Physical Fitness Program

Personal Training To Achieve Your Goals and Reduce Risk Of Injury

Welcome to The Viking Lab

The Viking Lab provides personalized training programs tailored to each individual’s unique fitness goals and capabilities. Recognizing that no two bodies are alike, our trainers take the time to understand your fitness history, preferences, and aspirations. Whether  you are a beginner taking your first steps towards a healthier and more active lifestyle, or a weekend warrior looking to up your game, The Viking Lab is the place for you. 

We are located off Oak Grove Road, near the Concord & Walnut Creek border, and offer both in person and virtual sessions.

What We Offer

Personalized Programs

We develop plans that are specific to your needs, goals, and abilities.

Comprehensive Approach

Our sessions include strength, aerobic exercise, flexibility, and balance training.

Foundational Movements

Our programs prioritize improving basic movement patterns, flexibility, and balance.

Adaptive Exercises

We modify our workouts to ensure they are both safe and effective for clients with diverse challenges.

Supportive Environment

We help build trust and rapport, creating an inclusive and motivating atmosphere.

Sam Rothschild

B.S. Kinesiology / CSCS / CPT / CES

As the owner of a fitness business, I provide personalized and effective training programs for clients of various backgrounds and goals, drawing on my ten years of experience and multiple certifications in the fitness industry. 

I hold the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credentials from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), respectively, as well as the Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) certification from NASM.

Sam Canal

Certifications

cscs
certified-personal-trainer
master-trainer
corrective-exercise-specialist
nsca-cpt

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CLIENT REVIEWS

I’ve been training at the Viking Lab for three years and am seeing steady results. Sam has done a beautiful job setting up a premium personal training space. He has truly customized my training program and went so far as to connect with my chiropractor for guidance when I was recovering from a major back injury. Sam has a great sense of humor and is easy to talk to. He is also considerably more knowledgable that other trainers I have worked with in the past. I like how he emphasizes proper form and is methodical about increasing weights to avoid injuries. Sam also does fun things like his famous client appreciation week which keeps it interesting for everyone.
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Greg T (gat73ca) Avatar
Greg T (gat73ca)
2/26/2025
I’ve been training at the Viking lab for the past few months, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing! The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely care about my progress. They take the time to understand my goals and tailor the workouts to fit my specific needs, which has made a huge difference in my fitness journey. The gym is clean, well-equipped, and has a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a pleasure to train here. Whether you're a beginner or experienced athlete, I highly recommend the Viking lab to anyone looking to achieve their fitness goals!"
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Christopher Santoyo Avatar
Christopher Santoyo
2/12/2025
Sam is truly an amazing personal trainer. I've seen how he interacts with elders, adults and kids, and he knows how to attend to all. He's very professional and extremely knowledgeable, and can help you achieve your fitness goals, whatever they are. He personally helped me regained lost strength after some downtime. Oh, and you may not be able to tell, but he has top notch equipment!
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Ron R Avatar
Ron R
2/10/2025
I highly recommend Sam as a personal trainer. He has helped improve my strength and overall health in so many ways. It seems silly, but doing all the small everyday things is effortless now. I mean, it wasn’t difficult to begin with, but I didn’t realize it could be even easier until Sam. My husband also works with him, and now my son. I know my husband worked out with other personal trainers before and saw minor results, but with Sam there were more significant results. So if you’re meh about your current trainer, I’d try switching to Sam! If I could afford it I’d go see him three times a week! Def one of the best things I spend my money on. It also helps that he’s super knowledgeable and friendly. You feel more like you’re going to go hangout with a friend (who tortures you 😆) than going to work out. I mean who doesn’t like “hanging out” with someone who made my butt look soooooo much better than before. 😆
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Ann Ma Avatar
Ann Ma
2/08/2025
Sam is amazing! This is my first time working with a trainer and I was nervous but he made everything super easy and understandable! I recommend the Viking gym for everyone the space is always friendly and welcoming, Will be back!
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Victor Cedillo Avatar
Victor Cedillo
8/08/2024
Sam is INCREDIBLE! He’s super knowledgeable. He’s got an amazing attitude and made me feel comfortable FROM THE START. Would highly recommend working with him
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Lee Litvin Avatar
Lee Litvin
4/16/2024
Working with Sam at the Viking Lab has been the greatest investment, by far to my health. He has improved my form which has allowed me to lift the heaviest I ever have and without injury. I feel more confident in the gym with his help. He has answers to every question I ask, backed by his knowledge of the science. And bonus he always has the best music playing to get that energy flowing! I highly recommend training with him! 💯
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Marina Martinez Avatar
Marina Martinez
12/04/2023
We have been working with the owner, Sam, for almost a year, and the improvement has been amazing. Sam keeps every workout fresh by changing up the routine. He's also very supportive, and has a great deal of knowledge and experience. We would recommend him to anyone. If you're already in great shape he'll make your workouts more interesting; and if you're just beginning, he'll show you the way!
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LCY Avatar
LCY
8/04/2023

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The Viking Lab — FAQs

What takes place during the complimentary session?

Your complimentary session is a private consultation focused on understanding your goals, movement quality, and training history. We begin with a movement assessment, followed by a short, customized training session. This process allows us to establish a clear starting point and determine the most effective path forward.

How long is the complimentary session?

Approximately 50–55 minutes.

Where does training take place?

Training is conducted inside The Viking Lab—a private, fully equipped strength studio located within my home. The space is reserved exclusively for one-on-one training and designed to provide a focused, no-distraction environment where real work gets done

What should I bring?

Arrive prepared to train.
• Athletic footwear
• Comfortable training attire
• Water bottle
(Towels optional)

Should I eat before training?

Yes. Eat 60–90 minutes prior to your session. Keep meals light and easily digestible. Avoid heavy or dairy-based foods to ensure optimal performance.

How is pricing structured?

Training at The Viking Lab is highly individualized. Pricing is determined by your goals, training frequency, and level of support required. Details are discussed privately to ensure the program is aligned with your expectations and standards.

Is there work outside of in-person sessions?

Yes. You’ll receive structured training to complete on non-session days. This reinforces what we build together and ensures steady progress beyond the studio.

Is nutrition guidance included?

Yes. Nutrition is an integrated part of the training process. You’ll receive education, practical recommendations, and resources to support strength, performance, and body composition.