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Not a ‘Gym-Person’—Until She Was: How Annette is Building Strength for Life
When Annette Miller began her fitness journey at PowerStrength Training Systems in March 2024, she had one simple goal: to be better than she was at that moment.
She had never been a “gym person” and had no prior fitness experience, but something about PowerStrength’s approach felt different.
What she didn’t expect was how life-changing her journey would become, both inside and outside the gym.
A LIFE-ALTERING DIAGNOSIS
Just two months after starting her Personal Training Program, Annette was diagnosed with breast cancer.
It was a devastating challenge, but instead of facing it alone, she found unwavering support from the PowerStrength community. Her expert coaches didn’t just wish her well; they gave her actionable steps to maintain her strength while she underwent a double mastectomy and recovery.
“They told me what we can do to help prepare, things to consider while I was off, and things to keep me from losing too much muscle,” Annette recalled. “It was motivation to keep moving forward.”
Through her surgery and recovery, Annette followed the small but impactful recommendations from her coaches: keep walking, stay on top of protein intake, eat enough vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
These simple yet powerful habits played a crucial role in her recovery, keeping her connected to her fitness journey even when she couldn’t be in the gym.
REBUILDING STRENGTH
By August, Annette was ready to return to PowerStrength.
She began Private, 1-on-1 Personal Training sessions with PowerStrength Coach, Sylvia, to rebuild her strength and to work around her new physical limitations and restrictions.
“I had a different body shape, I had restrictions, and I hadn’t really moved my arms much in months. It was a matter of figuring out where I was starting from and what we could work with.”
FITNESS FOR EVERYDAY PEOPLE
What amazed Annette the most was the atmosphere at PowerStrength. Despite her initial fears about entering a gym environment, she never felt judged or out of place.
“At 54, I see a lot of average-looking individuals that you would see on the street anywhere,” Annette said. “No one here is intimidating; we’re all just working to get better.”
Not only did she regain her strength, but she surpassed where she was before her diagnosis.
“I think I’m ahead of where I was before,” Annette stated. “I feel better. I lift heavier weights. I don’t know where I would have been if I hadn’t taken time off, but I do know that I came out of it stronger than I went in.”
ARCHERY SUCCESS
Annette’s newfound strength extends beyond the gym.
A passionate archer, she has already returned to competing in tournaments, crediting her training at PowerStrength for improving her arm and back strength.
“We do a lot of lat work here, and that has helped my archery so much. I’m better at it now, even if I’m not quite where I was yet.”
A FAMILY COMMITMENT TO STRENGTH
Her journey at PowerStrength is not just about fitness—it’s about resilience, mental fortitude, and community.
As an accountant, Annette leads a busy life, but she has made strength training a non-negotiable part of her routine.
She even shares her experience with her son, who trains at PowerStrength to improve his paintball performance. Their shared commitment to fitness has become a unique bonding experience.
“We always ask each other, ‘Who did you have today? Did you do anything new? Are you upping your weights?’ It’s fun to share this journey.”
STRENGTH FOR THE FIGHT AHEAD
Looking ahead, Annette’s goal is clear: to keep getting stronger.
“I want to know that if I have to go through another round of cancer, that I’m ready. Or, I’d like to think that this helps prevent another round altogether.”
Today, Annette is in a “no evidence of disease” state. While there are no guarantees, she is doing everything in her power to take control of her health and future.
ENCOURAGING OTHERS
For anyone hesitant about starting their fitness journey, she has simple but powerful advice:
“If you have any hesitation at all, just try it. As long as you’re willing and motivated to move forward, you need to keep going. You will be stronger.”
Annette’s story is a testament to the transformative power of personalized strength training, not solely for the body, but for the mind and spirit.
“I really like it here, and I’m kind of surprised to say that.”
PowerStrength has given her more than a gym—it has given her a community, confidence, and a renewed sense of energy. And most importantly, it has given her strength she never knew she had.
READY TO TAKE CONTROL?
Men and Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who want to get stronger and have more energy can join the Personal Training Program at PowerStrength at any time. No previous workout experience is required as each program is customized to the fitness and ability level of each individual.
Multiple personal training sessions are offered in the early morning, mid-morning, late afternoon, and evening. Find your nearest PowerStrength location – Alpine, Kentwood, Jenison, Plainfield, and Holland.
Click HERE to learn more program details and schedule your risk-free consultation.
