Activity
Personal trainer Doctor Physical therapist Physical therapy clinic Sports medicine clinic Wellness centerAbout the Club
Since 2011, Garrett has been been helping runners and active adults improve strength & flexibility, recover from injury, and achieve their biggest health, fitness, & running goals. With a background in Athletic Training/Sports Medicine and Personal Training, Garrett uses his knowledge and skillset to create safe & effective running coaching, personal training, and injury rehabilitation programs for his cllients. Over the years, his clients have stated that his services are the best blend of personal training and injury prevention where they not only achieve their goals, but feel the best they have in years.
Photos
Leave a Review
Reviews
Tracy Dorstewitz
★ 5
My time spent working with Garrett has been amazing. I had broken my knee and was getting discouraged that I wasn't improving to a point that I could comfortably return to my active lifestyle. I found him online and could not be happier that I made the decision to contact him. He is very nice and extremely professional. It's been fun working with him and the workouts he has designed specifically for my situation. I have been seeing him for about four months now and my knee is almost back to 100%. I'm not sure I could have done this on my own, let alone in such a short period of time. I have, and would, strongly recommend him to anyone who has had an injury, is in pain, or is just looking to begin a new workout regimen. I can honestly say it's one of the best decisions I've ever made for myself. Thank you Garrett!
Source: Google
Elizabeth Weaver
★ 5
I found Garrett this spring after a diagnosis of osteoporosis at 54. I tried physical therapy and exercising on my own but I needed more guidance. Exercising on my own lead to a sore hamstring. I did not know how to start working out the right way to build bone. In fact, one of my first comments to Garrett was how much I hated working out. I was active, but not fit.
So, I enrolled in Garrett's Building Better Bones program. Originally, I did exercises at home using his app several days out of the week. The True Coach app has each exercise in a specific order, with a video, the number of reps, and allows for comments. Garrett replies to each comment and asks questions to make sure you are doing the exercise correctly. During that first month, I would go into his gym weekly and "check in" with him. He would make sure I was making progress and doing each exercise correctly. After that first month, I felt like I needed more as my exercises at home were limited by my lack of workout equipment. Garrett helped me choose a gym that was close to home and also had some group classes that I would enjoy.
I am currently working out 5 days a week. Two of those days I participate in group classes doing a low weight/high rep sequence and one class that is aerobic. The other two days, Garrett has a workout on the True Coach app specific to me and bone building that includes higher weights and low rep. He also has addressed an old ACL injury that I didn't realize needed help.
Garrett is very easy to work with. He asks a lot of questions to make sure you are getting what you need. He is funny and warm. Garrett also write a letter to my endocrinologist explaining my exercise routine to help me.
Garrett goes above and beyond expectations. I have to say, my mindset over exercise has changed thanks to him. I can see how much progress I have made in just 3-4 months and how much stronger and confident I am. I enjoy checking in with him on the app and reading his comments back. He makes me laugh and totally holds me accountable. There is nothing else in the Kalamazoo area that addresses osteoporosis on a personal level from a fitness perspective. I recommend seeking out his help if you have osteoporosis, regardless of your age or ability.
Source: Google
Angela Van Poppel
★ 5
If you’re thinking of hiring Garrett, don’t hesitate a moment longer. BOOK HIM NOW! Not only is Garrett fun, encouraging, and easy to work with, but he is a consummate professional in his field.
I was referred to Garrett after running my first ever half marathon last year. I was struggling with injuries. His in-person training paired with the program I did solo at home (that he designed and placed on a very easy app to use and follow) got me through an additional three half marathons and then the Chicago Marathon last fall!
I’ve known many “trainers” that give you a set of exercises based on basic, general principles of exercise. Garret is NEXT LEVEL. His expertise regarding injuries of all types, rehab, overuse problems is unmatched. He developed a program for me based on my goals and current fitness level and continues to address challenges as they arise and fine tune the program as needed.
Garrett has certainly exceeded my expectations. Whether he’s your run coach, personal trainer or helping you after surgery or an injury…. You won’t be disappointed!
