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Imani Wood

I was recommended to Peter from my posing coach.  She has heard great reviews about him and I'm so glad she sent me his info. Peter is great.  He is very knowledgeable with nutrition without doing too much. He really listens to what you need and focuses on your interest. Highly recommend! I will be sticking with him on off season as well! 

Heather Schofield

I have had some time to reflect on the last year of working with Peter.  Going into finding a new trainer I was concerned about making the change. After speaking with Peter in our first meeting I knew this was going to be amazing.  He explained the" why" behind each thing we changed.  Helped me to transition to counting macros and the new workout plan.  The build phase was challenging for me but I trusted the process and Peter was always compassionate with any of my concerns or questions.  As we entered into the cutting phase it was gradual and methodical which made the process manageable with all the day to day activities as well.  I faced weight loss plateaus which was super frustrating but Peter made changes to things.  We finally found the perfect mix and things started happening leading into my first show.  I was not as lean as I wanted to be but it was a great experience.  I continued to lose and each competition was better and better.  I was able to compete at 5 competitions with 5 peak weeks and during peak week I felt awesome no crazy changes made the process and experience great. My ultimate goal was to qualify for WNBF Worlds as a Pro and amateur which I accomplished with his guidance. I had more success than I hoped for.  6 first places, 2 second places, 2 3rd place and 1 5th at worlds. I saw more muscle and my best physique yet.  I look forward to continuing to work with Peter.

Garic Polk

Working with Peter has been one of the most invaluable pieces of my fitness journey. Without him, I wouldn’t have come close to the success I’ve achieved. After losing over 90 pounds, I can confidently say that 60 of those pounds came off during my time under Peter’s guidance.

Not only has Peter helped me shed the weight, but he also guided me through my first competitive bodybuilding season having stepped on stage twice and earning multiple top-five placements. Peter ensured I was thoroughly prepared and equipped with all the tools necessary for success.

What sets Peter apart is the way he makes every client feel like his only client. Whether it was during my regular check-ins or even outside those times, Peter was always available to answer my questions or provide support. His responsiveness and dedication is unmatched.

Before working with Peter, I liked bodybuilding. Now, I’m in love with the sport, and it’s all thanks to his expertise and passion. For anyone considering beginning prep or even those who aren’t in prep but want to build a solid foundation, I can’t recommend Peter enough. Start now, and you’ll thank yourself come prep season.

Peter has been an invaluable part of my journey, and will continue to be, and I know he’ll be the same for anyone ready to commit to their own bodybuilding journey.

Ludovic Salzard

I discovered Peter while listening to several podcasts he was featured in. I was very interested in his
approach and impressed by the scientific knowledge he shared while keeping things simple.
Having been offstage since 2018, we had a consultation during a mini-cut back in 2022, and I knew for
sure that the next time I’d be prepping, it would be with him.

Here we are, December 8th, 2024, and I have worked with Peter from January 1st to December 3rd.
11 months of prep for 5 shows completed. The longest but smoothest prep I’ve had, with the best
results yet.

Peter helped me bring my best package to the stage while allowing me to live a normal life.
Here’s my view on his coaching : detailed, precise, responsive, attentive and available.
I never had a second doubt about the plan.

Can’t wait to work with him for the next prep.

John Rossman

I’ve been competing in natural bodybuilding off and on for a little over 30 years.  My first competition was in 1994.  Over the years I’ve earned pro cards in 5 different organizations.  As I got older the hard work in the gym was starting to take its toll on my body.  I’ve had several setbacks including a herniated disk in my lower back, a full hip replacement, and most recent three cervical disks replaced.  I wasn’t going to let this stop me from getting back on stage. 

I started competing once again about three years ago and of found it difficult to get back in the same conditioning as my younger years (Left Photo).  I started looking for someone who could help me out. I’ve never had a coach or trainer and I was going to be very selective as to who I chose.  I had been following Peter Fitschen on Facebook for a while and was impressed with the results and conditioning his client were achieving. 

There are several reasons why I chose to hire Peter as my coach. First, about two years ago I reached out to Peter asking him a random question about peak week.  I was shocked when he answered me back within ten to fifteen minutes not knowing who the hell I was.I reached out to several other trainers and none of them answered me back. Second, he has been competing for in Natural Bodybuilding for numerous years and is a Natural Pro Bodybuilder.  Third, he has a PhD in Nutritional Science as well as a Masters in Biology with Physiology Concentration and a Bachelors in Biochemistry with a Nutrition minor. Forth, he’s been coaching full time for 10 plus years.

