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If you have a desire to achieve a stronger, healthier body, our elite trainers will give you the guidance you need to achieve your fitness goals quickly and efficiently.
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FOUNDER
DAVID LAWRENCE, Head Strength Coach, Novi
David is one of the premier and most widely recognized strength and conditioning coaches in the United States. He has personally trained literally hundreds of professional athletes in over 40 sports, including Nick Bellore of the Detroit Lions, Aaron Palushaj of the Philadelphia Flyers, and Super Bowl Champions Frank Zombo of the Kansas City Chiefs and Haloti Ngata of the Philadelphia Eagles. David’s passion and hands-on coaching ensures results, David sets the bar and brings that drive to the team at MECA, the premiere personal training and sports performance facility in Michigan.
- Founder of Michigan Elite Conditioning for Athletes (MECA)
- Former Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Concordia University Ann Arbor
- National Team Conditioning Coach, Guyana Women’s National Football Team
COACH
BOBBY, Head Strength Coach, Grand Rapids
Bobby, a devoted husband, and father hailing from Lowell, MI, brings over 20 years of experience in the field of strength coaching. He pursued his education at CMU, where he formed a strong bond with Dave Lawrence, sharing a mutual passion for strength and conditioning. Throughout his career, Bobby has trained athletes across more than 10 countries and has been successfully running his own business since 2016.
During his leisure time, Bobby cherishes moments spent with his family, embarks on travels, explores his culinary skills through cooking, and indulges in well-deserved relaxation.
COACH
MATT, Head Strength Coach, Novi
Matt joined the MECA team in 2014, and is an acting owner and operator of the business in our Novi location. Matt is an incredible coach who made the transition into coaching after graduating from Western Michigan University with a degree in Accounting. Matt determined the life of spreadsheets and numbers wasn’t his long term future- and linked up with owner David Lawrence to join the MECA team. Matt is one of the most detailed coaches on staff- and the results he produces speak for themselves. Matt is a very regimented coach who believes in sticking to the basics and truthfully loves to teach his clients how to train to perfection, while living the lifestyle as well. Matt is an injury/rehab specialist due to the detail oriented nature of his work- though loves working with clients of all types, especially athletes looking to make their next season their best
COACH
LEANNE, Head Strength Coach, Royal Oak
Leanne joins MECA with an extensive background. Growing up as an elite gymnast and transitioning into a competitive Cross Fitter, she began her fitness journey at a young age. After graduating from College with a Bachelors in Business Management, Leanne spent many years developing her skill set to become the Operational Manager of her family owned franchised car dealerships. After gaining experience managing the dealerships, she decided to go into a new direction of co-owning her own Sports Performance and CrossFit facility in Canada. Leanne had the opportunity to train Pro Athletes and general population clients for many years. After years of operating and coaching Leanne decided to diversify herself and take a new endeavor in the Functional & Integrative Medical Clinic setting in Michigan. After years of expanding her experience in the medical field, Leanne sought out an opportunity to get back into a position she was driven and passionate about. With Leanne’s immense background in business, coaching, nutrition, health and wellness she provides a well-defined skill set to assist and help clients reach their goals.
COACH
JARED, Head Strength Coach, Novi
Because he has experienced both inactive and active periods in his life, including track, football, baseball, and boxing, Jared can relate to a wide range of clientele. He can make a workout challenging and fun at the same time, which is helpful for those clients who may approach working with a personal trainer with some apprehension because of weight or other matters. Jared’s goal is to encourage clients toward a healthy lifestyle, beginning from where they are right now.
- Assistant Strength Coach at MECA
- Certified Poliquin Level I Personal Trainer
- Holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Performance and Fitness Entrepreneurship
- Kilo ASPD level 1 & Kilo ASPD level 2
COACH
LIZ, Head Strength Coach, Novi
Liz Lucas has been with MECA since 2017. Liz changed her career path in college from Business to Sports Performance after finding a love for strength training through competitive Olympic Weightlifting and went on to hold state records in Michigan and Florida. She has a Bachelors of Science in Sports Performance from Eastern Michigan University. Liz has attended many educational conferences and seminars over the years to learn how to best help athletes improve their performance in their sports through strength training.