Source: Google
Juan Reyes
★ 5
I reached out to Garrett for help with plantar fasciitis, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience. My favorite part of the treatment was that it wasn’t a generic rehabilitation plan—it was tailored to my progress and adjusted as needed. When I started, my pain levels were around 4-5/10, and now they’re consistently at 0-2/10. Highly recommend for anyone looking for personalized and effective physical therapy!
Source: Google
Jennifer P
★ 5
My son has worked with Garrett for training for 2 seasons - cross country and track. Our goals were to improve form, speed, prepare for the season (without overtraining), and strength train (reduce potential for injuries). Garrett was able to come up with a plan to help prepare for both seasons with in-person training and remote training using TruCoach. The TruCoach app was easy for my son to follow and included instructional videos. He has gone on to be one of the top runners in the area.
Source: Google
Kelly Doyle
★ 5
I have been working with Garret McLaughlin since last year. I have two bum knees and waiting for knee replacement this year. He is a fantastic trainer who has been really good at pivoting when my knees hurt. He is very intuitive and a good listener. He has helped me get stronger so when I have knee surgery, I can recover easier. I also enjoy his fun nature and kind and compassionate personality. He is encouraging about increasing weight to lift without being pushy. I enjoy my workouts a lot even when I am tired. I always feel like I worked really hard. Here is a picture of me doing an assisted chin up. You don't see the assist part but I am standing on some bands. I would have never dreamed of being able to do this with the goal of a chin up without assistance before. Highly recommend especially if you are dealing with pain issues you need help with.
Source: Google
Karen Schneiberg
★ 5
Garrett is a great coach with a good sense of humor that I appreciate. My marathon running plans were great and I just had to trust the process. I ended up getting a PR the second marathon I ran and it was actually a lot of fun! Garrrett's plan prepared me well and I would highly recommend him even if just to get in shape!
Source: Google
Don Bennett
★ 5
My experience Garrett has shown that he is very responsive to client requests and always polite and professional.
Source: Google
Dave Proulx
★ 5
Garrett is the real deal. I am a marathon runner who thought my running career was over. But with Garrett's help, I am not only recovered from injury, but he is helping me train toward my goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. He is not only knowledgeable, but a great listener, and gives helpful feedback to any issues I am facing. I can't recommend him highly enough!
Source: Google
Katie Eaton
★ 5
I always feel amazing after my session with Garrett. He’s positive, authentic, and gives you 110% of his attention. I’m very lucky to have him here in Kalamazoo area!
Source: Google
Tvisha Martin
★ 5
I highly recommend Garrett as a trainer to anyone that is looking for an expert in the running field. After working with Garrett for six months I have noticed a substantial improvement in my strength and functionality as a runner. Not only have I seen physical improvements but also I have deeper understanding of all the extra movements that are needed to be able to run sustainably. Additionally, Garrett is great to work with and clearly listens as he crafts his training regimen to your specific needs.
Source: Google
Tony Gilchrist
★ 5
When I made the decision that I wanted to start going to the gym on a regular basis I knew I didn’t want to do it alone. When I reached out to Garrett he took the time to ask me questions and get a full understanding of what I was looking for. We’ve been working together for over 3 months and he genuinely cares about my physical fitness and tailors the workouts to strengthen specific areas that need attention. I’ve felt great and look forward to continuing to work with him!
Source: Google
Michael Busha
★ 5
Garrett was the perfect find for taking my fitness routine to the next level. We have been working together twice a week for about 4 months. He also manages a 3rd independent work-out and checks in on my 3-4 days per week of running. I have tried various resistance training routines (and trainers) through the years but have never landed on consistent integration. My exercise routine changes every few weeks with a concentration on core, dexterity and balance along with weights. It is the perfect combination for me as I try to build fitness and endurance in my 40s... Easily the best trainer I have had. Mike
Source: Google
Kathy Gadwood
★ 5
I am a retiree and love to play pickle ball. Garrett has helped me to rehab shoulder and hamstring injuries. He is very knowledgeable about muscles and joints, is able to diagnose problems, and skillfully used active release therapy ( ART) on my shoulder. He also guided me through a series of exercises to gradually improve range of motion and strength in both the shoulder and upper leg. I felt the exercises were specifically designed so that I could achieve success in a manner appropriate for my age and skill level.
