Our Coaches

Michael Gaines

Founder & Head Coach

My career started as a personal trainer at your typical “big box” gym franchise. Although it was a challenge from day 1, I was ready for it – clients at 5 am, clients at 9 pm; clients who aspired to be collegiate athletes; clients who had never exercised; clients who wanted a “quick fix” and crash diets; clients who were lost; and clients who were stepping into the gym for the first time.

It was a daily challenge working with a “one size fits all” program and platform created by executives focused on profit over people. Everyone is so different, so why is the program the same for each person?

I became continually frustrated – how was anyone supposed to hit their individual goals with a program created for an “average” person.

peter alexis

Director of Programming & Coach

Hey, I’m Peter — and I became a coach because I know what it feels like to want more from fitness than what you were given.

I grew up loving movement. Sports were my world, and they eventually took me into professional athletics. But the truth is, even at the highest level, I didn’t have a great coach. I had talent, drive, and potential — but not the mentorship, the care, or the guidance I needed. That stuck with me. It shaped me. And it’s the reason I’m the coach I am today.

When I transitioned out of professional sports and started working with everyday people — especially older adults — I saw something that hit me hard: this group didn’t need someone to yell at them or run them into the ground. They needed someone who could help them feel strong again, confident again, capable again. Someone who understood both the physical and emotional side of change. Someone who believed they could break limits — not because they were young, but because they were human.

That’s where I found my purpose.

GABE MENDOZA

Best of the Best Trainer & Coach

Hey, I’m Gabe—and I became a coach because I know what it feels like to be lost when it comes to fitness. I didn’t grow up knowing how to work out or eat well. I was overweight, confused, and trying to figure it all out on my own. It took years of trial and error—and plenty of setbacks—but along the way, I found something life-changing: a love for movement, health, and the power of taking control of your own story.

That’s what I want to give others. Coaching, for me, isn’t just about losing weight or building strength (though those things matter). It’s about helping people feel confident in their bodies, proud of what they’re capable of, and supported every step of the way. No judgment. No shame. Just real growth and lasting change.

I’m also on the path to becoming a physical therapist—because I believe everyone deserves to move well, feel great, and live a full, active life. At The X, I’m here to walk that path with you, one rep, one session, and one win at a time.

Gabe was also a top-3 finalist for Frederick’s Best of the Best 2026!

Maggie Pickerel

Mentor, Shred Expert, & Coach

Hello! My name is Maggie, and I am 79 years young, and I have been at The X for 11 years. It has become a home away from home for me, and the community has become my extended family.

Fitness was not always my forte, but I met a special coach who transformed my life. His name is Michael Gaines, sound familiar? Michael showed me the true meaning of what a coach should be. He listened and worked with me every step of my health journey.

My time as a coach at The X has been incredibly rewarding. There is no place like it. Having the ability to share my personal experiences and deliver high-quality, personalized service means so much to me. I lead by example, walking members through every movement and celebrating every success. Stop in and see me!

tony ferah

Personal Trainer & Coach

Hey, I’m Tony! Sports have always been a huge part of my life—but it wasn’t until after high school that I discovered the gym, and something just clicked. What started as workouts with friends quickly turned into a passion for strength, growth, and building better habits—not just for myself, but for the people around me.

That passion brought me to The X—and right away, I knew I had found something special. I was welcomed with open arms, not just by the team, but by the entire community. It’s that kind of support and energy that made me want to coach.

For me, coaching is more than helping you move better or get stronger (though we’ll definitely do both!). It’s about building real relationships, showing up for each other, and being someone you can count on—not just as a coach, but as a friend. Let’s get to work!