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Friendship and Fitness: How Personalized Training Helped Jason & Kevin Take Control of Their Health
Jason Schilling and Kevin Hightower know the value of friendship, but they also see the power of a good workout — especially when it comes to taking control of their health.
Both men are part of PowerStrength’s Personal Training Program, a program designed specifically for adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s.
What started as a solo journey for Jason quickly became a shared experience when he encouraged his friend Kevin to join, and both have since transformed their lives.
A PERSONAL HEALTH WAKE-UP
Jason’s journey began with a pressing health concern.
“I’m type 2 diabetic and was diagnosed years ago,” he said. “I started feeling complications from it and realized I had to do something.”
After experimenting with cardio on his stationary bike and seeing some initial results, Jason knew he needed more.
“I used to lift in my 20s and 30s and wanted to get back into it. I looked for adult strength training, and PowerStrength came up. I talked to Derek (Ehnis) and committed right then and there.”
Jason had prior gym experience, but he immediately noticed the difference at PowerStrength.
“It’s nice to have a trainer guiding you through every session. The coaches know when to push you and when to hold back, especially if you’re managing an injury.”
BRINGING A FRIEND ALONG
Knowing Jason’s experience, Kevin was intrigued.
“I never went to a gym since high school, and hadn’t lifted weights since then. But I like walking, and when Jason told me about PowerStrength, I thought, wow, this is the next level I need.”
Kevin admits he was nervous at first.
“I couldn’t even do three elevated push-ups in my first week. Now I can do a lot more. Just doing the process week after week has been life-changing.”
A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Both men credit PowerStrength’s community as a major reason for their consistency.
“Everyone here, from the members to the coaches, is welcoming and supportive,” Jason explained.
“You make connections, and that keeps you coming back.” Kevin agreed. “People encourage each other, notice your progress, and celebrate it. It’s motivating.”
REAL HEALTH RESULTS
The results for Jason and Kevin have been remarkable, especially given their type 2 diabetes diagnoses.
“I am 100% off medication for the last six to eight months,” Kevin proudly shared. “It’s huge. It’s a money saver. Building muscle has been key for managing my diabetes.”
Jason echoes similar success: “I’ve dropped cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetic meds. My A1C went from 9.4 to 5.8. It’s crazy. It’s just great to see it happen, to be real, and achievable.”
Their improved health extends beyond lab results. Kevin recounts hiking a 12-mile trail in the Florida Everglades, keeping pace with someone used to high-altitude conditions — something he couldn’t have done a year ago.
Jason highlights the practical benefits, too: “At my delivery job, lifting heavy boxes and stepping into trucks in the rain isn’t winded anymore. I can see a real difference in daily life.”
CUSTOMIZED TRAINING MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Both men emphasize how personalized workouts at PowerStrength have allowed them to progress safely and effectively.
Jason overcame a severe back injury caused by a bulging disc pressing on his sciatic nerve with the help of the certified coaches at PowerStrength’s Jenison location.
“Now I’m hitting personal records in deadlifts and squats. It’s incredible to reflect on where I was a year ago,” Jason said.
Kevin added, “I recently bench pressed 165 pounds and deadlifted close to 400 — I’m 50 years old now, and I’m lifting more than I ever have before.”
LIFE-CHANGING HABITS BEYOND THE GYM
The benefits go beyond strength gains. The member challenges at PowerStrength have allowed Jason and Kevin to focus on sleep, nutrition, and consistent routines, which all play a role.
“I sleep way better at night,” Kevin said. “I pay more attention to protein and overall nutrition.”
“It gives you a target. Something to reach for, ” Jason added. “Sleep is huge for muscle gain and hormone balance.”
SHARING THE POWERSTRENGTH EXPERIENCE
Jason’s initial recommendation brought Kevin to PowerStrength, but both men now serve as advocates for others.
“I tell people it’s a supportive environment and a fun experience,” Jason said.
Kevin encourages newcomers to just try it.
“The hardest part is showing up. Once you’re in, it’s the fastest hour of your day.”
A PATH TO A HEALTHIER FUTURE
For Jason and Kevin, PowerStrength is more than a gym — it’s a pathway to living healthier, stronger, and more confident lives.
Kevin sums it up simply: “It’s a life-changing experience.”
“It’s a path to your future,” Jason said. “If you want to be healthy at an older age, you need to do something. PowerStrength gives you the tools to do it.”
Through friendship, expert coaching, and a supportive community, Jason and Kevin are proof that gaining control of your health is possible at any age — and maybe even bring a friend along for the journey.
READY TO MAKE YOUR NEXT 10 YEARS YOUR STRONGEST EVER?
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, or Holland – with a NEW location opening in Byron Center later this Fall.
Click HERE to learn more program details and schedule your risk-free consultation.
