KEN PFILE: ASF LEANDER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH – MAY 2018

Ken is a software engineer at a video game development company in the Austin area. He is always at a desk and though he recently got a sit-stand desk, getting in physical activity is especially important to him.

“Ken always shows up ready to work hard and is extremely coachable. We have worked a lot on keeping him fully functioning through his 3-4 days a week powerlifting program,” said Coach Jen. “He has had some back issues in the past so has been very cautious with increasing weight. Over the last several months we have not only strengthened his back but we’ve put big numbers on all his lifts. Ken is a real pleasure to train because he always puts 110% into each session! I’m excited for him to compete in a powerlifting meet soon.”

Ken told us about her ASF experience, read about it below…

 

How long have you been working out at ASF?
I had a consultation with Jen on January 13th of this year, and we started our first sessions on the 15th!

Why did you decide to join ASF?
I started focusing on my health and fitness about two and a half years ago on my 30th birthday.  It started with improving my eating habits, and then eventually increasing my physical activity.  I tried a lot of different things in that time period, and eventually found that I had a strong passion for lifting!  However, in my learning process before I found ASF, I had some recurring trouble with lower back injuries and
pain.  I was not at all confident in my form for the major lifts.  I did some research online to try and find a trainer to help me, and I stumbled upon ASF and Jen Andrew!  After having a consultation with her, I knew ASF would be a good fit for my goals!

What were your goals when you started?
My main goal was to improve my form on the major lifts to prevent further back injuries and pain!  Besides that, I had general goals of improving my fitness, strength, and physique!

How close are you to meeting them?
I pretty much consider my goal of being able to lift heavy without hurting my back met!  Under Jen’s guidance, I have been lifting heavier than I ever have before, and my back issues have been improving tremendously, with no new flare-ups!

What changes have you noticed in your body, mind, spirit since starting at ASF?
— > Body: Much less pain, more strength, improved physique
— > Mind: Have learned a lot about how to train for powerlifting, and have improved my discipline and consistency!
— > Spirit: I’ve really really enjoyed my time at ASF, and everyone’s amazing attitude and commitment there has been infectious!  My passion for fitness has only increased!

What challenges have you had to overcome, if any, since starting out at ASF?
I haven’t had any new challenges come up since starting at ASF thankfully, but I am extremely grateful for ASF’s help in overcoming my back injuries (two herniated discs in the past).  There were times in the past where I didn’t know if I would ever be able to lift heavy, and it was difficult because I was so passionate about wanting to do it.

Any surprises since starting at ASF?
Only the extent at which I have grown to enjoy powerlifting, and how excited I am about future progress!

Why do you like working out with Jen?
Her attitude is amazing, every single session.  She pushes me when she knows I can do more, but also knows my limits!  Her dedication and
commitment to helping me goes above and beyond what I would usually expect from a personal trainer.

What is it about Jen/ASF that keeps you coming back?
I still have a lot to learn!! Lol.  Jen knows how to push me forward, and will be helping me prepare for my first powerlifting competition!

What are your goals & plans for the future at ASF?
I would love to reach a 1000 lbs powerlifting total, and I have plans to participate in my first powerlifting competition in September!

What is your favorite food?
Japanese food – sushi in particular!

Any advice you’d share with a newcomer to ASF?
Stay consistent!  It’s the key to making progress!  Find a way to make training a priority and you will see great results!