Train Like a Ninja Warrior in Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Known for his super speed on NBC’S TV show American Ninja Warrior, Flemington local Mike Neeham is passing on his knowledge of the obstacle course at his newly opened gym, VertiQuest Gym, in Bridgewater.

Neeham was a walk-on on the competitive obstacle course show and from seasons 4 through 7 he made his presence known. He got the second fastest time on a course three years in a row and the fourth fastest time in his third year. He also made it to the Vegas qualifying stage three years in a row.

But Neeham’s love of obstacles started way before the show.

“I have been doing parkour videos for 12 years now,” Neeham told Patch.

Parkour is a training discipline using movement that developed from military obstacle course training, according to Wikipedia.

“I kept improving my attributes through skateboarding, snowboarding and got tons of injuries,” Neeham said. “But in my gym I want to help others avoid getting injured.”

VeriQuest Gym is like a giant playground. There is the classic “Warped Wall”, boxes to jump to and from, obstacles to climb, swing and pretty much do as you like.

He has it set up for all ages. All of the obstacles are adjustable for kids and those just beginning training.

Anyone can come in and just have fun on the course, or Neeham also offers classes for kids and adults to familiarize them with the equipment.

This gym is a dream come true for Neeham, he saved up money for the past 10 years and then spent the last seven years designing the obstacles himself and finding the perfect location.

VertiQuest Gym is located on 1 Easy St in Bridgewater and is located right off Route 22 and near Route 287, making it easy for athletes to visit from all over.

Berkeley Height’s local Anthony DeFranco even trained at the Bridgewater location. DeFranco made it to the second stage in the Vegas Finals this current season.

Neeham may have taken this year off from the competition to get his business running but he plans to return next year.

“I will try for next year,” Neeham said. “It’s my favorite thing in the world.”

For more information call VertiQuest at (908) 391-3823 or visit http://www.vertiquestgym.com/ or email mneedham3@comcast.net or Facebook.

(Photos and video by Alexis Tarrazi)

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