Bio

I took a long and winding professional road through criminal justice, counseling, and publishing before launching my fitness career in 1998.

I'm certified as a personal trainer by the American Council on Exercise, as a track coach by USA Track & Field, and as a stability ball instructor by Resist-A-Ball. He is also a member of AAHPERD, the New York City Coalition for Food and Fitness, USA Jump Rope, and the New York Road Runners Club.

I have a BA in history from the University of Virginia and an MA in sociology from New York University. I was born in Adrian, Michigan in 1960, but currently reside in New York City where I've lived most of my life.

In fall 2004, I created and launched Punk Rope, a group fitness class, which playfully blends recess and boot camp. Punk Rope is offered at community centers, college rec centers, health clubs, and schools around the United States and has garnered a significant amount of media attention.

While Punk Rope leads to improved aerobic and anaerobic capacity, coordination, agility, quickness, timing, rhythm, bone density, and body composition, it is about much more than just getting fit. It’s about building community; combating sedentary living; and celebrating the power and spirit of rock and roll.

Prior to launching Punk Rope, I designed and led long distance running programs for many organizations including The Reebok Club, the Arthritis Foundation, and Bally Total Fitness.

My approach to fitness is simple. Find an activity you enjoy and stick with it. Play often and try to keep your sense of humor. Take care of your body as if it were a Jaguar. And remember, you’re never too old to start working out.