Everything people ask before they apply, answered the way I would answer across a table.
The honest summary of everything below: coaching with me is a conversation first, a plan with reasons second, and accountability every week after that. Beginners are welcome, competitors are sharpened, and nobody gets promised a placing or a miracle timeline.
If your question is not answered here, ask it directly. You will get a reply from me, not a template.
Coach JR is Lawrence Gordon, a personal trainer, posing and prep coach, and co-owner of U FIT Fitness and Wellness in the Alton and Godfrey, Illinois area. In 2026 he won the NPC Missouri State Men's Physique Overall Championship, taking first in Class D and Masters 35+ at the same show.
Coaching is quoted after a conversation, because a posing tune-up and a twenty-week contest prep are different commitments. Reach out, tell me what you need, and you will get a clear number with no games.
Yes, everything except hands-on personal training works remotely: programming, nutrition, weekly check-ins, posing video review, and full contest prep. I have coached online since 2020.
No. Most clients are everyday people chasing strength, fat loss, or their first consistent year of training. Competitors get the same system with the volume turned up.
Yes. U FIT was built so beginners could try classes before committing to anything. You will not be judged, tested, or thrown into a competitor's program. You will get a starting point that fits you.
Honest and explained. Every part of your plan has a reason you will understand, every check-in gets a real reply, and if something is not working I will say so early. No shouting, no shame, no beast-mode theater.
No. I coach training, food structure and habits for performance and physique goals. Medical questions belong with medical professionals, and I will always say so when a question crosses that line.
Message the U FIT Facebook page and mention Coach JR, or drop into a session in the Godfrey area. Tell me your goal and your starting point, and we go from there.
Tell me where you are and where you want to be. I will tell you honestly what it takes to get there.
Apply for coaching