Kyle’s story - Knee & shoulder pain

Before Align

I’ve always loved sports and running, but became limited with what my body could handle due to ongoing knee and shoulder pain. I was training for a half-marathon and had to give it up because I couldn’t complete my long training runs. I was always unsure of how much I could tolerate before the pain set in. 

The uncertainty also spilled over into playing sports and trying to lift weights. I didn’t have much knowledge about how to lift in a sustainable way. Doing it all myself and having to learn without someone to guide me through felt unmotivating, and the pain would always show up.

Coming to Align

After giving up running for a year, I decided it was time to get to the core of the knee and shoulder problems and start building strength. I wanted to be strong, but to do it the right way and build a really good foundation.

I tried working with multiple physical therapists and chiropractors, but never could seem to work through the real underlying issues. I tried remedies like salt baths and foam rolling, but the problems remained, so I decided to give Align a try.

The Journey

It took some time before I found my groove with Align, but after a few months I started feeling like I had a much better foundation of strength and resilience through a variety of movements. I was excited to build muscle in a way I hadn’t before.

One of my favorite things about Align is their desire to help you identify and reach your goals. I’ve set and crushed several goals while working with the team, thanks to their support and guidance on the way. Align has a great community vibe. It’s relaxed, but the people showing up are motivated.

I’ve also  learned so much about what contributes to body stability and strength. I know what muscles to focus on, and most importantly, I know what to do when I feel any pain.

Life Now

I’m now able to crush an upper or lower body workout without any pain! Where I used to have hesitation and uncertainty, I can now push and build strength without restrictions. I have the freedom to do whatever activity or sport I want to without feeling limited.

I feel much more equipped to keep my body feeling good day in and day out. Align has made it all possible, not just by guiding me through the work, but by equipping me with the knowledge to sustain what I’ve built.

Pass It On: What would you say to someone who is considering starting their Align journey?

Take it one week at a time and find what motivates you. Some weeks feel slow and hard, but when you look back, you’ll be so glad for every workout you put in and every week you were consistent! There’s no better investment than into your own body (you only get one). If you want to build muscle, let your coach know and they’ll help you get there. Trust them through the process. Also, support your work by taking care of your nutrition. It will make all the difference in not just reaching your goals, but feeling good and energized on the way.

A Coach’s Perspective: Coach Jaylee

When Kyle first came to Align, he had consistent IT syndrome and knee pain. He didn’t have the strength to do the things he loved in life. We started by fixing the stability issues and then pushed hard on his weight training. Over time he gained a ton of muscle mass and strength to do more rigorous activities. I remember Matthew telling him, “I’m going to turn you into Captain America.” Kyle eventually deadlifted upwards of 250-300lbs and was doing things like pull-ups and hand stand push-ups. 

Then, he and his wife started traveling the world and were in a new place every few weeks. During that time he worked with us online and kept the strength training going. Every few weeks we’d meet virtually, look at the travel schedule, assess what gym or equipment he’d have access to, and program his workouts around it. He always prioritized his body and never let traveling affect his self-care. He kept a strong body, and was conscientious to combat the effects of travel and maintain a healthy body.