body aesthetics since working with him. He keeps workouts challenging, intentional, and never boring. On top of that, he genuinely cares about your progress, which makes all the difference. Highly recommend John to anyone serious about seeing real results.
Ian S.
Nov 19, 2025
•
From Google
I decided to join Invictus after chatting with John, learning about his background, and touring the gym space at Self Made Training Facility. The guy knows what he's talking about. His personal journey with back injury and weight gain is very relatable and you just need to take one look at him to see how amazing the results can be.I have never been comfortable or confident in a gym environment but John and SMTF are nothing like what you're used to. Every workout he takes time to explain how and why we're doing the sets we're doing. He has given me nutrition goals, we've done a body scan and will be tracking my changes as we continue to work - AND I'M ALREADY SEEING AND FEELING RESULTS! We're only through 5 or 6 sessions and I'm down 10 lbs. I swear it feels like I've known him for years. He is truly adaptable to whatever you need from him. We have a good time but he also kicks my butt when needed. If you want a motivated, knowledgeable, serious trainer who has your best interest at heart, Invictus is where its at.SMTF is HUGE. They have every piece of equipment known to man, and then some... There's even a boxing ring, kickboxing cage, CrossFit jungle gym, and open space for sled push/pulls and parachute sprints, not to mention the endless machines, benches, and cardio equipment. Even better than all the shiny, top-of-the-line equipment are all the super friendly faces that I see every time I go and the amazing trainers that are leading the way for their clients across many disciplines. I always feel welcome, like I have plenty of time and space to get my workout in, and like the equipment is well taken care of. I have never waited for a machine or a bench because of the plethora of options available at SMTF.I chose to lock in at the 3 month/24 session rate which is nothing if not a great deal. As this is my first time working with a personaltrainer, I don't have anything to compare it to but I feel like the price was a steal for how good I already feel after 5 sessions.In summary: if you're serious about working out or getting in shape and you want help, you'd be stupid not to choose John with Invictus PersonalTraining. Your experience at Self Made Training Facility will change your life like it already has mine.
Courtney G.
Jun 9, 2025
•
From Google
Working with John the last few months have been life changing. I was super self conscious before starting with him and not wanting to even go to the gym in fears that Ill never get where Im going. Thats totally changed. Hes always super motivating and never makes me feel bad but instead encourages me to be the best version of myself. 11/10 recommend going to him!!
Invictus Personal Training's reply
Thank you for trusting in us for your personal training needs! You're a pleasure for us to work with!
Lester B.
Jan 10, 2025
•
From Google
I had the privilege of training with John Elswick for two years, and the experience has been nothing short of life-changing. From day one, John demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, expertise, and a genuine passion for helping his clients achieve their goals.When I started, I was looking to improve my weight management and endurance, and John tailored every workout plan specifically to these objectives. Each session was thoughtfully structured, incorporating a mix of strength training, cardio, and functional exercises. He explained the purpose of every movement, ensuring I understood how it contributed to my overall progress. His ability to adapt workouts to my evolving fitness level kept the sessions both challenging and engaging.Over the course of two years, I saw dramatic improvements. I shed unwanted weight, built lean muscle, and significantly increased my stamina and endurance. Tasks that once felt exhausting, like running or high-intensity intervals, became part of my routineand even enjoyable! Beyond the physical changes, Johns consistent encouragement helped me develop a healthier relationship with fitness and gave me the confidence to push past limits I didnt think I could overcome.What truly sets John apart is his personal approach. He took the time to understand my lifestyle and challenges and offered practical advice on nutrition and recovery that made it easier to stay on track. He celebrated my milestones as much as I did, making me feel proud of every achievement, no matter how small.Training with John was more than just exercise; it was a journey of self-improvement. His positivity, dedication, and expertise make him an outstanding trainer, and Im incredibly grateful for the impact hes had on my health and well-being.If youre looking for a personaltrainer who genuinely cares about your success and will guide you every step of the way, I cant recommend John Elswick enough. Whether youre just starting out or looking to take your fitness to the next level, hes the person you want by your side!
Invictus Personal Training's reply
I'm glad I could make an impact! Thankful for the past two years!
John B.
Dec 3, 2024
•
From Google
I can absolutely recommend John as a trainer! Ive had 3-4 different trainers in my past and been members of the same amount of gyms, I initially chose John because we have the same name and I now almost a year later I stand by that decision 100%! I like having a trainer for the accountability and the knowledge so I don't hurt myself when working out, I don't see John often, once a month to be exact but even from that the knowledge that he offers is top tier! He is a complete 180 from the trainers I have had in the past being more calm and focusing on the why you'd want to perform a certain exercise versus just throwing weights around..I definitely see the efforts of his knowledge and training, from my biceps, to my quads, my "traps" to my calfs my overall body has transformed over this almost year, and yes I've been putting in the effort myself but having that knowledge, support, and accountability keeps you honest and helps to achieve your goals! So believe me when I say choosing John because his name was my name was the best decision that I made and I'm sure you choosing him to reach your goals will be yours too! Thanks BodyByJohnE...!!
Invictus Personal Training's reply
It's a good name! Seeing the transformation for yourself is always my main goal!
Credentials
Background Check
John Elswick
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
You do NOT need a gym membership to work with me. Self Made Training Facility RVA is a private gym that I pay rent to to bring my clients there. As long as you are there with me, you don't pay the gym anything, you just have to sign a waiver. If you want to keep a gym membership outside of working with me, that's totally fine, I provide workout plans and nutrition coaching for all clients that work 1:1 with me.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I typically offer a free consultation that includes a tour of Self Made Training Facility RVA, a conversation about what your goals are and what's stopped you from reaching them in the past, and a body composition scan. After that always offer a free workout for everyone before they sign up with me to get an idea of what training with me will be like!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences (JMU)
NASM Certified Personal Trainer
NASM Certified Nutrition Coach
My own 80-pound transformation
