Strength Training: My Unlikely Valentine

A Romance Written in Reps: An Athlete's Love Letter to Strength Training

Dear Strength Training,

From the moment we met, you've challenged me, pushing me beyond my limits and teaching me the true meaning of perseverance and dedication. With every drop of sweat and every aching muscle, my love for you grows stronger.

You've been my constant companion on this journey, whispering words of encouragement when the weights seemed too heavy to lift. Together, we've celebrated victories and faced defeats, but each has brought us closer, forging an unbreakable bond.

Your tough love has sculpted not just my body, but my character, teaching me the values of discipline, resilience, and the pure joy of achieving what once seemed impossible. Under your guidance, I've discovered a strength I never knew I had, and a passion that fuels every moment we share.

So here's to you, my dearest Strength Training, for being my rock, my challenge, and my greatest motivator. May our journey continue, filled with more sweat, more challenges, and endless victories.

With all my heart (and muscle),

Michael

Michael Ockrim

Meet the Mighty Oak

Michael Ockrim is a strength and conditioning coach and the founder of Mighty Oak Athletic in suburban Chicago, where he trains student athletes and families to build lifelong habits around movement, recovery, and nutrition.

He has more than 30 years of personal training experience and is a second-degree black belt in USA Taekwondo. Michael also serves as a group fitness instructor at Life Time Athletic and is pursuing a culinary degree at College of DuPage to deepen his understanding of performance nutrition.

He is the author of Death Resistant: A Common Sense Guide to Live Long and Drop Dead Healthy, which explores practical strategies for longevity through strength, mobility, and lifestyle consistency.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and in our newsletters is for general informational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, videos, and information, is provided for educational and general wellness purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, nutrition plan, or fitness program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site or in our communications.

http://www.MichaelOckrim.com
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How to Use the Lessons of Valentine's Day to Fuel Your Athletic Journey