HIIT, Mobility, Strength, Endurance–4 pillars to improve performance. Our one of a kind 55-60 minute classes are designed to maximize the amount of work our participants can perform during a workout. Creative programming and constant variation along with a focus on form and function will push your limits and challenge everyone from the beginning participant to the seasoned athlete. If you are looking for a way to work hard, get in shape, meet some like-minded people, and have fun doing it all while crushing your workout, come in and take your fitness to the next level with Bootcamp.
In a world where threats appear to be everywhere, it is better to be prepared than to wait for help to arrive. HAGANAH translates to the word PROTECTION and from Day 1, you will begin to build your knowledge base with real world applications. This program will help you learn quickly, improve flexibility and strength, and will build confidence at a rapid rate. If you are looking for a reality based system that will improve multiple aspects of your life, this is it. Haganah is a scenario based self-defense system that allows practitioners to become proficient quickly. This is not a traditional style martial art. It is based on real-life situations and solutions. We blend self-defense with fitness to produce a great workout and practical knowledge. Come in and give it a try. This program is ideal for adults, teens and kids, Military, LEOs, Firemen, etc. If you are looking to make a change, the Haganah system will provide you with a solution for your self-defense and fitness needs.
“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing…” –quote borrowed from an Adidas ad campaign
Todd graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a B.S. in Human Health Development. Todd began his career at an elite Chicago health club learning personal training, group fitness, and boxing from the City’s top trainers. With nearly two decades of experience in training, Todd continues to educate himself by earning certifications in: NASM CPT, NASM MMA, Conditioning Coach, USSF Soccer Coach, Certified Speed and Agility Coach, F.I.G.H.T. Certified Instructor, Haganah 3rd Degree Black Belt (Israeli Tactical Knife, Ground Survival, Trench Fighting, IPTT Pistol, Self-Defense Instructor), Boxing Instructor, multiple Goruck and Tough Mudder events, a 3-day high intensity camp run by former Navy SEALs and Army Rangers, ARC CPR and AED, and numerous other certifications.
Todd’s knowledge and passion for all sports helps him train his clients to reach maximum potential. He takes his clients outside their normal comfort zones both mentally and physically. He recognizes teachable moments to help motivate the client and inspire the client to keep training. Todd works with elite athletes, weekend warriors, and everyone in between.
Email: todd@firststepfitness.net
Phone: 312.636.8633
“How you move is more important than what you move”–ancient proverb written by Joel circa January 2018.
Joel graduated from Miami of Ohio with a B.S. in Exercise Science and a Minor in Coaching. He began his professional career at an elite Chicago health club after college and opened his first training facility in 2001. Over the years, Joel has added to his professional credentials by adding numerous certifications including: NASM CPT, NASM CES, NASM MMA, NSCA CSCS, Certified Speed and Agility Coach, Fascial Stretch Therapy Level 1, F.I.G.H.T. Certified Instructor, Haganah 3rd Degree Black Belt (Israeli Tactical Knife, Ground Survival, Trench Fighting, WOLF Level 1 and 2, IPTT Pistol and Rifle), Taekwondo 1st Degree Black Belt, multiple GORUCK Events, SOF/a Graduate (7-day leadership program run by former Navy SEALs and Army Rangers simulating BUDs), ARC CPR and AED, and numerous other certifications.
Since 1998, Joel has raced on every continent, including 11 Ironman races and 7 Racing the Planet Desert Ultra Races (Chile, China, Egypt, Antarctica, Namibia, Australia, Nepal); 2 x 100-mile ultra marathons; multiple 50-mile races; 3x World’s Toughest Mudder Participant; and more road races, triathlons, and obstacle course races than he can count. Joel has been a top finisher in triathlons (Sprint, Olympic, Ironman) and has had podium finishes in Obstacle Course Races including Spartan and Tough Mudder. In 2016, Joel appeared on the first season of the NBC reality TV show Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge.
With over 20 years of experience, Joel has worked with clients with a full range of goals and prides himself on bringing a unique blend of fitness and training to them.
Phone: 312.933.5295
