At Mark Michael Baseball, we have always believed that great player development goes far beyond the batting cage, bullpen, or field. To help young athletes reach their full potential, they need quality instruction, consistent training, and the right people helping them build strength, confidence, and discipline.
That is why we are proud to congratulate Mark DiNardo of DiNardo Sports Performance on being recognized in the 2026 Smiley Pete’s Best of Lex Awards.
Mark earned 1st Place for Best Personal Trainer and DiNardo Sports Performance received an Honorable Mention for Best Gym in the 2026 Best of Lex Sports & Rec category.
For our athletes and families, this recognition comes as no surprise.
Mark DiNardo has been a trusted name in Lexington sports performance for years, helping athletes become stronger, faster, more explosive, and better prepared for competition. His approach to training lines up perfectly with what we value at Mark Michael Baseball: teaching athletes how to move well, train with purpose, and build habits that support long-term success.
Born and raised just outside of Niagara Falls in Lewiston, New York, Mark went on to attend the University at Buffalo, where he was a four-year letterman on the UB Football Team. He earned his B.S. in Exercise Science from the University at Buffalo and later received his Master’s Degree in Kinesiology & Health Promotion from the University of Kentucky. His staff bio also lists certifications and training including TPI Level 3 Junior, NSCA-CSCS, ACSM Health Fitness Instructor, and Bommarito Performance Level 1.
Today, Mark lives in Lexington with his wife, Karla, and their four children, Gracie, Luke, Logan, and Max, along with their dogs, Sadie and Beau. He is also deeply connected to the Lexington sports community, supporting athletes and teams across many levels of competition.
At Mark Michael Baseball School, we are fortunate to be surrounded by outstanding coaches, instructors, and training partners who truly care about helping athletes grow. Mark DiNardo’s recognition as Best Personal Trainer in Lexington is a well-earned honor, and it reflects the hard work, knowledge, and commitment he brings to every athlete he trains.
Congratulations to Mark DiNardo and the entire DiNardo Sports Performance team on this outstanding achievement.
We are proud to have some of the best baseball instructors in the region — and now, officially, the best strength coach too.
Learn more about DiNardo Sports Performance at dinardosports.com.