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  • How to Stay Motivated When Progress Slows

    Let’s be real: fitness progress isn’t always a straight line. At Axis Strength Training, we’ve coached dozens of people through that frustrating phase when progress seems to stall. Whether you’re chasing a new squat PR, fat loss goals, or just trying to feel stronger in everyday life, it’s normal to hit plateaus. But here’s the good news — slowing down doesn’t mean you’re failing. Here are some practical ways to keep your motivation high even when the gains feel slower. 1. Revisit Your “Why”:  When you first signed up at Axis, what motivated you? Was it feeling more confident? Playing with your kids without getting winded? Competing in a sport? Go back to that core reason. Progress may slow, but your deeper reason stays steady. Write it down, remind yourself, and let it guide you. 2. Celebrate Non-Scale Victories:  We often focus on the numbers: weight lifted, pounds lost, inches trimmed. But progress shows up in other ways too: better sleep, improved energy, more consistency, better movement quality, or even feeling more confident walking into class. Keep a journal and note these wins. They matter more than you think. 3. Trust the Process:  Plateaus are part of the journey. Our coaches at Axis design programs knowing that adaptation takes time. Progress slows because your body is adjusting and getting stronger. Trust that the work you’re putting in is laying the foundation for your next breakthrough. 4. Change Up the Challenge:  Sometimes what you need is a fresh stimulus. Talk to your coach about adjusting your program, setting a short-term goal, or trying a new class or training focus. Shifting gears can reignite your enthusiasm and push your body past its sticking point. 5. Lean Into the Community:  One of the biggest strengths of Axis is our community. Share your frustrations with your coach or classmates. You’re not alone! Others have been there too, and their encouragement can help you push through the tough spots. 6. Focus on What You Can Control:  You can’t control exactly how fast your body adapts, but you can  control your effort, your mindset, your nutrition, your sleep, and your consistency. Zoom in on those daily habits, and you’ll stay in a positive, empowered headspace. Final Thoughts: Slow progress doesn’t mean no progress. At Axis Strength Training, we believe in playing the long game. Stick with it, lean on your coaches and community, and remember: every rep, every class, every meal matters. You’re stronger than you realize — and your next breakthrough is just around the corner. If you’re feeling stuck, talk to one of our coaches! We’re here to help you adjust, refocus, and keep moving forward.

  • How to Turn a Bad Day Into a Victory

    You’re just one workout away from feeling better. Ever had one of those days where nothing goes right? Everything you touch seems to fall apart, and your motivation is nowhere to be found. I’ve had a few of those days recently. Here’s what helped: I worked out. I didn’t feel like it. Honestly, I felt like sulking. But I forced myself to get to the gym—just to do something . That’s when things started to shift. Even during the warm-up, that voice in my head was saying, "I don’t want to be here. Just go home."  But I made a deal with myself: Just finish the warm-up, then you can leave. I got through it. Then something interesting happened, I started to feel a little momentum. I thought, "I’m already here, might as well do a bit more."  So I stayed for my back squat sets. All five of them. And they felt... good. That small win pushed me to keep going. Before I knew it, I was in the zone. The stress that had been clouding my mind began to fade. I felt strong, clear, and accomplished. You might think that after 30 years of training, showing up would be easy. It’s not. There are still plenty of days I don’t want to do any of it. But here’s the secret: I show up anyway. Even if it’s just the warm-up. Just something . And that “something” often leads to more. One set becomes two, then three. Before long, I’ve done a full workout—and I feel great. The truth is, the hardest days to show up are the ones where it matters most. That’s how you build consistency. That’s how you develop resilience. That’s how you get results. So if you're having a rough day—just show up. Do the warm-up. Start small. Keep going. Victory might be just one workout away. Keep showing up.

