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The holiday season is here—filled with family gatherings, delicious meals, and, let’s be honest, an often-overwhelming schedule. At Axis Strength Training, we know how tempting it is to put your fitness on the back burner during these months. But here’s the truth: staying consistent with your workouts—or starting fresh—is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Here’s why continuing or starting your training now is crucial to your health, your mindset, and your overall success. Why You Should Keep Training Through the Holidays 1. Maintain Momentum Fitness thrives on consistency. Taking an extended break during the holidays can undo months of hard work, leaving you feeling sluggish and less motivated when the new year rolls around. By staying on track, you maintain your strength, endurance, and overall fitness level—ensuring you start the new year ahead, not behind. 2. Combat Holiday Stress Let’s face it—the holidays, while magical, can be stressful. Shopping lists, travel plans, and family dynamics can pile up quickly. Exercise is a proven stress-buster, helping to reduce anxiety and improve your mood. A quick session at the gym can give you the mental clarity and energy boost you need to tackle your day. 3. Balance Holiday Indulgences Enjoying festive treats is part of the season, but overindulgence without activity can lead to unwanted weight gain and decreased energy levels. Training helps your body manage those extra calories by boosting your metabolism and keeping you feeling strong and balanced. 4. Set the Tone for 2025 By continuing to train through December, you’re already building the habits you want to carry into the new year. Instead of starting from scratch in January, you’ll hit the ground running, armed with confidence and momentum. Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Start Training If you’ve been waiting for the “right moment” to start your fitness journey, this is it. Here’s why starting now—not in January—is the smartest move: 1. Beat the January Rush Gyms tend to fill up in January as people jump on the resolution bandwagon. By starting now, you’ll avoid the crowds and get a head start on creating your routine in a more relaxed environment. 2. Build Resilience Before the New Year Starting during the holidays shows yourself that you can prioritize your health even during the busiest times. This resilience will serve you well long after the decorations are put away. 3. Shift Your Mindset Many people see the holidays as a time for indulgence and procrastination. By starting now, you’re flipping the script and committing to yourself, proving that you don’t need a calendar date to make positive changes. 4. Enjoy Immediate Benefits Why wait to feel stronger, more energetic, and more confident? With just a few weeks of consistent training, you’ll start noticing improvements in how you feel and move, making the rest of the holiday season even more enjoyable. How Axis Strength Training Can Help At Axis Strength Training, we understand that every individual’s goals and schedules are unique—especially during the holidays. That’s why we offer tailored programs to help you stay on track, whether you’re continuing your fitness journey or starting fresh. From strength training to functional fitness, we’re here to guide you through every step with expert coaching and an encouraging community. Don’t wait for the clock to strike midnight on December 31 to prioritize your health and fitness. The best time to take action is now. Let’s crush these holidays together and set the stage for your strongest year yet. Ready to commit to your goals? Visit us at axisstrengthtraining.com and let’s get started. Your future self will thank you. P.S. Santa called - he said that skipping leg day this holiday season puts you straight on the naughty list. Don’t let him down!

