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If I wanted to lose 10-20 pounds between now and summer, here’s exactly what I would do. First, I would eliminate any chance of backing out by hiring a coach. Yes, even though I know what to do, I would still invest in personal training and nutrition coaching. Why? Because accountability is key. I still hire coaches to help me in areas where I want to improve, and this would be no different. To ensure my commitment, I’d pay upfront—removing the option to quit. Next, I would follow my coach’s guidance to the letter. No second-guessing, no half-measures—just execution. Daily Habits for Success: - Start each morning with a glass of water  and a high-protein breakfast—at least 30 grams of protein. My nutrition coach would be invaluable in helping me fine-tune this. - Strength train at least 3 times per week . My personal trainer would be there to make sure I show up! - Stay active on non-gym days.  Whether it’s a long walk, an at-home workout, or just keeping busy around the house, movement would be non-negotiable. - Cut out (or drastically reduce) alcohol and calorie-containing drinks.  Liquid calories add up fast and offer little nutritional value. - Prioritize whole foods, especially protein.  My nutrition coach would remind me of this constantly, and I’d make sure to follow through. If I stuck to these simple strategies, I have no doubt I’d reach my goal by summer. And yes—this process is simple. But simple doesn’t mean easy. The hardest part is staying consistent, which is exactly why I’d hire a coach—to hold me accountable and ensure I follow through. The truth is, most of us know what to do. But without accountability, sticking to it becomes the real challenge. So, if you’re serious about hitting your goals this summer, ask yourself—who’s holding you accountable?

Strength training isn’t just about aesthetics or being stronger than the next person—it’s a powerful tool for healing, both physically and mentally. Its benefits go far beyond muscle definition and heavy lifts. Let’s dive into why strength training is one of the most effective ways to improve overall well-being. Strength Training for Physical Healing One of the most obvious benefits of strength training is its ability to alleviate physical ailments. Chronic back pain, knee pain, and other persistent issues often improve with consistent strength training. I’ve experienced this firsthand and have witnessed it countless times over my 20+ years in the fitness industry. Building strength not only supports injury recovery but also prevents future pain by improving mobility, stability, and overall function. Mental Health Benefits: A Natural Antidepressant Strength training isn’t just about the body—it’s equally transformative for the mind. The positive effects on mood, anxiety, and depression can be felt almost immediately. In fact, the longer I’ve been in the fitness field, the more I’ve noticed that many people come to the gym not just to get fit but to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Physical activity, especially strength training, is one of the most effective ways to regulate mental health and boost overall well-being. The Fountain of Youth: Strength Training as We Age Who wouldn’t want to feel younger than their years? Strength training is like a fountain of youth, helping to counteract the effects of aging. It keeps us mobile, strong, and capable, allowing us to maintain independence and vitality as we grow older. From improving posture to enhancing joint health and increasing energy levels, the benefits of strength training make aging a far smoother and more empowering process. More Than Just Muscles At the end of the day, strength training is about much more than looking good or lifting heavy—but let’s be honest, those are pretty great perks too! More importantly, it’s a lifelong tool for healing, resilience, and overall well-being. So if you haven’t yet embraced strength training, now is the perfect time to start—you might be surprised at just how transformative it can be.