Peter’s response time when checking in twice a week is extraordinary.  I don’t have to wait more than ten to fifteen minutes to get feedback and make adjustments.  On peak week his response time is pretty much immediate.  As soon as I text pictures my phone is ringing.  This definitely relieves the anxiety and stress during peak week when carb loading and making any adjustments to my diet.  As I mentioned before I have been doing my own contest prep for the most part of thirty years.  It takes away so much stress and guessing when you have someone advising you as to how many carbs you need to load or if you need to make any other changes.  Peter goes the extra mile to make sure you look your best on stage.  If it fits his schedule he will be at the show to assist you in whatever you need.  Before peak week Peter will send you a peak week plan for each day with Macros, Water, Sodium, and Workouts.  He and his wife even assist me in applying my dream tan the night before and day of the show.

2024 has been by far my best competition season thanks to Peter.  This is the leanest I’ve ever been which contributed to my successful year (Right Photo).  I competed in four shows in four different sanctions winning a Pro Class, a lightweight class, a 40+ class, a 50+ class, 4^th Pro 50+ class, 2^nd in Pro Class and 6^th overall.

I would definitely recommend Peter to anyone looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable, and supportive professional who is truly passionate about helping others achieve their fitness and competition goals.  He is currently coaching me through a reverse diet for the next several months before I start prepping for another competition next year. 

Maddy Rosenberg

Last year, I made the decision to compete in my first bodybuilding show. I wasn’t sure where to begin, and had no idea what I was doing. Being very uneducated about the sport, I reached out to one of my good friends who referred me to Peter. Looking back, this was the single best decision I could’ve made before embarking on this journey. 

Not only was Peter extremely knowledgeable and professional, but he made me feel as if I was his only client. He walked me through each phase of prep and always ensured that we were on the same page with everything. I am so incredibly pleased with the guidance he provided not only for prep, but on show day as well. 

Furthermore, going into my off-season, he continued to provide support and well-thought out plans in order to improve for my next show. 

Peter is a brilliant coach and I simply could not have imagined my first bodybuilding season going any better. I plan to continue working with him for my off-season and all future shows. I simply cannot recommend him enough to anybody who is looking to compete! 

Marlene Jimenez-Furnas

I first met Peter when my previous coach retired, and I began searching for a coach who not only trains natural athletes but also has a deep understanding of how a woman’s body works, adapts, and responds to training. I wanted someone who was not only knowledgeable and experienced but also specialized in working with natural athletes. That’s exactly what I found in Peter.

Peter is incredibly passionate about training, and what really sets him apart is his personal experience. He’s trained and competed himself, so he understands firsthand the physical and mental challenges athletes face during prep seasons. He’s also the author of a book on training and preparing for competitions, which speaks to his deep knowledge and understanding of the science behind the sport.

What stands out most about Peter, though, is how much individual attention he gives to each client. Even though he manages up to 100 clients at a time, I’ve always felt fully supported. His responsiveness is incredible—whenever I submit my weekly check-ins, he provides prompt, detailed feedback with actionable suggestions and thoughtful questions that push me to grow as an athlete.

Thanks to Peter’s guidance and expertise, I was able to achieve something I had been working hard for: earning my pro card. His tailored approach, deep understanding of the sport, and unwavering support played a key role in making that dream a reality. I’m excited to continue progressing under his mentorship and can’t wait to see what we can accomplish next.

Ashley Johnson

Peter Fitchen was my coach from May to November, 2024. He helped me prepare for my first ever bikini competition, the OCB Natural Viking in Minneapolis, MN. During this time he helped me understand macro manipulation, timing my training with meals, and properly peaking for the show. With Peter's help, I was able to push myself further than I ever expected and had results that I couldn't believe were possible for a 39 year old woman! I highly recommend Peter's coaching service to anyone who wants to compete but does not know where to start. Peter also came to my show and walked me to the lineup before I went on stage. What a huge relief it was to have his presence and expertise right there with me and then out there in the crowd on show day! He made the experience a memorable one! I placed 2nd in 35+, 4th in bikini open, debut, and novice! I can't wait to prep with him again for the next show! 10/10 definitely recommend Peter! 

