Mike Bash: An Inspiration on the Gym Floor

I was in about six months ago when a guy came into the workout area trying to encourage me to try his kickboxing class. 

I am usually not one to take classes at a gym but I soon realized that this guy had something that was worth checking out. I went out onto the floor and tried to move the way he was moving ... at first it was little awkward, but after his encouragement, I soon found myself in the flow.

Once you see Mike Bash smile, and listen to his "battle cry" form of encouragement, you know that this guy is authentic, and real.

Born in Brooklyn, Mike said he lived the street life from the time he was 14 because that was all he knew. He had to survive. He said he saw friends die right beside him from acts of violence. He soon realized that he needed to break free from that "group," that (way) of thinking, if he was going to survive and live a productive and meaningful life. 

"I have had a few very close calls. I shouldn't even be alive right now," Mike said. "I appreciate things so much because I know how easily it can all be gone."

A former two pack a day smoker, Mike moves like a well oiled machine. He is inspiring to watch, in part because he is such a great cheerleader. He welcomes and encourages anyone of any age or skill level to take his class, "just try it for 15 minutes," he says, "if you're not hooked, well, at least you took a bite." A chance to be with Mike Bash for an hour is something anyone could use. He loves life and he loves helping and inspiring people.

Malibu Fitness gym member, Rosie Stutsman, was encouraged by Mike to try his class a couple of years ago and now she is a class regular.

"In Mike's class you exercise muscles that you otherwise never workout. You are moving your body in ways that bring other muscle groups into play," Stutsman said.

Mike teaches classes at Pepperdine as well as Malibu Fitness.  He also does private training. Learn more at www.totalbodyfitnessgym.net.

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