In today’s digital world, we are constantly bombarded with flashy shortcuts to success. Social media feeds are filled with headlines like “The One Hack You Need to Transform Your Life”  or “The Secret Daily Routine of the Ultra-Successful.”  These claims are designed to grab your attention, promising an easy path to fitness, wealth, or happiness. But here’s the truth: there is no single hack that will change your life overnight. Success isn’t the result of one magical trick—it’s the culmination of thousands of small, consistent actions over time. The Problem with Quick Fixes The biggest issue with these so-called hacks is that they create a false sense of simplicity. They make it seem as though one specific action—taking a cold plunge, meditating for five minutes, or following a billionaire’s morning routine—is the golden ticket to achievement. However, those who are truly successful didn’t get there because of a single habit. They reached their goals by doing countless small things right, day after day. The Power of Small Wins Instead of searching for the one  thing that will change your life, shift your mindset to focus on the many small things you can do consistently. For example, let’s say you see successful people raving about their daily sauna sessions or ice baths. It’s easy to believe that these practices are the secret to their achievements. But in reality, those habits came after  years of discipline in other areas. Before they added saunas and ice baths to their routines, they were already waking up early, eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and maintaining productive work habits. Where to Start Rather than investing time and money into the latest trending hack, start with small, sustainable habits that lay a strong foundation. Here are a few places to begin: - Prioritize Sleep  – A well-rested mind and body perform better in every aspect of life. - Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods  – Fuel your body with whole, balanced meals to sustain energy and focus. - Move Daily  – Whether it’s a short walk, a workout, or stretching, consistent movement adds up. - Set Simple Daily Goals  – Accomplishing small tasks each day builds momentum and confidence. - Limit Distractions  – Reducing mindless scrolling or unnecessary tasks allows for deeper focus on meaningful work. The Big Picture Success isn’t built on a single action—it’s the result of stacking numerous small wins over time. The next time you’re tempted by the latest life-changing hack, pause and reflect. Are you already mastering the basics? Are you consistently making small improvements? Instead of chasing shortcuts, focus on the fundamentals. Build good habits, make smart choices, and keep moving forward. Over time, these small wins will accumulate into something far greater than any single hack could ever promise. Start small. Stay consistent. Success will follow.

Confidence is not something we are born with—it is something we build. And how do we build it? Through adversity. Every challenge, every struggle, every uncomfortable moment is an opportunity to grow stronger. Whether in the gym or in life, the path to becoming your best self is paved with obstacles. The question is: will you avoid them, or will you attack them head-on? At Axis Strength Training, we know that true strength is earned, not given. You don’t grow by staying comfortable. You grow by pushing limits, by embracing discomfort, by seeking the next challenge. Think about it—when was the last time you got stronger by lifting the same weight, running the same distance, or doing the same routine? Progress demands resistance. That’s the same principle that applies to life. Each time you overcome an obstacle, you prove to yourself that you are capable of more. You unlock a new level, revealing the next, more difficult challenge to conquer. And so the cycle continues: struggle, grow,  repeat. The more you embrace the process, the more confident, resilient, and powerful you become. So here’s my challenge to you: Don’t just endure hardships—seek them out. Look for opportunities to test yourself, to break barriers, to evolve. Don’t shy away from discomfort; lean into it. The obstacles in your path aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones to your next evolution. Every weight you lift, every rep you grind through, every drop of sweat is a testament to your willingness to grow. And when life throws challenges your way, meet them with the same mindset. Slay your dragons, one by one, and keep climbing. Strength isn’t just about muscles—it’s about mindset. Train both, and there will be no limit to what you can achieve. Are you ready to level up?

Focus. Let’s talk about its power. I like to think of focus in two distinct ways. The first is a slow, consistent drip—like water steadily carving grooves into rock over years of persistence. It’s the kind of focus that compounds over time, where small, daily efforts accumulate into significant results. The second is an intense, concentrated stream—like a high-pressure jet that carves into solid objects almost instantly. This type of focus is powerful in short bursts, making immediate, impactful changes in a shorter time frame. Both methods drive progress. One relies on patient, steady effort; the other harnesses short-term intensity to create immediate movement. Neither is superior—both are effective tools, depending on your situation and goals. Looking back, I’ve used both. In my younger years, I often leaned into extreme, short bursts of focus to create change. I remember being teased by peers for going "all in" on new endeavors. But I learned that these concentrated efforts can move the needle in a big way. Take my financial journey, for example. At one point, I needed a reset, so I went all in on Dave Ramsey’s financial baby steps. I sold my car for a cheaper one I could pay for in cash, stopped eating out, and even clipped coupons—yes, I went that far! But in a short period, I saw real progress. That intense focus got me where I needed to be. Once I was financially stable, I transitioned to the slow drip approach, making steady, sustainable progress over time. This concept applies to any area of life—finances, fitness, family, or personal growth. The key is to get clear on what you want, commit to making the necessary changes, and take action. Whether you adopt a slow-drip approach or go full throttle with a concentrated burst, both methods will get you there. Most importantly, don’t let the judgment of others hold you back. The critics sit on the sidelines while you’re in the arena. Stay focused, commit to your path, and keep moving forward—one drip or one burst at a time.

