From Transformation to Trainer — My Journey
My name is AJ Turner, and I know transformation because I lived it.
In high school, I was 6’1” and weighed only 125 pounds. Through discipline and growth during my military career, I reached 175 pounds. Today, after years of dedication, I stand at 250 pounds of pure muscle. But my story isn’t just about numbers — it’s about resilience, mindset, and proving what’s possible when you commit to yourself.
As a certified personal trainer and licensed massage therapist, I bring a unique approach that combines training, recovery, and long-term wellness. To me, coaching is more than building strength — it’s about impacting lives. If I’m making a difference in your journey, then I’m doing my job.
Turn Up Fit: Built for Athletes, Veterans, and Everyday Warriors
Turn Up Fit LLC is a veteran-owned fitness and recovery company in Riverside County, CA. We deliver personal training, athletic development, and recovery services so you can move better, get stronger, and stay resilient.
Founded by Antoine “AJ” Turner, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Turn Up Fit was built to help athletes, veterans, and everyday warriors unlock their full potential. Our programs combine expert coaching, accountability, and evidence-based training so you can achieve lasting results.
Training & Recovery Services
At Turn Up Fit, our programs are built to help you train hard, recover smart, and keep moving forward.
Our Services include:
• One-on-One Training — customized coaching built around your goals and schedule.
• Semi-Private Training (3–4 people) — train with friends or like-minded athletes for a lower rate.
• Youth Athletic Development — long-term training that builds strength, speed, and confidence.
• Veteran Support & Reconditioning — safe, progressive programs to rebuild performance.
• Recovery add-ons — mobility work, compression therapy, cold plunge, sauna, Hypervolt tools.
Our Story
At Turn Up Fit, coaching is more than training — it’s about changing lives. I’ve been an athlete since the age of 7, starting with track, football, basketball, and golf. Sports taught me discipline, resilience, and the joy of competition. After two years of college football, I went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps — still living as an athlete every day.
When I left the Corps, I kept pushing myself. I became a certified golf instructor, trained as a professional bowler with the PBA, and expanded my passion for fitness into coaching. Since 2015, I’ve been guiding athletes, veterans, and everyday people toward their potential.
One of my coaches once said: “A coach is someone in a position to change lives.” That’s the foundation of Turn Up Fit — to help you discover your strength, build confidence, and move like the athlete you already are.
Coach Al
Reps Equal Results / Former NPTI Instructor
Coach Al was the first mentor I had in my training career. I met him in 2018 while studying at the National Personal Training Institute in San Diego. A former U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant, NASM instructor, and the creator of Reps Equal Results (RER), Coach Al pushed me to think deeper about testing, body composition, and proper training fundamentals. His guidance laid the groundwork for how I approach coaching today.
Coach Milo F. Bryant
Founder of C.L.A.Y., Author, Performance Coach
Coach Milo has been the most influential and long-lasting mentor in my journey. A journalist turned coach, he is the founder of Coalition for Launching Active Youth (C.L.A.Y.), a Men’s Health contributor, TPI coach, author, and international lecturer. Milo shaped how I train, how I coach, and how I view athletes of all ages. He continues to provide mentorship and guidance, and his philosophy of movement and lifelong athleticism is at the core of Turn Up Fit.
Coach Hunter Schurrer
VP of Training, University of Health & Performance
Most recently, I’ve been fortunate to connect with Coach Hunter, the Vice President of Training at the University of Health & Performance. He introduced me to the idea that “a coach is anyone in a position to change a life,” a principle that I now carry into every training session. His focus on position, pattern, and power—ensuring athletes move correctly before adding intensity—reinforced the foundation of safe, progressive coaching.
Progress Over Perfection
Fitness is about steady growth, not chasing perfect.
Athletes for Life
Whether you’re young, a parent, or a veteran, everyone is built to move like an athlete.
Long-Term Development
Strong foundations today create health, strength, and mobility for years to come.
Community & Support
Nobody trains alone. We rise together through accountability and encouragement.