Finding a Gym Where the Sidewalk Ends

Listen up, kiddos, I've got a tale to tell

'Bout strength training and how it builds confidence so well.

You see, when you lift weights, or do push-ups or squats,

You're building muscles, and that takes lots and lots

Of hard work and practice, day after day, But the rewards are worth it, so don't you delay.

Because when you get stronger, your body feels great,

And you stand up taller, with more pride and more gait.

You're more confident, in everything you do,

From playing sports to trying something brand new.

Research has shown that building muscle mass,

Can boost your self-esteem, and help you kick ass.

In a study from 2014, researchers did find,

That resistance training could improve the state of mind,

Of teenagers who were struggling with self-image,

Their confidence soared, and they felt like they could scrimmage.

Another study from 2018 showed that too,

That lifting weights could make you feel less blue.

So if you want to feel strong, and confident too,

Get out there and start training, it's what you should do.

Don't be afraid to lift, to push, or to strain,

With time and practice, you'll see big gains.

You'll feel more powerful, with a mighty force,

And you'll know in your heart, that you're on the right course.

So listen to me, and to what I have to say,

Strength training is the key, to building confidence each day.

Citations:

  1. Faigenbaum, A. D., et al. (2014). Resistance training for kids: Right from the start. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 11(10), 1983-1989.

  2. Ratamess, N. A., et al. (2018). American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Progression models in resistance training for healthy adults. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 50(3), 543-564.

Coach Mike Ockrim

Meet the Mighty Oak

Coach Mike Ockrim is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach, MovNat Level 1 Coach, and founder of Mighty Oak Athletic, a youth strength and conditioning facility in Westmont, Illinois, serving student athletes and families across DuPage County and the western Chicago suburbs.

His “Be strong to be useful” philosophy and Death Resistant framework — Recovery, Movement, and Nutrition — anchor MOA’s programs and his work as a keynote speaker for schools, athletic departments, and community organizations.

Michael has more than 30 years of training experience, has been a group fitness instructor at Life Time Athletic for over 8 years, and is a second-degree black belt in USA Taekwondo. He is also the founder of Sunday Funday Sports, a youth sports nonprofit, and is pursuing a culinary degree at College of DuPage to sharpen his expertise in performance nutrition for young athletes.

Michael is the author of three books, all available on Amazon:

Death Resistant: A Common Sense Guide to Live Long and Drop Dead Healthy — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KBJXCQH

13 Pounds in 30 Days

Mighty Oak Athletic Nutrition — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFTDM4K4

To book Coach Mike for a speaking engagement or learn about MOA’s youth strength and conditioning programs, email strength@mightyoakathletic.com or CLICK HERE.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition, nutrition plan, or fitness program.

http://www.MichaelOckrim.com
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