Have you ever stopped yourself from doing something you truly wanted to do because of fear? You talk yourself out of it, using logic and common sense, only to regret it later. I think most of us have been there. At the time, we come up with all the reasons why we shouldn’t do it—convincing ourselves it’s the right  decision to back out. But if we’re being honest, fear is usually the real reason. We’re afraid, and rather than admit it, we disguise it as something else. Those who know me well might find this ironic. After all, I’ve jumped out of airplanes, bungee-jumped, and cliff-dived. I’ve climbed tall ladders in the fire service and rappelled from helicopters. Yet, despite all of that, I have a healthy respect for heights—to put it lightly, I don’t love them. Even though I’ve faced my fear of heights many times, it still  lingers. Recently, my wife, Martha, and I have been traveling more, visiting incredible places like Colorado and Utah. Thanks to Martha’s exceptional  navigation skills and thrill-seeking nature, we inevitably find ourselves driving along narrow dirt roads that hang over 10,000-foot cliffs. And when we finally get out of the car? We get to hike those same death-defying canyon edges. Now, you might think that after everything I’ve done, these drives and hikes would be no big deal. But that fear I worked so hard to overcome? It’s still there. That’s when I realized something important: I never actually got rid  of the fear—I just learned how to act in spite of it. One recent hike, which zigzagged up the side of a steep canyon with sheer drop-offs, was high on Martha’s to-do list. I took one look at it and thought, Nope.  I considered suggesting a different trail or just waiting at the bottom. Climbing that steep, exposed trail seemed reckless, and I almost convinced myself that I  was the smart one for not wanting to do it. But then I asked myself—why was I still afraid? After all the experiences I’d had with heights, why hadn’t I “cured” this fear? The answer hit me: You don’t always eliminate fear. You learn to move forward despite it. I remembered something crucial: I did all those other things scared  too. That’s what it’s about—feeling the fear and doing it anyway. Each time you push through, you build confidence. You prove to yourself that fear doesn’t have to stop you. So, I reluctantly followed Martha up the canyon trail. Step by step, my heart raced, my mind screamed at me to turn back—but I kept going. And when we finally reached the top? The view was stunning. I was glad I had done it. Fear doesn’t always go away. But if you push through it, you’ll find that what’s on the other side is often worth it. So the next time fear creeps in, remember this: Feel the fear—and do it anyway. -Jason axisstrengthtraining.com

The most important step in any journey is also the most difficult: the first step. And that’s exactly where most people fail—before they even begin. But why is that first step so hard to take? At its core, it comes down to fear. Fear of failure, fear of judgment—both from others and from ourselves. When we consider making a change in our lives, whether it’s starting a business, getting in shape, or pursuing a new passion, our minds instinctively race to all the things that could go wrong. "What if I fail?" "What if people laugh at me?" "What if I prove them right when they said I wouldn’t make it?" Or even worse, "What if I let myself down?" These thoughts keep us stuck. Staying where we are feels safe . It’s like standing at the edge of a cliff, looking down at the water below, thinking, No way. I can’t do this.  We convince ourselves that it’s easier—safer—to keep our feet planted firmly on solid ground. But is it? Is staying stuck really easier in the long run? Does clinging to comfort truly protect us? Or are we meant for more? I believe we are meant to jump. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, it’s risky. But it’s also worth it . Because the moment you take that first step—the moment you leap—you set a new world in motion. You begin to realize that you are the creator of your own life. You start proving to yourself that you can  face your fears, and in doing so, you gain the power to shape your future. What once felt terrifying soon becomes just another step. You adapt, you grow, and you get closer to your goals. Along the way, there will be more cliffs to jump from, more obstacles to overcome—but each time, you’ll be stronger. With every leap, you build courage. Life is funny that way. We convince ourselves that staying safe will protect us from failure, but in reality, the greatest risk is never becoming who we’re meant to be. So, this is my call to you: Start. Whatever it is you’ve been hesitating on—go do it.