At Axis Strength Training, we know that understanding fitness and nutrition principles is important—but knowing what to do is only half the battle. The real challenge lies in translating that knowledge into consistent action. It’s not just about the workout plan or knowing what to eat; it’s about cultivating the behaviors that support your goals and make progress sustainable. Let’s dive into why behavior change matters and how you can start building habits that will keep you on track for the long term. Why Knowledge Alone Isn’t Enough Most of us know we should  eat more vegetables, sleep better, and work out regularly. But that doesn’t make it easy to put those things into practice day after day. Why? Because change is less about adding new knowledge and more about reshaping the habits and mindsets that guide our daily choices. Here’s the catch: We are creatures of habit. Even with all the right information, we often fall back on familiar patterns—whether they help or hurt us. True transformation begins with understanding how  to change those automatic behaviors, not just what to change. Why Behavior Change is Key to Success Behavior is the foundation of sustainable success. When we repeat small, intentional actions over time, they accumulate into real progress. Think about it: A single workout won’t change your body, but regular training over months will. Eating one healthy meal won’t improve your health overnight, but making it a consistent habit will make a big difference. This is where behavior change comes into play. Changing your behaviors may feel challenging at first, but with the right strategies, it’s absolutely doable. How to Start Building Lasting Behavioral Change 1. Start Small and Build Slowly - Example : If you’re trying to eat healthier, start by focusing on one meal a day. Make breakfast nutritious by adding protein and vegetables, then gradually work toward improving your other meals. - Why it Works : Small changes are more sustainable and less overwhelming than trying to overhaul your entire lifestyle at once. Each small victory builds confidence and makes the next step easier. 2. Set Clear, Actionable Goals - Example : Instead of saying, “I want to get fit,” try setting a specific goal like, “I will work out three times a week for 30 minutes.” - Why it Works : Actionable goals are specific and measurable, making it easier to track progress and stay motivated. 3. Identify and Manage Your Triggers - Example : If you tend to snack when you’re stressed, make a plan to replace snacking with a quick walk, stretching, or a glass of water. - Why it Works : We often repeat behaviors out of habit, especially when they’re tied to emotions. Recognizing your triggers helps you create healthier responses instead of falling back on old patterns. 4. Focus on Process, Not Just Outcome - Example : Rather than focusing solely on losing a certain number of pounds, focus on the actions that lead to weight loss, like meal planning and consistent workouts. - Why it Works : Goals like weight loss can take time, and if the only measure of success is the number on the scale, it’s easy to lose motivation. Focusing on daily actions keeps you motivated and gives a sense of accomplishment along the way. 5. Celebrate Small Wins - Example : Did you go a whole week without skipping a workout? Or eat vegetables with every meal? Take time to celebrate those achievements, no matter how small they seem. - Why it Works : Acknowledging progress reinforces positive behaviors and builds momentum. Success breeds success, so recognizing every step forward keeps you motivated. Bringing It All Together Knowing what to do is helpful, but building behaviors that support your goals is the true path to lasting change. At Axis Strength Training, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our coaches don’t just give you a plan; they work with you to build the habits and routines that lead to real, sustainable progress. If you’re ready to make a lasting change, we’d love to help. Take the first step today—schedule a free kickstart consultation at axisstrengthtraining.com . Let’s build the behaviors that will keep you moving toward a stronger, healthier future.

Why I Opened Axis Strength Training. -Jason Sweet. It all started with a kid who was afraid of the dark. What does this have to do with why I opened a gym? We’ll get there, follow along.  As a young kid, I was afraid of the dark. I would lay in my bed and my brain would conjure up images of horrific monsters waiting in the dark corners and under my bed waiting to get me. I would lay frozen in fear with my head under the covers thinking of all the terrible things that were going to happen to me. Until one night, I was sick and tired of just laying there in fear. I asked myself, why am I just laying here waiting for these bad things to happen. If they were going to happen, let’s just get it over with. So I decided to jump out of bed and stand in the middle of my dark room and wait to be attacked. As I stood there a funny thing happened, fear was slowly disappearing and a new confidence was being created. I may have even started mocking the vicious monsters that were not coming to get me. That