Ryan Shough

•What made you decide to join Strength Camp SF, and what drew you to our gym?

- I had been lifting for many years and nearly 5 years ago I decided to do a strongman competition. I was referred to Strength Camp by another trainer for their active Strongman Saturday program. After my competition, I signed up for a full membership at Strength Camp.

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•What were you hoping to achieve or change in your life when you first joined?

- I wanted to get bigger and stronger! My daughter was 3 at the time and she would go up to other big men and say “My daddy is stronger than you.” I had to make sure she wasn’t lying!

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•Before starting at Strength Camp SF, what were your top three fitness goals?

- Get stronger

- Compete in amateur strongman events

- To be at a gym where I looked forward to going every day

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•Since joining, what achievements are you most proud of, and why do they matter to you?

- I lifted at competitions all over the state in the past four years and finished on the podium too many times to count. I qualified for Strongman Corp Masters Nationals 4 years in a row. I never considered myself an athlete before training at Strength Camp.

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•What compliments or positive feedback have you received since joining Strength Camp SF?

- Many people remark on how strong I am, but the biggest compliment is when people outside the gym ask me for lifting advice or about strongman. I’m no expert but I have learned so much during my time at Strength Camp.

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•What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

- The biggest challenge has been my own body as I get older. At 48, I need to eat before I lift, stay hydrated, stretch, take more time for rest and recovery, and get more sleep. Everyone should be doing these things but when I was younger I could cut a lot more corners.

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•Is there anything you would change or improve about Strength Camp SF to make the experience better for you?

- I don't want to sound too old, but the music could improve. It’s all EDM and remixes. I'm there to pump iron, not dance. A few years ago they had an open playlist so members could add songs, but I bombed the afternoon class with Baby Shark and Kidz Bop so I guess the current music selection is my own fault.

- We could also use some bigger kettlebells but I can't really complain about equipment. Strength Camp is very good at reinvesting in the gym for a better member experience.

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•Who do you think would benefit most from joining Strength Camp SF, and why?

- Anyone serious about getting stronger would benefit from Strength Camp, whether you have never lifted before and want practical everyday strength and a better body, or if you are experienced like me and ready to compete. The format of the classes and the variety of equipment allows me to make modifications to suit my own unique needs while still following the same program as people who have never been to a gym before. I love seeing new people get stronger even as I envy the speed of their gains.

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•What’s your favorite thing about Strength Camp SF, and what makes it stand out from other gyms?

- First is our group of Strongman competitors. There is no better inspiration than training with people lifting for the same goals, and no one more enthusiastic than your own gym buddies cheering you on at a competition. It is my privilege to train with these wonderful men and women (mostly women, the Strength Camp guys need to step it up!)

- Second, the coaches are great. Class is always fun, but most importantly, they know their stuff. Even as a previously experienced lifter, I've added 50 pounds to my bench and overhead press since I joined.

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•What does “growing stronger” mean to you?

- Being stronger gives me confidence and a sense of purpose. I want to stay active and lift huge objects for as long as I am able.