Much like life, my fitness journey hasn’t always followed a straight and narrow path. It has been fraught with highs, lows, plateaus, road blocks, and milestones. In early 2019 following the birth of my son, I decided that fitness and challenge was necessary to not only prepare myself for fatherhood, but to provide an example for my son to see what is possible in life when we push ourselves to our physical limits.

This part of the journey brought me back to running, which eventually led to training for marathons. Funny enough, I ran my first half marathon with Lara back in 2019. For the next few years, endurance running was my primary mode of fitness which brought me to run marathons from DC to Nashville. In summer 2023 I was training for the Cape Cod marathon when life started to get in the way of training which ground to a halt.

I decided to defer my registration till 2024 and life began to settle around October. At this point, my running fitness was gone and I was starting from square one. This was the time where I made both the best and worst decision of my life and that was to ask Lara if she’d take me on as a client. Her response was something like, “Of course and I thought you’d never ask.” Little did I know that her years of knowledge and expertise of functional performance training would quite literally simultaneously destroy and build me back at the same time.

Following my first session in November 2023, my soul left my body during the training session and the subsequent hours afterward. I left the planet and didn’t come back for quite some time. It was awful and exhilarating all at once. I was scared shitless, but couldn’t wait to come back for more. Just like anyone embarking on their fitness journey, the idea of being bad at something can certainly become an aversion more than the attraction to this new thing that you know you’re not good at, and frankly, is blatantly obvious when going through the movements.

However, Lara being the consummate professional that she is, knows how to guide you through the learning curve by way of instruction, observation, adjustment, and programming. Her decades of knowledge, training, and expertise are on display in the gym and are further reinforced by her custom, tailored programming for working out at home. Her patience helps her guide her clients through their progressions into more complex movements, standards, and building strength. You know that in one on one sessions you’re getting a completely customized experience which caters to your current fitness levels while pushing you towards your goals.

For example, in April 2025, I had entered as a Novice to compete in the Festivus Games, a CrossFit competition which takes place in CF gyms all over the country and also happened to be held at CrossFit Retro here in FXBG. Lara encouraged me to enter and tailored my training to the workouts that were published for the event. This was my first competition ever for the sport and to say I was nervous was an understatement, Nonetheless, we trained for the specific workouts and I honestly couldn’t have been better prepared because I ultimately took 1st Place in the event for Men’s Novice. In my humblest opinion, there is no better testament to Lara and what she does with Boyer Performance.
-Brandon, 42 years old, Virginia

I cannot recommend Lara highly enough! She is a brilliant coach with a deep, impressive knowledge of anatomy and body mechanics. What sets her apart is her unwavering emphasis on proper technique and injury prevention. I always feel safe pushing my limits under her guidance.

​She is incredibly versatile, working seamlessly with people at all fitness levels. In fact, I trust her so much that I send my daughter to her for cross-training, and the results have been fantastic. The gym itself is always spotless and 'packs a big punch' with everything you need for a great workout. If you’re looking for a smart, professional, and effective trainer, Lara is the best!
-Krystal, 40 years old, Virginia

Lara Boyer is an attentive, laser-focused fitness coach who somehow knows exactly how much suffering I can handle—and then adds a little more. Her workouts are brutally creative, just enough to keep things interesting while quietly reminding you that mercy is not part of the program. I’ve gained serious strength and noticeably better mobility, despite her clearly enjoying every grimace along the way. She’s mean in the best way: calculated, effective, and always one step ahead of any excuse I try to make.
-Quinton, 43 years old, Arizona

What’s great about Lara is she makes sure it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to training and fitness. I came back to weight training after sporadic gym memberships over 10+ years trying different types of workouts but nothing makes me feel stronger than being at the bar. I have lifelong struggles with food and body image, but I feel so comfortable in the Boyer Performance space; I can always be honest with Lara about how I’m feeling in terms of physical strength or where I’m at mentally and she will tailor my workouts to my exact needs. This comes in the form of my regular training with her in-person in the gym and then the specialized TrueCoach workouts she makes for me to do at home. She has been instrumental in helping me get stronger and more confident when it comes to working out and simply being my best self. I cannot recommend Lara enough.
-Jenna, 40 years old, Virginia