Garrett uses a coaching app, which lists the exercises to perform at home with videos to remind about correct technique. Documenting completion of each home workout session kept me accountable. He also makes himself available on the app to answer any questions and to follow up with any concerns he has.
Last but not least, Garrett is friendly, kind, and upbeat...a genuinely nice person who seems to love his job. I highly recommend him without reservation, especially if you are looking for help in injury recovery.
Source: Google
Amy Campbell
★ 5
I have been working with Garrett since December 2023. Some context, I am 56 years old, overweight, and had both knees replaced in 2022. My goals are to increase core stability and overall strength and health.
Garrett is a flexible problem solver. Example: I've had trainers in the past who asked me to do a modified side plank, and when I could not, their approach was well, just keep trying. Garrett had me stay in the modified side plank pose but lift my feet up instead. It worked to build strength, and now while I'm still doing a modified side plank, I can hold it now for about a minute. This is huge progress for me and Garrett's outside the box thinking made that happen.
He mixes up the training so it's not repetitive or boring, and he builds you up in small ways that you really don't notice till you're doing body weight exercises at a level you did not think possible (I'm looking at you, bar pushups). He does the the absolute most in pushing you without pushing you. Example: I really dislike doing rope slams because a prior trainer made me do them for quite a long time to count as a set. Garrett said well, let's do 10 seconds and that was easy, so we did a bit more, etc. He's good like that.
Our training is at Raw Strength in Portage and while it looks like a muscle gym, and it is, the people who work out there are kind and welcoming. I've met some good folks. I was intimidated for no reason, and I suspect that vibe is why Garrett uses their facilities.
I absolutely recommend him and his prices are definitely in line with the value you get. He's smart, funny, and supportive.
Source: Google
Yukio Strachan
★ 5
After undergoing two foot surgeries, Garrett's Running reboot program got me back to running.
What sets Garrett apart from many virtual programs is his hands-on approach to coaching. He gets to know his clients and cares about them.
You don't just sign up for a program without communication. He welcomes questions and works with you every step of the way. I have been impressed with his skill level, attentiveness to detail, and responsiveness. You never feel alone on your journey.
Source: Google
Chris Domino
★ 5
Garrett is an outstanding coach! If you're looking for someone to hand you a cookie-cutter training plan from the internet and have you to bang out a few squats, he's not the right person for you. In addition to performing a full PT evaluation to identify your strengths and weaknesses, Garrett will take into account your goals, current ability level, injury history, and available time you can dedicate to training to develop a custom strength and cardio plan. In just a few months, I saw substantial improvements in my strength, balance, and fitness levels... which led to shaving several minutes off my 5K and Half Marathon PR's and gaining knowledge that I'll continue to take forward in my running journey. I'd recommend Garrett to runners of all skill levels looking to prevent injuries and improve their performance.
Source: Google
Mustafa Hazime
★ 5
Garrett is a phenomenal coach and a even better person. I have had a wonderful experience with him returning to running from a really bad stress fracture. He is a good listener and you can tell he plans your program with the feedback you are giving him through his proactive check-ins. He makes it really easy to follow the program he lays out and also easily adjusts or pivots depending on what is happening in real time. In addition, he does a good job of providing the education and resources needed to deliver on the plan. I would highly recommend Garrett to anyone looking for a running coach. You will immediately see the benefits. He is a ocean of knowledge and he has taught me how to be a much smarter runner. 10/10
Source: Google
Jessica Freeman
★ 5
A friend of mine recommended signing up with Garrett since I was a new runner. I signed up for my first half marathon with no experience on how to train and never having run more than 6 miles. Garrett gave me an easy to follow running plan, strength training plan with videos which now has me running over 16 miles a week without injury. I recommend Garrett, whether you are a novice runner or seasoned pro, he works with you where you are and any injuries you may have to help you get to your goal.
Source: Google
Sally Driesel
★ 5
I live no where near Garrett and he was still willing to work with me! The aid of technology is wonderful! I did his RunStrong challenge program in order to just improve my performance and it sure happened. He was very supportive throughout the process, as for someone who has injuries this was very important. He created friendly competition, which lead to lastly memories. If you ever just want to see what you can do and how far you feet will fly, sign up!
