Athlete of the Month
CLIENT HIGHLIGHTS | APRIL 2023
Both of our featured athletes have been making serious progress lately – because they are all-in on their fitness. Not only do they consistently put in hard work at the gym, they are invested in the entire process, working to ensure their nutrition, recovery and general lifestyle support their training. And all that dedication is paying off in PRs and better health!
ASF South: Jacob Werbin
From Jacob’s trainer, Dave Stogsdill:
Since meeting Jacob about 5 months ago, he has impressed me with his tenacity and consistency in his training. Jacob is the type of athlete to embrace challenges willingly, even with a smile on his face. He takes direction and coaching cues well, and we have been able to work far beyond what he came in looking for initially. What started as an opportunity to build strength and confidence in the gym has now evolved to working on performing higher-level skills like his freestanding handstand, Olympic Weightlifting movements, and generally whatever I throw at him. He is a fast learner and willing to put the work in both while we are together, and consistently does the homework outside of the gym. He eats like an athlete, takes his recovery seriously, and is really coming into his own in the gym. Very proud of the progress we’ve made so far, and looking forward to all the new skills he’ll have in his pocket this time next year!
We asked Jacob a few questions about his experience:
What do you enjoy most about training with Dave?
Dave has surprised me with the things he’s been able to teach me. When I first started, the goal was to get in shape and bulk up, but Dave has guided me into Olympic weightlifting techniques, handstands, and other interesting fitness exercises!
What have you been most proud of since you started training?
So far, either the handstands or power cleans are what I’m most proud of. I think I really surprised Dave (and myself) with what I was capable of.
What are you looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to perfecting the handstand, setting PRs on the bench and power clean, and seeing what new exercises Dave has in store for me in the near future!
ASF Central: Pratham Nar
From Pratham’s trainer, Eric Brooks:
Pratham embodies what it means to truly buy into and trust the process when it comes to his health, fitness and longevity goals. He is hungry for knowledge, extremely coachable and eager to apply what he learns to his everyday actions. Accountability for his decisions made outside of the gym are never an issue and he lets his actions speak louder than words. I have tremendous respect for his efforts as a young man who is taking control of his future and doing what is necessary to set himself up for a healthy lifestyle. What stands out most is his relentless pursuit of the best version of himself regardless of what trial, tribulation or sacrifice stands in front of him.
Pratham had some great things to say about his training, too:
What do you enjoy most about training with Eric?
Eric took the time to understand my goals, fitness level, and any limitations I may have, and programmed personalized workouts that are challenging yet achievable. We do periodic check-ins during our sessions to ensure we are always on track for metrics. We always hit or surpass our targets and expectations. I was very impressed with his ability to solve problems related to form, finding the right areas of improvement required and focusing on strengthening them to improve the overall lift quality. Eric also provides a lot of helpful tips and advice on nutrition, sleep, recovery, and overall wellness, which has helped me make a positive impact in my lifestyle. Having a coach who genuinely cares about my progress and well-being is truly invaluable.
What have you been most proud of since you started training?
Prior to training, I was on a Covid lockdown hangover lifestyle which resulted in some of the worst physical/mental health related side-effects I’ve ever experienced. I was looking to overhaul my lifestyle and work towards a long-term sustainable approach to managing health. I am very happy with the improvements in my overall physical health and energy levels, which has translated into other areas of my life. Seeing the weights I can lift and the definition in my muscles increase over time is incredibly satisfying and motivating. The mental and emotional benefits of training hard, like increased confidence, self-discipline, and grit has made me a better person. Additionally, the consistency required for making progress every day/week/month has helped me develop a strong work ethic and mental resilience that I’m incredibly proud of.
What are you looking forward to?
What I’m looking forward to is continuing to push myself and see how far I can go. I’ve made great progress, but I know there’s a lot of room for improvement and growth. I’m excited to set new goals and work towards achieving them.
