Joseph Ventress, B.A., CSCS

Joseph Ventress is the charismatic exercise expert at LV Fitness.  While Joe always enjoyed sports, during his undergraduate years at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette his interest matured into a love of exercise science and the sport of Judo.  As a player, Joe competed with the U.L.L. Judo team and trained at the Olympic training center in Colorado Springs, CO.  He also coached players ranging in age from six to forty-six.  During his tenure as the university Judo coach, Joe produced four nationally ranked Judo players. 

While in Lafayette, Joe also developed a personal training business.  As a personal trainer, Joseph has experience working wtih a diverse group of clients ranging from overweight youth to elite grapplers seeking a competitive edge. 

After finishing his university studies with a B.A. in exercise science, "Coach Joe" moved with his wife to Pittsburgh.  As part of his transition to his new city, he joined Public Allies, an Americorps program, and spent a year enhancing strategies to end poverty and hunger in Allegheny County.  His work gave him a deeper understanding of the complex factors that affect fitness, health, and wellness in low-income populations.  Joe continues to remain engaged with the issues of childhood obesity and African-American health. 

In addition to his undergraduate degree, Joe is a certified strength and conditioning specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.  His research has been published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning, an academic, peer-reviewed publication.  Joseph is also a nationally certified D-Level Olympic Judo coach.