The Way to Wellness Center
Est.
Laguna Hills
CA
Wellness & Fitness Center

Your Path to
Optimal Living
Starts Here

We motivate, educate, and inspire people to reach peak performance and balance — physically, mentally, and spiritually.

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Client training at The Way to Wellness Center
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Years of expertise
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Lives transformed
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Client reviews
Personalized
Approach to wellness
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Personal Training Post-Rehab Fitness Balance & Fall Prevention Home Personal Training Athletic Conditioning Life Coaching Toning & Fat Loss Mobility Training Personal Training Post-Rehab Fitness Balance & Fall Prevention Home Personal Training Athletic Conditioning Life Coaching Toning & Fat Loss Mobility Training
Manabu Shimotsu - Personal Trainer
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Years of Experience
Meet Your Trainer

Manabu
Shimotsu

A health and fitness trainer with over 26 years of experience, Manabu has helped hundreds of people achieve their weight loss, strength, and wellness goals.

Manabu began his career at 24 Hour Fitness, where he spent several years building his foundation as a trainer. He then ventured out on his own, launching indoor and outdoor bootcamps that brought high-energy group fitness to the Ladera Ranch, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo, and Lake Forest communities. In 2007, driven by a deeper vision for personalized, results-driven care, he founded The Way to Wellness Center — creating a dedicated space where clients receive the individualized attention, expertise, and support needed to truly transform their health and reclaim their lives.

Nationally certified through NASM and FMS, his diverse background spans pain management, rehabilitation, and weight management — working closely with each client to build lasting results. He received his degree in International Business from California State University, Fullerton.

NASM Certified FMS Certified CrossFit CSU Fullerton
Serving
Laguna Hills · Laguna Woods · Lake Forest · Irvine · Greater Orange County
"

Our comprehensive, personalized approach empowers you to reach a heightened state of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual balance.

— The Way to Wellness Center

01
Motivate
We light the spark within each client — providing the energy, accountability, and encouragement needed to push past limitations.
02
Educate
Knowledge is transformation. We teach clients how their body responds to exercise so progress becomes permanent, not temporary.
03
Inspire
By fostering a positive, friendly environment, we empower every person to reach their full potential in life — not just in the gym.
What We Offer

Fitness &
Wellness Services

Physicians often give patients exercise recommendations without specific guidance. Without a knowledgeable trainer, exercising alone can lead to injury and limited progress. That is exactly where we step in — with expert, personalized care every step of the way.
01
Personal Training
One-on-one sessions tailored to your unique body, goals, and fitness level. Manabu ensures perfect form and maximum results every session.
02
Home Personal Training
We come to you. Same expert guidance and transformative results, delivered in the comfort and convenience of your own home.
03
Pre-Hab & Post-Rehab
Preparing for surgery or recovering afterward? We reduce recovery time and help you safely regain your strength, mobility, and independence.
04
Toning & Fat Loss
Strategic, science-backed programs that reshape your body composition — building lean muscle while reducing body fat safely and sustainably.
05
Balance & Gait Training
Fall prevention, balance testing, and assistive training — essential for older adults or anyone experiencing mobility and stability challenges.
06
Mobility & Flexibility
Improve your range of motion, alleviate chronic pain, and move through everyday life with greater ease, confidence, and freedom.
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Athletic Conditioning
Sport-specific conditioning programs designed to elevate power, speed, and endurance — taking your athletic performance to the next level.
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Group & Couples Sessions
Invite a friend, partner, or group. Laughter burns more calories and builds community. Ask about our discounted couples and group rates.
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Life & Wellness Coaching
Ongoing support, motivation, and accountability beyond the gym — because true wellness is a whole-life commitment, not just a workout.

Your greatest investment is your health. Regain the life you deserve.

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Client Stories

What Our Clients Say

"I can't say enough about the personal care and concern Manabu has for his clients. I still hike Yosemite waterfalls twice a year with more strength than ever — even after spinal decompression surgery. It's so worth the time and effort to be your best self at any age."

Denise — Spinal Surgery Recovery

"Manabu is simply the very BEST personal trainer. Full of intelligence, passion, energy, and care. An absolutely breathtaking experience — both physically and mentally."

Angele

"He has completely changed my life for the better. Training with him has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. I could not have done it without him."

Jacob

"I have regained my health, spirits, and confidence, and am no longer on ANY medications. The team took the entire picture of my health into consideration, not just my symptoms."

Fred

"By Christmas I had lost 30 lbs of body fat, gained 22 lbs of lean tissue, and dropped 3 pant sizes. For the first time in my life I was lean and strong."

Sue Q.
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Get In Touch

Let's Begin
Your Journey

Location
23141 Verdugo Drive, Suite 104
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Phone & Text
(949) 726-2677
Email
info@TheWayToWellnessCenter.com
Find Us
Send Us a Message
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you located?
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We are conveniently located at 23141 Verdugo Drive, Suite 104, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 — in the heart of Orange County, easily accessible from Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Irvine, and surrounding communities.
Do you offer a free consultation?
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Yes! We offer a complimentary initial consultation so we can learn about your health history, goals, and lifestyle. This allows us to design a personalized program that is safe, effective, and tailored specifically to you. Simply reach out to schedule yours.
What are your hours?
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We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle. Sessions are available Monday through Saturday, with early morning and evening appointments available. Please contact us directly at (949) 726-2677 to find a time that works best for you.
Do you work with seniors or people recovering from surgery?
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Absolutely. This is one of our specialties. Manabu has extensive experience in pre-hab and post-rehab training, balance and fall prevention, and working with older adults. We work closely with your physician to ensure your program is safe and supports your recovery.
Can you train me at my home?
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Yes! Our home personal training service brings the full expertise of The Way to Wellness Center directly to your door. Whether you prefer to train in your living room, backyard, or garage, we bring everything needed for a highly effective workout.
How quickly will I see results?
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Results vary depending on your goals, consistency, and starting point — but most clients begin noticing improvements in energy, strength, and confidence within the first few weeks. Significant physical transformation typically becomes visible within 8 to 12 weeks of consistent training.
Do I need any prior fitness experience?
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Not at all. We welcome clients of every fitness level — from complete beginners to seasoned athletes. Every program is built from the ground up based on where you are today, ensuring a safe, progressive, and rewarding experience regardless of your background.
What makes you different from other trainers?
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With over 26 years of experience, national certifications, and a deeply personalized approach, Manabu goes beyond just exercise. He takes the entire picture of your health into consideration — physical, mental, and emotional — and provides the ongoing motivation and education that turns short-term effort into lasting lifestyle change.
How do I get started?
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Getting started is easy! Simply fill out the contact form on this page, call or text us at (949) 726-2677, or email us at info@TheWayToWellnessCenter.com. We'll schedule your free consultation and begin building your personalized wellness journey right away.
How long is each session?
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Each session is 60 minutes — and every minute is intentional. We believe that quality always outweighs quantity, so your hour with Manabu is fully dedicated to you. Sessions begin with a brief check-in to discuss how you are feeling, any concerns, and your progress since your last visit. From there, your workout is structured to maximize results while ensuring you feel heard, supported, and confident in every movement. There is always time at the end to address questions, review your progress, and set goals for your next session. You will never feel rushed — this hour is entirely yours.