She is most fulfilled when working with athletes who are committed to bettering themselves and taking their game to the next level.
COACH
MITCHELL, Head Strength Coach, NOVI
Mitch joined the MECA team after attending Central Michigan University for Exercise Science, and accumulating great experience in the training field from industry leaders. Mitch is invested in the training process due to overcoming struggles with mental health and learning the power of self discipline and emotional intelligence as a byproduct of the hard work put in the weightroom. Mitch believes the first step in having good mental health is through improving your physical health, as MItch loves to work with all clients regardless of age or ability. Mitch is an injury/rehab specialist, and enjoys the intricacies of working through tough problems and finding resolution to give his clients well deserved relief and results. If you are looking to make a real change in your life- ask for Mitch.
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EVAN, Head Strength Coach, Royal Oak
Evan has a diverse background of both strength training, personal training and nutrition certifications that guides him to provide an exceptional training stimulus- regardless of goal or client. Evan loves educating others into learning more about what made Evan fall in love with training in the first place. Regardless of if you are struggling physically, emotionally or mentally, Evan wants to be the hand to help pull you through to the bright side of your goals.
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Alex, Head Strength Coach, Royal Oak
Alex’s passion with strength and condition started throughout college while training for football and working multiple internships at gyms. After football and school Alex became a strength coach with the intent to help athletes and lifestyle clients gain strength and confidence for their respected sports and life’s. Alex has helped people from all backgrounds achieve their goals from weight loss to gaining strength and speed for sports!
COACH
MICHAEL, Coach, Royal Oak
Michael Affer graduated from Central Michigan University with a BSc in Exercise Science in 2023. His five years at CMU were marked by active participation in numerous training and coaching roles, as well as two internships and a part-time job.
Michael spent the whole summer of his first internship with CMU Athletics, working closely with the CMU Football Strength & Conditioning department. This expertise enabled him to make significant contributions to the Division I football team’s preparation, including strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, partnering with Athletic Trainers on sports-related injuries, and more.
He began a multi-semester internship as a Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor. In this role, Michael counseled students one-on-one and led fitness classes. His dedication to physical fitness extended to his part-time job at Evolution Fitness and Training, a well-known Mount Pleasant gym. He thrived as a Sales Representative there, supervising the front desk, managing product sales, cultivating client relations, and assuring the seamless operation of the gym.
Michael has been on a personal fitness adventure from the age of 15, a journey that has become his passion and a source of enormous happiness. His commitment led him to enter his first physique competition in 2019 when he took first place in the Men’s Classic Physique Novice category. This accomplishment demonstrates his unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of exercise science and fitness.
COACH
ANTHONY, Senior Strength Coach, Novi
Anthony found strength training through his love for competition in sports such as wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai and MMA. Anthony loves to inspire others to fall in love with the training process the same way he has, and enjoys investing in his education to continue to stay on top of new training techniques and opportunities to help his clients see better results. Anthony enjoys working with all clients, regardless of training age or athleticism. Reach out to MECA Novi to work with Coach Anthony!
COACH
NICK, Assistant Strength Coach, Novi
Prior to working for MECA, Nick spent the first 7 years of his career working at Bystol Performance Center in Highland Park, Illinois. During this time, he broadened his knowledge of training while also learning how to build long-lasting relationships with clients while working towards their goals. Nick aims to get to know all of his clients on a personal level and educate them throughout the entire training process. Training has always been a big part of his life; it’s something he truly loves, and strives to pass that same feeling onto everyone he works with. He enjoys working with all types of clients, ranging from young athletes to someone dealing with chronic pain. Regardless of who you are, Nick will provide you with service tailored to your needs.
