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Turning Back the Clock: How PowerStrength Helped Chris Feel 20 Years Younger
Chris Smith didn’t set out to change his life — he just wanted to lower his cholesterol. What he found at PowerStrength turned out to be so much more than a workout routine.
His doctor had given him a clear message: move more, eat better, and lower his cholesterol.
STRENGTH, CONFIDENCE, AND A NEW WAY OF LIVING
Since joining PowerStrength, Chris has lost 20 pounds of fat, gained muscle, and found a level of strength and energy that reminds him of his athletic days as a high school runner.
“I feel like I’ve gone back 20 years in age,” he said. “I’m stronger, I have better balance, and I just feel better about myself.”
Those changes aren’t just something he feels — other people are noticing, too.
“My acupuncturist told me, ‘You’re getting ripped!’” Chris said. “And one day at the grocery store, the bagger asked if I go to the gym — he said, ‘I can tell, you’ve got big arms.’ That felt pretty good.”
A FOUNDING MEMBER WITH A FRESH START
Chris joined PowerStrength as one of the founding members of the Holland facility when it opened in late 2024. It didn’t take long for him to realize this wasn’t like the gyms he had tried before.
“I tried another gym down the road once, but the vibe wasn’t good. It didn’t feel friendly or welcoming,” he said. “PowerStrength is very welcoming. The coaches all know your name. Sessions are tailored to your needs, your aches, and your pains.”
In less than a year, Chris completed more than 100 training sessions — a milestone that represents much more than consistency. It represents transformation.
As for the nutritional suggestions from his doctor, Chris admits that he’s not exactly a fan of “doctor-approved” foods.
“I’m not a fan of a lot of the things they were telling me to eat — green veggies, broccoli, beans,” Chris said with a laugh. “I just decided that I need to start moving. And coming to PowerStrength facilitated that.”
That simple decision — to start moving — turned into one of the best choices of his life.
TAILORED COACHING AND REAL RESULTS
Like many clients, Chris came in with some aches and pains — shoulder tightness, back soreness, and knee discomfort from years of work and life on his feet.
The PowerStrength coaches adjusted his training plan on the spot, finding ways to keep him progressing safely.
“They just said, we’re just going to go over here and do this in a different way, a little bit different motion, we’re still going to train those muscles, but just from a different angle,” Chris said. “Those aches and pains have pretty much all gone away.”
Chris works as a preventative maintenance technician where climbing ladders, walking stairs, and carrying equipment is part of the job.
He says the difference since training at PowerStrength has been dramatic.
“Things have become a lot easier,” he said. “I’m not winded anymore when I walk up to the catwalk.”
A COMMUNITY THAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE
Chris credits the environment of the Personal Training Program for adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s for keeping him coming back week after week.
“The number one thing is the atmosphere — it’s so welcoming and encouraging,” he said. “You’re training alongside people your own age and ability, and you push each other.”
That community spirit is exactly what PowerStrength is known for — and as the gym family expands with the new Byron Center facility opening soon, stories like Chris’s continue to inspire both new and longtime members.
Join the Byron Center Insider List here for all the latest updates.
“A PLACE THAT CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE”
For Chris, what started as a doctor’s recommendation has turned into a lifestyle that has transformed his body, his confidence, and his outlook on what’s possible.
“PowerStrength is a place that can change your life for the better — physically and mentally,” he said. “You’ll feel better about yourself, and you’ll go back years as far as age goes.”
From founding member to a walking example of transformation, Chris is a reminder that strength, confidence, and better health are within reach at any age.
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 Soon in Byron Center.
Click HERE to learn more program details and schedule your risk-free consultation.
