Carl's Blog
Why Strength is the Foundation: Chris Butler’s Story & the Power of Training with Purpose May 05, 2025
Why Strength is the Foundation: Chris Butler’s Story & the Power of Training with Purpose
What if we told you the real key to energy, confidence, and balance in life isn’t found in more cardio, another diet, or the latest health trend—but in building strength from the inside out?
 
Chris Butler’s...
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Back in the Race: How Pat C Reclaimed His Strength, Balance & Confidence longevity pain resistance training skiing stamina strength Apr 14, 2025

For those who once thrived on movement but now find themselves limited by pain, energy loss, or setbacks… Pat Cavadini’s story will resonate deeply.

A former repeat Birkebeiner competitor, Pat was no stranger to challenge or endurance. He had always been active, spending his free time cross-country...

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From Trapped to Transformed: Angela’s Journey to Strength, Freedom & Confidence extreme weight loss fad diets increased metabolism resistance training weight loss weight loss side effects Mar 31, 2025

If you’ve ever felt trapped in a cycle of dieting, over-exercising, or relying on weight loss drugs just to feel in control, you’re not alone. Angela Hohmann has been there too—and her journey is one worth celebrating.

Angela wasn’t happy with where she was at, and like many people, she believed lo...

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Conquering MS and Creating a Journey Worth Living For, One Step at a Time chronic disease inches lost increasing metabolism multiple sclerosis personal training resistance training weight loss Jan 17, 2025

Congratulations to Nancy Gilligan as this month’s client of the month!

Multiple Sclerosis is no match for this woman.  She has not let this be a label for her, but instead has risen up to excel through the power of resistance training, effective strengthening, and getting the right nutrition to ove...

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Skillet Sweet Potato Kale Hash skillet sweet potato kale hash Nov 22, 2024

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup diced red onion

3 1/2 cups cubed and peeled sweet potatoes

1 Tablespoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 cups kale (finely chopped)

4 large eggs

1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish

...
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From Struggling with her Weight to The Look, Vitality, and Resilience Worth Living For Nov 18, 2024

This month we are inducting key members into Northstar’s Wall of Fame who have demonstrated the key traits of being a Northstar and have accomplished a level of fitness and lifestyle that exhibits the Northstar way.  This month we are recognizing Bonny Young!

Bonny Young has elegantly traversed N...

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From Injury and Inconsistency to Top Shape and Mastering the Stresses of Life Nov 15, 2024

This month we wanted to recognize Scott Marshall in achieving our prestigious Wall of Fame.  Someone who regularly was injured after working out and was not as consistent as he should be, he's been able to create a lifestyle mastery, and the results show it.  Learn more about him below.  

Dr. Scott...

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Calf Mobility Sep 17, 2024

The calves are generally one of the tightest muscle groups in the body. Over time, excessively tight calves can lead to pain, impaired gait, reduced blood flow, foot/ankle problems, and in general put your body at increased risk for many other issues.
To work on stretching and strengthening the calf ...

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Shoulder Mobility Exercises Sep 14, 2024

Shoulder mobility exercises are great to do as a warm up or if someone is experiencing shoulder pain or tightness. These exercises can be done either at home or at a gym with minimal equipment. Check out the video below for demonstrations:

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Olympic Celebration!! Sep 11, 2024

Congratulations to all Olympic medalists and participants!  We are proud of all of you pictured and not pictured! 

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Emma Hanson coach coaching goal driven personal training resistance training safe exercise strength Sep 08, 2024

We wanted to warmly introduce Emma Hanson!

 Emma grew up in Winona, Minnesota and graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth with a degree in Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences. Emma grew up playing all types of sports but focused on basketball and swimming in high school. In college she...

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Dynamic Push Pull Sep 07, 2024

Dynamic movements play a crucial role in any resistance training program. As we age, these exercises become increasingly essential for maintaining key aspects of everyday life like power, endurance, and coordination. With the Keiser Functional Trainer, we can safely incorporate these movements into...

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