I have known Garrett now for many years - I would guess maybe six or seven. I first met him at a seminar that he did at our local Fleet Feet store. I did an individual assessment with him at that time, and then later enrolled in one of his group training sessions for six weeks. After that, several years passed. I am not inclined to do strength training and had a lot of injuries (and I have some physical issues anyway, so not doing strength training was making things much worse for me). My running had gotten so bad that it was practically non-existent - and when I did run, it was often miserable. Now I have been fortunate enough to connect with Garrett again. I live a long distance from Garrett, so everything is done via Zoom and an app. Garrett did a full assessment of me, and created a training program that is very geared toward my issues, my weaknesses, and my desires. I think I am probably a hard case - my body does wonky weird things, and I don't seem to build muscle easily. I have lost so much strength since I haven't focused on strength training for quite a while. But Garrett has been very thoughtful in the training program he has built for me. He is very patient and encouraging and if things aren't working, he will make the necessary changes to ensure that things are progressing. I have been seeing big improvements in my running! Which is a big thrill! Garrett's programs are very specific to each individual's goals and physical needs. He is very knowledgeable about human biomechanics and will tailor your plan to YOU. He will help you with short term goals and long-term goals. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants to do endurance training, or needs some help with coming back from injury, or even just preventing injury! read more

The RunStrong Challenge was a very beneficial program. Before this program, I never received any feedback or help to make me a better runner. I knew I should be doing things like strength training or running analysis to prevent injury, but never got around to it. So, when I discovered this six-week program, the time commitment seemed just right and I jumped at the opportunity. Fortunately, from the moment I met Garrett to do my initial assessment, I knew I made the right choice. He was kind, helpful and accommodating to my individual needs right from the start. He created a custom program that was focused on my struggles and my goals and made me feel valued and cared for. However, I was still wondering how the virtual component of this would go. But the TruCoach app is an amazing tool and really took that fear away from the beginning. Add to that weekly check-ins and prompt feedback on workouts from Garrett, and you have a winning combination. The motivation from the Facebook group was nice too, as were the chances to win weekly prizes. I didn't join this challenge for either of those things, but they were a nice touch. The one thing I will say is that you will get out of this what you put into it: Garrett can't coach you if you don't send in videos or ask him for help or feedback. And the Facebook group can't motivate you if you don't let it. So, if you are ready to commit to making some changes to your running routine and want to be a better runner, this is a GREAT program. I can already see an improvement in my running and I look forward to implementing things from these six weeks into my life permanently, especially as I work towards new running goals. Basically...if you're on the fence about the program...do it! You won't be disappointed! read more

I have been working with Garrett since December 2023. Some context, I am 56 years old, overweight, and had both knees replaced in 2022. My goals are to increase core stability and overall strength and health. Garrett is a flexible problem solver. Example: I've had trainers in the past who asked me to do a modified side plank, and when I could not, their approach was well, just keep trying. Garrett had me stay in the modified side plank pose but lift my feet up instead. It worked to build strength, and now while I'm still doing a modified side plank, I can hold it now for about a minute. This is huge progress for me and Garrett's outside the box thinking made that happen. He mixes up the training so it's not repetitive or boring, and he builds you up in small ways that you really don't notice till you're doing body weight exercises at a level you did not think possible (I'm looking at you, bar pushups). He does the the absolute most in pushing you without pushing you. Example: I really dislike doing rope slams because a prior trainer made me do them for quite a long time to count as a set. Garrett said well, let's do 10 seconds and that was easy, so we did a bit more, etc. He's good like that. Our training is at Raw Strength in Portage and while it looks like a muscle gym, and it is, the people who work out there are kind and welcoming. I've met some good folks. I was intimidated for no reason, and I suspect that vibe is why Garrett uses their facilities. I absolutely recommend him and his prices are definitely in line with the value you get. He's smart, funny, and supportive. read more

I've had the incredible opportunity to participate in two of Coach McLaughlin's virtual 6-week challenges, both Run Strong (Fall 2020) and Function Over Fitness (Winter 2021). Run Strong taught me that "to run all the miles, you have to lift all the weights" and always "build a better foundation for the sport you love." Function Over Fitness elevated this foundation to a whole new level in that to be a good athlete, you have to be functional in all other aspects. You can't expect to perform at the top of your game if you skimp on sleep, recovery, fuel, hydration, or let your mind games drown your physical abilities. Function Over Fitness taught me not just about running and lifting weights but about my self-awareness as an athlete and how to balance every single one of my ecosytems into one cohesive unit while taking better care of myself. It couldn't have come at a better time, as I bounce back from an incredibly long rehab journey. Coach McLaughlin stepped up his coaching prowess with another well-rounded, perfectly tailored, and outstanding fitness challenge that will always be one of the highlights of my athletic journey. If you want a Coach who will push you to be more than you ever expected from yourself, believe in you when you don't believe in yourself, listen to your fears and doubts, catch you when you fail, and cheer for you when you crush your goals, then he is absolutely the coach for you! Without a doubt, he is the Coach-of-the-Century you have always been searching for. read more

