When Jason moved to Burlington from Charlottesville, VA, in November 2021, it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter both professionally and personally. As a Lab Tech at the UVM Medical Center Genomic Medicine Laboratory and North Country native with his hometown of Potsdam, NY, the transition to Vermont has been seamless. Burlington has proven to be a great fit for Jason and his family—his partner and two teenagers, aged 15 and 13—who are all thriving in their new home. They love being able to walk to the Y and using the aquatics facilities as a family.
Jason’s Fitness Journey: A Lifelong Adventure
Jason’s fitness journey is a testament to a lifelong passion for diverse activities. From skiing and hiking to rock climbing and martial arts, he has enjoyed a wide range of physical pursuits. His enthusiasm for endurance sports like running and triathlons has kept him engaged for years. However, it wasn’t until he began rehabilitation and general physical preparedness (GPP) work at the YMCA that Jason ventured into strength training.
Now, strength training is a central part of Jason’s routine, with a new-found passion for Olympic lifts such as the snatch and the clean and jerk. “As a beginner, I do a lot of work at lighter weights to develop technique and speed, and am slowly increasing loads,” Jason explains. His typical sessions last 2.5 to 3.5 hours and include both dynamic and static mobility work to ensure optimal shoulder, hip, and ankle range of motion. Despite the physical and mental exhaustion that follows, Jason notes that “regular workouts, four times a week, are an essential support for my mental health,” providing clarity and balance in stressful moments. His current goal is to compete in Olympic weightlifting in the summer of 2025.
Finding Balance and Staying Motivated
Motivation has always been a driving force for Jason, but he has learned that going too hard can lead to burnout. To preserve his motivation and make optimal progress, Jason follows a structured fitness approach: “I rest three days a week and never workout more than two successive days.” He also implements “deload weeks” every fourth week, which are a period of reduced intensity that allows his body to recover, in addition to a three-week deload period at the end of a 12-week training block. This approach helps him manage his development and recovery effectively.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Jason’s fitness routine is the sense of accomplishment he feels each time he walks through the doors of the Y. “I congratulate myself every time I walk in the door to the Y,” Jason shares. “No matter how my workout goes that day, I know I’ve done something good for my wellness.” This dedication enhances his ability to be more engaged with family and community.
A Special Thank You to Our Y Community
In reflecting on the Greater Burlington YMCA, Jason expresses deep appreciation for the facility and its staff. He describes the building as excellent, and the equipment and facilities top-notch, but it’s the “supportive and dedicated staff” that truly make the Y stand out to him. Jason extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributes to keeping the Y “humming” day in and day out.
As he continues to balance rigorous training with mindful recovery, Jason is grateful for this shared journey with family, friends, and the remarkable community at the Y.