Michael Farmer

In January, I began working with Peter to prepare me for a show I wanted to do in July. I decided on a 24 week prep knowing it would be a long one. Peter was very punctual with caloric adjustments and getting me started promptly. He answered many of my questions and helped me achieve new fat loss goals safely. He was very honest and objective to me when I needed it, especially when my weight would stall. My prep was very smooth and I was able to maintain my calories, which was very helpful in the last weeks of my prep. I was able to secure 3rd place in novice classic physique, and open classic physique. both of which were stacked! If you're looking for a coach, he is your guy. I look forward to working with him on my next prep and many more after that!

Elnaz Najdmazhari

Working with Peter as my bodybuilding and prep coach for the past year has been a game-changer.
My nutrition and workouts have been completely transformed. Peter took the time to understand my goals and create a personalized plan that's realistic and effective. He doesn't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and it shows in the results I've achieved.

In a year under Peter's guidance, I've witnessed a transformation not just in my physique, but in my overall fitness knowledge and confidence. I understand my body better, I can navigate the gym with purpose, and my nutrition is dialed in. More importantly, I've developed healthy habits that will benefit me long after I reach my initial goals.

But what truly sets Peter apart is his dedication to his clients. He makes you feel like you're his only client, always available to answer questions and adjust the plan when needed.

If you're a bodybuilder searching for a coach who will push you to your limits, educate you on the science of training and nutrition, and genuinely celebrate your wins, look no further than Peter.

Erin Aulik

I started working with Peter in August 2023, when I was already a few months into my building season. Peter coached me through the rest of my build by programming my training and nutrition. We started prep on January 1, 2024 for my second competition season. 

Peter's coaching led me to win my Pro Card as the Overall Bikini Champion at the NANBF Natural Iowa competition. A few weeks later I competed as a Pro and placed 2nd at the IPE North American/NANBF Mr. & Mrs. Natural Minnesota. To wrap up my season, I placed 2nd in Masters and Open at the Los Campeones Natural Cup. 

I am so grateful for Peter's knowledge, expertise, and experience. Working through 3 shows together, we were able to learn how my body responded to food and activity, bringing an improved package to each contest.

I've heard other competitors express misgivings about their online coach and not once could I relate to their frustrations. Even on the rare instance that Peter couldn't attend one of my shows, I felt like he was with me because we were in communication all day. Peter has many clients but you wouldn't know it; he makes all of his clients feel like they are his only one. This is because of his thoughtful communication and commitment to making sure each client brings their best self to the stage. His attention to detail, top-notch communication, and wealth of experience make him one of the best natural bodybuilding coaches out there. 

Alexandra Ross

I started working with Peter in 2021 initially for a weight loss program.  I had had my 3rd baby and was going on a trip, and wanted to lose some weight.  I was able to drop 10-15 pounds and it kick started my passion for fitness and lifting again.  I had been a previous bikini competitor from 2012-2015 and in 2022, I decided to compete again.  Peter successfully got me ready for 2 shows that I competed and placed top 5 in after taking a 7 year break, and having 2 more babies.  I took over a year off to try to build more muscle, knowing that I would eventually step on stage again.  I started prepping again in January 2024 and because I hadn't gained as much weight, it was a slow weight loss process, which I knew was a good thing because it meant we didn't need to go to any weight loss extremes.  Our goal was to lose 1 pound a week while keeping food as high as possible.  With this plan, we were able to bring me in with the best bikini package I have ever had, even after having 3 kids.  I was able to build muscle in that year and a half time frame and come in lean and full, placing me 2nd at the Mr Minnesota in my class and top 5 at the Los Camp Cup in masters and open, with a very stacked line up of bikini competitors. 

I couldn't have done it without Peter's guidance and knowledge and I recommend him to anyone that is thinking about competing or just wants to drop some weight to feel better about themselves. His background and being a competitor himself, gives him an advantage to other coaches out there.  He is responsive and listens and is willing to go the extra mile to make sure you feel on track and taken care of.  We are now doing a reverse diet plan before our time is up, and already I feel like it's going to be an amazing off season, until I compete again.  Thank you for everything!