STEVEN HANDY
Athletics and training have been a part of my life as long as I can remember. Growing up in Washington state, there was plenty to keep me busy. I started swimming competitively at six, followed by soccer at seven. I was "husky," according to my mom, so dad kept me as active as he could.
I played a variety of sports through my formative years, some better than others. I enjoyed them all and had a passion for competition. I learned to snow ski at a young age, and that has been an ongoing pleasure. I settled on football, swimming, and soccer through High School, played football well enough to earn a place on a national championship team with Linfield College.
I was fortunate to have been exposed to many amazing coaches and mentors over my years in sports. I tried to take pieces from them all, the good, the bad, and the ugly. My father was my biggest fan, and taught me the most. He taught me to listen first, and coach the whole person. I try to honor that by putting the same care and compassion into my training that he gave me.
My life changed drastically when I left college and joined the Army. Through my ten-year career, I drew on every bit of knowledge and strength I had. Those years, seven of which I was honored to work with the amazing soldiers of the Special Forces, forged me into the man I am.
Fitness, conditioning and dedication have always been a part of my life. Upon leaving the military, I decided to redirect those as a personal trainer, strength coach and mentor. My first major certification was National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT). It taught me much, and laid the foundation of more to come. The one I rely on most now is National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). The OPT model of stability, strength and power works well for all clients as a base.
My passion for learning about my field has taken me through Functional Movement Systems (FMS), TRX, TRX Rip Trainer, Dynamax, Integrated Stretching, a couple kettlebell certs, and other specialties. Through all of these I have developed an extensive "tool box,” and found there is no one right way to approach training. You can never go wrong focusing on form and control through a range of motion. My clients can easily quote my mantra, "Progress, not Perfection."
"I've been training at The BARbell since January this year and have made significant progress thanks to the skilled and patient tutelage of the owner, Steve Handy. Steve's encouragement and knowledge has made a big difference. I have gained in strength and stamina.
I'm convinced my training with Steve was what enabled me to recently complete a metric half century (32 mile) bike tour. My workouts are intense, focused and tailored, and my progress carefully tracked by Steve. Oh, and did I mention we have a lot of fun during my training sessions?"
- Larry W.