Source: Google
Darlene Ciampa
★ 5
Best running and performance coach! I have worked with Garrett since November 2019 and have completed two 50k Trail Races and one 50 mile Trail Race and several 5k, 10k, half marathons and full marathons. My running, strength and resistance to injuries have improved exponentially. Garrett utilizes technology, sports science and proven training methodologies to design a training plan specific to me! Garrett collaborates with me with messaging through a coaching app, monthly check-in Zoom calls and tracking my performance through Garmin. He's the perfect coach for a busy life. Don't pass up the opportunity to work with Garrett!
Source: Google
Bob Skrobot
★ 5
Garrett takes the time to understand your needs through a series of evaluations and then tailors a program specific to you. He asks for feedback and will make any necessary changes to help you the most. The program is easy to follow thanks to the True Coach app. The videos and written descriptions that accompany each exercise are very helpful.
Source: Google
Mike Chekal
★ 5
Garrett is a stellar coach with the focus of injury reduction while improving performance. I found that the structured and easily followed plans he created for me worked well for my issue and needs. is the need to really interact with the others in the challenge, I learned so much form them and got motivation to complete some of the harder task from them.
Source: Google
Debbie Rochester
★ 5
I have been working with Garrett McLaughlin for the last 6 weeks as a participant in the RunStrong Challenge. It has been an excellent experience starting with Garrett doing a full eval for each participant to tailor a program for each of us to follow based on their goals/injuries, etc. The accountability thru the touch base sessions and training app are great as is the ongoing feedback based on how I am doing with the exercises from a technique perspective even though it is thru a virtual experience. I found the running evaluation very helpful to help improve my running form and feel I have developed a good foundation to go forward in my training to keep me running efficiently and injury free. Thanks Garrett - your knowledge and ability to tailor to all of us is greatly appreciated.
Source: Google
Susan Dooley
★ 5
I’ve been working with Garrett for 5 months now. At 53 years old, I’ve hired numerous personal trainers. Garrett is - hands down - the best trainer I’ve ever worked with. He is educated, professional, intentional & thorough. He listens intently & customizes each program to the participants unique needs. He is a life long-learner who continually shares QUALITY information, insight, & coaching. I am someone who demands a return on investment for every dollar I spend. I feel I’m making a worthwhile investment in my health & vitality through my partnership with Garrett. I recommend him to others without hesitation.
Source: Google
Jessica Schultz-Verdusco
★ 5
I’ve had the incredible opportunity to participate in two of Coach McLaughlin’s virtual 6-week challenges, both Run Strong (Fall 2020) and Function Over Fitness (Winter 2021). Run Strong taught me that “to run all the miles, you have to lift all the weights” and always “build a better foundation for the sport you love.” Function Over Fitness elevated this foundation to a whole new level in that to be a good athlete, you have to be functional in all other aspects. You can’t expect to perform at the top of your game if you skimp on sleep, recovery, fuel, hydration, or let your mind games drown your physical abilities. Function Over Fitness taught me not just about running and lifting weights but about my self-awareness as an athlete and how to balance every single one of my ecosytems into one cohesive unit while taking better care of myself. It couldn’t have come at a better time, as I bounce back from an incredibly long rehab journey. Coach McLaughlin stepped up his coaching prowess with another well-rounded, perfectly tailored, and outstanding fitness challenge that will always be one of the highlights of my athletic journey. If you want a Coach who will push you to be more than you ever expected from yourself, believe in you when you don’t believe in yourself, listen to your fears and doubts, catch you when you fail, and cheer for you when you crush your goals, then he is absolutely the coach for you! Without a doubt, he is the Coach-of-the-Century you have always been searching for.
Source: Google
Karen McLennan
★ 5
Garrett is the best ! I heard about him through a friend, I was very intrigued by his methods! I struggled with pain daily. Especially during my runs. Within a few weeks of working with Garrett, I was virtually pain free! He makes everything so simple to fit your lifestyle too!