  • Why Focusing on One Goal at a Time Can Supercharge Your Progress

    When you’ve got big goals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At Axis Strength Training, we often see members come in with multiple ambitious objectives—and that’s a great thing! But trying to tackle everything at once can be a fast track to burnout and discouragement. I recently sat down for a goal review meeting with one of our members who had two major goals: 1. Improve strength on the big three lifts—back squat, bench press, and deadlift. 2. Lose a significant amount of weight and reduce body fat to under 10%. Both goals are absolutely achievable. But trying to accomplish them simultaneously? That’s a tall order. Building strength typically requires eating more to fuel progress, while losing body fat means maintaining a calorie deficit. Pursuing both at the same time can create mixed signals for your body—and your motivation. So what’s the solution? Prioritize. We decided to focus first on fat loss and improving body composition during the summer months. Warmer weather, more outdoor activity, and fewer food-centered holidays make this a great time to shed fat. Then, once fall and winter roll around—along with holiday meals and colder days inside—we’ll shift to a strength-building phase, with more calories and heavy lifting. This approach brought instant clarity and relief for the member. Suddenly, the process felt doable. Instead of juggling conflicting demands, he had a clear path forward with a better chance of success. Next step: Build the plan. Once we set the primary goal, we outlined the daily habits that would lead to results: - Eliminate processed foods - Eat approx 1 gram of protein per pound of lean bodyweight per day - Drink at least 64oz of water daily - Train 4–6 days per week with a focus on hypertrophy (muscle building) - Cut out alcohol and liquid calories - Stay within a specific daily calorie range to maintain a calorie deficit while supporting training By consistently following these habits, he’s now on track to hit his body composition goal. Once that’s achieved, we’ll reassess, set the next target, and create a new set of actionable steps to crush it. Break big goals into focused phases. This strategy makes your goals more approachable, more sustainable—and more likely to be achieved. At Axis Strength Training, we love helping our members set smart goals, create tailored action plans, and stay motivated through every step of the journey. Ready to start working on your goals with expert support and a personalized plan? Book your FREE "No Sweat" Intro today at axisstrengthtraining.com . Let's get started on building the strongest, healthiest version of you.

  • Be a doer. Act now. Do more. Be more.

    You were meant for great things. You’re capable of more than you give yourself credit for. The key? Action. Not tomorrow. Not “when the time is right.” Now. Whatever's been on your mind—starting a workout routine, launching that business, having a tough conversation— do it now . Stop waiting for perfect circumstances. That mindset will trap you exactly where you are. You’ll figure it out along the way. Yes, you’ll mess up. Probably more than once. But that’s okay. Most people never even start. If you take action—even messy, imperfect action—you’re already ahead of the crowd. Here's the truth: the more I learn, the more I realize action is everything . Doing is the answer. Want to change your life? Take action. Start your workout today. Launch the idea that’s been eating at you. Reach out to that person. Do the thing. There will never be a “perfect” time. No matter when you start, you’ll face a learning curve. You might as well get it over with sooner and get to the good part faster. Face your fears head-on. Take massive, immediate action. Make it your habit. Your identity. This one trait—taking fast, decisive action—will carry you further and faster than almost anything else. It’s a skill you can train. Start small: - Think of the trash? Take it out now. - Think of calling your mom? Pick up the phone now. - Got a task to do? Do it now. Every small action adds up. You’ll build momentum. You’ll become someone who gets things done. So if I could leave you with just one message today, it's this: DO IT NOW.

  • Strong is the New Healthy: Why Strength Training is Essential for Every Woman

    At Axis Strength Training, we believe in empowering women to become the strongest, healthiest versions of themselves. While cardio often steals the spotlight when it comes to fat loss, strength training is the true powerhouse  behind lasting transformation—both physically and mentally. Whether you're just starting your fitness journey or looking to take it to the next level, here's why lifting weights is one of the smartest moves you can make: 1. Lose Body Fat More Effectively Muscle is metabolically active tissue, which means the more you have, the more calories your body burns—even at rest. When women build muscle through strength training, they increase their resting metabolism , helping their bodies become more efficient at burning fat. This isn’t about getting bulky (a common myth); it’s about becoming leaner, stronger, and more defined. 2. Boost Energy Levels Tired of feeling tired? Strength training helps improve mitochondrial function—your body’s natural energy producers. It also enhances sleep quality and regulates blood sugar, which means more energy throughout the day and fewer afternoon crashes . 3. Improve Mood & Reduce Stress Strength training stimulates the release of endorphins—your brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. It can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression , while giving you a serious confidence boost. There’s power in feeling strong and capable, not just physically, but emotionally, too. 4. Enhance Brain Function Studies show that strength training can improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function—especially as we age. It increases blood flow to the brain and may help protect against age-related cognitive decline. So yes, lifting weights makes you smarter , too. 5. Live Longer—and Healthier Muscle mass is strongly associated with longevity. Women who strength train are not only likely to live longer, but to enjoy those years with greater mobility, fewer injuries, and better quality of life . Strength protects your joints, builds bone density, and keeps you active well into your golden years. The Bottom Line Strength training isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about becoming healthier from the inside out. At Axis Strength Training, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with personalized programming, expert coaching, and a supportive community of strong women who are rewriting what it means to age powerfully. Ready to take control of your health? Step into your strength. Axis is here to help you build it. Book your Free “NO Sweat” consultation here: Contact | Axis Strength

  • GLP-1 Drugs: Shortcut or Steppingstone?

