Chris burke
Chris is an accomplished amateur and professional BMX cyclist with a lifelong commitment to training and fitness. He began riding BMX and competing at the age of eight, quickly progressing to state and national championships by twelve. Chris holds a BA from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and is an ACE Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach. He has been a Platinum Trainer for 18 years.
Chris’s fitness journey began at Santa Barbara Gym and Fitness, where he was mentored by experienced bodybuilders and powerlifters. Through their guidance, he gained significant strength, achieving personal records of nearly 400 pounds in squats and 280 pounds in bench press. However, he eventually shifted his focus from heavy lifting to functional training, emphasizing movements that enhance everyday life.
Having transitioned from BMX racing—a sport focused on power and explosiveness—to endurance training, Chris gained invaluable insights under the mentorship of Peter Park at Platinum. This experience allowed him to push his limits and develop empathy as a trainer, understanding firsthand the mental and physical challenges of endurance sports.
With the evolution of Platinum Fitness and the introduction of Foundation Training by Peter and Eric Goodman, Chris has embraced continuous learning, currently exploring the Postural Restoration Institute (PRI) methodologies. He believes that optimizing movement efficiency can extend athletes' careers and improve the quality of life for the general public, fostering resilience and confidence.
In his training sessions, Chris starts by discussing clients' backgrounds and future goals—be it preparing for a marathon, weight loss, or general fitness. He conducts assessments based on movement patterns to tailor individualized training plans. His nutritional philosophy emphasizes whole foods, minimal processed sugars, and moderate carbs, keeping abreast of the latest research to provide informed advice.
Chris trains a diverse range of clients, from professional athletes to elderly individuals, adapting his approach to focus on longevity in sports and life. His holistic perspective on health and performance, combined with a passion for functional movement, ensures that he meets the unique needs of every individual he trains.