Source: Google
Lea Ann Renner
★ 5
Stop waiting...Just do it!!!
Working with Garrett for the 6-week RunStrong Challenge has been a real eye opener. Through a structured strength training program, Garrett has not only gotten me back running pain free but I’ve learned the whys behind the importance of strengthening key areas of my body that I never really focused on before. Garrett is quick to answer questions in a thorough way often with videos to help explain. The TrueCoach training app he uses is easy to learn and great for communicating back and forth. He really pushes you out of your comfort zone (but in a good way)! Garrett makes weekly challenges which are a fun way to connect with the group while also providing accountability. If you’ve been on the fence about working with a coach, I encourage you to go for it!!
Source: Google
Vivian Davis
★ 5
I’ve been working with Garrett for about 3 years now. I was looking to add strength training into my running routine hoping to prevent injuries, but didn’t really know where to start. I heard about Garrett through my running community. He is very knowledgeable and detailed and really cares about the success of his clients. I highly recommend him.
Source: Google
Mary Lamb
★ 5
I heard about Garrett through a friend. I've spent the past few years struggling with injury and endurance that had me ready to quit running altogether. After seeing the progress my friend made, I decided to join the 6 week RunStrong Challenge.
Garrett has a thorough evaluation that he uses to customize your weekly runs & corrective and strength workouts. He's attentive, involved and I've already started to see improvements in the last six weeks. I've done PT before but Garrett is the first person to pinpoint one of my major problem areas and to give me exercises to correct it. It's been so great, I'm going to continue working with him. Highly recommend working with him and participating in the challenge.
Source: Google
Julie Rotenheber
★ 5
I have been working with Garrett for 8 months and is has been 1 of the best decisions I have made. His passion, knowledge, sense of humor, and collaborative approach is exactly what I needed. I have become stronger and learned so much about a proper running program which is why I felt ready to participate in the Run Strong Challenge. I liked this program because it is tailored to each individual based on a very thorough initial evaluation. I appreciated being able to offer support and receive support from my teammates. This challenge was fun and pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Source: Google
Jerry and Dawn Gohl
★ 5
This is my second run strong challenge. Love that it is specific to my weaknesses. I have gained strength, balance and coordination. Thank you
Source: Google
Jennifer Gillett
★ 5
The 6 week Run Strong Challenge was the perfect addition to my running!
Garrett is awesome and really knows his stuff! He utilized his training and expertise and customized a plan that fit my goals and fitness level, while addressing weak areas and issues. The challenge group was amazing. Such a great group encouraging each other along! I highly recommend jumping in to one of his challenge groups! The progress I’ve made is definitely noticeable!
If you are looking to improve ALL aspects of your running, look no further than Garrett! He combines his training and expertise and comes up with a personalized training program to meet your individual and specific running goals. Part strength training and part correcting your weaknesses ; his program will fit into your lifestyle and compliment your running! Whether you have specific goals or just want to be a better, more efficient runner, trust Garrett to get you there!