- Michigan State University – Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology
- NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
COACH
EMILY, Assistant Strength Coach, Novi
Emily Dodge is an Assistant Strength Coach who is eager to train those are wanting a big change. As a retired collegiate athlete, Emily recently graduated from Wayne State University with her Master of Science degree, focussing on Exercise and Sport Science. After tearing her ACL during softball, Emily developed a new perspective of both the physical and mental well being of athletes associated with injury, and now has a passion to prevent others from doing the same.
COACH
CHRIS, Assistant Strength Coach, Novi
Chris is a great coach with an extensive background in life and sport. Chris is an ex-Marine and College Football player who learned how important the training lifestyle was to not only sports performance, but mental health as well. Chris works hard to get clients comfortable with the uncomfortable process of change in the weightroom and life.. Chris loves working with clients of all skill levels and personalities, come check out why!
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ZAC, Assistant Strength Coach, Novi
Zac is from Grand Blanc, Mi, joined the MECA team after graduating from Adrian College where Zac earned his Bachelor’s Degree while also playing football as a defensive back. Zac got into our field through learning the power of having a coach who invests and helps get the best out of the athlete. Zac is a competitor and loves to work with athletes and others who are invested in doing the hard work required to see great results. Zac loves to be a mentor and role model to our young athletes looking to make a big impact in their lives and sport.
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NOAH, Assistant Strength Coach, Grand Rapids
Noah Fye holds the position of Assistant Strength Coach at MECA Grand Rapids, embodying a profound dedication to fostering physical fitness and elevating athletic performance.
From an early age, Noah’s active participation in a diverse range of sports instilled in him a genuine reverence for various athletic disciplines. While wrestling held a prominent role throughout his early years and continued into high school, Noah also demonstrated his versatility by engaging in pursuits such as baseball and football.
In May of 2022, he achieved a notable milestone, graduating with a distinguished degree in Exercise Science from the esteemed University of Iowa, thus establishing a robust academic foundation within the field.
As a professional strength coach, Noah derives immeasurable satisfaction from witnessing clients wholeheartedly embrace the rigorous training process, as their unwavering commitment and arduous endeavors yield tangible and remarkable results.
COACH
SEAN, Assistant Strength Coach, Grand Rapids
Sean, a seasoned professional in the field of athletics, boasts an impressive background as a former collegiate wrestler and a dedicated trainer of individual sports athletes.
With a degree in exercise science from GVSU and practical experience in the medical field, he brings a comprehensive understanding of human performance and wellness to his practice.
As a former athlete himself, Sean finds immense fulfillment in guiding and empowering athletes to unlock their true potential, enabling them to reach new heights of performance.
COACH
CODY, Assistant Strength Coach, Grand Rapids
Cody Tiedeman is a valued strength coach at MECA Grand Rapids, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a lifelong passion for the field.
He completed his education at Grand Valley State University and has dedicated a significant portion of his life to strength training. Cody’s enthusiasm for sharing knowledge is evident as he eagerly educates his clients, drawing from his years of practical experience.
He takes great satisfaction in helping individuals make progress in their fitness goals, recognizing the positive impact it can have on their personal lives.
COACH
LIZ, Assistant Strength Coach, Grand Rapids
Liz VanderLende, a dedicated strength coach at MECA in Grand Rapids, brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for helping others. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from GVSU, Liz finds joy in sharing her knowledge with those she works with.
Her personal journey of overcoming scoliosis surgery during her adolescence ignited her interest in strength training and the remarkable benefits it brings in terms of strength and mobility.
Liz is deeply gratified by the opportunity to assist individuals in achieving similar transformations and improving their overall lifestyle through fitness.
Her genuine care for promoting well-being and inspiring positive changes makes her an invaluable member of the MECA team as a strength coach.
