Member Spotlight..Joe Schmidgall

What made you decide to try Platform Strength Training in the first place?

My wife convinced me to try it and I’m so glad she did! As a former All-American college athlete I believed the lie for a long time that my best years were behind me. So in May 2016, I decided to squash those thoughts and set a goal: to be in the best shape of my life by my 40 th birthday (now only 3 years away). After a few months working out at home it was clear something was missing. I needed more structure and friends to hold me accountable, to cheer me on, and to sweat alongside.

What is your favorite part about Empowered Living Company?

I appreciate how Cate takes such a thoughtful, instructional, and positive approach. I’m learning how to lift properly, safely, and most effectively to see results. Also my early morning workout friends cheering me on, pushing each other to improve, and seeing them work toward their goals inspires me to push onward and upward.

What’s your favorite movement or lift?

Probably kipping pullups. I had no clue how to do them at first and was determined to learn. Now I look forward to them, which is a little strange.

What’s one milestone you’re most proud of so far?

Finishing Barbara and doing all 100 pullups.

What are some unexpected benefits you’ve experienced since starting?

It’s fun to workout with my wife. We have a busy life with four kids so time together is rare. Starting each day by working out together, sharing goals, and living a healthier lifestyle has been a blessing in our relationship.

What is your next goal you plan to crush?

I’m going to do a Muscle Up by the end of the year.

What advice would you give someone walking through the Empowered Living Company door for their first time?

Just try it. Don’t let the fear of trying something new stop you. Take that step forward. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I’m so thankful I did. This isn’t a traditional group fitness class. It’s a community. We know each other’s names. We rally around each other. We learn together. We inspire each other. We high five. And we sweat a lot. You don’t have to be in shape to start. Most of us started out at square one and you work toward goals at your own pace. It isn’t easy but most things in life that are worthwhile require hard work. Next thing you know you’ll feel incomplete when you miss a workout. I hope to see you there!