Source: Google
Marlene Brennan
★ 5
I am sharing this review regarding Garrett’s 6 week Run Strong Challenge This challenge has been a wonderful, beneficial experience for me. The initial assessment was very comprehensive and worth the investment in itself There was a running and strength analysis at the start . After this, I was sent a video on my running, and a personalized strength training program, to include videos on each exercise. I was in daily contact with Garrett, and he responded quickly if I had any issues with the exercises or scheduling. Garrett has an unbelievable amount of knowledge of strength and conditioning specific to the sport you participate in, and always has webinars and videos at our disposal at any time. I learned so much during this challenge. There is also a private FB group for participating members. I found this to be a lot of fun, and I met a wonderful group of people. Garrett made it fun with weekly challenges and prizes. This group kept each other motivated and accountable As a person who has done strength training and running my entire adult life, I have learned a complete new way of doing more functional and purposeful ways of strength training. This has increased my strength, mobility, balance and confidence. I couldn’t begin to say enough about my experience working with Garrett throughout this challenge, and I will continue to work with him in the future. He is a very dedicated and unbelievably knowledgeable coach in his area of expertise He is just an overall personable, nice guy to work with. You certainly won’t be disappointed. I would highly recommend him whether you are a runner or not
Source: Google
Kerry Brennan
★ 5
Being a member of Garrett’s RunStrong Challenge has significantly changed my life for the better — I am a stronger, better runner because of him. Immediately, I could tell that Garrett truly, truly cares about each and every one of his clients. He is patient, attentive, kind, and EXTREMELY intelligent. It is important to be able to trust your coach, and Garrett seamlessly built that foundation of trust and respect from day one. I appreciate that Garrett took the time to listen and to get to know me, tailoring a program that worked with my busy schedule and supported my goals. He was so thorough in my initial running analysis and strength evaluation — You can tell that Garrett not only knows what he is doing, but he loves doing it! Everything Garrett recommends is backed by science and research, and he has helped me over some major roadblocks throughout the past several weeks, including a tight schedule, hip and back pain, burnout, and fatigue. With Garrett’s program, I was given the accountability and challenge that I needed to take my training to the next level. If you are looking to become a stronger, healthier, and more knowledgeable runner, GARRETT IS THE COACH YOU ARE LOOKING FOR. I can’t wait to continue my journey with Garrett well beyond this six-week challenge — I trust everything he says because I can see and feel the results. Garrett is a true professional, and I appreciate him beyond words!
Source: Google
Gail Churchill
★ 5
This workout program really helped my endurance and improved my pace by a min/mile since it really strengthened my core and side of hips. Garrett made sure I was doing the exercises correctly and gave me feedback since we exchanged videos thought the series. I would recommend Garrett McLaughlin's coaching to any runner who wants to improve 😊
Source: Google
Jeff Smith
★ 5
Garrett came highly recommended in the running community. I've never used a personal trainer before but I gave his 6 week Run Strong challenge a shot. I was struggling with a nagging leg injury and his assessment helped me better understand the issues I was having and he developed a custom strength training program specifically geared towards improving my right leg injury. I saw significant improvement after just 3 weeks. It requires a daily commitment but the effort is worth it. I strongly recommend Garrett's services to runners who may be struggling or runners who want to work towards a PR. We can't just run and improve. We have to strength train.
Source: Google
Vicky Armstrong
★ 5
I became interested in running last year. I’ve never run before and quickly realized that I needed help. I joined one of Garrett’s seminars last November and was so impressed with his background and knowledge that I decided to sign up for his one-month trial & evaluation. He did a thorough running & strength analysis and immediately put together a custom plan for me to focus on the areas I needed to work on and improve in order to start running. That one month has now turned into three months so far and my level of improvement is unbelievable. My strength, stability, endurance, speed and overall fitness levels have helped me become a runner. I just finished my first 5K and have set my next goal to complete a 10K! In addition, Garrett is very motivating, easy to work with and keeps things fun! His program includes in-person or virtual training with an easy to use app that has each day’s workout, along with the ability to chat back and forth to get feedback. I’ve also participated in his 6-week Run Strong Challenge, it's a private facebook group he leads where we have accountability to complete weekly workouts, gain support, knowledge and motivation from the group as well as participate in fun contests! I’d highly recommend Garrett as a strength, conditioning and running coach, his level of experience and knowledge will definitely help you hit your goals and take them to the next level!
Source: Google
Kelly Baker
★ 5
I joined Garrett for his Run Strong Challenge and was beyond impressed. The information I gained about myself and reasons for all my ailments was amazing. I gained so much knowledge and have put it to use the last 6 weeks and I’ve noticed serious changes. Garrett is awesome and takes the time to explain things and help implement them!!!
