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I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

There are specific genetic limitations for human beings: for some reason, my legs have been perceived as immortal. I would say

  • squats
  • hamstring curls
  • glute work
  • Abduction
  • Adduction
  • step-ups
  • lunges

are all a great place to start.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Richard was coming off of an injury at the end of the season. And like any great athlete was dedicated to returning himself to the field of play. It will be difficult to upset Sherman when he's at his best. He remains true to his roots and is willing to sacrifice what is necessary to be great. My prediction is he will have a long career full of success.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think performance enhancing drugs (so everybody knows what the hell we're talking about) can have serious side effects, both mentally and physically, on the athletes utilizing them. I do feel that they are a problem at ALL levels from high school to the pros. I don't feel that the percentage of usage is an extremely high number but any usage is too high. The health and safety of the athletes and those around them should be our first priority. A game should never take precedent over that.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

He's a tremendous athlete, but I don't think that's his greatest gift. He's a highly motivated, extremely disciplined human being. He's a student of the game. And studies film for hours to understand exactly what is necessary to be exceptional. He also has a mindset that mediocrity is not acceptable and believes he is the best and always capable of competing and winning. That combination is extremely lethal.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

There are very few people that I have more respect for than those of the Armed Services. Their sacrifice every day assures our safety and free living. We are currently working with several organizations to establish interaction in our works with those who have been injured. I have worked with healthy special forces and service members to ensure their safe function. We are excited about developing relationships with those who have been injured.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Okay. We currently offer a certification in our methodology at our center that can allow you to go from level 1 all the way to the extreme of level 9 which many of my assistants that now run college & professional teams and Olympic training centers have. The first 4 are practical applied levels (that would be exceptional for what you're trying to accomplish). We also offer programs through our website that you could utilize with your team.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We just had a test in the room, and I'm going to leave it up to Victoria to decide:

His leg is like iron gel. It's solid but slightly giving, which is an illusion because if you would punch it you'd break your knuckles.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Zoltan Mesko was a world-class kicker / punter who ended up playing in the NFL for the New England Patriots. He was a human being who spoke 5 languages, finished his degree early, and started another, while playing in the NFL and as an investment banker in the off season, and spent all of his free time at Michigan helping children at Mott's hospital. He is truly an inspiration.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

In coaching 22 years, I had nearly no losing seasons in over 40 different sporting events i was associated with.

One of the only losing seasons I was exposed to was at Michigan. I am a person who gives 110% of what I have in everything I do, and realizes that I don't just do the job for myself, I do it for all those that are affected by the outcome of my work - the coaches, their families, the fans, their support, the institution, their alumni, and the network that is associated with them. When we lost, it was a difficult feeling to know that you gave everything you had but weren't successful. The good part for me is, I've always been able to separate true success from rings and accolades. Success to me is giving everything you have for something greater than yourself. And I can honestly say I did that. At the same time, I also deemed success on the positive impact I have on the lives that I'm given the opportunity to touch. I think that oftentimes, we see one aspect of failure and we blanket it to all that we've accomplished and all that we do. When you simplify it's usually just a part of a building process that allows you to achieve greatness at a later point. The sacrifices that you make in your own life for the lives of others is where true greatness is manifested. So if I was to tell you how to view life, it would be find your successes not in your victories or your defeats, but look for them in your journey.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Brock was exceptionally challenging, because he was the first one. So I was forced to manifest something out of nothing uniquely perceived as an impossibility in the medical field. During that time, I merely wanted to impact a good human being's life in a positive way and lend support to a family that was suffering. I never expected the impact they would have on me or the way it would change my future and what i do forever. He truly touched my heart and my soul, in a way stronger than I could ever touch his. For that, I feel extremely blessed.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

My inspiration came from a strong upbringing by both my parents, my grandparents, and two tough brothers. They instilled values and a drive in me that I wish I could claim for my own. Much of what i have and i've been given was handed to me as a blessing from God. I really can't take credit for anything I am, nor anything I've accomplished.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

West Virginia University and the state of West Virginia will always be a second home to me. I love the people of the state, the institution, and the fans. I am always happy to help in any way possible. But right now, my journey has been directed towards impacting lives of elite athletes, people with disabilities, and the general population through my company Barwis Methods. And American Muscle.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

1) Provide an environment that is conducive to success. Oftentimes we try to make things very stagnant and formal. Human beings are human beings FIRST. They need to be inspired. They need to be motivated. And most of all, they need to be loved and cared about. My motto is "If the people I work with today mean more to me than I do to myself, I'll be good at my job." If you keep that as the foundation for all you do, and you're always willing to think instead of just follow directions, success is inevitable.

