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Defying MS: How One Man Conquered a 40-Mile Sierra Mountain Hike and Found Strength
Dave Shatto has embarked on a transformative journey that has reshaped not only his body but his entire outlook on life. Since joining PowerStrength Training Systems in January 2022, he has become a shining example of resilience and determination, inspiring those around him with his remarkable story.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Dave’s journey began after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2006. As he navigated the complexities of living with this condition, he realized that maintaining good health was paramount.
“There are a lot of hocus pocus remedies for MS, but the medical community agrees that general good health is the best thing you can do for it,” Dave explained.
Although he had remained relatively active through biking, kayaking, and walking, he recognized the need for a structured fitness program.
“I had never been in the gym before in my life,” he admitted. “I was heavy when I developed my MS, I knew I needed help, and I knew I’d be lost in a traditional gym.”
Seeking accountability and structure, Dave found his way to PowerStrength, where he discovered a supportive community that would become instrumental in his journey.
A TRANSFORMATIONAL EXPERIENCE
When Dave first arrived at PowerStrength, he was drawn to the four core pillars that were outlined for him: fitness, nutrition, accountability, and fun. While he initially focused on the first three, it was the community aspect that truly resonated with him.
“I found a great community and good friends, and I think that’s a lot of the encouragement to continue with the structure that I needed,” he said.
Aside from the physical benefits that are clearly present for Dave, the people he is surrounded by at PowerStrength keep him coming back.
“I’ve never seen young people invest in their parents and grandparents the way these coaches do. I think that part of what makes a community is each and every client is busy trying to encourage the other clients here. So it’s great coming to some place where you know names, or you know a little bit of the stories, or it’s fun hearing what somebody did over the weekend or didn’t get done over the weekend.”
The motivation he received from coaches and fellow members has been life-changing.
Dave embarked on a significant backpacking trip this summer and his PowerStrength coaches went to work to prepare him for it.
“The coaches here worked with me for 6-8 weeks in advance of the trip with conditioning, help with stamina, but most importantly, they gave me a lot of confidence and encouragement,” he recalled.
With their support, he undertook an eight-day hike in the Eastern Sierras of California, covering 40 miles and reaching elevations above 12,000 feet.
Dave had been on two, less-tasking, hiking trips before starting at PowerStrength. This trip was more grueling, but Dave was ready for it.
“I noticed a clear difference,” he explained. ”When things got tough, I could hear coaches whisper in my ear, ‘It’s just one more rep Dave. It’s just one more rep.’ You learn on a tough hike like that, not unlike my experience at PowerStrength, it’s not the destination that is your goal. It’s the next 50 feet. It’s not the next 10 pounds that you’re trying to get off here. It’s the next week of being consistent with nutrition, exercise, routine, and structure.”
A REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATION
Dave’s health has dramatically improved since starting his fitness journey. He’s rewriting the script on what’s possible with MS, leaving his doctors amazed at every checkup.
“I think I do surprise them a little bit” he noted, “my neurologist can’t believe that I am able to get out and do that stuff.”
His family members can see his brilliant progress.
“I got a lot of encouragement from my wife and my son, and both of them commented how they had confidence that I could complete the hike because I’m in the best shape, health-wise, that they’ve ever seen me.”
He continues to challenge himself physically, both in the gym and outdoors.
Through his training at PowerStrength, Dave has learned valuable lessons about perseverance and self-competition.
“The coach’s encouragement keeps you on track, that it’s a journey,” he said. “It’s not a specific place you’re trying to get to. It’s just the constant routine of investing in yourself, whether I’m bike riding, hiking, or even here. My thought processes, and especially at my age, it’s a game of completion. Mentally, you have to say, what’s more important is to complete and do it safely. Hiking, the completion is getting over the pass, not getting to the campsite, not getting to the trail exit. Here, you have to walk in the door if you think you’re going to complete. And complete this session, recover, complete the next session.”
ENCOURAGING OTHERS
Dave’s journey has also inspired his family. His wife recently joined PowerStrength, motivated by Dave’s success and improved health.
“I think that my wife could see that I felt better,” he said. “She could see that my spirits were better and that there had been a definite impact to who I was.
She had both of her knees replaced before getting started at PowerStrength.
“She said after about 2 months of PowerStrength, her knees felt better than any physical therapy she had on her knees, and she noticed that her balance was significantly better.”
For those who may find themselves in a similar situation, Dave has an encouraging message:
“Don’t have any fear. PowerStrength has no expectations and will meet you where you’re at. I’ve never had a coach say, why can’t you keep up with so and so? So I’m not competing against other clients during my workout session, and the coaches have a great way of helping you compete with yourself, and it doesn’t matter whether you start out at 20 pounds and you’re trying to get 25 or you’re starting out at 10 trying to get to 15, the coaches are helping you compete with yourself so they meet you where you’re at.”
CONCLUSION
Dave Shatto’s inspiring story is a result of the power of determination, community, and the right support system.
His journey at PowerStrength has not only improved his physical health but has also transformed his mindset, proving that it’s never too late to invest in oneself.
As he continues to tackle new challenges, both in fitness and life, Dave embodies the spirit of perseverance, reminding us all that with the right structure and encouragement, anything is possible.
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, Holland, Jenison, and Plainfield.
Click HERE to learn more program details and schedule your risk-free consultation.
