Dr. Ken, a Doctor of Holistic Health with over 10 years of experience who also happens to be a YouFit personal trainer and General Manager, shares his insights on fitness, nutrition, and the importance of a whole-body approach to wellness.
Dr. Ken has a calling: to revolutionize healthcare through innovative and holistic methods. His passion for helping others achieve their health goals is evident in his approach to fitness and training.
We got to talk to Dr. Ken recently and get into his philosophy and approach to training, and got some crucial advice for those embarking on their fitness journey.
My name is Dr. Ken, Doctor of Holistic Health. I’ve been practicing whole-body medicine for more than 10 years now. I believe that my gift for healing is beyond passion, it is a calling by God. My goal is to revolutionize and reform the healthcare platform through innovative healthcare approaches and whole-body integration.
Q: What sparked your initial interest in fitness and helping others achieve their goals? Was there a specific moment or experience that led you to become a personal trainer?
A: Initially, I saw a lack of fitness and mobility as a major limiting factor contributing to disease and disorder. As I delved deeper, I realized that whole-body wellness, not just fitness, was key to optimizing health. The science behind functional health intrigued me and led to sustainable changes for my clients. Becoming a personal trainer was just one step in my journey to mastering various modalities in my career.
Q: What does “challenged but never defeated” mean to you personally and how does it relate to your approach to holistic fitness and training?
A: A challenge is a call to action, an opportunity for growth. Being defeated is giving up. If you answer the call to grow and persevere despite the challenges, you are challenged but never defeated. In fitness, the hardest part is often just getting to the gym. Entering and staying consistent is the key to not being defeated.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about being a personal trainer? Are there any specific client successes that stand out to you?
A: The most rewarding part is having the tools and knowledge to help people resolve their health and lifestyle concerns. Every client who decides to optimize their health and takes a step forward is a success in my book.
Q: Can you elaborate on your training philosophy of “sustainable results”? What does that look like in practice for your clients?
A: Sustainable results are lifestyle-based. They require consistency to become second nature. Until a healthy task becomes a habit, it won’t last.
Q: You mentioned working with a diverse range of clients. How do you tailor your training programs to meet the unique needs of each individual, from athletes to those new to fitness?
A: Everyone has unique needs. Tailoring a program involves considering all limiting factors, both internal and external, to create the best possible outcome. I often incorporate exercises that mimic real-life challenges to encourage clients to invest more time in perfecting their performance.
Q: What are some common mistakes people make when starting a fitness journey, and what advice would you give to avoid them?
A: The most common mistake is not starting at all! If you’re here, you’ve already taken the first step. Congratulations! From here, it’s all about planning and continuing to succeed.
Q: What role does nutrition play in achieving fitness goals, and how do you integrate that into your training programs?
A: As a certified nutritionist, I believe nutrition is 80% of the health equation. It’s about building a strong and sustainable immune system. I help clients prioritize the nutritional factors they lack and integrate healthy eating habits into their lifestyle.
Q: What are your thoughts on the importance of mental health in relation to physical fitness?
A: The mind is incredibly powerful. It stores everything from traumas to desires. A healthy mind can translate thoughts into physical action. It’s about rewiring the mind to think adaptively and overcome challenges.
Q: We know you love hollow holds and burpees! What are some other go-to exercises you like to incorporate into your holistic training sessions?
A: I love incorporating cocoons (core crunches), TRX variations, sled pulls/pushes, mountain climbers, farmer carries, and more.
Q: What are your favorite ways to stay motivated and active outside of the gym?
A: Self-care is number one. Taking care of your mind, body, and soul is vital. Attending church, social events, spending time with loved ones, recreational activities, and meditation are all great ways to stay motivated and balanced.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to someone who is hesitant to start their fitness journey, what would it be?
A: 10 years will pass whether you start today or not. How do you want to spend that time? Watching it go by or making the most of it and looking back with pride?
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This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
