My love for exercise started like many lifters--playing sports. My favorite part of playing sports was working out in preparation for them.  Post high school this morphed into bodybuilding for a time and then eventually power-lifting.  I gained 48 pounds in 2 years as a powerlifter, all for the sake of "strength" . My body began to breakdown from the abuse I put it under. I had made strength my god and sold my health out to obtain it. God humbled me for it. Over the next four years (2010-2014) I lost 70 pounds total and had gone from feeling strong and invincible to scrawny, sick, and miserable. Nine doctors, several years, dozens of books, articles, and videos later--by the grace of God--I fully recovered.

 

"Do you not know that your bodies are

temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you,

whom you have received from God? 

You are not your own;

you were bought at a price.

Therefore honor God with your bodies."

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

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That journey introduced me to a different mindset, one that honors our Creator in living by His design.  Holistic Barbell was born out of the culmination of this knowledge & experience, in which, fitness, nutrition, recovery, and detoxification are essential aspects for great health and performance.  All this being rooted in Biblical truth.  I'm committed to  helping others thrive by conviction, education, and motivation. 

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Your coach,

Ryan McConnell