Today, I turn 48 years young—and I feel incredible. Looking back on my journey, I remember the excitement of starting my career as a firefighter in my mid 20s. It was an exhilarating time, filled with the promise of adventure and the opportunity to serve. Over the years, I built a fulfilling career, made lifelong friends, and worked alongside some truly great leaders. Now, as I approach the later end of my 40s, I can’t help but recall the moments when I used to tease the senior firefighters about being "out of shape," hoping to nudge them into working out. Their usual response? "Wait until you're 40—you'll be fat and broken too." Well, here I am at 48, and I feel stronger and healthier than ever. So, what made the difference? Why do some people see their 40s as the beginning of the decline while others feel like they’re just getting started? It’s not about who had it easier or harder. I’ve faced my share of challenges—not only as a firefighter but also as an Army paratrooper, enduring years of wear and tear on my body. I’ve indulged in bad food and alcohol just like anyone else. But looking back, there was one key factor that kept me feeling strong and resilient: strength training . How Strength Training Changed Everything In my early years, I subscribed to the idea that cardio was king . After all, that’s what we did in the Army—running, push-ups, sit-ups, and grueling ruck marches. But when I joined the fire department, I noticed something: the veteran firefighters were big, strong, and powerful . They weren’t just surviving the job—they were thriving in it. After experiencing my first real fires, I realized that extra size and strength were assets. Lugging heavy hoses through smoke-filled buildings was no joke. So, I started spending more time in the weight room and running less. The results were immediate: Dragging hose lines became easier. My back and knee pain started to disappear. I felt more capable, not just at work but in everyday life. That’s when I went down the rabbit hole of strength training vs. cardio. Strength Training vs. Cardio: The Truth To be clear, I’m not against cardio. Cardiovascular and cardiorespiratory health are essential , especially for a physically demanding job like firefighting. But what I discovered was that getting stronger actually improved my endurance . Because I was stronger: ✔️ I used less energy to perform tasks. ✔️ I didn’t breathe as heavily during fire scenes. ✔️ I could work longer without exhausting my air supply. In other words, strength training wasn’t just about building muscle—it enhanced my overall performance  and kept me pain-free as I aged. My Advice: Start Strength Training Now If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past 20 years, it’s that strength training is the ultimate tool for longevity . It has helped me stay strong, increased my cardiovascular endurance, eliminated my joint pain, and kept me feeling amazing as I approach 50. So, if you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond— start strength training now . Your future self will thank you.

