Today we’d like to introduce you to Coach Patrick.
Coach, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am the owner of Duluth Fit Body Bootcamp and Suwanee Fit Body Bootcamp. With over 10 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, my staff and I are passionate about you and your health. Our carefully thought out, individualized training programs will help you increase functional capacity and enable you to get, and stay more independent as you age. We want to help you not only age more gracefully and with less pain, we want to help you LIVE during your later years!
Because we took the time, and received the training to become Certified Functional Aging Specialists, we are among the most elite experts in aging and fitness in the Greater Duluth and Suwanee area. Let us help you meet your goals—to LIVE your life the way you want!
I was born in a small town, just outside of Atlanta called Winder, GA. Being the oldest of 4 kids—I have 3 younger sisters—I am no stranger to hard work.
Life was not always easy for my family and I ended up living on my own when I was just 16 years old. I had to learn to work, pay rent, and how to make ends meet, well before I even graduated from high school.
After graduating from high school, I enlisted in the United States Navy, where I spent the next 11 years working as an Aviation Ordnance man. I was in charge of storing, inspecting, and servicing all types of weapons and ammunition on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier. I was fortunate enough to not only learn my trade but, I was also able to travel and see the world during this time in my life. I experienced so many wonderful cultures during my travels. Seeing all the different countries and cultures only made me appreciate what we have here in America all that much more.
It was in the Navy that I really developed my love for training and helping others to better themselves. I’d always been into my own fitness and health but, this was the first time I got to make a difference in the lives of others. I was lucky enough to serve as the Fitness Coordinator for my fellow crewmates, where I was not only responsible for their overall physical fitness program, I helped them get in and stay in tip-top shape.
After 11 years in the Navy, I became a civilian again. I learned so much from my time in the Navy, the biggest of which was my love for helping others, and I took this love with me into my civilian life. In 2012, I got certified to be a personal trainer and got started with 1 client. I was completely hooked.
Slowly, I built my client base up to 50 and as they say, “The rest is history.” I was doing what I loved, helping others better themselves, LIVE fuller lives, I was making a difference each and every single day. I had a purpose! I had it all figured out …
Then, I met a man named Mr. Ray and his wife, Ms. Natalie. Mr. Ray was a 92-year-old World War II Veteran, and Ms. Natalie was his wife of over 70 years. They hired me to help them improve their standard of living, to get into better physical shape, and to be more independent in their later years. I trained this amazing couple for over a year and they transformed before my eyes—from frail and weak to so much more vibrant, active, and mobile.
These 2 had the most wonderful relationship, they would laugh and joke during our sessions; I truly admired what they had together. How many people are lucky enough to spend more than 70 years with the love of their life? Not many…
What I realized is that, older adults, 60, 70, 80 and even 90-year-olds could benefit greatly from fitness, just as much as anyone else. I saw just how functional, healthy and independent they became in a relatively short amount of time. Then, out of nowhere, Mr. Ray got pneumonia and passed away.
The hardest part for me was that I continued to train Ms. Natalie and she was completely unaware that Mr. Ray had passed. This was my first exposure to Dementia. Now, being Functional Aging Specialist certified, I know the link between fitness and brain health. I still miss Mr. Ray, but I know I have the ability to help many more older adults LIVE up until their very last moment!
Well, it’s hard for me to talk about but I had a long, personal struggle with drugs and alcohol. I am proud to say that I have been clean and sober since February 22, 2012.
I am living proof, that “If Your Mind is Right, Your Body Will Follow.”
Changing my attitude and finding fitness is how I changed my life. It’s how I turned my life around, focused on helping other people and finally, finally found the courage to overcome my issues. I believe that with positive affirmation and positive energy, you can do anything! Your body outwardly shows what you inwardly seek.
Health and fitness is much more than working out and losing weight. It’s attitude and lifestyle!
Selfish Desires + Altruistic Love = Purpose
I always say, “We all have selfish desires. We want more money, more things, more time. And we have a passion for helping others. When our passion and selfishness meet altruistic love—then we have purpose!”
And this is what it’s all about, finding the reason we are here, right now—our purpose. I know what mine is—my program increases functional capacity and helps my clients become more independent. Therefore, allowing them to LIVE during their later years. Our goal is to help you live longer, healthier lives as long as possible! This is my purpose, as simple as it seems.
“A family member suggested I try the new class for over 55 of age (Fit Body Forever). The coaches and staff are the nicest and friendliest people. They make me feel relaxed and that I am their only concern. My mobility, balance and strength were very bad when I first started attending now they have greatly improved. I can do more of my chores without help. I am also walking with more stability. The exercises are tailored for each person’s capabilities. I look forward to each of my classes.” -A Client Success Story
We all know you can’t actually LIVE forever but, when you’re ready to really change your life, to become more functional and independent as you age, let me know. I will be waiting for the moment you decide to make these the best years of your life and ad LIFE to your years.
I look forward to seeing you at one of my facilities!
Link to purchase book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1974670880/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1504139918&sr=8-1&keywords=bob+patrick+longevity
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I had several struggles, mostly with alcohol and addiction. Moving and starting a gym in an area where no one knew me was difficult. Building trust in the community takes time.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Fit Body Boot Camp
Known for awesome 30-minute-high intensity workouts. We have a family-friendly atmosphere with an encouraging culture that is second to none. We believe that ANYBODY can live a healthy lifestyle and we provide the tools necessary for that to happen.
www.duluthfbbc.com
Fit Body Forever
a training program for active adults over the age of 55. Focusing on all 6 areas of physical function, we increase energy and independence of all ages – allow older adults to more of the things they need, like and want to do.
www.duluthfitbodyforever.com
What were you like growing up?
I was a 3-sport athlete in high school… Playing football, wrestling and track. Our football team made State semifinals my Junior year and I was 5th place in the state tournament in Wrestling. 160lbs.
I have always been outgoing and energetic. I love outdoors, reading, cooking out, beach, and sports.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2640 Old Peachtree Rd NW, Duluth, GA 30096
3590 Old Atlanta Rd, Suwanee, GA 30024 - Website: www.duluthfbbc.com
- Phone: 4(70)292-3555
- Email: patrick@duluthfbbc.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/DuluthFitBodyBootCamp
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/duluth-fit-body-boot-camp-duluth
Image Credit:
Duluth Fit Body Boot Camp
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