experience as a child sparked something in me that has served me well throughout my life. I developed a habit of facing fears. If I felt myself fear something, I would make myself face it, knowing that the fear would eventually go away and confidence would take its place. Some examples of this are, joining the military while the Gulf War was active on television and becoming an Airborne Paratrooper even though I was afraid of heights. This habit of facing fears continued when I left the Army and moved back home. I knew that I had a fear of public speaking so I signed up at the local college and took a public speaking class. Eventually this habit of facing fears led to opening Axis Strength Training. Owning a gym had been something that was building in the back of my mind but the thought of going through with it scared me. Thoughts like, I don’t know how to run a business, who would want to go to my gym, there are already gyms in the area, the economy sucks, people in this area don’t care about fitness and the list went on and on. Most of all, I was afraid of failing. How embarrassing would that be? To be ridiculed by all the doubters who would now be right. Ugh, what a terrible thought, but since I had made a decent life out of facing fears, why not take a chance with this one too, so I did. Many times I thought all of those people that told me it would never work are going to be proven right. It was hard, I thought I wasn’t going to make it, how embarrassing! Although I had those thoughts, I knew that I would rather face the fear than to let it get the best of me and regret not trying for the rest of my life. Fast forward almost 10 years and Axis Strength Training serves nearly 150 people. We are a thriving community because of all of the people who have supported Axis throughout the years. I am forever grateful to you all! Axis Strength Training is here today partly because a little kid decided to start facing his fears. My advice to you is this; If you fear something, run directly into that fear as if your best life depends on it!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break through a plateau, these fundamental exercises are essential for building strength, improving mobility, and preventing injury. Here’s why they matter: 1. Squat  – Squats are the foundation for strong legs and core stability. This movement is critical for improving your lower body strength and mobility, whether you're lifting weights or just going about your daily activities. 2. Hinge  – The hinge movement (like a deadlift) focuses on your posterior chain—hamstrings, glutes, and lower back. It’s crucial for protecting your spine and generating power when bending or lifting. 3. Press  – Whether it’s a push-up or overhead press, pressing exercises target your chest, shoulders, and arms, helping you develop upper body strength that’s essential for daily tasks like lifting or pushing. 4. Pull  – Pulling exercises (think rows or pull-ups) strengthen your back and biceps. They help balance out the forward posture many of us develop from sitting too much, improving posture and upper body strength. 5. Lunge  – Lunges work one leg at a time, improving balance, coordination, and leg strength. They’re especially useful for building stability in daily movements like walking, climbing stairs, or running. 6. Carry  – Carrying weights builds full-body stability, working your grip, core, and shoulders. This movement directly translates to real-world strength, like carrying groceries or lifting heavy objects. Why are these movements so important?   When you consistently train these basics, you lay a solid foundation for long-term fitness progress. These movements help you build strength, increase endurance, and prevent injury. Plus, they prepare you for the functional challenges of everyday life.  If you focus on perfecting these foundational movements, you’ll be amazed at the progress you can make in both fitness and overall strength! Let me know if you’d like more info or guidance on incorporating these into your routine. I’d be happy to help! In Strength, Jason Sweet  Axisstrengthtraining.com

Success is not just for others, It’s for you too. A lot of people will see other people’s success and think, “wow, that’s great. Good for them, but I could never do that” or “That worked for them but that wouldn’t work for me.” This type of thinking keeps you from ever even trying to reach your goals. This is an internal defense mechanism used to keep you “safe”. Your mind will convince you to never start, this way it is protecting you from the possibility of failure. Although these thoughts are meant to keep you “safe”, they end up hurting you by keeping you from taking action. Action that would lead to becoming the very best version of yourself. When you hear your thoughts telling you, “that won’t work for me” or “I can’t do that”, realize that this is an internal defense mechanism that is trying to keep you from failing but really it is keeping you from reaching your full potential. Once you recognize this you can then choose to ignore it and take actions that move you toward your goals. Taking imperfect action is going to bring you closer to your goals than taking no action at all. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Anyone who has reached any level of success understands that success is not a straight line, there are a series of ups and downs along the way. There will be failures along the way but that is ok, everyone who has traveled this road before you has experienced failures too. I encourage you to take imperfect action, to learn and to grow. Learn from the ups and downs and the failures along the way. As long as you keep trying and keep learning, you will reach your goals. Imperfect action beats taking no action at all. Do the thing! -Jason