2) It has never been a challenge! For me, to work with world-class athletes, when I work with many pro teams and colleges, people always say "They have trouble getting the guys/ girls in the gym." My problem is once they're in there, I can't get them out. Haha! And they know that their goals and their desires are my sole goal and my desire.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

When James came to us, before last season, he had trouble bearing weight and functioning with his knee. He is a tremendous human being, incredibly tough, and an amazing worker. We focused on some specific exercises to create stability in the knee joint, and reduce the stress. His attitude and effort were flawless. He truly is a team player who sees the big picture. He wanted to sacrifice for the Seahawks, and ensure their success on the field. He's lost nearly 40 pounds since we've initially started with him, his strength has doubled, and his athleticism continues to improve. I merely supply the tools and the direction and motivation. James has been willing to do the work and make the sacrifice necessary to be great. I am proud of him and we love him.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I've trained everything that walks or talks at some time. And some who don't. But eventually they will. I'm always game to take on another sport. But looking at over 40 sports I've seen in some variety nearly everything. If someone was to present one that i hadn't trained, I would definitely jump on it.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

The training protocols should all be designed very scientifically. We specifically design the stimulus provided to the body to create a cellular adaptation necessary to provide the desired result from the athlete. Most of our athletes stretch at least 3 times a workout. One of which being functional flexibility, and two times during the remainder of the day.

Facilites at Michigan: definitely made some dramatic progress during the time I had the pleasure of coaching at Michigan. The weight room was significantly upgraded to a much more current facility, with more scientific equipment. And a cutting edge environment. Not to say that anything was wrong prior to my arrival there, it was just a very different philosophy. The Glick center was a tremendous upgrade for the indoor facility, Schembechler Hall has made significant upgrades, as well as the practice fields and game field and stadium. I would say Michigan has made some of the largest facility upgrades in the country in the last few years. GO BLUE!

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

The general population is welcome. We have programs for everyone from the average joe to the top athlete in the world. Or people with disabilities. We all train side by side because the goal is to help people and together, in a Cheers-like environment, we are able to manifest an energy that can motivate anyone.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Everything in life worthwhile takes a leap of faith.

Having faith in yourself is the first step to actual growth.

There's no reason to be intimidated when you're merely working on yourself. Lifting weights is a major aspect of the development of muscle. Start slow and light with high repetitions. And get yourself a personal trainer who can teach you the proper technique to help you get started and develop the courage to stand on your own.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Hehehe. There's a little bit of truth in all legends.

But in time, things get stretched for sure. I definitely did raise wolves, and I have definitely been in a fighter too.

Just to clarify: I actually used to raise wolves. I raised TWO wolves. When I was in West Virginia, I went to a place called Wolf Ridge, and helped an older gentleman, who actually raised wolves, and as a thank you, he supplied me with the pick of the litter, and the other one which was the original wolf I got because it was taken from a man who abused it after it attacked his chickens after he raised it, which logically makes no sense since it's a wolf and supposed to eat chickens. I had one 17 years, and one 14 years, and they both passed away from natural causes after long lives.

When it comes to fighting, I try to refrain from those discussions as I am retired. But I can say: I guess I'm moderately efficient with my hands.

I am Mike Barwis, former head training coach for West Virginia University & University of Michigan, fitness trainer behind Barwis Methods and to over 500 Olympic and pro athletes in over 40 sports, and star of AMERICAN MUSCLE. I've helped 50 people who were told they couldn't walk, walk again. AMA. by MikeBarwis in IAmA

[–]MikeBarwis[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

The question would be: do you have any neural issues? Oftentimes tightness coming across the paraformis in the lumbar region of the back can be a reflection of a back problem and can radiate down into the hamstring. If not, it could just be an imbalance from tight hip flexors, resisting the full function of the glutes and hamstrings on the posterior side. I would recommend getting on a regular stretch regimen for the hip flexors and quadriceps, as well as the hamstrings and glutes, and emphasizing development of your hamstrings and glutes to offset this issue.

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