THE REASON

I've been a skateboarder for over 25 years. I also lifted weights through college. Skating and lifting kept me pretty ripped and lean. I gradually started gaining weight with every year that I was in the workforce. Like most people, I couldn't find the time to go to the gym. I still skated and thought that was enough. I blew my right shoulder out in 2006. It was a painful and frustrating time. I couldn't skate for what seemed like an eternity. I transferred all of that energy into my physical therapy and was able to start skating again 6 months later. The shoulder started hurting less and I, like most, slacked off on the exercising. My average weight was around 230 pounds.

My daughter was born in 2007. She was almost 10 pounds at birth and grew quickly. By the time she was 6 months old, my bad shoulder and my back would hurt while carrying her. She was the motivation I needed. I had to make the time. I had to do the work. I had to be healthy and strong for her. I started going to the gym at 5:30am, 3-5 days a week. I also started to run and within 7 months I was running about 20 miles a week. The weight started to come off but to be honest, the biggest reward was how I felt. There is a simplicity in exercise. It doesn't lie. A mile is a mile. A pound is a pound. The key is to set a goal. Beat it. Then set a new goal and beat that one. That's what builds the confidence. That's what people will see in you before they notice the weight you lost or the definition in your arms. 

I blew my knee out December 30, 2008 at the same skatepark that did my shoulder in.  It was a serious injury and I headed under the knife again. My recovery was much easier because I was already in shape. That's the key. Fitness is not only about weight loss or appearance. It's about injury prevention, recovery and longevity.  I was forced to give up running at the amount I used to. In searching for alternate forms of cardio and weight training, I found two things that changed my life. Muay Thai and kettlebells.  I was cleared to start "taking it easy" in kickboxing by my surgeon. My school, 5 Points Academy, had kettlebell classes and a gym full of non-traditional training gear. I was immediately hooked. Through kettlebells, I began looking into other forms of functional fitness, strength and conditioning. That's where I found TRX Suspension Training. 

I am now a certified Instructor in both kettlebells and TRX Suspension training. I'm also continuing to add more skills to my arsenal. Now I'm hoping to share what I have learned with others. My daughter was my reason. What's yours?

-Steve