Source: Google
D Byrd
★ 5
I was recently in the Run Strong Challenge (winter2021) with Garrett McLaughlin as my trainer. I recommend this program to anyone wanting to improve their running, to start running and to run injury free. I also recommend Garrett as a personal trainer. Not only did he tailor my plan to fit me and my goals and to strengthen my weaknesses but he was with me every step of my journey. I liked the way Garrett would give you your exercise plan and then would tell you why you should do each exercise, how you should correctly do each exercise, the benefits of doing each exercise and how to execute each one properly. Garrett uses the TrueCoach app and not only does it keep you on track but the videos show you how to do each exercise properly and you can go back and review it if needed. The app also allows you to send Garrett videos of you executing the exercise so that he can provide immediate feedback and show you how to adjust so that you are doing the exercise correctly. Garrett is an excellent personal trainer and takes a personal interest in all of his clients. He is there to help you achieve success in your goals and life. I highly recommend Garrett McLaughlin as a Personal Trainer. Denise Byrd
Source: Google
Beth Miazga
★ 5
I have been working with Garrett for a few months now and love how much stronger I've become in such a short time! The thing I like best is he personalized a program for me, I've never done strength training I was hesitant at first but I. So glad to gave him a try! I totally recommend him if your looking to get stronger for daily function better balance or a sport like me for running.
Source: Google
Katie Johnston
★ 5
Garrett is great! He helped me after several seasons of injuries and now I am headed in the right direction. Would highly recommend his services to any runner or athlete looking to take things to the next level.
Source: Google
Beth Hatsios
★ 5
I attended one of Garrett's seminars in the beginning of this year, and wanted to do a six week Run Strong challenge, but then COVID hit. I was pleased to find out that a virtual option was offered, and after a friend convinced me to sign up with her I did! I just completed this challenge and am pleased with the improvements I have seen in just 6 weeks! Garrett took time to assess me initially and then tailored a program specifically to me and my weak areas. He is very knowledgeable and is very engaged in my progress checking in and making any modifications needed during the process. I'm planning on continuing with him to add on to the improvements I have seen already!
Source: Google
Sharon Kuennen
★ 5
The 6 week RunStrong Challenge was fun, uplifting, and rewarding. The program delivers strength and corrective exercises tailored to your specific needs and weaknesses, but also participating as a group and in competition with others. I’ve been working with Garrett to build strength to prevent running injuries and have seen major gains in muscle tone, strength, speed and fitness in just a few months. I would recommend the program as well as coaching by Garrett for anyone looking to improve their running goals.
Source: Google
Kristen Bouwman
★ 5
I have been working with Garrett for about 3 months and I am completing a RunStrong Challenge this Sunday. I am really happy with how Garrett operates. He uses the TrueCoach app which is really easy to use, and he is really easy to contact/responsive when I have questions. His knowledge is extensive, he's helped me begin solving some problems that I have been struggling with for years. He also offers free webinars and “Fireside Chats” with professional runners/therapists/other specialists that are CHOCK FULL of free, quality information. I'm really glad I stumbled on it one day and got to “ Zoom meet” Garrett. :) Also...You'd think that distance coaching won't work...but Garrett is excellent at this if you step up and do the work he gives you.
As for the RunStrong Challenge itself, it's definitely got a Garrett signature on it! We had a great group of 17 women this round. We lovingly referred to him as “The Executioner” but the only thing he executed was great jokes! It was a fun (and funny) interactive way to keep motivated toward goals that seem simple, but are not. These goals included runs, workouts, remedial exercise, drinking water, and sleep. I never realized how much my lack of sleep was holding me back, and I am starting to build a habit of getting better sleep as a result of this fun competition. I'd totally do it again!
Source: Google
Stacy Farris
★ 5
I had the opportunity to join in a 6 week Run Strong fitness challenge with Garrett McLaughlin. IN 6 weeks I've seen so much improvement. Garrett took the time to tailor a strength training program to address specific weaknesses. Within a couple of weeks the hip pain I've been struggling with for the last year is pretty much gone! I even ran a 5K PR on the dreadmill.
Garrett set up a fun program with challenges, a private Facebook group, Zoom calls and games. It was a lot of fun and the weeks flew by. The group participation and True Coach app really helped with accountability. I'll admit I'd have skipped a posting challenge or two if it weren't for the others in the Facebook group.
I'm looking forward to continuing to work with Garrett McLaughlin in 2021, training for my deferred first full marathon!
Source: Google
Jessica Schultz-Verdusco
★ 5
Have you always wondered how to get better at your passion for running? Coach Garrett McLaughlin is your winning ticket for a solid strength training program with emphasis on stability improvements in single leg exercises. That’s right, strength training is the next step if you want to “step up” your running game to reach beyond your goals.
