TESTIMONIALS

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"What makes a great coach? A great coach in my opinion is not only someone who knows the data and information that is needed to achieve optimal results but is also someone who you can confide in and trust. John has shown this by researching the information and data, citing his sources and explaining them to his clients. It is a no BS approach that he has developed using many of the greatest bodybuilders' and powerlifters' methods. This is the reason that I have worked with John since May of 2012 and over this time John has become a great friend to me and through his help I was able to achieve many of the goals that I have set to achieve in my life in bodybuilding and powerlifting. Because of the experience that I have had as a Team SL member I have been able to become a more humbled athlete with a great work ethic. This work ethic has not only allowed me to exceed in bodybuilding and powerlifting but also in college and achieving balance in my family life. This is the reason that I have recommended this man to many when looking for a coach, including my own girlfriend and brother who are currently working with him. Working with John has shown me that I can achieve anything through hard work and determination."

 

Justin Gardner

PT Student, Nationally Qualified Powerlifter with USAPL, Amateur Bodybuilder

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"I started working with John a little over a year ago, but have known him for a while. When I asked to join team Strength is Life, he didn't hesitate for a second in beginning to give me goals to look forward to...Whenever I am having a problem, he helps me right away. I've had several coaches growing up, but none ever like John. He cares about the success of everyone on the team. I have seen him help many people like me, come up with a goal and give it all they've got to be the best. He has a very extensive understanding about what it takes for healthy fitness results. John always has research that backs up what he tells his clients. This shows that he cares about his clients' health and needs before trying anything that could risk them getting hurt. Overall, John is the best coach I have ever had. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking for an strength training coach."

 

-Emily Glassford

Nationally Qualified Powerlifter with the USAPL

 

 

"I started "working out" when I was about 11 or 12 years old. My mother first taught me in my basement, and I've been hooked ever since then. I put working out in quotes, because I was just going through the motions, like every other person that goes to the gym. Monday is chest day, Tuesday was back, etc. There was really no direction with my workouts, but there was a goal, to look fantastic!

I dabbled in clean eating myself, but I was in the beginning stages of research. With my job, I found I couldn't really put as much time into studying as I wanted to. Then I met John. I let him know what I was looking to do, and he was, immediately, on the same page. He tweaked my food intake and gave me specific macros that I should eat through the day. I am amazed at how my body transformed in a couple short months! Now that I'm in this lifestyle, I wouldn't have it any other way! "

 

-Travis Alanskas, Amateur Powerlifter/Bodybuilder

 

 

"Coach John Garafano is an exceptional rarity among his peers. His approach to training is refreshingly different from any other coach with whom I’ve worked. He’s very conscious of the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit, taking each of these into account when coaching his athletes. His first concern is always you the person, not just your physique or the weight on the bar. His empathy is evident in all his words of praise and encouragement. Each of his programs is specifically tailored to the individual athlete; his/her goals, daily schedule and training preferences. No cookie-cutter programs here! The depth and breadth of his knowledge is amazing. He constantly strives to remain at the forefront of research, educating himself in the data’s application to his training and nutritional programming. Quite simply, there isn’t a coach I trust more to guide me toward my goals. Whatever efforts you give to training with John will be given back to you tenfold. You couldn’t make a better investment in your training/nutrition."

 

-Catlyn Comstock

ANBF, Professional Figure Competitor

 

 

"John isn't "just" an amazing coach, he is a very caring human being. He's someone I know I can be honest with, and that's a very important in a coach. He is someone you can trust with all of your lowest points and your failings, and someone you trust with your success as well.

I've had a lot of personal set backs and so I'm not quite where I want to be, but John has supported me through the journey and is helping me get back on my feet. I started my fitness journey 4 years ago, and I'm so happy to have met John when I did over this past year because to push through that last wall and become successful, I need him in my corner.

You wont be let down with John as your coach, I would (and have) recommend him to anyone. He's someone I'm proud to call my coach and my friend."

 

-Juliane Markow

Profesional Photographer and Owner, Markow Photography

 

 

"John is a total student of his craft and has taken a passion he's had for years and paid it forward into helping others achieve their dreams. I've known John for more than 5 years and had the pleasure of work shopping ideas from all over the health and fitness spectrum and beyond. As a sports focused chiropractor and lecturer to the chiropractic profession, I wish I had people like John in my seminars who not only accept new ideas, but contribute many of his own to improve the overrall experience. He is constantly adding to the relationship and follow through on what he says he'll do. Intelligent, determined, successful and loaded with integrity: rare traits for any one person to have without calling attention to himself at all times which is viral in this industry."

 

-Dr. Tim Rogers, Proactive Performance Centers, Crossfit Maximus

 

 

"I learned a lot from John and I was able to achieve something I always dreamed of achieving with his help. He knows a lot about fitness and loves helping his clients achieve their goals. He's constantly learning more about new training techniques, effective diets, and supplements. He's not only a good coach, but also a good friend. Had a great experience with him!"

 

-Roman Miranda, Professional Model, Men's Physique/Bodybuilding Competitor

 

 

"The most knowledgeable coach I have ever met, with many client success stories to show that the proof is in the pudding! John can train from simple wellness clients to elite competitors."

 

-Gina Marie

 

 

"I met John in a local gym (naturally) after noticing and expressing my great impression of his dedication and hard work regarding his fitness goals. John stood out like a sore thumb with his intense concentration and commitment to each and every repetition of an exercise. Please keep in mind that John's value does not stop here. 

As soon as we shook hands, I immediately felt a sense of respect from him, as well as a genuine appreciate for my feedback. John reciprocated by sharing some of his extraordinary knowledge and was happy to give me some tips. From that point forward, he quickly became a person several fellow gym members trusted... not just for fitness advice, but true support.

One thing I strive for in life is to follow my passion and truly care about what I do... as one who does this will be the best he or she can be. John is a prime example of this type of individual... he isn't just GOOD at what he does- he has a true passion for it. THAT puts him miles ahead of the competition right out of the gate!"

 

-Brian Nole, Professional Radio Host