There’s nothing like a good story. Here’s mine.
How I got into strength.
In my line of work, I often get asked if I’ve “always been strong”. The quickest answer being simply: no. I started strength-training when I was 16 years old. I was physically weak to start, but I was strong in my mind, and that makes all the difference. I had been diagnosed at 14 years old with two chronic illnesses (POTS + Chronic Fatigue), that resulted in severe osteoporosis and systemic de-conditioning. I was nearly bedridden for over a year. I knew I needed to make some revisions to my lifestyle, or my body would continue to degrade. I found many of those revisions in a barbell. I didn’t have much to start with, which is why it is critical for me to assure you: it does not matter where you start. Where would you like to end up?
To me, weight-training became symbolic to how I adapted to other challenges in life. I am a big believer that what you do in the gym - the discipline and effort you exert - can be applied to everything else you do in life.
I specialize in training all experience levels for goals related to strength + performance. I have an evidence-based and movement-positive approach to training. I also genuinely enjoy teaching, and always strive to provide tools to my clients that help them become self-sustainable long-term. I have worked with individuals to improve performance in the sports of strongman, rugby, powerlifting, BJJ, and more. Currently, I enjoy inducting new faces into the world of competitive powerlifting via Team YellowLizard, where I have coached and handled for many lifters during their first meets and beyond, from ages 18 to 70!
I have attained my NASM-CPT and USPA-CPCP as well as completed several intensive educational programs related to strength and performance in athletes. I have had the opportunity to learn directly from some incredible individuals, including, but not limited to: Chris Beardsley with Strength and Conditioning Research, Lord Elliott with USPA Powerlifting, Laura Phelps at Queen Bee Power, Trevor Jaffe with Jaffe Strength, and Janis Finkelman with Kabuki Strength. I work with my clients in person through All Athletes Welcome Gym, owned by MJ Stock. Strength training can, and should, be for everyone.
Strong in mind, strong in body, strong in spirit.
Strong on the platform.
