Fitness trainer to the stars dies suddenly on Thanksgiving at 53

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Eric Phillip Fleishman, a celebrity personal trainer known as “Eric the trainer” passed away unexpectedly on Thanksgiving morning, according to a post on his Instagram page. He was 53 years old.

“Eric touched many lives for the better,” said the post. “He was a beacon of light, hope, and love.”

According to his website, Fleishman grew up in rural Maine – where he was president of the local 4H club – and started his training career when he weighed just 98 pounds and was teased for his size. He started martial arts classes at 10 years old.

“This initiated a lifelong passion with martial arts that would eventually lead him to Hollywood, California,” said the site. First, Fleishman spent five years in New York City, where he developed gender-specific workout regiments that eventually became his “Sleeping Beauty” and “Sleeping Giant” programs based on diet, exercise and sleep.

Once he got to Los Angeles, Fleishman sought out “the greatest bodybuilders of all time” including trainers who worked with Arnold Schwarzenegger as well as Nick Kane, Frank Zane and Mr. America Don Howorth.

“Eric’s drive to be the best personal trainer on the planet became legendary and his services in demand,” said his site. In his career, Fleishman worked with Big Time Rush, Ethan Suplee, Kirstie Alley, Michelle Branch, Big John McCarthy, Max Martini and Rachel Crow. He also had a brisk fitness consulting business and was a frequent contributor to “Muscle and Fitness” magazine and sat on the outlet’s advisory board.

Fleishman is survived by his wife, Alysia Kanemoto, his son, parents, close friends and family. They welcome people to join them in celebrating his life by sharing experiences, memories, and tributes to Celebrate.Erics.Life@gmail.com.

“This loss is devastating, and we appreciate your thoughts and prayers,” said the Instagram post.