Starting a fitness routine can be difficult. I believe that it's so difficult to begin because at the beginning you have zero momentum. Much like moving a large boulder, it is very hard to start pushing it from a dead stop but once you get it rolling, it gets easier.  Building momentum is a game changer.  How do you build momentum?  First, you have to show up. Showing up is the first step. Dedicate a time and place to start your workout. If you do not have the space or equipment, consider joining a gym. Get a friend or hire a coach to hold you accountable to showing up every day.. Second, you just have to start moving. Do not convince yourself that you need to do a long and difficult workout. Just start with very basic and simple movements. You most likely will not want to do the workout. Your mind will come up with a bunch of excuses like, “I don’t have time” or “I have other things I could be doing”. Start anyway! This act of just starting will go further than you think. After a few minutes of basic movements your body and your brain will feel so much better. You will want to continue. With the simple act of just starting, you have built some momentum. Now with this new momentum, you are on your way to reaching your goals. It all comes down to making the decision to start.  Go, start your fitness journey! Start small but be prepared to gain momentum and to eventually see the results you are looking for. -Jason

Here's a three-day-a-week resistance training program for beginners focusing on fat loss and toning, utilizing only dumbbells. Day 1: Full Body Warm-Up : 5-10 minutes of light cardio (e.g., brisk walking, jogging in place) 1. Dumbbell Squats : 3 sets of 12-15 reps 2. Dumbbell Chest Press : 3 sets of 10-12 reps 3. Dumbbell Bent Over Rows : 3 sets of 12-15 reps per arm 4. Dumbbell Lunges : 3 sets of 12 reps per leg 5. Dumbbell Deadlifts : 3 sets of 12-15 reps Cool Down : 5-10 minutes of stretching (focus on legs, chest, back, and core) Day 2: Cardio and Core Warm-Up : 5-10 minutes of light cardio 1. Cardio (Choose one) :     - Option 1 : 20-30 minutes of moderate-intensity steady-state cardio (e.g., brisk walking, cycling)     - Option 2 : 15-20 minutes of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (e.g., alternating between 1 minute of high-intensity cardio and 2 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio)     2. Core Circuit (Repeat 3 times) :    -  Plank : 30-60 seconds     - Russian Twists (with Dumbbell) : 15-20 reps per side     - Leg Raises : 12-15 reps    - Bicycle Crunches : 15-20 reps per side Cool Down : 5-10 minutes of stretching (focus on abs, lower back, and legs) Day 3: Upper Body and Lower Body Warm-Up : 5-10 minutes of light cardio 1. Dumbbell Shoulder Press : 3 sets of 12-15 reps 2. Dumbbell Chest Flyes : 3 sets of 10-12 reps 3. Dumbbell One-Arm Row : 3 sets of 12-15 reps per arm 4. Dumbbell Step-Ups : 3 sets of 12 reps per leg 5. Dumbbell Bicep Curls : 3 sets of 12-15 reps 6. Dumbbell Tricep Extensions : 3 sets of 12-15 reps Cool Down : 5-10 minutes of stretching (focus on upper body and legs) Notes : - Progression:  Start with weights that challenge you but allow you to complete the sets with proper form. Gradually increase weights as you get stronger. - Rest : Rest for 60-90 seconds between sets and exercises to recover adequately. - Consistency : Perform this program 3 times per week on non-consecutive days (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for optimal results. - Nutrition : Combine this workout program with a balanced diet that supports your fat loss goals (e.g., lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats). This dumbbell-only program is designed to build muscle while promoting fat loss and improving overall muscle tone. Adjust exercises and weights based on your fitness level and any physical limitations you may have. If you would like to start your fitness journey with a trainer who wants to see you get the results you are looking for, book your free consultation at this link: https://www.axisstrengthtraining.com/contact