Joining Coach Garrett’s #RunStrongChallenge in the late Fall of 2020 was the best choice I could have made after a long year of virtual marathons and half marathons due to a pandemic. I’ve never been committed to other strength training programs as much as I have to Coach Garrett’s personalized program. What sets Coach Garrett’s program apart is that it is custom designed for YOU! After a running analysis, the program is setup for your specific weak areas while keeping in mind your future goals. And when you think you have mastered an exercise, Coach Garrett will have you on your “tip toes” tweaking more exercises in progression to more strength. One of the best highlights has been his RAILs program, which aims to correct specific problems that are vital your running form.
Through a combination of personalized private strength training sessions (yes, even 100% in a mask due to a pandemic), social media group motivation with others, and daily constructive feedback utilizing the TrueCoach app, I’ve gone from a runner who escaped strength training to a runner who thrives for more “bonus” strength training sessions. In fact, Coach Garrett has also been very helpful at reminding me often that “less is more,” except when it comes to planks.
If there was any recommendation for improvement for Coach Garrett’s #RunStrongChallenge, it would be to extend it beyond 6 weeks! This is one of the million reasons why I have selected to continue on with more single leg stability fun throughout all of my 2021 running endeavors. Here’s to you Coach Garrett – simply THE BEST of the best!
Source: Google
Jen Blindert
★ 5
I found Garrett and his RunStrong Challenge through an educational webinar on the importance of cadence. I decided to do the RunStrong Challenge because I wanted to focus my strength training on improving my running (because the only reason I lifted previously was to be a better runner so it made total sense to have a runner specific strength program). I was immediately impressed at how quickly Garrett responded to questions I had and how thorough he was with my running analysis. He was able to target my weaknesses and construct a program specific for me. He was also flexible with my program if I needed modifications along the way. Even after running for 20 years (and competing in college), I learned a lot about why certain exercises are important and how to execute them properly. Even if you know what exercises to do, sometimes you just need accountability and motivation to do them and this program has that too! Complete with friendly competition, encouraging teammates, and even prizes. I think this program would be beneficial to anyone. I'm very happy I decided to do it.
Source: Google
Casey Griffin
★ 5
Coach Garrett has my highest of recommendations! I came to him by chance; I attended one of his webinars, and it was terrific. His knowledge and understanding of physiology, biomechanics, and the mindset of the average runner was thorough and extensive, and I hoped he could help me resolve my pain and weakness issues. Now, a few months later, that vast expertise--along with his awesome support and encouragement--has helped me reduced my pain from a 7 to almost zero, and I’ve achieved some benchmarks that I haven’t experienced in years. Plus, I’m having fun! Garrett identified my weak links and created a highly-customized program which not only addresses my physical issues, but also my personality, preferences, lifestyle, etc. In addition, he provides supplemental webinars, articles, and videos that reinforce the principles of his process and give valuable tools and context to the runners he works with.
I know this may seem like an implausibly glowing review, but it is sincere. My experience working with Garrett has been fantastic! Thanks Coach!
Source: Google
Jacquelyn Unis
★ 5
I was introduced to Garrett via the running webinars he hosts often. I always learn something new that gives me something to think about, consider or implement into my running routine. When the Running Challenge came up it was a no brainer really. Garrett has a variety of strengths as a personal trainer- he is EXPERIENCED, knowledgeable, PERISONALBLE, easy to train with and understand. He is very CLEAR and concise with the exercises and drills. And is eager to demonstrate them. He uses a variety of resources to show where you are and how you can better train. He is always available to communicate about my needs, questions and concerns. It is easy to recommend him to anyone - beginner and up- he gives 110%.
Source: Google
Terri Crowther
★ 5
Participating with a professional, informed, thorough and caring person like Garrett McLaughlin has been life enhancing. He is able to complete a personal and individualized assessment to design a person specific program that he easily adapts and adjusts based on progress. The results have been self knowledge, and injury prevention with increased strength, better form and improved performance all in a spirit of fun. The exciting thing is that he is able to provide personalized care even remotely. I can't give a high enough rating and I would recommend Garrett far and wide.
Source: Google