I started working with Lara in December 2025 to learn more about strength training. Having been diagnosed with osteoporosis, Lara was recommended to me by my chiropractor. She is helping me in so many ways and I already feel better. Her approach is to start small and work toward loftier goals. Through her encouragement, I am now doing workouts at home with dumbells, kettlebells, and a TRX. I am excited that with her help, I am doing exercises that I never would have thought possible at 60+ years old! Lara is an absolutely wonderful strength training coach. I highly recommend her for your fitness needs! 🏋
-Daria, 61 years old, Virginia

I can say Lara has changed my life and all for the better. I believe I can live the rest of my life squatting and lifting and not being limited in my life activities. Working with Lara is my passion and I love our sessions and love what I learn and has enhanced my life to many different levels. The process has been over the years and the progression is amazing. This by far has been the best sport I have ever done and I love her.
-Terry, 70 years old, North Carolina

Lara is informed and talented in what she does. She is a no-nonsense trainer that is firm, with love. She will push you, but also understands different lifestyles, choices, and training goals. If you want to get stronger, faster, more snatched, and just be an overall harder person to kill, I highly recommend training with her. 10/10 recommend.
-Megan, 47 years old, New Jersey

Working out has always been something I’ve done over the years but never did I feel like I was making gains, seeing improvement, and getting stronger. I’d trudge through my gym routine, burning as many calories as possible, since that was the way to get fit…right? Wrong! So wrong! It wasn’t until I started working out with Lara that I realized the importance of weights and nutrition (real food, no protein shakes or 3-day cleanses) and that together they were the perfect prescription to get where I wanted. I mean seriously, look at Lara, she is exactly what I wanted to be—fit! Not bulky, but a lean, strong, and fit badass woman. She was obviously practicing what she preached, she had to know a little something about nutrition and weight training, right? I knew better than to think she got where she is by sitting on her couch or running mile after mile on a treadmill. Now to be perfectly honest, the body, looks, and real knowledge of fitness and nutrition were a little intimidating to me. I knew stepping into “the garage” would be life-changing…literally, I may die during my workout (which isn’t a far exaggeration from what I thought could really happen to me) or I may actually succeed. It was a 50/50 chance and I finally made the decision to face my fear, risk my life, and walk into that garage and hope like hell I lived to see another day. I knew there was a good possibility that I may struggle to squat heavy weight, barely get my chin to the bar on pull-ups or somehow miraculously finish a 10:00 AMRAP without my heart exploding but I was determined to do it, to finish the workout. It may not be pretty but I didn’t care…I was willing to take that risk of failure and give it a chance, for big risk yields big reward! And I can’t tell you how glad I am that I made the decision to brave my fears, walk into that garage, and kick some serious ass (turns out I did better than I thought, and you will too). I did it, and I lived! I started to crave working out! Who the hell knew it could be like this! I wanted more! It hurt so good and I knew whatever I was doing that day, I was doing right. It just felt right down to the core of my sore muscles. And the rest is history. I owe it all to Lara. She pushes me to the max, to go heavier and not break stride, to finish what I started and feel good about what I accomplished. She mades ME feel like a badass. I crave it, as crazy as it is. I truly enjoy it and can see the gains—slowly but surely, I’m making progress. She listens to my goals and customizes each workout specific to me. She does this for every. single. client. that comes into her garage. THAT is personal training. Personal training unlike anything I’ve experienced before. I would encourage you to face your fears, take the step into that garage, lift some heavy weights, and get your life right with Lara! It’s a decision you won’t regret.
-Amy, 46 years old, North Carolina

I am almost 63 years old, and training with Lara for the past 2½ years has been the best decision I’ve made for my fitness and health. She does not allow age, excuses, or self-doubt to stand in the way of progress. Lara is tough, demanding, and unapologetically pushes you past what you think you can do—then proves you were capable all along. Every workout is brutally effective and fully personalized, but comfort is never the goal. Results are. She challenges you, holds you accountable, gives constant feedback, and delivers real results.
-Kathy, 62 years old, Virginia

I have been training with Lara since 2017 when she helped rehab me after knee replacement surgery. Since that time she has been by my side through a broken foot, wrist and hip as well as multiple soft tissue injuries. With each injury, during my darkest days, both physically and emotionally, Lara has been there to encourage, uplift, and get me back on my feet and moving. She has the perfect combination of toughness and empathy, and the knowledge to meet clients where they are and adjust workouts accordingly. She understands the emotional toll of suffering and set backs.

