September 20, 2021

Success Story-John Birchler

Name: John Birchler

Start Date: May 2015

Fitness Practitioner: Brooke McCartney

Results To Date: 24 lbs of fat mass lost, down 9% body fat

1) How did you hear about AFS?

I heard about AFS through a friend of my wife.

2) What/Who inspired you to take the first step toward getting in shape?

I didn’t want to be a decrepit old man who was out of shape and had back problems (I’ve had back problems off and on most of my adult life). My wife Laurie had started an intense strength training program and I wanted to be able to keep up with her. She inspired me, especially since she works out at 6 or 7 AM.

3) What initially intrigued you about our program/why did you sign up?

I signed up just to get it done. I didn’t know too much about it other than a quick tour that Nate gave me. Once I learned more, I liked the idea of having a practitioner assigned to me to help me be accountable.

4) How did you achieve the success you’ve seen thus far?

As I always tell Brooke, just tell me what to do and I’ll do it. I work as hard as I can in my Weight Loss Solution and Strength Solution classes. I don’t see any point in paying for this if I’m not trying my hardest. I also like having food goals and tracking my food. It’s like a game for me that I can try to win every day and very motivating to be able to see it on my phone. It’s helped me make good food choices on a daily basis.

5) What changes have you noticed in your life since starting with AFS?

I have so much more energy and I believe I am more balanced in my daily work life. Especially since I’m fortunate to be able to do two workouts a week in the middle of the work day. I just feel great!

6) Advice you can offer others looking to make changes you’ve made?

Just do what they tell you to do at AFS and push yourself as hard as you can. Don’t leave anything on the table.

Final note: I love the family atmosphere at AFS. I was always intimidated by gyms. But at AFS, there are so many people working at so many different levels to improve their bodies and their fitness, from 20 year olds to an octogenarian in my strength class (George, my new hero). The FPs make such an amazing effort to get to know everyone, that I am VERY comfortable here.

Way to go, John! Keep up the good work! You are an inspiration to us all!
-AFS Team

Want more info on John’s program?

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About the Author:

Mike Stack

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.