Copyright 2017 Albuquerque Journal
Albuquerque Journal (New Mexico)
"Why so serious?" That's a phrase Steve Holden is often asked. Yet the only thing the 58-year-old is serious about is getting healthy.
Which is why he took on the role of "Old School Coach," a new app launching later this month in Apple's App Store.
"My entire life has been filled with fitness," he says. "I look for ways to change people's frame of mind when it comes to being healthy. It's about being proactive and changing beliefs."
As "Old School Coach," Holden keys in on his old-fashioned brand of comedy.
It's loud, in you face and funny.
He will instantly remind you of your high school football coach or gym class back in middle or school. You know type that said, "Walk it off" after being injured. Holden is a real and motivational experience. The app has daily messages that will make you laugh and think about fitness in a different light. It will also help set daily goals as well as offer a tip of the day from the coach himself.
"I'm never trying to be mean," he says of the approach. "I do want to help people get fit and take on a new lifestyle. It's about retraining the way we think about fitness. It's not only about working out, but about eating healthy and thinking healthy."
Holden comes with decades of experience.
He began his karate training in 1973 with Michael Campos.
A 13-year career as the undefeated heavyweight full contact kickboxer.
Not to mention a fifth-degree black belt in Zen-Do Kai and a sixth-degree black belt in Kenpo.
He can often be found around the Duke City teaching classes with the SilverSneakers, which is a workout group for seniors.
Working on the app and getting it running are Cliff and Lori Lewis.
Cliff Lewis, a theoretical physicist, developed the app in Albuquerque.
Lori Lewis has been the force in getting the word out about "Old School Coach."
"The idea for the app came when I was taking classes with Steve," Lori Lewis says. "Eventually, we had him move into our house and become our personal trainer. Then the idea hit us, we should do an app because what Steve has to say about fitness is amazing."
Holden often films his fitness videos in various locations in Albuquerque.
He says getting up and out of the house is one of the first steps into changing how you think about fitness.
"Finding a way to work out another step," he says. "Too many times, people will get injured and then stop working out entirely. You don't need to do that. You have to stay consistent with everything you do in your life. The app will help get people started on the right track."
We welcome suggestions for the daily Bright Spot. Send to [email protected] Online
To learn more about "Old School Coach," visit www. oldschoolcoach.org
Read More of Today's AB Headlines
Subscribe to Our Daily E-Newsletter
Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy
