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Cris Dobrosielski is a first class, elite trainer, an inspiring athlete and a very good man. He has personally shared his fitness/rehab expertise with me and a number of my closest friends.  He is fantastic on all fronts. His philosophy is sound, his personality dynamic and his vision clear and pure. His decades of experience and wealth of hands-on training make him an invaluable member of our team and plan.

Cris’ authenticity, currency, relativity and concern for the health and well being of the whole body, spirit and soul are only some of his greatest qualities. Any athlete and fitness enthusiast wanting to do what they love longer and better would do well by spending as much time as possible with this “little big man.” Cris Dobrosielski is truly a giant.

Thanks Cris, for making such a positive difference—in so many ways.

Bill Walton
Entrepreneur/ NBA Hall of Fame Athlete

“Coach Cris’ approach to performance training sling shotted my swimming career from one of mediocrity to one of excellence at the highest level. His Going the Distance philosophy goes far beyond success in the water as his philosophy of small consistent change, over a long period of time becomes a way of approaching all of life.”

Dominick Wallace
5x Collegiate League Champion,
2022 US Olympic Trials swimmer

“In our Going the Distance group sessions and in my private work with Cris, he does an amazing job of developing my physical attributes. Since swimming is 80% mental, the work he does helping me build mental toughness is equally potent and useful.”

Greyson Davies
2x California Community College Swimming State Champion

“I’ve known Cris Dobrosielski for over 20 years as a teammate and a mentor. His infectious positivity is heartfelt and absolutely authentic; a must have positivity source in any team environment. He believes that small actions overtime result is huge achievement, and as a US Olympian, I could not agree more. Sport teaches us how to achieve something bigger than ourselves, and often times the goal to that journey can seem overwhelming. Learning to break big goals down into manageable parts, and learning to enjoy the process and the hard work every day, is absolutely the most important thing I’ve learned from sport and is applicable to anything in life. Cris helps guide people on their journey to success!”

Maggie Hogan
2014 US Olympic Kayaker

Cris is a phenomenal physical fitness trainer who helps you reach your peak with relentless, authentic passion—but he is so much more than that. He’s an amazing human being who uses training as a medium for delivering life-changing results, not only physically but also mentally. Cris believes in you, invests in your success, and brings a powerful combination of mentorship, focus, and heart. He has played an integral role in our three children’s athletic and personal journeys from high school through college, instilling in them grit, drive, and perseverance. Always there to celebrate wins and support during challenges, Cris is more than a trainer—he’s a true inspiration.

Grace and Abe Ramos
Athletes’ Parents

As a physician and experienced yogi, I hold high expectations for health professionals, and Cris exceeded them with his creative approach to resolving chronic back issues and his intuitive sense of when I needed physical challenge versus thoughtful counsel. His expert knowledge spans nutrition, exercise science, psychology, and more, offering a truly holistic perspective. Cris lives what he teaches, and his dedication to his own health inspired me to show up fully in our sessions—plus, he makes a killer post-workout smoothie! I’ve also seen firsthand the impact he has on the San Diego community, both through events he leads and the uplifting energy he brings to every group. Cris’ ability to connect, motivate, and genuinely care fosters the kind of “team as family” environment that makes Monumental Results a truly special experience. I highly recommend him.

Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND

“Cris has been a friend, coach and mentor for nearly a decade. Through our weekly conversations we’ve shared the ups and downs of our athletic, professional and personal endeavors. Cris has showed me there’s so much more to sport than winning in the traditional sense. While crossing the finish line first is still the objective, Cris has taught me that “winning”’ comes in many forms. With an emphasis on strengthening my core and carefully planned workouts, Cris helped me comeback from a severe back injury in 2022 that put all future athletic pursuits in question. Getting back to the starting line that season was a form of “winning”. Sharing my passion for surf lifesaving with others and teaching them the skills needed to reach the highest levels of the sport is “winning”. Getting a group of old and new friends together for a challenging workout is “winning”. Cris has helped me understand that while I’m still capable of winning races, it’s the personal connections that fuel the fire of achieving the ultimate goal – staying fit and healthy for the rest of my life – “Going the Distance”.

Tom O’Neil,
Multiple US Surf Lifesaving National Champion,
Former Team Captain, The Ohio State University Swim Team

“While on a big wave surf trip, Cris was recommended to me by a fellow surfer in Tavarua as an “expert trainer you have got to connect with.” I’m a 62yo surgeon who began surfing seriously at 55. Cris has completely changed my game. I am stronger and healthier than I have ever been through his training. He has done wonders for my spiritually, wellness and my self-image. Hiring Cris was he best thing I have ever done for myself on many levels.”

Dr Rick Friedman MD, PhD

On Friday, June 18th, Cris Dobrosielski returned to the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence for what can only be considered one of the most effective workshops our kids have had all year. Living in the city of Lawrence, our children are faced with the daily challenges of drugs, violence, peer pressure, and various other life- changing situations. Though we’ve come to understand the importance of healthy living and eating, rarely do we get the opportunity to have a trained professional educate our children on this issue. Cris’ experience in the field, as well as his knowledge and understanding, were vital factors in the success of his workshop.

A former member of the LBGC, Cris’ intimate knowledge of the city of Lawrence, and our children, were also key factors that allowed him to better connect with our kids and get his message across. Cris spent the day at the LBGC discussing the ins and outs of exercising, diet, and nutrition, and provided the kids with a platform to better understand the benefits of being active. His message to our kids proved to transcend his workshop, as our kids are still reaping the benefits of his teaching.

I am truly appreciative of Cris’ work, and the doors of the LBGC are always open to him.

Manny Ayala
Program Director, Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence, Massachusetts

A year ago, at age 33, I found myself in an epic struggle with back pain caused by two herniated discs. I thought I’d never reclaim the quality of life I took for granted without major surgery.

When I turned to Cris for help, I wondered if his residence in San Diego would prevent him from providing significant relief to me in New York. I was pleasantly surprised to find that he easily constructed an affective plan for my particular ailments with only a few, very focused conversations. Cris identified my needs over the phone and sent me a comprehensive photo guide of stretches and strength exercises via email that I used in my house and gym to recover. Cris also researched an east coast Physical Therapist for me whose skill set best complemented our plan. The follow-up was consistent and his concern for my recovery was sincere.

Cris Dobrosielski clearly demonstrates a passion for fine tuning the human machine and an honest compassion for those of us struggling to get it running again! Thanks to Cris, I’m feeling better about my back now than I have in two years and I believe I am on the path to long-term, overall health improvement.

Frank Cannava
Advertising Executive, New York

“Having competed against Chris for years and peripherally followed his accomplishments for decades, three things come to mind: anyone serious about maximizing their performance will benefit from his guidance. Secondly, I wish I’d utilized his expertise when I was competing professionally! And finally, having covered lifesaving and swimming at all levels as a broadcaster for close to thirty years- swimming most recently at the PARIS2024 Olympics Games- Chris’ core content not only magnifies performance, it can be the difference between whether or not one attains their goals.”

Craig Hummer,
All American Collegiate Swimmer,
Over 40 US National and International Surf Lifesaving Championships

“During our months together, Cris’s positive energy and unwavering motivation pushed me to work harder than I thought possible, leading me to the best shape of my life. Beyond the physical, he trained my mind to compete with joy and gratitude—lessons I carried into the rest of my swimming career and beyond. I’ll never forget when, before our final circuit round, he had us pause to think of someone we were grateful for and dedicate the effort to them. That moment, which Ryan and I still talk about, revealed a powerful kind of motivation I’d never tapped into before. Cris brings peace of mind and purpose to competition—something many athletes never experience—and that’s what sets him apart.”

Jared Simpson,
Harvard University Swim and Dive,
Academic All American

When I began my career with Team Monumental in High School, I never knew the amazing opportunities that it would bring me further on. Having Cris, the strong minded warrior poet, as a mentor, guided me down a path of long lasting friendships and a love for the various activities I do in my life. The few years I spent with Cris in his dojo helped shape who I am as a person today and I will forever be grateful for that!

Parker Sealle
5 x CIF Champion
5 School Swimming Records San Diego, CA

“Coach Dobro has for many many years given our paddlers the tools to “Paddle for Life”. Whether one paddles a SUP, Outrigger, Prone board, Kayak or Canoe, Cris helps keep athletes out on the water and going faster. His classes are fun and informative!”

Chris Barlow,
US Olympic Kayaker,
and Head Coach San Diego Canoe and Kayak Club

“I have worked with Cris throughout my national and international paddling career starting in 2016. Paddling can feel monotonous at times, but when working with Cris you feel like you’re tackling your skills so differently and dynamically each session. I can’t say how much I appreciate his approach to making workouts more functional and fun every time. Cris dedicates himself to making you feel stronger and better throughout the sessions and is always there for you both physically and emotionally when you need it. I live in Los Angeles and when Cris is hosting a session it is well worth the two-hour drive to meet him to join a workout that leaves a lasting impression.”

Jenna Solberg,
3x US World Lifesaving Team, Multiple National Champion

In December 2009 when Cris and I reconnected after 20 plus years I was out of shape and in search of something that would get me back into shape. After several failed attempts to lose the belly and tone up, the timing for his call was perfect. I needed guidance, but not someone to shadow my every workout. I needed someone to hold me accountable and set the course to follow.

Cris brought focus and goal setting back into my life. He kept me ‘consistent’ with my gym attendance and our conversations about nutrition stayed at the forefront of my mind during meals. Cris is a fantastic listener and his sincerity in my progress was motivating. His knowledge of exercises, stretching and nutrition is very impressive. He knows how to work around fatigue and injury so that you can continue to make progress even with a setback. Don’t get me wrong, I had my struggles with gym attendance, overeating sweets and portion control, but he always kept a steady course. Cris would always be positive and say “Put it behind you and get back on the horse. Focus on today.”

After 8 months of guided fitness instruction, fifteen pounds and 4 inches across my midsection later, I am no longer embarrassed to take my shirt off at the beach.

I am thankful Cris re-entered my life. I feel it may have been fate for us to re-connect. Due in large part to Cris’ genuine concern I felt comfortable sharing my goals and doubts. On-line and by phone he helped me put together a comprehensive training routine which included those areas like flexibility and safe gradual progression which I have historically struggled with. The routine Cris set up worked within the parameters of my family and work responsibilities.

Thanks to Cris’ coaching and consistent feedback I was even able to get back to playing organized basketball, without injury after many failed attempts to do so over the last decade. I am not the player I was 25 years ago but I was able to play hard, be effective and wake up the next day able to play some more and still pick up my two little girls! I know I am one of many that are in a better place because of him.

Bobby Licare
Sr Loan Consultant, Sovereign Bank, MA
1986-1988 Basketball All American, NCAA National Champion 1988

Cris understands the demands that growth places on the growing athlete – The imbalances, the stresses and limitations and frustrations that come with this. His approach to patients – especially youth – is rooted in a kind heart and empathy that is truly unique and calming and transformative. For the young athlete who desires to achieve their highest potential in the face of the discombobulation of growth – Dobro is your guy. I cannot recommend him high enough.”

Dr. Scot Shoemaker,
MD Orthopedics

Monumental Results was way more than just improving my athleticism through Cris’s cross training program; it taught me the mindset I needed to have that led me to become the collegiate swimmer I always wanted to become. Coach Cris incorporated his teachings throughout his various types of vigorous workouts that always required mind and body. Throughout every gym session, beach workout, phone call from college, and post workout burrito meals, he was teaching me how to become a calm, patient athlete and truly embrace the main reason why I did what I did as an athlete, because I loved it. He called this the style of athleticism the “peaceful warrior”. I loved Cris’s philosophy of the peaceful warrior and all the ways he incorporated that mindset into his workouts. In the end, it not only helped me become an All American, but it provided with a new insight for how to approach life.

Monumental Results was also nothing but fun. Cris always says “If it ain’t fun it ain’t worth it”. Cris created an atmosphere where we could get incredible workouts that would also put smiles on our faces the entire time. And training with the other team members of Monumental Results, that was the best part. Doing those Team Monumental group gym, pool, or beach workouts would often times be the highlight of my day. Even if it meant getting up at 6 in the morning to do a group beach or pool workout, I always looked forward to it because I knew how fun it would be. The fun that comes with Monumental results is no doubt the best part of Team Monumental.

Zackary Wallace
Graduate Student Georgetown University
12 x Collegiate Swimming All American, Tufts University

“Dobro knows the rigors of sport at all levels. Helping Olympic hopefuls maximize their potential by making them aware of the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to strength and endurance gains by using common sense mobility and muscle activation drills is what Dobro teaches. He instills in his athletes a sense of body awareness and creating that small amount of recovery can make all the difference in athletic performance.”

Joe Haper
Olympic Canoer 1996
US National Canoe Team Coach

Cris has been a personal friend for many years and I have watched him produce phenomenal athletes through his Team Monumental training program. When it was time for my daughter, a second year, Division 1 water polo player, to work with a personal trainer for some off-season fitness I immediately turned to Cris.

He not only helped her to return to college in the top physical condition of her life but also significantly more confident in her abilities in the water. I was amazed at Karli’s physical and emotional transformation in the short time she spent on the Team Monumental plan. I can’t thank Cris enough for his devotion to my daughter’s success.

Michele Canale
Athlete’s Parent

As a former Head Cross Country coach at a nationally competitive university, I was constantly looking for better ways to improve performance and decrease the likelihood of injury for my male and female athletes. Cris’ skillful use of therapeutic massage and rehabilitation techniques have significantly contributed to those ends for 6 years.

During that time he helped scores of our athletes deal with the physical and mental stress of competition at an institution that demands high academic performance as well as elite level athletic performance. Cris’ experience as a Head Coach for collegiate Track and Field and Cross Country, as well as his skills in the area of strength and conditioning, added to his credibility with our athletes. His insight for enhancing peak performance has been invaluable.

Ted Van Arsdale
Former Men’s & Women’s Varsity Cross Country Coach
University of California, San Diego

In late ’05, with the prospect of a grueling international travel schedule facing me in the the spring of ’06, I retained Cris’ services as a personal trainer a couple of times per week, thirty minutes each session. My goals were simple: improve my stamina and muscular endurance.

I trusted Cris for many years as my massage therapist, so I expected results, but I did not expect such significant results within the first weeks. It is truly incredible. A handful of full body resistance training exercises and some specific cardio—respiratory training designed to meet my specific goals have worked wonders over the past 5 years.

The program is delivered in a clean, SAFE environment, under the direction of an intelligent and caring clinician. In terms of cost benefit, it is a “no-brainer.” I haven’t felt this good since I was 24, well over a half—century ago! Further, I would never get this level of results from a gym or by doing it myself.

Bob Miller
Zipline South American Jungle
Business Consultant, Author

Training with Cris is not training in the physical sense alone. Cris molds both the body and the mind, weaving them both seamlessly through intense client specific work and meaningful life stories/lessons that help everyone, competitor, patient and friend alike, grow.

The work is tough, as it should be. There are never any shortcuts, no cover-ups. But at the end of the day, it shows.

Jacob Cardenas
Student-Athlete, Chapman College
CIF Swimming Champion

It was the Mission Valley YMCA’s great honor to host The Five Pillars of Lifelong Fitness Workshop conducted by Cris Dobrosielski. Cris’ dynamic personality combined with his exceptional background as a certified strength and conditioning coach, his expertise in fitness development and injury prevention, and his experience as a former athlete gave him the perfect tools to present a workshop on lifelong well-being for aging athletes. Workshop participants praised the information and practical skills they obtained from Cris during the 90 minute presentation. The Five Pillars workshop was thorough in scope and inspiring in its goal to maintain lifelong activity. Cris’message resonated with the mission of the YMCA, improving the quality of life and helping people realize their fullest potential, and was motivating to participants. It is my sincere hope that Cris will once again share his talents and gifts with the Mission Valley YMCA and its members.

Colette VandenBroeck
Fitness Department Head
Mission Valley YMCA

My son is going to be a D1 student-athlete in college next year. Cris’s work with him has been invaluable, both mentally and physically. Over the two years Pierce has worked with Cris he has grown in maturity, strength and is much better able to handle stressful situations both during competition and in life. Simply put, Cris and the Team Monumental experience has been amazing.

Kathleen Dietze
Athlete’s Parent

Cris is not only a great coach but a mentor who always speaks from the heart. Workouts with him are full of fun, banter and high intensity.

He is an example of fitness and good health which he gladly shares with anyone I have seen him meet. I am so grateful for the effort he has put into me. It has helped in the pool, in surf racing and in life.

Austin Takeda
US Coast Guard
Team Captain, UCSD Men’s Swimming and Diving 2017-2018

Cris, thanks for getting me started on a life changing approach to my fitness at age 76. You helped me understand how I could nurture my fitness and start a weight loss commitment.

I have lost 40 pounds, my cholesterol has dropped from 230 to 110, my glucose measure is down 40 percent, I sleep better and have more energy. Now I need to exercise, stretch and work out more.

You have a real gift in meeting people’s needs, no matter the age or condition of heath. Your passion for your profession and desire to help others is genuine and truly admirable.

I hope your new year goes well with great successes you deserve.

Richard Capen
Former US Ambassador to Spain and Publisher of The Miami Herald

The approach to performance improvement that I was exposed to with Team Monumental was different from any other training I’ve ever experienced. The time we spent in the gym and in Coach Cris’s rehab clinic helped strengthen and restore me physically and mentally.

One of the most important lessons I learned during the time I spent with Coach was overcoming the limitations I had put on myself. I learned to replace my doubts, fears and negative thoughts with practical mental and behavioral techniques, that continue to help me in athletics and in life at college.

Johny Dickerson
Student-Athlete UC Boulder, 2 x CIF Swimming Champion

In February 2009, several years after I had retired from running a major corporation, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc, which consequently led to my being hospitalized and having 3 epidural injections. I was bedridden for 2 months, after which it was recommended that I do physical therapy. Being that I had always been very active physically, playing golf, tennis and exercising, I was hopeful that I would continue with all of these activities. However, now I was extremely concerned with what the future would bring.

I knew Cris, his exemplary character, the quality of his work ethic, and his incredible ability to focus his efforts on caring for and individualizing each client. Although we were oceans apart, I gave him a call, hoping he could advise me as to what to do.

He immediately set up a comprehensive program for me, including exercises and visuals, incorporating many long distance phone calls and numerous follow-ups. His emphasis on executing the program correctly and safely, was incredible.

Within months of working with Cris, I was again playing golf and exercising. Cris continues to monitor my progress, continually making adjustments and improvements. With his comprehensive exercise program my quality of life has returned to where it was, and I am hopeful that his excellent ongoing care and program adjustments will continue into the future. I could not have progressed to where I am now without Cris’ assistance, and I am very grateful. Thank You!

Don Cannava Former CEO,
Bowne Of Boston

We invited Cris Dobrosielski to our school during Red Ribbon Week to discuss the importance of embracing a balanced, healthy lifestyle and to “Say Yes To Healthy Living.” He spoke to all of our 250 students in way that was age appropriate, energetic, inspiring, and FUN! He was able to challenge and engage all of our children from kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as our faculty and staff.

Cris’ expertise in exercise and nutrition keenly increased our awareness of the importance and lifelong benefits of making small improvements over time. His advise on setting attainable goals and the practical guidelines for implementing those strategies was concrete, motivating and refreshing.

Lessons learned during this presentation will certainly enrich our physical education program resulting in our students feeling better about themselves, more empowered to make better choices and feeling more motivated to learn in school. Cris is welcome on our campus anytime!

Mary Ann Thiebach
Assistant Principal, Good Shepherd Catholic School, San Diego, CA

As President of Ascent Real Estate I am committed to the core values Ascent represents. One of these values is to promote life balance. At Ascent we consider our staff and sales team “Corporate Athletes” and as such we believe all athletes need continual training and coaching.

Having personally had the benefit of training with Cris for approximately 3 years I knew first hand of his commitment to fitness. He is a true professional athlete himself and a Great Coach! When recently introduced to his “Five Pillars of Lifelong Fitness” I knew it would be a sound program based upon solid health principals that I would be proud to promote.

Cris hosted a presentation at one of our Company monthly “Fit Club” meetings. His presentation was engaging, relevant, high energy and very motivating. It focused on how busy professionals can incorporate true fitness into their daily routines. No need for fancy gadgets and available to all fitness levels Cris’s presentation was valued by all in attendance.

It is my personal recommendation that corporate institutions nationwide whether they have 2 employees or 2000 become involved in the promotion of the health of their employees and sales staff. Such involvement has helped Ascent Real Estate with increased sales and happier more motivated company associates. Cris’ “Five Pillars of Lifelong Fitness” is a great tool to companies who would like to incorporate fitness and reap the rewards of happier, healthier, more productive people.

Penny Nathan
President, Ascent Real Estate Corporation

During my time as Head Coach at the highest level of club soccer (Premier), it has become very clear to me that pre—season fitness development is an essential ingredient to post season playoff success. It is for that reason that I hired Cris over a decade ago to help both my club and high school teams. Cris plays an integral role in developing and implementing our strength and conditioning programs. Cris’ delivery is always professional, consistent and positive.

He addresses things that Head Coaches often take for granted or don’t have time for, like injury prevention and stretching. Cris has developed specific dynamic warm-up and cool-down routines for both practices and games. The deliberate, detailed and cumulative way Cris introduced the above techniques was reflected in our athletes’ superior aerobic capability, open field speed and in an unbelievably low incidence of serious injury.

Marc Thiebach
Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Francis Parker High School (State and CIF Champions)

I have learned so much from working out with Cris. He is an amazing, inspirational person and has taught me a lot about my health, my nutrition and my lifestyle. When I first started with Cris, I did not know much about healthy eating habits and healthy living. I also was pretty out of shape and did not have much muscle mass. He used to say I looked like a “baby deer” doing lunges, but I have thankfully gotten past that stage! Cris has given me great information and advice on my nutrition and eating habits and helped me learn how to eat well and maintain a healthy diet. I also have acquired lean muscle mass and have gotten much stronger.

Every week I look forward to our workouts! Not only do I get a great workout, but we also talk about my fitness and nutrition in the past week as well as my goals in the upcoming week. Cris’ passion for health and fitness has inspired and encouraged me to consistently strive for a healthier lifestyle. He has been truly dedicated to helping me achieve ALL my fitness and health goals with a positive and uplifting attitude. I am so excited and grateful for all that I have learned and continue to learn with Cris!

Jennifer Sundt
Graduate Student

I have worked with Cris at international racing competitions, high performance group training camps and individually in the gym and on the water.

Cris’s positive attitude and vast knowledge of training allows him to keep things exciting and fresh, whether it be in the gym or on the water, day in and day out. Leaving the experienced athlete or those just getting started striving for ways to continue to better themselves and those around them.

It is always a pleasure to get a session in with Cris and I look forward to being part of the growth of Team Monumental for many more years to come!

Tim Burdiak
American Canoe Association National Sprint Kayak Team
World Life Saving Champion, 3 x USLA National Champion