Have you ever wished for a life instruction manual, only to realize it never existed?
As a father of three, including a son at Wasatch High School, I often imagined how useful it would be to have one for parenting. Without it, I relied on mentors, trial and error, and the valuable input of my children. The same is true for fitness journeys.
If you’re like me, you want to be healthy and fit but don’t always know how to get there. Years ago, as a young father focused on providing for my family, I slipped out of shape. My eating habits were poor, my workouts lacked direction, and by my early 30s, I weighed nearly 220 pounds—50 pounds heavier than in my twenties.
Growing up active, I assumed I had the tools to turn things around. But there was no manual. I lifted weights aimlessly, ran until my knees hurt, and felt discouraged. My trial-and-error approach led to more frustration than progress.
Finding My Mentors
Thankfully, I found mentors who had already navigated these challenges. They became my instruction manual. With their guidance, I adjusted my diet, incorporated low-impact exercises, and gradually lost weight. My strength training evolved, and I began running again, building confidence with every step.
Then I discovered trail running. The soft, uneven terrain was a game-changer. Unlike road running, it felt natural and forgiving, making me believe I could be a “real” runner again. My trail-running friends pushed their limits, and through their example, I realized my own potential. As my diet, strength, and endurance aligned, my body told me I was on the right path.
A Pivotal Moment
In 2014, a friend invited me to pace her in the inaugural Tahoe 200, a grueling 200-mile race around Lake Tahoe. I agreed to pace her for 30 miles, but when other pacers dropped out, I ended up running 93 miles.
During those miles, my friend gave me simple but crucial tasks—tracking time, reminding her to eat and drink, and making sure I did the same. Had she asked beforehand if I could run 93 miles, I’d have said no way. But that experience redefined my limits and became a turning point in my ultrarunning career.
Leveling Up
Surrounded by athletes chasing ambitious goals, I felt inspired to do the same. In 2015, I committed to running an ultramarathon every month. I immersed myself in learning about nutrition, gear, and endurance training. That September, I completed my first 200-mile race—a moment that proved I was capable of far more than I had imagined.
Since then, I’ve continued pushing my limits. At 47, I am fitter than ever, both in the gym and on the trails. I owe much of my success to the mentors who guided me, which is why I’ve made it my mission to pay it forward.
Paying It Forward
Pacing my friend in Tahoe showed me not only my own potential but also my passion for helping others achieve their goals. That experience led me to a career in personal training and coaching. There is something incredibly rewarding about witnessing someone push past their perceived limits and grow stronger, both physically and mentally.
As a certified personal trainer with over 20 years of strength training experience and a decade as a competitive endurance athlete, I specialize in helping people become the fittest versions of themselves. I’ve trained athletes at all levels, from those chasing endurance goals to individuals looking to regain their health.
If you’re ready to level up your fitness—whether you’re an athlete, pursuing a major life goal, or simply aiming for a healthier lifestyle—reach out:
Instagram @adventure.your.potential or www.adventureyourpotential.com
