Every Monday we’d like you to meet someone new around here at JustBats.com. Get to know us a little better! Meet Trainer Mike! Mike is our Fitness Trainer and his job is to make sure we work hard and stay in shape! Here is what makes Mike tick.

1.How long have you been here at JustBats.com?
February, 2012 will mark the start of my 5th year.
2.What’s the story behind how you got connected here?
I donated a training package to St. Therese Elementary School for a silent auction fundraiser. Scott’s children went to school there and he had taken note of my donation.Scott had been contemplating bringing a trainer up to JustBats.com to work with his management team and called me shortly after the auction.
3.When did you start getting into fitness?
I was first introduced to fitness during my high school years as part of the Athletic program.  Like many, after my sports career had ended, I lifted on and off for years. I was actually 35 years old when I obtained my trainer’s certification. I had helped my best friend lose 140 lbs that year and became hooked.
4.What’s your number one advice for someone that has never trained before that want’s to hit the gym hard?
Working smart is so much more important than working hard. There is some very basic science regarding fitness, that if applied, will allow you to reach your goals much faster.
5.What’s your favorite muscle group to work?
It has changed several times over the years, but it is currently back. I use to skip this muscle group all too often. It is the largest muscle group in the upper body and after staying the course, I found it to be a very rewarding muscle group to prioritize.
6.Aside from pumping iron, what do you like to do in your free time?
Anything with my daughter. She is the love of my life and the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.
7.What’s your least favorite way to work out?
Over-lifting, or trying to “max out” on how much you can lift. This is just setting yourself up for injury.
8.What’s your favorite sport and team?
Baseball is my favorite sport. I grew up in Philadelphia and was a die hard Phillies fan.  They are still my favorite team to this day.
9.Staying in shape can be a big challenge for a lot of people, tell us what keeps you motivated and on track?
At age 30, I felt like I was 40. At age 40, I felt like I was 25. Now that I have a daughter, my motivation is truly about health and wellness. Having knowledge and understanding how to work smart is certainly the one thing that helps me stay on track the most.
10.Read any good books lately?
I recently re-read Body 4 Life by Bill Phillips. There are some great fitness principles and tips in this book. Many of these have been incorporated into our 2012 JustBats.com Health & Wellness Challenge.