    Let’s talk about a popular (and yes, controversial) topic in the health and fitness world right now: GLP-1 drugs—think Wegovy, Ozempic, and similar names. These prescription medications were originally developed to help people manage type 2 diabetes. But today, they’re making headlines for a different reason: weight loss. Recently, someone asked me what I think about these drugs. So here’s my take on them. Do They Work? The short answer? Yes, they help people lose weight. GLP-1 agonists work by slowing digestion and suppressing appetite. You feel fuller, you eat less, and the weight starts to drop. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of fast, dramatic results. But here's the part that gets glossed over: The Catch The moment you stop taking the drug— and most people eventually do —the hunger returns. Hard. And so does the weight. Not because the drug failed, but because no real, sustainable habits were ever built. No nutritional changes.  No strength training.  No mindset shift.  No foundation. And that foundation? That’s everything. The Fine Print These drugs come with side effects that many people don’t talk about enough: - Nausea - Vomiting - Diarrhea - Constipation - Muscle loss - Fatigue - Increased risk of gallbladder issues Yes, you're losing weight—but often not the kind you want to lose. Muscle mass takes a hit, which slows your metabolism. And when that happens, the weight doesn’t just come back... it rebounds with interest. Here’s the Truth GLP-1s don’t fix the real  problem. They don’t teach you how to shop for real food, cook a balanced meal, or say no to stress cravings. They don’t help you build muscle, build confidence, or build a lifestyle you can sustain. They mute symptoms. But symptoms always come back. So What Does  Work? - Eating real, whole foods - Strength training regularly - Prioritizing sleep, hydration, and recovery - Learning to manage stress without using food as a crutch You’re going to have to build those habits eventually if you want lasting results—so why not just start there? Let’s Be Honest About Healthcare The U.S. "healthcare" system isn’t set up to make you healthy. It’s a sick care  system—built to keep you in the cycle, dependent on pills, prescriptions, and quick fixes. But real healthcare? It’s happening right here—in your gym. With our coaches. Our nutrition experts. Our community. We’re not here to manage your symptoms. We’re here to help you eliminate them. From the inside out. If You’re On a GLP-1 Right Now… No judgment. For some, these drugs are a temporary bridge. A tool. A steppingstone. If you are currently a member at the gym and you are on a GLP-1, we applaud you for creating the lifestyle changes needed for long term success! But if you're relying on them as the  solution? You’re building your house on sand. Let us help you lay a real foundation: → Strong body. → Strong habits. → Strong mindset. No injections required. Jason axisstrengthtraining.com

  • 1 More Rep

    Can you push through just one  more rep? Just one? Sometimes, when life feels overwhelming, we need to take a step back and stop focusing on everything that’s still ahead. Instead, we need to narrow our vision to the single rep right in front of us. If you’ve ever felt buried by the weight of your goals, responsibilities, or to-do lists—this message is for you. I get it. Life piles on. Work, kids, responsibilities… it can feel like too much. And when that happens, I remind myself of one simple truth: all I can do is take the next step. What’s the one thing  I can do right now? Not ten things. Not even three. Just one. We practice this mindset in the gym all the time. A long, grueling workout can feel daunting when you think about all the reps left to do. But that’s exactly why training is such a powerful metaphor for life. At Axis Strength Training, we teach people to forget about the total workload. Instead, zoom in on what’s immediately in front of you. Just one rep. That’s it. Can you do it? Yes, you can. And after that? Just one more. And then another. That’s how we conquer our workouts—and how we overcome obstacles in life. So next time you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or like you’re drowning in tasks, pause. Take a deep breath. And ask yourself: Can I do just one rep? Do that one thing. Then the next. Break it all down into manageable pieces. One rep at a time. Before you know it, you’ll look up and realize—you’re almost there. And that momentum will carry you through the finish line. The gym is where we train this mindset, and it carries over into every part of life. Hope to see you at Axis—doing one rep at a time with us. Jason axisstrengthtraining.com

