A.J. Howaniec

Nickname: Ray-J

What I love about SOF: I love that we are all one big inclusive family! Every single time I have stepped through those doors– whether that be as a member, an intern, or a trainer– I have always felt appreciated, included, and welcomed.

Posse: My Mom, Dad, Sister, and dog– Moose. Also, my best friends: Aidan, Matt, and Ryan.

Favorite exercise: Back Squat

Least favorite exercise: Snatch

Who you look up to and why: Not to sound cliche, but I look up to my Mom and Dad the most because when times got tough, they never gave up.

They have always believed in me, supported me, and loved me unconditionally. And I can’t thank them enough for that.

Favorite healthy snack: Blueberries (fresh, not frozen). I can eats pints at a time.

Guilty indulgence: Chocolate Teddy Grahams, chocolate cake, and anything chocolate.

What I like to do when I’m not at the club: Warm months: Bike, run, swim, jet ski, water ski, wakeboard, volleyball, softball, and travel

Cold months: Pond hockey, ski, snowboard, sled, and watch college sports

Favorite Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts” -Winston Churchill

A.J. grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois, a northwest suburb of Chicago. At age 4, he began playing baseball and at age 5 he began playing football. He continued to play baseball and football into high school and was always traveling for both of them. When he began college, he became captivated with human performance and how far the human body can go. This inspired his love for strength training, endurance training, and nutrition.

During the latter half of his junior year at MSU, he stumbled upon a place called State of Fitness and decided to check it out. He instantly became hooked and decided to become a member. A couple months later, a friend of his told him to apply for the internship program. A.J. began the internship that Fall.

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