My Story

From an early age, I have been passionate about exercise, regularly engaging in activities like running and playing football with my family. Weekends were spent at the community rec center, lifting weights and playing basketball with my dad and older brothers. In middle school, I often biked to a nearby gym to lift weights, a routine I maintained into high school, adding morning training sessions that included drills and running. Throughout my life, I’ve participated in various programs, including basketball, rugby, volleyball, swimming, track & field, football, baseball, cross country, and Olympic weightlifting.

After a demanding cross-country season, I developed Osgood-Schlatter disease, causing knee pain due to irritation below the kneecap where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone. Subsequently, I experienced lower back pain, which medical professionals attributed to repetitive stress from my activities during growth. This led to fractures in two lower vertebrae, requiring months in a torso brace to restrict mobility and allow healing. Post-brace, I underwent physical therapy, which deepened my interest in physiology and anatomy.

Since then, I’ve dedicated countless hours to learning and implementing effective training methods for myself and others. While not a world-class athlete, I recognize the genetic and socioeconomic factors that enable elite competition. However, I believe many perform below their potential. As someone without exceptional genetic advantages, I’ve worked to identify the limits of the “average Joe.”

I view balance as experiencing extremes, akin to a scale with opposing forces. For instance, alternating between exhaustion and rest provides equilibrium. I strive for balance in all aspects of life, considering health and fitness as essential as eating, sleeping, faith, and family.

Incorporating various fitness components is crucial:

Cardiovascular Strength and Endurance: Allow prolonged participation in activities, supporting heart and vascular health.

Balance and Flexibility: Promote durability, longevity, and injury prevention.

Muscular Development and Hypertrophy: Establish joint stability, metabolic efficiency, and aesthetic confidence.

Speed and Power: Enable high-level competition and enjoyment of activities.

“Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create”
– Jana Kingsford