Hi, I’m Nick De Freitas, and this is J2FIT!
I joined J2FIT in 2016 to help bring the same level of structured strength coaching and athlete development to the NYC strength community. My goal is simple: help people train with purpose, move better, and build strength that carries over into their everyday lives.
My coaching philosophy centers around strong fundamentals, progressive strength development, and long-term athletic development. Through years of coaching athletes, lifters, and everyday clients, I’ve learned that lasting progress comes from a structured training system that prioritizes movement quality, consistency, and intelligent progression.
Over the course of my coaching career, I have worked with a wide range of individuals—from beginners learning foundational lifts, to competitive athletes refining their technique, to professionals and “everyday warriors” in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who want to build a stronger, more capable body as they age. I have also worked in collegiate strength and conditioning environments where I helped train athletes to perform at the highest levels of sport.
As both a USA Weightlifting national-level athlete and coach, I bring firsthand competitive experience to my coaching. Before focusing on strength and conditioning, I was also a collegiate wrestler at Ithaca College, where I developed the discipline, work ethic, and competitive mindset that continue to shape my coaching today.
I have been a passionate lifter and athlete my entire life, and that passion drives my commitment to helping others improve their strength, movement, and overall health.
At J2FIT NYC, I focus on delivering personalized coaching that helps clients build real strength, improve movement quality, and develop confidence in the gym. Whether you are looking to learn Olympic weightlifting, improve overall strength and conditioning, or simply train with greater structure and intent, my goal is to help you progress in a way that is sustainable, effective, and aligned with your goals.
Follow Nick on Instagram → @ndefrei
Qualifications
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science — Ithaca College
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA – CSCS)
USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach
Precision Nutrition Certified Coach
Former Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach - New York University
Strength and Conditioning Intern - Cornell University Athletics
USA Weightlifting National-Level Athlete and Coach
Former Collegiate Wrestler - Ithaca College
10+ Years of Coaching and Personal Training Experience