In today’s world of social media and instant access to snapshots of other people’s lives, it’s all too easy to fall into the comparison trap. We scroll through perfectly curated posts—flawless physiques, luxurious homes, expensive cars—and think, I’m so far behind. But here’s the truth: what you’re seeing online is a highlight reel, not the full story. Behind every polished post is a real person living a real life—complete with struggles, setbacks, and challenges. That perfect gym selfie? It doesn’t show the tough mornings, missed workouts, or days they didn’t feel motivated. That glamorous vacation photo? It doesn’t reflect the hard work, sacrifices, or stress that made it possible. Social media can be an amazing tool when used in a healthy way. But if you find yourself comparing your life to the filtered moments others choose to share, it can be damaging to your mindset and self-esteem. The next time you catch yourself thinking, Why am I not there yet?  take a step back. Remember, every person has a unique journey—complete with ups and downs, victories and struggles. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on the one person who truly matters: the person you were yesterday. At Axis Strength Training, we believe in the power of consistent self-improvement. Whether you’re working toward a new PR in the gym or striving for personal growth in your daily life, the only competition you need is with yourself. Aim to improve by just 1% every day. That’s it. Over time, those small, daily wins add up to monumental progress. When you compare yourself to others, you’re putting energy into something you can’t control. But when you focus on your own growth, you regain that power. Progress might be slow, but as long as you’re moving forward—even just a little—you’re winning your race. This mindset isn’t just for the gym; it’s a game-changer for life. Stop looking at the lanes of others and stay focused on your own. Set your goals, work hard, and celebrate your progress—no matter how small it may seem. Remember, what matters most isn’t how you measure up to someone else’s highlight reel. It’s how you’re growing, learning, and becoming better than the person you were yesterday. So let’s make a pact: Stay in your lane. Keep looking forward. Keep improving. You’re not in competition with anyone but yourself. Let’s get stronger together, one day at a time. -Jason

Finding ways to stay fit while traveling can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable. Everyone’s approach will look a little different, but I want to share my perspective and hope it helps you stay active and feel good while on the go. In my everyday life at home, my routine is locked in: I work out every morning after writing and working on my business. Since I train daily, I don’t stress about squeezing in a workout when I’m traveling for just a day or two. I use those short trips as rest days, knowing my body is recovering and that I’ll be back in the gym soon enough. Longer trips, however, require a little more planning to stay active. Take my current two-week trip as an example. We’ve been hiking and climbing rocks most days, often trekking for 3-5 hours. These activities have been a great way to keep my body moving while also exploring the outdoors. On days when our hikes are shorter or we have less activity planned, I make sure to do quick workouts to keep my momentum going. Here’s an example: - At the Airbnb , I knocked out 10 rounds of 15 air squats and 10 push-ups. It wasn’t a grueling workout, but it was enough to maintain my strength and, more importantly, my routine. - At a park , we found pull-up bars and dip bars. I did 10 rounds of 5 pull-ups and 5 dips. This one was tougher, and I felt the muscle soreness for days! These short, simple workouts are effective for maintaining strength and staying consistent. Plus, they don’t take up much time, which means I can still enjoy the trip without feeling tied to a strict gym schedule. Nutrition also plays a huge role. We prefer to stay in Airbnbs so we can cook our own meals and stick to healthier options instead of relying on eating out. It’s a small step that makes a big difference. Remember, the goal while traveling isn’t necessarily to improve your fitness or hit personal records. It’s about maintaining momentum, staying active, and enjoying the trip. Don’t stress about missing a workout or taking a rest day. Do what you can, keep moving when possible, and enjoy the experience. I hope these tips inspire you to find a balance between fitness and travel. Stay active, stay healthy, and enjoy every moment of your adventure! -Jason