Coming back from a broken hip is a very steep climb, and I honestly do not think I could have done it without Lara. She started her encouragement and support while I was still in my hospital bed, assuring me that I could recover fully. She was by my side emotionally long before I could resume physical training.

The mental aspect of fitness is essential, and Lara is the absolute best at training the brain and attitude as well as the body. Her deep understanding of the mechanics of the body is essential to safely reaching goals. Even though I have severe osteoporosis, I can train with confidence under Lara’s guidance.

She has been a game changer in my life, focusing on increasing my strength and balance. My sessions with Lara are not only productive, but they are fun. She gives me confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

The health and fitness journey is a lifelong commitment. I absolutely could not do it alone. Lara has not only made this journey possible; she has made it a pleasure.
-Carol, 69 years old, North Carolina

I was lucky enough to have Lara as a coach for my first pregnancy. Through her guidance I learned how to find joy in focusing on new goals while being mindful of my changing body. Modifications appeared to come easy to her and even seemed like an enjoyed challenge. Fast forward to my second pregnancy I worked with Lara remotely from the opposite coast on a personalized pregnancy training program that had to be adapted even further to support my broken leg and surgery at 30 weeks. Lara never hesitated to find ways to challenge my mind and support my body’s fitness through it all. Her willingness and quite honestly excitement around supporting changing levels of ability far exceeds any other coach I’ve ever met. Her group classes are fun and welcoming and she all around is a wealth of health and fitness knowledge.
-Erin, 35 years old, Virginia

I cannot say enough good things about Lara. She is hands-down the most patient, caring, and thoughtful coach I’ve ever worked with, while also being honest and direct. She tells you what you need to hear without sugarcoating, and that’s exactly what makes her so effective.

I truly believe she is the reason I was able to deliver my twin babies naturally. Her programming and constant encouragement kept me training safely and confidently all the way through 36 weeks of a twin pregnancy, which made an incredible difference in both my delivery and recovery.

I 100% recommend her to anyone interested in starting (or continuing) their fitness journey. She’s a true athlete, an amazing lifter, and an even better coach!
-Amber, 32 years old, Virginia

I grew up doing gymnastics, so I always have been active and worked out my whole life. I have been through ups and downs in the gym and with knowing what to eat. As I have gotten into my 30s, I knew I needed to change things up…the fat just wasn’t burning like it used to. The gym became so monotonous and counting calories didn’t work as much anymore. My self-confidence was lacking. I thank god every day that he brought Lara into my life. I never knew how much I needed this Beyoncé-loving badass! She has breathed life back into my workouts and I genuinely can’t wait every week to spend a few hours with her while getting my ass kicked (it hurts so good). She has also helped me learn what foods fuel my body and burn fat through counting macros (I never knew what those were before). She genuinely cares about my goals and my progress. I haven’t felt this physically and mentally good in a long time and it’s all thanks to Lara.
-Michelle, 40 years old, North Carolina

I worked with Lara for over a year. My previous strategy of cardio on top of cardio with occasional body weight workouts wasn’t really working to get rid of my excess chonk. Cue Boyer Performance Training!

