Entering my 35th year of Coaching is humbling. So many Relationships were fostered while coaching some amazing humans to do amazing things. Helping guide people where they want to go is a rewarding profession. Making the world a better place is at my core. I think back to 1987 when I won my first California Powerlifting Title while still in College. One of the coaches at a Nearby HS (Washington HS) was there watching, and he loved my energy. He asked me to come to help the freshman learn how to lift. At the same time, a patron at the restaurant I worked at asked if I would meet him at the gym and show him how to lift. He offered to pay me. Since that spring, I have been involved as a personal trainer and a Strength Coach. In 1995 I opened my own little studio (800 sq feet) and had owned my own family business ever since. Yes, we survived Covid 19, and JmpowerU is stronger than ever.
This variety of experiences gives me a unique view of the big picture.
Unfortunately, our society as a whole isn’t showing its strength. I see the internet and social media changing the way people see and experience life. Our Kids are worth the challenging work that comes with change.
Most fall prey to clickbait and misinformation all the time, especially in regards to Fitness and Nutrition/Supplements and Sports Performance. I have kids referencing internet charlatans all the time in the gym. I always ask: Who is this person? What are their motives for sharing information? Or are they trying to sell something? Are they educated? Do you know anyone they have coached face to face?
I hope my mentorship will help my clients navigate social media the right way and give them the tools they need to live their best life and stay STRONG. Be careful in who you follow. If you’re following someone because they look good or do fun stuff, I call that entertainment. You just have to accept it as such and limit your entertainment time each day. During education/development time, follow the Real Coaches with years of experience who have spent time educating themselves. They have done lots of groundwork with internships while gaining on-the-job training. It makes me laugh when a teen who is good-looking and strong with phone skills can become an Influencer while still in High School. Good for him to make some $ while he fooled people. Expertise can take decades to develop. Check Education/Experience/Client list/Testimonials/Certifications (NSCA/NASM/CCPS are a few to look for. Try to limit how many you follow or hire privately. Too many chefs in the kitchen can lead to sour stew. I follow and learn from some of the world’s greatest experts in their field (check my IG). The areas that interest me are holistic. Attitude/Motivation/Nutrition/Exercise. All have an equal say in my headspace.
The topic of social media must be talked about plainly. It does a lot of good for the world, yet it’s terrible to our kids is more noticeable. They are brainwashed while getting their pockets picked. I speak to my fellow HS strength coaches, and it’s become a big issue. Kids are more concerned with how their photos appear(arms/abs) than they do working the hard stuff like Barbell Squats. Tech neck is a rampant problem for our young people as I see more lousy posture than good in our middle school and HS populations. I see most adults are susceptible to it as well. I know parents who allow their son/daughter to work out in a gym or at home unsupervised by an adult or coach. Parents are letting the PHONE coach and guide their kids. These kids might end up losing some weight and getting a good arm pump, but it doesn’t prepare them for Sports. The injuries in Sports today are at epidemic proportions. No matter how cool the phone and computer are, Kids need to get face to face again with good Strength Coaches and Each Other.
