MEET YOUR TRAINERS

  • Andrew, the co-owner and co-founder of D.U.F.F., boasts a rich background in athletics and a dual B.S. degree in Health Science and Athletic Training. Originating from Trumbull, CT, he engaged in sports like baseball, football, and soccer throughout the year. His passion for baseball, alongside an interest in sports medicine and exercise science, led him to Guilford College in Greensboro, NC, where he achieved his double major.

    During his college years, Andrew was not only a committed varsity baseball player for four years but also garnered all-state and all-region honors. He continues to indulge his love for the game by playing in the Charleston Men’s Adult Baseball League.

    With national certification from the National Athletic Training Association (N.A.T.A.) and credentials as a certified Personal Trainer, Andrew has dedicated over 20 years to personal and group training in Charleston, South Carolina. His career is a testament to his love for the profession, reflected in the remarkable transformations he has facilitated for his clients, both physically and in their overall lives.

    Andrew’s expertise encompasses a wide range of fitness disciplines including weight loss, functional exercise, nutrition, athletic training, sports performance, rehabilitation, and Olympic Lifting. He is actively involved in instructing group fitness classes at DUFF and coaching personal training clients.

    He has also made his mark on the global fitness stage, ranking in the top 1% out of over 6,500 athletes in the Southeast Region in worldwide workout competitions.

    A sports enthusiast through and through, Andrew's loyalty lies with teams like Notre Dame, the NY Giants, and the NY Mets. He shares his life with his wife and fellow trainer, Anna Duffy, and their beloved daughter, Holden.

  • Anna Duffy, NCCPT-certified personal trainer, dotFit-certified, and a Weight Management Specialist, hails from Charleston. She attended First Baptist School downtown and later graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Appalachian State University.

    A sports enthusiast, Anna engaged in volleyball, basketball, softball, and track during her high school years. Despite being diagnosed with juvenile diabetes at 11 and Graves' disease at 30, Anna has remained undeterred, living by the maxim, “I control my diabetes; it does not control me.” She channels this fighting spirit into competing in local fitness competitions.

    Anna's philosophy for her clients is simple: where there's a will, there's a way. She combines motivation, enthusiasm, and industry expertise to ensure her clients achieve their fitness targets.

    For Anna, the greatest joy comes from witnessing her clients' successes, whether it's completing their first pull-up, losing weight, improving their body fat percentage, running faster miles, mastering the tire flip, or finishing their initial workout session at DUFF. Her clients are more than just clients to her—they're friends, and she is dedicated to supporting them every step of the journey.

    Away from DUFF gym, Anna treasures time with Holden, her six-year-old daughter, and enjoys runs with her dog Boone.

    She and Andrew have been married for a decade, a union that coincides with the founding of DUFF gym, celebrating their commitment to each other in sickness and in HEALTH.

  • Eli, a Nashville, TN native and AFAA-certified personal trainer, spent his early childhood in his hometown before moving to Israel at age 7. He resided in Israel until he was 14, then relocated to South Florida where he attended high school. During his high school years, Eli actively participated in basketball, soccer, and water polo, nurturing his lifelong passion for sports and fitness.

    Following high school, Eli pursued his culinary interests at a culinary school, driven by his love for food. After completing his culinary education, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, equipping himself with the necessary skills to manage his own business in the future.

    After accruing eight years of experience in the food and beverage sector, Eli's fascination with fitness and the human body intensified, driven by the recognition of the profound connection between nutrition, exercise, and well-being. This realization is encapsulated in his personal mantra: "What you eat + How you exercise = Health."

    Eli's commitment to health and fitness is not just a personal journey but a professional mission, as he inspires his clients daily with his relentless enthusiasm and commitment. He's known for his ability to motivate and hold his clients accountable, helping them achieve their goals. Outside the gym, Eli cherishes moments with his family—his son Lian, daughter Elsie, and his wife Alyssa.

    For over nine years, Eli has been a cornerstone of the DUFF gym community, his vibrant spirit contributing significantly to the gym's vibrant atmosphere and success.

  • Steve, originally from Buffalo, NY, holds a B.S. in Health and Wellness with a concentration in Adult Fitness from S.U.N.Y. Buffalo State. His career in fitness began with a six-year tenure at a local gym in Buffalo before he ventured into entrepreneurship, opening his own training studio. After running his successful business for eight years, Steve sold his share and relocated to South Carolina with his wife, Mercedes.

    Steve's enthusiasm for fitness was sparked early on through lacrosse and football, recognizing the direct benefits of strength training on athletic performance. His commitment to fitness extended into his college years, where he began competitive bodybuilding. His dedication culminated in earning a professional bodybuilder status with the O.C.B. organization in 2021. Besides bodybuilding, Steve has also engaged in powerlifting meets and has completed fifteen Tough Mudder events.

    For Steve, personal training is more than a job; it’s about personal interactions and customizing workouts to fulfill individual goals. He champions the idea that his role transcends beyond the scales, focusing on aiding clients to become their best selves, feel stronger, and healthier.

    With over 14 years of experience, Steve has trained a diverse clientele, ranging from children to older adults, including those with varying body types and physical or mental challenges, and from Division 1 athletes to everyday fitness enthusiasts. His ability to adapt and personalize his training approach not only motivates his clients but also serves as the benchmark for his professional satisfaction.

    Steve resides on Isle of Palms with Mercedes, their two dogs, and three cats. He's a devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Bandits, and the Oregon Ducks. On weekends, he enjoys exploring the local beaches and sampling the culinary delights of the area's restaurants.

  • A Charleston local, Jess grew up an Irish Dancer. It was here she found her passion for health and fitness. She went to the College of Charleston where she joined the rowing team, then graduated in December 2021 with a degree in Exercise Science.

    She has been a professional in the health and fitness industry for over 3 years and has had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages and fitness backgrounds.

    In her free time, Jess enjoys spending time with her family and friends or trying out different restaurants or breweries in the area. Whether you are looking to lose weight, boost athletic performance, or simply want to lead a healthier lifestyle, she’s got your back!