FAQs
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I work out of the AFP gym (see website). We have regular seminars, usually about one per month often led by the owner Peter Rouse (Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology, a M.Sc in Biochemistry and Genetics.) I learn the latest techniques in manual therapy and rehabilitation including NeuroMuscular Therapy, Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy, NeuralReflex, Musculoskeletal Alignment Technique, Posturology, and many other modalities.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I'm definitely an L.A. native just look at my work history. After studying Film at CSUN I worked in the film industry as everything from a grip to a producer (not the mogul type). For a few years I produced promos for CBS. I even do a little modeling (You may have seen me sweating on TV while demoing the Nordic Trak Incline Trainer). Hometown boy does hometown work. I ditched the producing for editing. As a freelance editor I thought I was in my element. I was wrong. I ditched editing for construction, yes, a paradigm shift. I remember going to the worksites, often in Malibu, passing bicyclist riding in the canyons. I wished I could have a lifestyle that allowed for that kind of riding and not my occasional excursion up or down the bike path. I was casually considering yet another career change when I met someone who asked if I was interested in being a trainer. I was. He had a business and needed trainers and said he'd like me to train his people the way I train myself. So about ten years ago I got certified by NASM and trained people just like I trained myself. Hey, that's what my boss wanted, right. I soon realized that he was a business man and not much of a trainer. In defiance of his request I started applying the NASM techniques for core and corrective training and through further education with experts I learned how to be the best trainer: one that knows how to detect what needs fixing with precise scientific assessments and how to fix it by designing the correct training program. Also, I was able to get into cycling. I never rode a canyon without remembering making that wish.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
After my clients fill in their medical questionnaire (the standard Par-Q) I start with a complete, in depth, postural assessment. This is done by precisely measuring several specific sections of the body. Secondarily, I have my clients perform a few specific exercises/moves to ascertain their personal level of functionality. To design the optimal training program for each individual I need to pin point any muscle imbalances and weaknesses. With the postural assessment and the functional assessment I am able to get my clients started on correcting any disfunction indicated. This first phase can last 2 to 4 weeks and is necessary to set my clients up for success in achieving their main goals.