  • Just Show Up

    They’re not smarter than you. They’re not more talented. They don’t have better genetics. Want to know the real secret behind people who achieve exceptional things? They show up. That’s it. They consistently do the little things—and yes, sometimes the hard things—that matter. They show up and put in the reps, day after day. No shortcuts. No magic tricks. Just commitment and consistency. They’re not more privileged. They weren’t handed some lucky break. They simply show up  and put in the work . It really is that simple. The older I get and the more I learn about success, the clearer it becomes: you can get ahead of 80% of people just by showing up. Most won’t even do that. Most let fear—fear of failure, fear of looking foolish, fear of being judged—paralyze them before they ever take the first step. But if you can just show up , you’re already ahead. And if you keep showing up, day after day, through the awkward beginnings and early struggles, something amazing happens: you improve. You get stronger. You build real skill. And eventually, you become exceptional—not because you started that way, but because you stuck with it. No special genius required. No divine blessing needed. Just consistency. So here’s my challenge to you: start acting sooner. Stop waiting for perfect timing or the approval of others. Care less about what people might think and more about who you're becoming. You don’t need permission. You just need to act. That first workout? That business idea? That big goal? Don’t overthink it. Just start. Just show up. Yes, you’ll struggle at first. That’s normal. But you’ll improve with every rep, every day, a little at a time. And over time, that adds up to something big. So do the thing. Show up for yourself. And keep showing up. Because showing up consistently is what separates the people who achieve their goals from the ones who don’t.

  • The Hard Path Is the One That Changes You

    Nothing worth doing is achieved by taking the easy path. In life, we’re constantly presented with two choices: the easy road and the difficult one. At Axis Strength Training, we believe in choosing the difficult path more often than not — because that’s where true growth happens. We’ve all heard it before: Easy life now, hard life later. Hard life now, easy life later.  But what does that really mean? At its core, it’s about delayed gratification  — one of the most powerful skills you can develop. Choosing short-term comfort often leads to long-term struggle. That means skipping workouts, eating fast food, staying up late — they all feel easy in the moment, but their consequences pile up. On the flip side, prioritizing your health through consistent training, nourishing food, and quality sleep sets you up for a stronger, easier life down the road. Let’s be honest — the hard path isn’t glamorous. It’s slow. It’s uncomfortable. It’s frustrating. But it works. Strength training is one of the best ways to develop this skill. When you first start, you show up to the gym, push yourself, go home… and nothing changes. You wake up sore, tired, maybe even questioning your decision. You come back again. Still no visible progress. You start wondering if fitness is only for people with great genetics or unbreakable discipline. But here’s the truth: no one is born with discipline . It’s built — one hard day at a time. It’s built by showing up when you’re tired, sore, or unmotivated. It’s built by pushing through discomfort even when results aren’t visible. Then one day, something shifts. You catch a glimpse in the mirror and see a different person — not just physically, but mentally. You’ve not only transformed your body, but you’ve developed a skill that will serve you for life. The ability to delay gratification gives you the discipline to improve your relationships, your finances, your career — anything that matters to you. If you're reading this and thinking, “I don’t have that discipline yet,” that’s okay. You can start today. The key is simple: just show up . Let this be your Day One. Start your journey by setting up a free consultation at axisstrengthtraining.com . We’re here to guide you — but the first step is yours. Choose the hard path. It’s worth it.

  • Keep Pushing Through

    Sometimes, you just have to persevere as Rambo was trained to win through attrition.  That means keep showing up, keep grinding, don’t quit and outlast your desire for comfort.  Life’s going to be hard. Things will take longer than you expected. They’ll cost more—emotionally, physically, financially. Obstacles will come out of nowhere. Do it anyway. Too often, we assume the road should be easier than it is. And when it’s not, we get discouraged. But what if we flipped that mindset? What if we expected  the challenge? What if we knew  it would hurt, and we welcomed it? We wouldn’t be as thrown off by the struggle. We’d be ready for it. Anything worth doing in life is rarely easy. The easy road doesn’t teach us. It doesn’t force us to grow. It doesn’t make us better. So why chase it? Let’s stop seeking comfort and start choosing  the hard path. Not because we’re gluttons for punishment, but because that’s where growth lives. Struggle is the training ground. It’s where resilience is built. Strength, confidence, capability—they’re earned through effort, sweat, frustration, and persistence. We will fail. We will feel tested. Good. That’s where the transformation happens. If you want to be exceptional, don’t follow the crowd down the smooth road. Take the uphill climb. Whether you’re getting in shape, building a business, leading others, or simply trying to level up your life—it will be hard. Good. Do it anyway. The struggle is not the enemy. It’s the process. Embrace it. Keep going. Win through attrition.

