Athletic Lab is one of the premier fitness and performance training centers in the country. We have a vibrant and diverse community ranging from fitness enthusiasts looking to get in the best shape of their lives to elite professional athletes. The commonality across our diverse member base is that they are hard-working and goal-oriented.

Each month we highlight one or more of our members in our member of the month feature. For the month of July we’ve selected Michael Gleason. Michael always brings a contagious positive attitude to classes, motivating everyone to have a great time while working hard. He is a high-spirited member of our Performance Fitness and Cary CrossFit communities and his commitment to our community is inspiring.

You can read about previous members of the month here.

___________________

Name: Michael GleasonWhat city were you born in? I was born in Charleston, SC but moved to Long Island, NY when I was 2. I spent my childhood and early adulthood in NY. I later moved down to NC when I was 27. I have been in NC for 16 years now and love it.

What do you do when you’re not training at Athletic Lab (occupation, hobbies, etc)? When I am not training at Athletic Lab, I am usually working as a Product Improvement Specialist for IAT Insurance Group. Any other remaining time I have, you will typically find me with family and friends.

What’s your favorite exercise? My favorite exercise is Strict HSPU. Least favorite? My least favorite is Overhead Squat.

What do you feel has been your greatest accomplishment since you started training? I still have so much to learn and accomplish but what stands out the most beyond anything else is the amazing group of friends I have made along the way here.

What motivates you in your training? Exercise has always been my medicine and therapy. It has helped me overcome some really tough times in my life. So, I would say that pain, fear and adversity have always motivated me deeply. I use that as fuel and turn it into something positive. But I am also highly motivated to be a great role model for my kids, being able support all my loved ones, and simply be as healthy as I can mentally, physically and spiritually. The last few PR’s I got though, I was completely thinking about my kids and saying to myself, this is all for them.