I have worked with many physical therapists over the last 5 years as part of my recovery from running-related injuries - 3 stress fractures, IT Band issues, not to mention arthritis in both knees, my right knee is bone-on-bone. Orthopedic doctors have all but told be to quit running, "but if you must run, wear this brace". My last PT told when I wrapped up my last session with them that they didn't want to see me back for a running related problem. After seeing several posts for Webinars from Garrett, I finally decided to join one of them. Then another, and another. Our first consultation was via Zoom, and then he sent me a list of movements he wanted to see on video. I was fully expecting him to tell me I was beyond help. Instead, he wrote an exercise plan to get started to test the waters and see how it works. I haven't looked back since. Everything about my running has improved, from posture and cadence, to eliminating the crossover (mostly) that makes my knees worse. In addition to answering ALL of my questions, Garrett has gone above and beyond to adjust my program when needed, sending additional videos when I don't understand a certain move, and genuinely caring about me as a person, I never feel like I'm "just another client" with Garrett. To top it all off, Garrett has a great sense of humor! All that hard work, and fun too! You can't go wrong! If you are looking to up your run, gain strength and knowledge, and have fun along the way, look no farther! Tamm M. read more

Being a member of Garrett's RunStrong Challenge has significantly changed my life for the better -- I am a stronger, better runner because of him. Immediately, I could tell that Garrett truly, truly cares about each and every one of his clients. He is patient, attentive, kind, and EXTREMELY intelligent. It is important to be able to trust your coach, and Garrett seamlessly built that foundation of trust and respect from day one. I appreciate that Garrett took the time to listen and to get to know me, tailoring a program that worked with my busy schedule and supported my goals. He was so thorough in my initial running analysis and strength evaluation -- You can tell that Garrett not only knows what he is doing, but he loves doing it! Everything Garrett recommends is backed by science and research, and he has helped me over some major roadblocks throughout the past several weeks, including a tight schedule, hip and back pain, burnout, and fatigue. With Garrett's program, I was given the accountability and challenge that I needed to take my training to the next level. If you are looking to become a stronger, healthier, and more knowledgeable runner, GARRETT IS THE COACH YOU ARE LOOKING FOR. I can't wait to continue my journey with Garrett well beyond this six-week challenge -- I trust everything he says because I can see and feel the results. Garrett is a true professional, and I appreciate him beyond words! read more

I became interested in running last year. I've never run before and quickly realized that I needed help. I joined one of Garrett's seminars last November and was so impressed with his background and knowledge that I decided to sign up for his one-month trial & evaluation. He did a thorough running & strength analysis and immediately put together a custom plan for me to focus on the areas I needed to work on and improve in order to start running. That one month has now turned into three months so far and my level of improvement is unbelievable. My strength, stability, endurance, speed and overall fitness levels have helped me become a runner. I just finished my first 5K and have set my next goal to complete a 10K! In addition, Garrett is very motivating, easy to work with and keeps things fun! His program includes in-person or virtual training with an easy to use app that has each day's workout, along with the ability to chat back and forth to get feedback. I've also participated in his 6-week Run Strong Challenge, it's a private facebook group he leads where we have accountability to complete weekly workouts, gain support, knowledge and motivation from the group as well as participate in fun contests! I'd highly recommend Garrett as a strength, conditioning and running coach, his level of experience and knowledge will definitely help you hit your goals and take them to the next level! read more

I have been working with Garrett for about 3 months and I am completing a RunStrong Challenge this Sunday. I am really happy with how Garrett operates. He uses the TrueCoach app which is really easy to use, and he is really easy to contact/responsive when I have questions. His knowledge is extensive, he's helped me begin solving some problems that I have been struggling with for years. He also offers free webinars and "Fireside Chats" with professional runners/therapists/other specialists that are CHOCK FULL of free, quality information. I'm really glad I stumbled on it one day and got to " Zoom meet" Garrett. :) Also...You'd think that distance coaching won't work...but Garrett is excellent at this if you step up and do the work he gives you. As for the RunStrong Challenge itself, it's definitely got a Garrett signature on it! We had a great group of 17 women this round. We lovingly referred to him as "The Executioner" but the only thing he executed was great jokes! It was a fun (and funny) interactive way to keep motivated toward goals that seem simple, but are not. These goals included runs, workouts, remedial exercise, drinking water, and sleep. I never realized how much my lack of sleep was holding me back, and I am starting to build a habit of getting better sleep as a result of this fun competition. I'd totally do it again! read more