Lara is a no-bullshit trainer. She will help you meet your goals with workouts that kick your ass and make you question your purpose in life, until you look in the mirror and the booty gains show you that purpose. Her workouts are not easy, they’re effective. She will help you achieve the proper form to prevent injury and inspire you to keep reaching for new goals. She will not only get you looking amazing, but will have you feeling 10 years younger after working with her for a few months. Stick with Lara’s training for the long game and you’ll never have to question your strength or ability to defend yourself. Her programming will extend your life and preserve your mobility as you age. Invest in yourself and your future by reaching peak physical health, which is what Boyer Performance will give you.
-Allie, 37 years old, Virginia

When I met Lara over five years ago, I instantly knew she was a badass female that I had to have in my life. At the time I had a bad relationship with working out and with food. Being the good friend she is, Lara recognized this and decided I should do a session with her (LOL). I was terrified but Lara guided me during the entire workout and pushed me when she knew I needed to be pushed. In that moment, I knew she had a gift. Working out with Lara is an addiction. As soon as you walk into the garage, you know she has taken time to carefully craft a workout that will equally destroy you and build you up. She pushes you when you need to be pushed. She lets you rest when you need to rest (but only briefly). She lets you curse at her when you make her do ridiculous exercises. She lets you cry and vent if it’s been one of those weeks. She lets you cuddle her dogs. She welcomes you into her family. I am a proud member of BP and will be forever grateful to have a friend, trainer, and badass female like Lara in my life.
-Caroline, 35 years old, North Carolina

Training at Boyer Performance with Coach Lara straight up changed my life. I’ve known Coach Lara for many years, but once I started training only at Boyer Performance—especially while dealing with a severe injury—everything went beyond perfect.

After suffering a brutal concussion, I reached out to Coach Lara, not even sure if she’d take on someone training through a serious injury. Without hesitation, she said absolutely and immediately asked for every detail. From day one, she had my back. She modified workouts, rewrote WODs on the spot, and found alternatives so I could keep training without hurting myself even more. And when my bull-headed, determined-to-do-too-much ass tried to make things harder than I should have, she shut that down and put me right back in my place. That’s a real coach—and a real friend.

And let’s talk about the cocky mindset—because yeah, some days I walk into class wanting to go heavier just because I can. Coach Lara sees that immediately and will absolutely humble you. She’ll put me in my place without blinking, then stand there with that little smirk on her face while I’m mid-workout, completely defeated mentally before my body even taps out. Funny as hell—and somehow also amazing at the same time.

One of the greatest parts of her classes is the warm-ups and cool-downs. She knows exactly when we need to be properly warmed up and exactly when our bodies are begging for a deep stretch. Don’t let the calm vibe fool you—because the second she pulls out the stretching portion, she has us making noises we didn’t even know were humanly possible. Limbs shaking, faces twisted, pride gone. And there she is…standing there with that smirk on her face, fully aware of the chaos she just caused. Absolutely ruthless. And yeah—I love her for it.

Because of her insane knowledge, attention to detail, and genuine care, I made a full recovery, and I owe that to her. Since then, I’ve leveled up in every way possible—CrossFit, weightlifting, strength, confidence—you name it. I lift heavier, move better, and walk into workouts knowing exactly what I’m capable of.

And here’s where it gets even more personal—my son also trained with Coach Lara during a very severe injury. As a parent, trusting someone with your kid during recovery is huge, and she handled it flawlessly. She guided him, assisted him every step of the way, and created an environment and workouts catered explicitly to his injury and his pace. No rushing. No ego. Just smart, intentional coaching. Because of her, his recovery was faster, stronger, and safer than we ever expected. That alone tells you everything you need to know about the kind of coach—and human—she is.

Every single class, Coach Lara shows up and goes above and beyond. Every WOD, every AMRAP, every barbell session—she breaks shit down, drills proper technique, and gives you the confidence to push weight you never thought you could touch. She doesn’t just tell you what to do—she teaches you how to be strong and trust your body.

And let’s be clear—she will push you. Hard. She will challenge you, test you, and refuse to let you half-ass anything. And all that pushing? It delivers unreal results.

Because of Coach Lara and Boyer Performance, I didn’t just get stronger—I gained a family and a community I would never trade for the world. If you want a coach who gives a fuck, who knows her shit, and who will humble you, challenge you, and show you strength you didn’t even know you had—this is the place! 💪🏻🔥💪🏻
-Kati, 40 years old, Virginia