Are you ready to take your fitness journey to the next level? At Axis Strength Training, we're committed to helping you achieve your goals effectively and efficiently. That's why we're excited to introduce our exclusive one-on-one personal training sessions! Why Choose Personalized Training at Axis? Our personalized training programs are designed to: -Tailor workouts to your specific goals and fitness level. -Provide individualized attention and expert guidance. -Maximize your time with focused, results-driven sessions. -Ensure proper form and technique to prevent injury. Whether you're looking to lose weight, build muscle, improve flexibility, or enhance overall fitness, our certified trainers are here to support and motivate you every step of the way. -Benefits of Personal Training at Axis Strength Training: -Personalized Workout Plans : Crafted just for you to meet your unique fitness goals. -Accountability and Motivation : Stay on track with the support of your dedicated trainer. -Flexible Scheduling:  Fit your training sessions into your busy lifestyle. -Ongoing Progress Assessments and Adjustments : Continuously optimize your training for maximum results. Real Results, Real Stories Don't just take our word for it; hear from our satisfied clients. Jennifer came to Axis wanting to build muscle and improve her nutrition. Here’s what she has to say about her experience: “When I started at Axis, I was really nervous to walk into a gym that has such extensive training. I was new to building muscle and learning to track my food intake. I had my initial meeting with Jason, and he was super informative and got me set up with my AMAZING trainer. She really helped me reach my goals in a matter of a couple of months. I have learned so much about my nutrition goals and how to build muscle and maintain my body weight. The workouts always push me to the next level! I never walk away without my money's worth, that is for sure! I am really happy with the muscle I have built, my body structure, and my nutritional intake!! All thanks to my trainer! She is really fun to work out with and super easy to get along with. Thanks, Axis! I even have my kids coming here, and my son signed up for the kids' class! It’s family-friendly for everyone.” – Jennifer Take the First Step Towards a Healthier, Stronger You Don’t miss out on this opportunity to accelerate your fitness journey and see real, lasting results. Take the first step towards a healthier, stronger you by signing up for our one-on-one personal training sessions today! To get started or learn more about our personalized training options, visit axisstrengthtraining.com and let's work together to make your fitness goals a reality! At Axis Strength Training, we're not just building bodies; we're building confidence, health, and a better future. Join us and transform your life today!

This week at Axis Strength Training, we're taking a slight detour from our regular strength program to enhance muscle building and continue improving our overall conditioning. Here’s what’s in store for you: Monday: Threshold Training Kick off your week with a challenging yet enjoyable workout designed around "Threshold" training. This session will push your limits while focusing on boosting endurance and strength. Tuesday: Posterior Chain Couplet Simplicity meets effectiveness in a focused couplet session. We'll concentrate on developing muscle and endurance in your posterior chain—targeting hamstrings, glutes, and back—while also ramping up your cardiovascular stamina. Wednesday: Upper Body AMRAP Midweek, we shift our focus to sculpting your upper body with a longer AMRAP (As Many Rounds As Possible) session. Get ready to enhance muscle definition and strength in your arms, shoulders, and chest. Thursday: Full Body Intensity Our Thursday workout promises to elevate your heart rate with a full-body routine that challenges every muscle group. It’s a comprehensive session aimed at maximizing your fitness gains. Friday: Partner Workout Fun We wrap up the week with a dynamic partner workout. Bring a friend and enjoy a session filled with camaraderie, motivation, and of course, results. At Axis Strength Training, every session is crafted to push you closer to your fitness goals. Stay committed, work hard, and reap the rewards of living an extraordinary life through dedicated training. Let’s make this week count!

Joining Axis Strength Training comes with a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond just physical fitness. Here are five reasons why becoming a part of our community could be the best decision for your health and well-being: 1. Supportive Environment: Our community is built on a foundation of support and camaraderie. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, you’ll find encouragement and motivation from fellow members and our knowledgeable coaches every step of the way. 2. Expert Coaching: When you join Axis Strength Training, you gain access to our team of experienced and certified coaches who are dedicated to helping you reach your fitness goals safely and effectively. From personalized guidance to expert instruction during workouts, our coaches are here to support you on your fitness journey. 3. Variety in Workouts: One of the key benefits of our training is its emphasis on functional movements performed under expert guidance. Our workouts ensure that you never get bored and continuously challenge your body in new ways, leading to better overall fitness and results. 4. Community Events and Challenges: In addition to regular classes, our community hosts various events, challenges, and competitions throughout the year. These opportunities not only add an element of fun and excitement to your fitness routine but also foster a sense of community and friendly competition among members. 5. Lifelong Friendships: Many of our members have formed lasting friendships through their shared experiences at Axis Strength Training. Whether it’s bonding over a tough workout or celebrating personal achievements together, our community provides a supportive network of like-minded individuals who share a passion for health and fitness. Ready to experience the benefits of our strength training community first hand? Book a free kickstart consultation with us today to learn more about how Axis Strength Training can help you achieve your fitness goals – https://www.axisstrengthtraining.com/contact

