“We are magnetically drawn to a coach whose certainty is greater than our doubt.” - Dave Buck

Welcome

About Sam

I've spent 35+ years turning mistakes into wisdom as a husband, mentor, coach, world traveler, and amateur athlete. With extensive credentials in exercise science and performance (MS, CSCS, CSPS, FRCms, PES, CES, CSNC, CPT), I bring both expertise and experience to my coaching practice.

I embrace a growth mindset and seek to represent Arete, ἀρετή; excellence or virtue - the full realization of my potential as a man.

I have traveled to 32 states and 28 countries, so far, and gained invaluable experiences through my exposure to so many unique cultures and people. As much as I love and need my alone time, human connection is what I thrive on.

I've seen firsthand how human connection transforms lives - scientifically linked to better health outcomes, but more importantly, creating meaning and purpose. Perhaps this is why I am a coach. And perhaps social regularity is one of the greatest benefits of strength training.

What sets my coaching approach apart is the integration of physical training with psychological resilience. I've helped clients not only transform their bodies but also their mindsets—like John, who at 62 went from avoiding stairs to climbing mountains after our work together.

At the end of the day, having someone you can count on to provide truth and grace is necessary. If you're seeking someone who offers both truth and grace on your journey toward excellence, I'm ready to be that someone for you.

my background

For over 15 years, Coach Sam Arnold has dedicated his career to transforming lives through evidence-based training — as a researcher, personal trainer, entrepreneur, professor, and presenter.

Education:

  • Masters of Science in Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention and Sport Psychology - California University of PA (2020)

  • Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science - University of Pittsburgh (2010)

Professional Certifications:

  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

  • Certified Special Population Specialist (CSPS)

  • Functional Range Conditioning Movement Specialist (FRCms)

  • Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)

  • Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)

  • Certified Sports Nutrition Coach (CSNC)

  • Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)

As co-owner of SHAPE Training, LLC, Sam leads the company's educational initiative, SHAPE University. Under his direction, SHAPE University delivers practical, evidence-based fitness education that professionals can immediately apply with their clients, moving beyond textbook theory to real-world results.

As an adjunct professor at Chatham University, Coach Sam teaches Principles of Strength and Conditioning, equipping future fitness professionals with practical knowledge they can apply immediately in their careers.

His extensive experience working with diverse populations—from professional athletes to older adults with chronic conditions—informs his holistic, science-based approach to human performance.

This blend of academic knowledge and hands-on expertise makes Coach Sam uniquely qualified to guide clients toward their full potential—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Coach Sam volunteering at the Green Lion Daycare in Saigon, Vietnam 2014
Coach Sam and his trusty motorcycle in Saigon, Vietnam 2014

more than a trainer

My parents raised me to be grateful for my blessings and always to give in whatever ways you are able. Growing up, I was fortunate to be surrounded by supportive, nurturing, forward thinking, and service-oriented friends and family.

I continue to be a friend of TYC where I have been a camper, workshop leader and served as Director of the Trinity Youth Conference held annually in Bedford, PA.

Throughout my life I have enjoyed the luxury of travel. In so many ways I believe travel has enriched my life in ways beyond explanation.

I spend much of my travel time learning about the cultures I am an alien to and, more often than not, finding ways to serve my host communities in some small way. I am a firm believer that helping others is not a subtraction but one that pays infinite dividends.

I am blessed to call Pittsburgh, PA my home along with my amazing wife, Whitney, and our larger than life pooch, Opie (Optimus Prime).

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Two people in helmets and life jackets kayaking in icy water with icebergs and mountains in the background.

  • I’ve been training with Sam Arnold at Shape for almost four years now. I can’t say enough how much I appreciate his hard work and dedication to helping me continue to work towards a healthy athletic lifestyle. His commitment keeps me in a healthy place where i can continue to do all the activities I enjoy, most important of which is engaging and playing with my kids.

    - Aaron

  • I’ve been training at Shape for seven years and cannot say enough good things. Throughout that time (even via Zoom during the pandemic!), I have had the privilege to work with Sam Arnold as my personal trainer, who not only provided the challenge, motivation and accountability to help me become strong, but who also has a deep understanding of physiology and was able to draw on that to adapt and modify my program as necessary to help me overcome a serious injury that I had suffered outside the gym.

    - Alex

  • The professional services my son received is far above anything I expected. My son stayed injury free and is running Division 1. The guidance and support given by Sam Arnold had not only given him a trainer, but also a friend and that is what I admire most.

    - Frank

  • I recently received my NASM Personal Trainer Certificate after completing Shape's CPT Fast-Track program. Sam and the Shape team give you a schedule to complete the program fast, plus plenty of resources, study tools, and support to help you study and understand the material. Sam is so knowledgeable and helpful, so I knew I was in good hands with an expert in this field. I'm looking forward to continuing to learn and grow with the knowledge and skills I've gained and to help people in my community

    - Coach Janessa