Ever Have a Problem You Couldn't Solve?

Ever have a problem you couldn’t solve? That was my case until very recently. For as long as I can remember my back had developed a heavy slouch – poor posture. Why this occurred I do not know, but its effects have been far reaching. Throughout my school years I was called names such as “Quasimoto” and “hunchback” and none of my peers cared to so much as say hello to me as a result.
On top of having social ramifications, I found out that early slouching can lead to all sorts of long term issues such as hernias and arthritis, so I began to seek out a solution. I saw numerous specialists -- one claimed my spine was abnormally curved, some said it was a weak back and weak shoulder muscles, and while it would not have been a complete fix one doctor was prepared to operate on me and put a metal rod in my back when I was 14. On top of these diagnoses I tried physical therapy, yoga, and the old fashioned gym. Everyone claimed they could “cure” my back issue but no one was able to produce results.
I had given up. Nearly 15 years was spent looking for an answer with only explanations of my condition to show for it. By chance, my mom was on the internet looking for a change in her workout routines and had come across “Art of Strength” and discovered that an Austin location was opening up. So, after a couple of sessions at Austin’s Punch Gym, she practically forced me in for a trial session. Not being a fan of traditional workout routines, I found that the kettle bell method is an enjoyable one that keeps you on your toes and is ultimately more efficient. I decided to continue with Punch Gym and that’s when a rather odd change occurred. Within 4-6 weeks, I was standing straighter than ever and I wasn’t the first to notice. More importantly, it wasn’t painful to stand up straight. It felt natural and I didn’t have to constantly remind myself of my posture.
It is both ironic and amazing that both a social and health crippling issue that has affected me my entire life has been corrected in such a short period of time. My back has not been the only benefactor as I continue to see my overall strength and endurance improve over time as I continue in the discipline. I cannot thank Christine and Henry of Austin’s Punch Gym enough for what they have done for me. The environment they provide is simultaneously challenging, encouraging and fun. I am a walking testament to their hard work and the results that can be achieved through the Punch Gym workout method. Where all other exercises fail, kettle bell succeeds!!!!! Thank you for changing my life.
Adam Magliocco