Aaron Leventhal was a bit of a mystery in college. We both attended Drake University, and since I worked at the sports complex, I was lucky enough to meet him. Aaron was a standout soccer player for Drake, and after his college eligibility, he played for a minor league team sponsored by the United Soccer Leagues. It was as if Aaron would disappear for a semester to play, only to reappear once the soccer season was over. After graduation, he went on to play professionally for the Minnesota Thunder and eventually became their strength and conditioning coach.
When I saw that Aaron wrote a book, The New Fit, I knew I had to interview him for a Fitness Friday post. Not only did he agree to be interviewed, but he also invited me to speak with him about fitness at his book signing on February 15 at 2 p.m. at Barbara’s Bookstore in Yorktown Center, in Lombard. Hope you can join us!
Here’s a glimpse of our conversation:
1. You’ve been in the fitness industry for over 20 years. How has your approach to training evolved during that time, and what have you learned from working with such a diverse range of athletes?
Aaron: Over the years, I've noticed that many of our clients are now over 40, and their needs have changed significantly. What worked in their 20s often needs more specificity and attention as they age. This goes for training, nutrition, and lifestyle. As we get older, our bodies require more tailored programming to continue progressing safely. A more thoughtful approach is essential for longevity.
2. As a former professional soccer player, how did your athletic training shape your perspective on fitness and conditioning?
Aaron: Playing professionally really reinforced the importance of applying the science of sport to maximize performance. For example, we used strength training combined with explosive movements to improve speed and agility, which is crucial in soccer. Now that I'm over 50 and focused more on health and movement, I still apply those same principles but adapt them to fit my body’s needs. The goal is to maintain health and performance, just at a different level.
3. In your book on fitness, you cover key principles for long-term health and strength. What are some of the foundational practices that you believe everyone should follow?
Aaron: There are a few core principles that apply to both athletes and everyday gym-goers. First, being connected to your training and enjoying the process is crucial. It’s also about developing the ability to critically assess your own workouts and continually progress while avoiding injury. Staying consistent and mindful is key to long-term success.
4. You’ve had the chance to train professional athletes, including linemen for the Vikings. What are some unique challenges you face when training high-performance athletes, and how does that differ from training the average gym-goer?
Aaron: It's interesting because the needs of professional athletes and regular gym-goers don’t differ by type—they differ by degree. For example, my 87-year-old mother needs to work on improving her strength and cardiovascular health, just like Chad Greenway from the Vikings. The difference is in the intensity and the volume of work required. Both need to be challenged, but the approach changes to suit their needs.
5. Different sports require different skill sets. What training techniques or tips do you think are universally beneficial for building endurance and strength across sports?
Aaron: Regardless of sport, there are three components that need attention: strength, speed, and injury prevention. The key is balancing these in a training program. Whether you're a soccer player or a golfer, integrating these elements—at the right level—can enhance overall performance and reduce the risk of injury.
6. For someone looking to get into fitness but feeling overwhelmed by all the information out there, what would be your best advice for getting started on the right track?
Aaron: The first principle is finding your connection to the process. In the gym, this can come from camaraderie, leadership, or good coaching. But fitness doesn’t only happen in the gym. Start with what you love—whether it’s hiking, running, or yoga—and connect with it deeply. That's what you’ll stick with in the long term.
7. Looking ahead, what fitness trends are you most excited about, and how do you plan to incorporate them into your own training regimen?
Aaron: I’m excited about the potential of technology, especially wearables. Devices like fitness trackers can help us understand our body’s readiness and recovery. I personally use an Oura ring to track my sleep, heart rate variability, and overall readiness. This allows me to make more informed decisions about when to train, how hard to train, and when to rest. It’s a game-changer for optimizing performance.
8. I remember you telling me about a mentor you had in the industry. Now that you’ve had a long career, what advice would you give someone just starting out in the fitness world?
Aaron: Coaching is as much an art as it is a science. While technical knowledge is important, the real impact comes from the relationships you build with your clients. Understanding how to navigate these relationships and making them feel seen and supported is where the magic happens. Don’t just teach the exercises—teach the people.
9. With recovery tools like foam rollers, massage guns, and red-light therapy gaining popularity, are there any tools or methods that you recommend for people to incorporate into their routines?
Aaron: There are many great recovery tools. I love contrast therapy—switching between hot and cold. It’s incredibly effective for reducing soreness and improving recovery. But it’s all about experimenting and finding what works for you. Everyone’s body responds differently, so find what helps you feel better and stick with it.
10.With the rise of medications like Ozempic in the weight-loss market, do you think that will have an impact on personal training? What are your thoughts on these medications in the fitness landscape?
Aaron: Medications like Semaglutides are becoming more popular, but I’m concerned about their long-term effects. Weight loss is only part of the equation for health. We all have different body types, and health isn’t defined solely by how we look. That's why I encourage people to take my five fitness tests to get a more comprehensive look at their wellness. Also, losing weight without preserving muscle mass can increase the risk of health issues down the line. Muscle health is crucial for longevity.
If you're interested in learning more about Aaron, checkout his book by clicking here or checkout his website: https://www.fit-studios.com/
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