Kyle’s Journey: From CrossFit Injuries to PowerStrength Success

Kyle used to thrive on the intense, high-energy world of CrossFit. Training 5 days a week for 2 straight years. But the relentless intensity took a toll on his body. By age 40, Kyle suffered serious injuries in both shoulders—one requiring surgery to repair a completely torn rotator cuff, the other plagued by painful bone spurs. He had no choice but to walk away from fitness entirely.

Over the next 6 years, Kyle’s active lifestyle faded. He gained weight, lost muscle, and found himself feeling sluggish. Sleep became inconsistent, and his energy levels plummeted. At his heaviest, he reached 310 pounds. He knew he had to make a change, but traditional gym options didn’t seem like the right fit. 

WELCOME TO POWERSTRENGTH

In the fall of 2024, Kyle discovered PowerStrength Training Systems and a Personal Training Program specifically designed for adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s.

“When I saw the tagline ‘40 or older,’ I needed to know more,” Kyle recalled. “I didn’t want CrossFit again—I didn’t want to do burpees and extreme workouts that beat up my body. I wanted to lift weights at my own pace and skill level. When I met Austin (the Alpine facility leader) I knew right away this was the right place.”

From the very first visit, Kyle was blown away by the culture at PowerStrength. 

“Austin greeted me by name when I walked in. Sylvia introduced herself and also called me by name. Reed welcomed me like I had been coming for years,” Kyle said. “That personal touch made me feel instantly at home. And when my coaches took notice of my progress and encouraged me, I knew I had found something special.”

Kyle started slowly, training just 1 session a week. But quickly upgraded, eventually attending 4 small group personal training sessions each week. 

“If my schedule allowed it, I’d train 5 or 6 days a week,” he said. “I love how I feel when I finish a session. I feel like I accomplished something and I can see results in the mirror.”

GAME-CHANGING RESULTS

The results have been nothing short of transformative. In just 4 months, Kyle lost 30 pounds, and has been forced to change his wardrobe.

“I’ve enjoyed getting smaller clothes, my wardrobe has changed, significantly. When I started here, I was in a 3X t-shirt, I get a 2X now, but I’m starting to fit in some XL t-shirts. I don’t know if I’ve ever been in an XL t-shirt.”

His strength has skyrocketed, his energy is through the roof, and he’s sleeping better than ever. 

“What initially got me looking for a gym was I was waking up every day at about 4 a.m.. I get up at 5:30 for work, I want my sleep,” Kyle said. “I didn’t know why I was waking up so early. I thought I must be stressed out from work or something. Since coming to PowerStrength, I go to bed and I don’t wake up all night. I get up when my alarm goes off, so I’m getting much better rest.”

His shoulder pain, once a daily struggle, has drastically improved.

“My shoulders are significantly stronger. Some movements still require modification, but the coaches at PowerStrength always adjust my program to keep me progressing while protecting my body,” Kyle explained. “Before, something as simple as grabbing a door handle awkwardly could send shooting pain through my arm. That doesn’t happen anymore.”

THE POWERSTRENGTH DIFFERENCE

Kyle is thriving at PowerStrength by training in a coach-led small group atmosphere alongside others his age. They share his commitment to taking control of their health, building positive habits, and improving their quality of life.

“When I did CrossFit, most of the people were training for the CrossFit games. I had no desire to go to the CrossFit games. I was going to get exercise and get healthy, and that’s where it fell apart for me. I didn’t feel part of the group. Here, a lot of people are doing the same things, trying to get healthier, trying to get stronger, trying to lose weight, so I fit in here.”

Beyond the physical benefits, Kyle has found a renewed sense of discipline and motivation. 

“The accountability at PowerStrength is real. The coaches and members notice when you show up, and they notice when you don’t,” he said. “That kind of positive peer pressure keeps me committed. I don’t want to let anyone down, including myself. I think it’s a great approach to building that accountability in as well, greeting them by name and calling out that you’re paying attention to what they’re doing. You’re not just another person in the gym, you’re a member.”

One of the most surprising changes has been his outlook on nutrition. 

“I used to think eating more meant gaining weight, but I’ve learned that hitting my protein goals actually helps me lose weight and build muscle,” he said. “Seeing those results has been a huge motivation.”

MOVING THE CHAINS

Kyle committed to consistency, in and outside of the gym. Combining this with the customized training has allowed Kyle to make strong progress since starting his journey at PowerStrength. He plans to maintain momentum which is made easier with the supportive community he has discovered at PowerStrength. 

“I know there’s a lot of room to improve, and I’m making steady gains. The environment here is perfect for what I need—structured, supportive, and tailored to people my age.”

Kyle is living proof that fitness doesn’t have to end after 40. With a personalized training approach, unwavering commitment, and a strong support system, he’s proving that strength, health, and confidence can be reclaimed at any stage of life.

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.