Lee Ann Lankton has been training with us for well over a year. She is one of the most consistent clients that we have ever had, and her dedication has led to great results!
Although her transformation does not include huge weight loss numbers or substantially different before and after pictures, Lee Ann has made amazing improvements in her body’s function during her time with us. She is the epitome of what we try to teach our clients who are not necessarily trying to compete at the highest level, but want to be fit, healthy and active: Consistency of training and mindful awareness of movement patterns during exercise.
Lee Ann is not trying to put up the biggest numbers in the gym (although you will see she does some of that too), or outrun the high school Lacrosse players she coaches. Rather, she wants to move freely without pain and be the best version of herself as long as she can be.
Her dedication has led to an incredible recovery from injury, and her diligent work is moving her closer and closer to her ultimate goal of getting back on the tennis court.
Meet Lee Ann…
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am married to Steve, my husband of 33 years. We have a daughter, Sarah, a 21 year old college lacrosse player at the University of Findlay. I work part time as a Project Manager at Charles C. Brandt Construction Company.
My part time position allows me to follow my calling as a High School Lacrosse Assistant coach at Guerin Catholic High School. I have held that position for the last 7 years and it has been such a blessing to have the opportunity to be with such a terrific group of young ladies.
My other love is for our dogs. We currently have two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: Tori and Pippa, who are considered our fur children.
When I am not watching Sarah play lacrosse or coaching, I enjoy playing tennis, but have not been able to do so for the last 2 ½ years due to an injury…..more details on that below.
What is your favorite exercise?
The RDL – great for my hamstrings that have been tight all my life and I think they are key to recovery form my Achilles injury.
How long have you been training at Force Barbell and how did you get started?
1 year and 8 months. I got started at the urging of my daughter Sarah. She was convinced that the team at Force BB could help me recover from my injury. I must admit, I was not certain that they would be that much help, but finally agreed to try it. WOW was I wrong.
Why do you train?
I started training to help my recovery from a partially torn Achilles. I train now, to continue that effort, but also to get stronger as I age to offset the negative effects of the aging curve.
What were your emotions and feelings when you were taking that first step?
Totally intimidated – I had never belonged to a gym before, knew I was out of shape, and the name of the facility itself was overwhelming to someone like me. I must say that the staff members “baby sat” me the first 6 months – taking great care to encourage and instruct me in the proper techniques. Never giving me more information than I could handle and never making me feel inferior.
What were your goals?
My ultimate goal has always been to return to the tennis court. One of my initial goals was to be able to do just 1 push-up. I have accomplished that and many more.
What have you been able to accomplish?
I have been able to hit a few tennis balls, but the lacrosse season is restricting me from trying much more. I can hop and shuffle through the ladders almost as fast as some of my players.
What new goals have you set for yourself?
I want to get my back strong enough to keep my elbows at my side for my push ups.
What advice would you give to a new member or somebody looking to get started?
These people are professionals and very good at what they do. They can help you in ways that you didn’t even know you needed help. I never would have guessed that a root cause for my injury was my lack of core strength.