Brad Dienstbier, M.A., NSCA-CPT

Founder/ Fitness Director/ Nutrition Director

From Life-Changing Diagnosis to Professional Coach

Brad followed the path of many young men. In his early twenties, he was a weightlifter, often in the gym six days a week. Yet he did not feel fit. “I woke up with pain every day. My lower back was so bad I couldn’t stand up straight when I got out of bed in the morning.”

He was overweight, and as he took up cycling, his situation didn’t improve. He began to experience stabbing pains when he pedaled. One day…the turning point…was when he simply leaned forward to pick something up. He heard a “pop” and suddenly was in excruciating pain.

He was diagnosed with degenerative disk disease, scoliosis, and arthritis in his spine.

“I began working with a physical therapist that helped me change my lifestyle through exercise and sound nutrition. I slowly but steadily improved. I started to educate myself to continue reducing my pain and return to an active life.”

This journey of self-education resulted in a change of careers for Brad. He dedicated not only his personal well-being but also his professional future to health and fitness. “Now, nearly 20 years later, I am 50lbs lighter, stronger than ever, and can ride my bike 100 miles without back pain.

“It has been my mission for the past 18 years to share my experiences and knowledge so that I can help others enjoy the benefits I have achieved through proper exercise and lifestyle habits.”

Brad’s holistic approach to health and fitness has led him to pursue certifications through the world’s most forward-thinking holistic health and fitness organizations. Brad’s philosophy on integrating assessment, lifestyle, and functional conditioning parallels the mission of these organizations and leaves our members feeling stronger, rejuvenated, and successful.

When not training or studying, Brad enjoys riding motorcycles, spending time with his best friend Trudy, B-movies, and playing bass in the 70’s tribute band PetRock.

Work with Brad

Certifications and degrees

  • Master of Arts – Exercise Science, University of Nebraska at Omaha, May 2005
  • Bachelor of Arts – Religious Studies, University of Nebraska at Omaha
  • Personal Trainer, National Strength & Conditioning Association
  • Certified Online Trainer, Online Trainer Academy
  • C.H.E.K Practitioner, Level 2, C.H.E.K. Institute
  • Corrective Exercise Specialist, National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Golf Performance Specialist, C.H.E.K. Institute
  • Titleist Performance Institute Fitness 2 Certified
  • Titleist Performance Junior 2 Certified
  • Kettlebell Trainer, Level 2, International Kettlebell & Fitness Federation
  • FMS Certified, Level 2, Functional Movement Systems
  • Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach, Level 1, C.H.E.K. Institute
  • Advanced Metabolic Typing® Advisor, Level 1
  • Weight Loss Specialist, National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Nutrition Coach, Level 2, Precision Nutrition
  • Fitness Nutrition Specialist, National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Olympic Lifts Instructor, International Youth Conditioning Association
  • Youth Fitness Specialist, Level 1, International Youth Conditioning Association
  • Training For Warriors Instructor, Level 2
  • Women’s Coaching Specialist, Level 1, Girls Gone Strong
  • Certified Stretching Professional, National Stretching Institute
  • Stretching & Flexibility Coach, National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Advanced Application of Assisted Stretching Techniques, The Stretching Institute
  • Adult CPR/AED