I worked with Garrett in preparation for some big races. I had some nagging injuries and issues with running form. I tried PT and various other interventions but working with Garrett was a game changer. After an assessment Garrett developed an individualized plan to address areas of weakness. The plan focused on building strength in key areas, there was nothing 'cookie cutter' about this approach. The app he uses provided me with all the information I needed to complete activities at home; videos, written instructions, written/ verbal feedback and check-ins- it really doesn't get better than this! Garrett was very responsive to questions and took the time to teach me why certain movements were causing issues and more importantly, how to strengthen my body to avoid these issues. He uses objective metrics to determine the impact of the plan and he checked in regularly to determine how I felt overall. He is very knowledgeable and provided quality information on a regular basis. I continued to work with Garrett in a "Function over Fitness" program that helped to translate strength training concepts to everyday life to continue to avoid injury and prep for race season. I had a blast; I learned a lot, and I met some fantastic people who also work with Garrett! read more

I was recently in the Run Strong Challenge (winter2021) with Garrett McLaughlin as my trainer. I recommend this program to anyone wanting to improve their running, to start running and to run injury free. I also recommend Garrett as a personal trainer. Not only did he tailor my plan to fit me and my goals and to strengthen my weaknesses but he was with me every step of my journey. I liked the way Garrett would give you your exercise plan and then would tell you why you should do each exercise, how you should correctly do each exercise, the benefits of doing each exercise and how to execute each one properly. Garrett uses the TrueCoach app and not only does it keep you on track but the videos show you how to do each exercise properly and you can go back and review it if needed. The app also allows you to send Garrett videos of you executing the exercise so that he can provide immediate feedback and show you how to adjust so that you are doing the exercise correctly. Garrett is an excellent personal trainer and takes a personal interest in all of his clients. He is there to help you achieve success in your goals and life. I highly recommend Garrett McLaughlin as a Personal Trainer. Denise Byrd read more

I have been working with Garrett since January 2020 after attending a clinic offered to runners regarding injury prevention. The initial plan was to work on strengthening some weaknesses that were leading to injury. After an extensive assessment that pinpointed specific weaknesses, Garrett developed a mobility and strength-training plan. Shortly we began I developed a serious illness that impacted my ability to be active. Based on my new limitations Garrett developed an entirely new plan. We have been meeting weekly to talk about what is working, what is not and tweaking the program accordingly. The TrueCoach app Garrett uses has been essential to my success throughout the pandemic. I can see video demonstrations of the specific moves, record my own training to analyze and look back that the exercise history to gage progress. Garrett is highly engaged with his clients and quickly responds to questions or concerns. I have appreciated his collaborative approach to working with clients to ensure he is meeting their needs and his deep knowledge and understanding of athletic training is invaluable. I highly recommend his services. read more

Garrett McLaughlin is a personal trainer that exemplifies professionalism. I am currently one of Garrett's clients and would highly reccomend him to any of my friends and colleagues. I have never used a trainer in the past and was in desperate need of motivation to kick start healthy habits and exercise. Garrett's approach started with analyzing my dietary habits and starting strength training. He has inspiried me to "want to be stronger", something that has never crossed my mind before. I came into this wanting to tone and of course, lose a few pounds; however I now have a different goal of wanting to be healthy and strong. I completely trust that Garrett understands my current fitness level and is pushing me in the right direction each session. He has customized my training experience to meet my needs and encourages me to foucs on proper strength, balance and coordination. I love Garrett's approach to my overall fitness needs. He is knowledgeable, motivating and professional. I encourage any one in the Nashville area to contact him for personal training. Laurie Brentwood, TN read more

I started working out with Garrett McLaughlin after listening to many of my friends in the running community discussing the progress they had made with their overall strength with his plan. He had a program that was a 90 day "Function Over Fitness" challenge, so I thought I would give it a try. Not only was it interactive with other members, it was designed towards my individual needs. Through the program, the communication with Garrett is very easy. It could be through the web-ap, e-mail, zoom or in person check in's if needed. If there was ever a question regarding the training plan, it was answered immediately. After this plan was coming to an end, I was seeing results. I decided with a marathon in my near future, I was going to continue to work with Garrett a little longer. I wanted to not only work on strengthening areas to improve my running but once the marathon was over, I wanted to work on those areas that I find to be a challenge for me. Finding someone to work your plan with you is one of the most important roles in fitness. This is what I have found working with Garrett. read more

