For Greg, POUND has become so much more than a workout – it has been a journey of growth, connection, and finding the courage to step outside his comfort zone. What began with a desire to teach POUND in his local community has led him across the country, building friendships and a POUND family along the way. Through the community, Greg has overcome fears that once kept him from traveling and discovered a newfound sense of confidence, purpose, and belonging. Read on for his story.
Greg’s POUND Journey
After taking his first POUND class in October 2017, Greg immediately knew he wanted to become certified and teach POUND. Just one month later, on November 10, 2017, he became a POUND Pro.
At the time, Greg’s goal was simply to bring POUND classes to his gym and community. He had no idea how becoming a POUND Pro would change his life in ways far beyond the classroom.
One of the most meaningful parts of Greg’s POUND journey has been how the community helped him overcome something that had held him back for years: anxiety around traveling and stepping outside of his hometown and familiar routines. Greg rarely traveled on his own, and if he did go somewhere, he typically needed someone with him.
Through POUND, he began forming genuine friendships – and eventually what he describes as family – with Pros from across the country and around the world. Those relationships gave him a reason to push beyond his comfort zone. He wanted to meet his fellow POUND Pros in person, even if that meant traveling alone.
What might seem simple to someone else has been truly life-changing for Greg. His POUND journey has opened up an entirely new world and helped him become more confident, independent, and stronger – not just as a POUND Pro, but in his life as a whole.
Today, Greg continues to spread POUND through his classes, attending fellow Pros’ events and fundraisers, connecting with the community, and sharing POUND on social media. He is always looking for ways to improve his social media presence and continues to be one of those people who is happy to talk about POUND wherever he goes.
Looking ahead, Greg plans to attend more trainings and Pro Skills opportunities and has a big goal on the horizon: hosting an event in his own community. He already has several fellow Pros willing to help, and he hopes it will be the next big step in his POUND journey.
A major turning point came in June 2018, when Greg’s wife and daughter accompanied him on a 13-hour drive to Austin, Texas, for POUND Amplify with ICON Michelle Opperman. His family came along so he could attend Amplify while they explored Austin. At that point in his journey, Greg says he likely would not have made the trip without them.
The Amplify experience became a powerful catalyst. Being surrounded by the POUND community, stepping outside his comfort zone, and experiencing something so meaningful for himself gave Greg the motivation to continue confronting his fears. When he returned home, he felt different – stronger in his teaching, more confident in his mindset, and inspired to keep pushing himself.
With continued work and cognitive practices, Greg began traveling to POUND events, trainings, and gatherings on his own. What once felt nearly impossible slowly became something he looked forward to.
Spreading POUND + Creating Impact
Over the years, Greg has traveled to Nebraska, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Ohio, Colorado, New Jersey, Nashville, Indiana, Boston, South Carolina, and beyond – sometimes visiting the same places more than once. He has driven countless miles on his own and has also taken flights by himself.
For Greg, having a purpose behind each trip makes all the difference. Knowing that his POUND friends and family will be there waiting for him provides a sense of security and belonging.
Every event and training has been special in its own way, but what Greg values most is the acceptance and sense of purpose he feels within the POUND community.
Greg’s Words of Encouragement
“Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. You never know where POUND might take you or how much it can change your life. The people you meet along the way can become so much more than fellow instructors – they can become your friends, your support system, and your POUND family. Keep showing up, keep pushing yourself, and enjoy the journey.”
Way to go Greg! See you in South Carolina!
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We love you Greg!