How Did You Find AFS?
I attended a free seminar that was offered to members of Unified Volleyball, the volleyball club I coach for. There they talked about how their program would help reduce injuries and improve athlete performance by targeting each individual’s weak areas. I enjoy working out on my own, but some professional, science-based guidance seemed like a good idea.
Why Did You Decide to Take Action?
I had been plagued with injuries ever since my shoulder surgery in college, mainly because I failed to properly strengthen key parts of my body before returning to play. I knew this was something I needed to do if I wanted to continue playing competitive volleyball.
Most Rewarding Part of This Process?
I feel strong again! Just three years ago I suffered a 1.5yr long foot injury that kept me off my feet as much as possible, since just even walking hurt too much. This cost me almost all my leg muscle strength, with significant muscle atrophy visible in my injured leg. It is great to see how far I have come since then, and you can tell that I’m showing much more lean muscle mass now!
What Was Your Most Surprising Part of This Process?
My vertical jump improved! At 29, I thought I had reached my max jump. But gaining 2 inches is amazing, and in volleyball, it’s a huge deal! I’m at a new personal best now, but still, have a few inches to go before I reach my goal. 🙂
Any Advice You Can Give to Others Looking to Make Changes Like You Have?
Believe in yourself and believe in the process. I learned after my foot injury that things don’t get fixed overnight. It takes time and commitment to make a change, but as soon as you make it a habit in your lifestyle, it’s smooth sailing till you reach your goals!
About the Author:
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Michael Stack is the founder & CEO of Applied Fitness Solutions and Frontline Fitness Pros. He is a faculty lecturer for the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology. He is also the creator and the host of the Wellness Paradox Podcast, produced in conjunction with University of Michigan.
Michael is an exercise physiologist by training and a health entrepreneur, health educator, and fitness industry advocate by trade. He is dedicated to enhancing the standard of practice of, and advocating for, fitness and wellness professionals to ensure they become an essential constituent in the healthcare delivery system.
With a career spanning over three decades in fitness, health, and wellness Michael has a deep knowledge of exercise physiology, health/wellness coaching, lifestyle interventions to mitigate chronic disease and leadership. He is credentialed through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as an Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP), Exercise is Medicine practitioner (ASCM-EIM), and a Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (ACSM-PAPHS). Michael is a National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and a CDC Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Lifestyle Coach.
Michael received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology in 2004 and is currently a Master’s of Public Health (MPH) candidate at University of Michigan, with a specific concentration in health behavior and health education.
Michael is a board of directors’ member for the Physical Activity Alliance and Michigan Fitness Clubs Association. He sits on the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology Alumni Board of Governors. Michael is an expert curriculum reviewer for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Finally, he is a member of the executive leadership team for American Heart Association’s Heart Walk.
Michael lectures nationally for several health/fitness certification and continuing educations, including; IHRSA, the Medical Fitness Association, the National Strength & Conditioning Association, and SCW Fitness.