I found Garrett and his RunStrong Challenge through an educational webinar on the importance of cadence. I decided to do the RunStrong Challenge because I wanted to focus my strength training on improving my running (because the only reason I lifted previously was to be a better runner so it made total sense to have a runner specific strength program). I was immediately impressed at how quickly Garrett responded to questions I had and how thorough he was with my running analysis. He was able to target my weaknesses and construct a program specific for me. He was also flexible with my program if I needed modifications along the way. Even after running for 20 years (and competing in college), I learned a lot about why certain exercises are important and how to execute them properly. Even if you know what exercises to do, sometimes you just need accountability and motivation to do them and this program has that too! Complete with friendly competition, encouraging teammates, and even prizes. I think this program would be beneficial to anyone. I'm very happy I decided to do it. read more

Coach Garrett has my highest of recommendations! I came to him by chance; I attended one of his webinars, and it was terrific. His knowledge and understanding of physiology, biomechanics, and the mindset of the average runner was thorough and extensive, and I hoped he could help me resolve my pain and weakness issues. Now, a few months later, that vast expertise--along with his awesome support and encouragement--has helped me reduced my pain from a 7 to almost zero, and I've achieved some benchmarks that I haven't experienced in years. Plus, I'm having fun! Garrett identified my weak links and created a highly-customized program which not only addresses my physical issues, but also my personality, preferences, lifestyle, etc. In addition, he provides supplemental webinars, articles, and videos that reinforce the principles of his process and give valuable tools and context to the runners he works with. I know this may seem like an implausibly glowing review, but it is sincere. My experience working with Garrett has been fantastic! Thanks Coach! read more

I highly recommend Garrett for Active Release Technique Treatments for painful arm muscles from injuries. I injured my left arm in mid-October. I tried exercises to strengthen my muscles and hopefully ease the pain, but nothing was helping. I knew about Active Release Technique (ART) from a chiropractor in PA and felt that might help, but kept putting off making an appointment. Finally in late February I had enough of the pain and made an appointment with Garrett for him to work on my arm. He is certified in ART and he did a wonderful job. I was 90% better after my first visit. I had several more treatments and although occassionally I am still sore, I have much more function of my arm. I am pleased that I didn't have to see an orthopedic surgeon or other doctor who would have put me on pain pills, but not solve the problem. He was fantastic to work with and doesn't keep you coming back. read more

I have been running for almost 10 years and thought I was doing pretty good, but over the years I have found that I have lost a lot of my flexibility and have noticed some aches that I haven't had before. I found Garrett McLaughlin (Motiv8 Fitness in West Bloomfield) through a friend and thought I'd see what he could do to help me. He gave me a personal evaluation to see where my weaknesses are and developed my own personal plan. I joined a six week challenge group where we meet once a week with Garrett and continue on my own with a very thoroughly explained at home work out that includes very descriptive videos on a user friendly app. He keeps me motivated with daily messages and exercise tips and feedback. This is exactly what I need to help strengthen my weak spots to help make me a stronger runner and just help me move in daily life better. I highly recommend Motiv8 with Garrett! read more

My time spent working with Garrett has been amazing. I had broken my knee and was getting discouraged that I wasn't improving to a point that I could comfortably return to my active lifestyle. I found him online and could not be happier that I made the decision to contact him. He is very nice and extremely professional. It's been fun working with him and the workouts he has designed specifically for my situation. I have been seeing him for about four months now and my knee is almost back to 100%. I'm not sure I could have done this on my own, let alone in such a short period of time. I have, and would, strongly recommend him to anyone who has had an injury, is in pain, or is just looking to begin a new workout regimen. I can honestly say it's one of the best decisions I've ever made for myself. Thank you Garrett! read more

I was referred to Garrett's Runner Conditioning Group by a friend 4 weeks ago. After attending the initial free conditioning class, I knew Garrett could help me take my running to the next level. Garrett has the technical expertise of a physical therapist and athletic trainer. Garrett has an exceptional knowledge of muscles and the biomechanics of movement. More importantly, the exercises and strengthening I am learning quickly translate into muscle strength and success. Garrett's videos and commentary are critical in reinforcing the conditioning and muscle memory. This is money well spent for everything I have gotten: a running analysis, personalized recommendations, weekly class, videos, FB group, online recording of my progress and much more! The return on the investment has paid off a hundred times over. read more