A tale Of Two Passions
Finding Balance: The Story Behind Trail and Iron Performance
For years, I felt torn between two passions that seemed to be in direct opposition: being physically strong and having the endurance to push through long, grueling challenges. Strength and endurance are often seen as two sides of a coin—you can focus on one, but doing so comes at the expense of the other. I’ve spent over a decade swinging back and forth between these pursuits, chasing strength in the gym and then turning my focus to building endurance on the trails. Each time I shifted focus, it felt like I was losing ground in the other area, and the cycle of frustration continued.
Eventually, I hit a turning point. I asked myself: Why should I have to choose? Why can’t I pursue both strength and endurance at the same time? Why can’t I be the athlete I’ve always envisioned—one who’s as strong as they are resilient? That realization sparked the beginning of Trail and Iron Performance.
Bridging the Gap
Trail and Iron Performance was born out of a desire to challenge the outdated notion that you can’t excel in both strength and endurance. I’ve spent years learning, experimenting, and applying principles from exercise science to create a training philosophy that integrates these two disciplines. It’s not about sacrificing one for the other; it’s about finding balance and building a body that’s capable of incredible feats in both domains.
With a master's degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida, a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Pacific University, and certification as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of athletes—from middle school students and collegiate competitors to ultra-runners—unlock their potential. Each of these experiences has shaped my approach and deepened my commitment to helping others achieve what once felt impossible.
The Philosophy Behind Trail and Iron
At Trail and Iron Performance, we believe in pursuing balance without compromise. Our approach combines the principles of strength training and endurance programming to create athletes who are not only powerful but also durable and adaptable. Whether you’re running ultra-marathons, hitting new PRs in the gym, or simply chasing a healthier lifestyle, the goal is the same: to become the strongest, most capable version of yourself.
What sets Trail and Iron apart is the emphasis on holistic training. It’s not just about lifting heavier or running farther; it’s about building a mindset of resilience, cultivating discipline, and embracing the challenges that come with striving for excellence. Strength and endurance aren’t just physical attributes; they’re qualities that define how we show up in every aspect of life.
Why It Matters
The journey to becoming a well-rounded athlete mirrors the journey of life. It’s about showing up consistently, even when the path is tough. It’s about pushing through discomfort and finding joy in the process. Most importantly, it’s about understanding that true strength comes from the ability to endure, and true endurance is powered by strength.
When I founded Trail and Iron Performance, my mission was clear: to help others break free from the belief that they have to choose between strength and endurance. I wanted to empower people to redefine what’s possible and to create a community of athletes who inspire each other to aim higher.
Moving Forward
Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or you’re looking to take your performance to the next level, Trail and Iron Performance is here to guide you. Together, we’ll push boundaries, embrace challenges, and celebrate progress. Because when strength and endurance come together, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
Are you ready to find your balance?