  • How Strength Training Boosts Energy for Your Busy Workday

    Let’s be honest—between deadlines, back-to-back meetings, and your never-ending inbox, it’s easy to feel drained before the day is halfway through. What if we told you that the secret to powering through your busiest workdays isn’t another cup of coffee… but a barbell? At Axis Strength Training, we’ve seen firsthand how strength training isn’t just about building muscle—it’s a powerful tool for boosting your daily energy levels and mental stamina. Here’s how it works, and why you should consider making it a non-negotiable part of your weekly routine. 1. Strength Training Revs Up Your Metabolism Lifting weights increases your lean muscle mass, which in turn boosts your resting metabolic rate. That means your body burns more energy—even when you're sitting at your desk. A higher metabolism helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevents the midday crashes that leave you feeling foggy and fatigued. 2. It Enhances Sleep Quality A productive workday starts with a good night’s sleep. Research shows that people who engage in regular resistance training fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up feeling more refreshed. Quality sleep leads to sharper focus, quicker thinking, and better problem-solving skills when you're tackling your to-do list. 3. Strength Training Reduces Stress and Mental Fatigue Training sessions are more than just physical workouts—they’re mental resets. Lifting weights stimulates the release of endorphins (your brain’s natural mood boosters), which can help combat stress and anxiety. A quick morning lift or lunchtime session at Axis can help you head into meetings with a clear mind and confident energy. 4. Improved Posture and Reduced Pain = More Comfort at Work Hours of sitting can lead to poor posture, back pain, and shoulder stiffness. A well-structured strength program targets your posterior chain (back, glutes, and hamstrings) and core, helping improve posture and prevent discomfort. When your body feels better, your energy isn’t spent just trying to stay comfortable. 5. Discipline in the Gym Translates to Productivity at Work Committing to a strength training routine builds discipline, resilience, and time-management skills—traits that transfer directly to your professional life. Showing up consistently for your workouts builds the mental muscle you need to stay focused and productive throughout your day. Axis Pro Tip: Start Small, Stay Consistent You don’t need to lift for hours every day to feel the energy-boosting benefits. Just 3–5 well-structured strength sessions per week can make a noticeable difference. At Axis Strength Training, our expert coaches tailor every session to your goals, schedule, and current fitness level—so you can train smart, not just hard. Strength training is more than a physical investment—it’s an energy strategy. If you’re constantly reaching for caffeine or crashing mid-afternoon, it might be time to rethink your routine. Step into the weight room, and step out with the energy you need to own your workday. Ready to recharge your body and sharpen your edge?  Come train with us at Axis Strength Training—where strength meets performance, and energy meets purpose. Book your Free “No Sweat” Consultation here: Contact | Axis Strength

  • Courage: A Core Value at Axis Strength Training

    At Axis Strength Training, courage  is one of our core values. We define it simply: "We act in spite of fear." Fear is a natural part of life. It shows up when we try something new, when we step outside our comfort zone, or when we commit to real change. But fear doesn't have to control us. At Axis, we believe that courage means acknowledging fear—and taking action anyway. Why do we emphasize courage? Because personal growth requires it . It takes courage to walk into a new gym for the first time. It takes courage to say, “I’m ready to make a change for a healthier life.” It takes courage to commit to that change even when those around you may not understand or support it. At Axis, we recognize the fear—but we choose to act. That’s how we grow. That’s how we build confidence. That’s how we become stronger—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. And that’s how we keep going, slaying one dragon after another on the path to becoming the best version of ourselves. I am incredibly proud of our Axis Strength Training community. Every single member has faced fear—and moved forward in spite of it. That’s courage. Will you be the next to rise and act in defiance of your fears? We hope so—and we’re here to help. Whether or not you have support at home, you’ll find it here. You’ll be surrounded by a community of over 100 members and staff ready to encourage, guide, and inspire you every step of the way. Ready to take the first step? Book your Free “No Sweat” Consultation  and let’s talk about how we can help you build a healthier, more fulfilling life. 👉 Book your Free Intro here

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