Westside Barbell LogoOk, he’s not God, a King or a Prophet, but Louie Simmons is a favorite of mine. Ever since my friend Freddie turned me on to Louie’s training style my life improved dramatically. Thank God that even after 25 years of of expertise I have always remained teachable and hungry to learn.Here we go: For years I have had fiive – count them, FIVE, herniated or bulging discs in my lower back. Anytime I did anything those nerves would get pinched, flare up and I would be in EXCRUCIATING PAIN every minute of every day for at least three weeks. Now, I have an abnormally high tolerance for pain (or I’m just unworldly amounts of stubborn), but every breath felt like someone was sawing a knife in the core of my soul. Lying down didn’t help. Stretching didn’t work. Walking was a no-go. Nothing made it stop for even a second. Nada. Zip.I learned Louie Simmons philosophy and my friend Freddie and I began training. With Freddie’s guidance (yep, He was my trainer) and Louie’s expertise we had a long distance rehabilitation program in the works. Within two weeks my sore shoulder, knees and elbows stopped hurting. After 6 months I was deadlifting and squatting more weight than I had ever lifted in my entire life and I felt great – at 42 years old!Now, I’m not going to get all googly eyed and profess my love for Louie Simmons, but I am truly grateful for people like him who have overcome extreme odds and have then used their experiences to have a positive impact on the world.You can read more about Louie Simmons and Westside Barbell. Please leave us a comment here and let us know what you think.*Disclaimer: I have no monetary interest or connection to Louie Simmons or Westside Barbell.