In a world obsessed with quick fixes and flashy trends, it’s easy to overlook the power of mastering the basics. At Axis Strength Training, we believe the foundation of long-term success lies in consistent practice of the “boring” fundamentals. It’s not about doing something new every day—it’s about doing the essential things well, over and over again, until they become second nature. The Struggle of Learning Something New When we’re learning a new skill, whether it’s a squat, deadlift, or pull-up, it’s completely normal to struggle. At first, things might feel awkward or frustrating. You might watch tutorials or read articles and think you’ve got it figured out—only to step onto the gym floor and realize your execution doesn’t match your expectations. This is where persistence comes in. The truth is, most of us get it wrong dozens, even hundreds of times, before we start to get it right. Improvement doesn’t happen by chance; it happens by putting in the reps. The Role of Repetition in Building Confidence Once you’ve learned the correct technique—often with the help of a coach who provides real-time feedback—it’s time to embrace the grind of repetition. Why? Because repetition builds confidence. When you perform a movement correctly, each good rep reinforces your skill. Over time, these good reps accumulate, and the movement becomes second nature. You’ll stop doubting yourself and start moving with ease and confidence. That confidence carries over into your workouts, your results, and even your daily life. Why the “Boring” Stuff is Actually the Most Important Let’s address the elephant in the room: strength training can seem “boring” at times. Repeating the same movement patterns—squats, presses, deadlifts—week after week, month after month, may not feel as exciting as trying something flashy or new. But this consistent repetition is where the magic happens. By practicing the same movements and gradually adding more resistance over time, you’re building a foundation of strength that lasts. These fundamentals are like the roots of a tree: strong, stable, and capable of supporting everything else. On the other hand, constantly switching exercises to “trick your muscles” might feel fun in the moment, but it often leads to slower progress. The truth is, there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Mastering the basics and doing them well is what gets you stronger, fitter, and more resilient. Flashy Isn’t Better—Better Is Better We get it—doing the same thing over and over might not look impressive on social media. But strength training isn’t about looking impressive; it’s about getting better. Flashy doesn’t equal effective. Consistency, precision, and hard work are what drive results. So, instead of chasing the latest trends or workouts, learn to love the fundamentals. Squat deeply, hinge effectively, press powerfully. Then do it again. And again. And again. Reap the Rewards of Repetition The beauty of repetition is that it not only improves your skill but also transforms your body and mind. Each good rep you complete brings you one step closer to your goals. It’s the small, consistent efforts—the ones that might feel “boring”—that add up to big wins over time. At Axis Strength Training, we’re here to guide you through this process. With expert coaching and a commitment to the fundamentals, we’ll help you put in thousands of good reps, build confidence, and achieve the results you’re looking for. So embrace the grind, fall in love with the basics, and trust the process. Strength isn’t built in a day, but with dedication to the fundamentals, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

As a coach, it’s my mission to help others improve their lives through health and fitness. This mission started back in the 90s when I was a young soldier in the Army. One of my assignments was to help soldiers struggling to pass their PT tests. On paper, the task seemed simple—help them get fit enough to pass. But as we all know, simple  doesn’t always mean easy . I showed them the workouts they needed to do, joined them in training, and motivated them to push forward. But what I began to learn back then—and still see today—is this: the path to success doesn’t just rely on having a coach or a plan. It requires something even more crucial: personal responsibility. Fast forward to today. At Axis Strength Training, we’ve helped hundreds of people transform their health and fitness. And while I’d love to say we’ve helped every single person who’s walked through our gym doors, the reality is… we haven’t. Not because we didn’t try, but because personal responsibility—the willingness to own the process and put in the work—is a non-negotiable part of success. Back in the Army, I couldn’t understand why some soldiers wouldn’t give it their all. Then it hit me: they didn’t want to succeed. For some, failing the PT test was their way out of the military. No matter how much I coached, encouraged, or demonstrated, their lack of desire outweighed my efforts. And today, I see similar patterns. Many clients show up ready to crush their goals, embrace the process, and do the hard work. But some… well, they spend more energy crafting excuses than doing the work. And let’s face it—getting in shape is hard. Sticking to a workout plan, eating healthy, and making lifestyle changes aren’t easy. But that’s where personal responsibility comes in. As a coach with over 20 years of experience, I know how vital it is to guide, support, and educate. Coaches play a huge role in helping people develop healthy habits. But we can’t do the work for you. We can’t light that internal fire of motivation. That spark has to come from within. You must want the outcome more than you want your excuses. Everyone has obstacles—busy schedules, stress, family obligations. But the difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is simple: the successful ones acknowledge their excuses, set them aside, and get to work. I’m inspired every day by the clients who take personal responsibility for their journey. They’ve got the smarts to hire a coach and the grit to follow through. These are the people who show us that it’s not about having a perfect plan—it’s about showing up, staying accountable, and doing the work. So, the next time you don’t achieve the results you hoped for, pause and ask yourself: - Did I take personal responsibility for my progress? - Did I let excuses steer me off course? Remember, you can either make excuses, or you can make progress—but you can’t do both.