I am thrilled to bring you a FREE 3-Day Beginner Home Workout Plan that requires no equipment and can be done right in your living room! Whether you're new to fitness or getting back into the groove, this plan is designed to kickstart your journey towards a healthier, stronger you. Let's dive in! 🔥 Day 1: Full Body Blast Warm-Up: 5 minutes of walking or jogging in place Circuit (Repeat 3x): Squats: 15 reps Push-Ups: 10 reps (knee push-ups for beginners) Plank: 30 seconds Jumping Jacks: 30 seconds Cool Down: 5 minutes of stretching 🔥 Day 2: Rest or Light Activity Take a brisk walk or do some stretching to stay active and recover. 🔥 Day 3: Core & Cardio Warm-Up: 5 minutes of walking or jogging in place Circuit (Repeat 3x): Sit-Ups: 15 reps Mountain Climbers: 30 seconds Leg Raises: 15 reps High Knees: 30 seconds Cool Down: 5 minutes of stretching 🔥 Day 4: Rest or Light Activity Again, keep it light and fun. 🔥 Day 5: Upper & Lower Body Strengthening Warm-Up: 5 minutes of walking or jogging in place Circuit (Repeat 3x): Lunges: 10 reps each leg Arm Circles: 30 seconds forward, 30 seconds backward Wall Sit: 30 seconds Burpees: 10 reps Cool Down: 5 minutes of stretching 🔥 Day 6 & 7: Rest or Active Rest Engage in some light activities like walking or stretching to keep the momentum going without overexerting yourself. Tips for Success: Hydrate well before, during, and after workouts. Listen to your body: adjust the intensity as needed. Stay consistent, and make small daily improvements. Let's get moving! 💪 I want to hear about your progress. Share your journey, challenges, and successes. To learn more, book a free kickstart consultation here:https://www.axisstrengthtraining.com/contact

Are you ready to kickstart your fitness journey but feeling a bit overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? Don't worry, I've got your back! Here are 5 tips to help you take those first steps towards a healthier, happier you: 1️⃣ Dealing with Gym Intimidation: Feeling intimidated at the gym is totally normal, especially if you're new to the scene. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and most people are too focused on their own workouts to pay much attention to others. To overcome gym intimidation, try going during off-peak hours when it's less crowded, start with simple exercises or classes, and remind yourself that everyone is there for the same reason – to improve themselves. 2️⃣ Not Knowing What to Do: Feeling lost amidst all the equipment and exercises? Don't worry, you're not alone! Start by doing some research or seeking guidance from fitness professionals. Consider hiring a personal trainer for a few sessions to learn the basics and get a personalized workout plan. You can also explore beginner-friendly workout routines online or through fitness apps. Remember, it's okay to ask for help – we're all here to support each other! 3️⃣ Finding the Right People to Be Around: Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can make a world of difference in your fitness journey. Seek out supportive friends, family members, or workout buddies who share your goals and can offer encouragement and accountability. Joining fitness classes or group activities can also help you connect with others who are on a similar path. Together, you can motivate each other, share experiences, and celebrate successes! 4️⃣ Focusing on Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to achieving your fitness goals. Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on making small, sustainable changes to your lifestyle. Set realistic workout schedules and stick to them as best as you can. Remember that progress takes time, so be patient with yourself and celebrate every step forward, no matter how small. Consistency breeds results! 5️⃣ Thinking Long Term: Lastly, it's essential to adopt a long-term mindset on your fitness journey. Instead of chasing quick fixes or temporary results, focus on building healthy habits that you can maintain for life. Set meaningful, achievable goals that align with your values and prioritize your overall well-being. Remember, this journey is about more than just physical transformation – it's about cultivating a healthier, happier lifestyle that you can sustain for years to come. So there you have it! With these tips in mind, you're ready to take on your fitness journey with confidence and determination. Remember, you've got this, and I'm here cheering you on every step of the way! Let's crush those goals together!