Founder and owner
James Harris
James Harris opened Brentwood Barbell in 2016, driven by a desire to help people dramatically improve their quality of life through exercise and nutrition. Brentwood Barbell has always been about creating an atmosphere where Strength is for Everyone! This inclusive idea has created a community of like-minded people centered around the elegance and simplicity of basic barbell training.
James found barbell training in an attempt to rehabilitate is knees after his playing days (basketball) had long-since finished. When nothing else seemed to work, getting stronger did. All through physical therapy school, James knew his mission was going to be to provide a seamless transition between the fields of rehabilitation and strength and conditioning. To provide this transition in a way that made sense to people and got them the results they needed. To James, performance and rehabilitation are the same, they simply represent different entry points.
These days, Brentwood Barbell is THE place to go if you’re new to strength training, want a customized and guided approach, or want to finally see the results you’re looking for.
James has a Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. An additional Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Maryville University, and finally, James has his Master of Physical Therapy from Maryville University. In addition to building, owning, and operating Brentwood Barbell, James is a licensed physical therapist in the state of Missouri.
Our coaches
Alex Gardner
Head Coach
Bachelor’s Degree Exercise Sciences Webster University
Alex got into coaching after his football career. Playing football at the collegiate level taught him valuable lessons of hard work, commitment, and what it takes to be a great athlete.
After graduating from Webster University and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in exercise sciences, Alex wanted to share his passion for strength and the weight room with others.
Alex competes in the USPA powerlifting federation and coaches many athletes here at the gym. The athletes range from high school football, golfers, powerlifters, marathon runners, and special forces. Among these specialty groups, Alex thoroughly enjoys helping everyday moms and dads find their passion for strength!
Lori Ventimiglia
General Manager
Coach
Lori is currently studying for the Precision Nutrition Level 1 coaching certificate. Her background in HR and management made coaching an easy choice when she discovered her love for barbell training.
Lori has been a coach for 5 years now and has found her passion for getting women and masters athletes stronger!
Lori’s husband Thad and their 3 dogs enjoy being outdoors hiking, swimming, and fishing in their spare time. You are likely to see their dog Evangaline at the gym with her most days!
Lori also has a culinary arts degree and enjoys being creative in the kitchen, making healthy but flavorful meals.
Her mission is to get a barbell into the hands of as many women as possible!