COACH
SCOT, Assistant Strength Coach, Royal Oak
Having dealt with nagging injuries that prevented Scot from realizing his own potential, it sent him on the path of helping others overcome similar obstacles. Scot has been a strength coach with MECA for over 2 years. Scots’ passion for sports and exercise led him to MECA to pursue a career in helping others achieve their potential by reaching and exceeding their fitness and athletic goals. Scot graduated from Oakland University with a degree in Exercise Science and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). Scot specializes in training individuals with nagging injuries by helping them to get out of pain and ultimately allow them to reach their goals. He believes that training shouldn’t be ‘one size fits all’, which shows up in the approach to training his clients.
COACH
TAYTUM, Assistant Strength Coach, Royal Oak
Taytum is a coach with a passion to make people work hard, feel good and have a good time! She comes with a bubbly personality and a laugh that can be heard miles away. Taytum graduated college with her Bachelors in Exercise Science. Where she also played basketball and was the student assistant for the team too! She continues to train basketball athletes on their game outside of MECA and hopes to grow her basketball training business. Before working for MECA, Taytum was a personal trainer at two different gyms, as well as a basketball sports performance coach for another training company. Ever since she was young, she’s had a drive to help others and she knew she hit the jackpot when she fell in love with fitness. Now, she can live her true purpose by helping others through fitness! Taytum hopes to become one of the best trainers on the planet with the help of MECA.
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AUSTIN, Assistant Strength Coach, Royal Oak
Austin is an enthusiastic coach striving to help other reach their goals and improve their quality of life. He is passionate in showing people the importance of hard work and that it is possible to reach their potential. Austin graduated with a bachelors in exercise science and a minor in business ay Western Michigan University. With family members who have struggled with health complications, Austin knew he wanted the knowledge he’s learned to others, so they don’t face the same struggles.
NUTRITIONIST
Hannah, Sports Nutritionist, Novi
Hannah joined the MECA team as a graduate from Michigan State University, with a bachelors in Kinesiology. Hannah also played Lacrosse at Michigan State all four years of her degree as well. As a former college athlete- Hannah had to learn the value in proper nutrition through a busy schedule and consistently changing variables of the collegiate lifestyle. Hannah enjoys working with all clients at MECA, helping them find comfort in establishing new habits both in and outside of the gym. Look to work with Hannah to ensure the best progress possible!
NUTRITIONIST
NICK, Sports Nutritionist, Grand Rapids
Nick LaRoche holds the critical position of Sports Nutritionist at MECA Grand Rapids, where he is deeply committed to optimizing individuals’ dietary needs. His journey into the world of nutrition began at the age of 12 when he confronted and overcame a significant struggle with excessive weight, shedding an impressive 100 lbs. This transformative experience ignited a profound passion and understanding of the vital role nutrition plays in overall health and well-being.
With a solid background in personal training and certifications in Poliquin Biosignature Modulation and NASM CPT, Nick brings a wealth of expertise to his role. He further extends his knowledge in the field of Functional Medicine, holding certification as an Integrative Health Practitioner and board certification from the esteemed American Association of Drugless Practitioners.
Visitors to MECA are invited to take advantage of Nick’s comprehensive assessments and personalized nutritional protocols. With his unwavering dedication and expert guidance, he empowers individuals on their transformative health journeys. Nick’s goal is to make nutrition accessible and beneficial for all, ensuring that clients receive the support they need to achieve their goals.
MANAGEMENT
LOGAN, General Manager, Novi
Logan joins the MECA team bringing almost 5 years of Olympic weightlifting and Crossfit coaching experience. He also brings just as many years of experience in gym management. After a recent endeavor in a corporate senior living setting, Logan sought out opportunities to get back into a position he was passionate about in the fitness industry, helping others reach their fitness goals. Logan adds to the company’s already stellar culture and reputation with his top-notch customer service and servant leadership. Logan holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with a focus on Management.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
To elevate the level of sports performance and wellness in the State of Michigan by providing superior personal training and coaching.
Above is our mission statement. While we do feel it perfectly describes our goal, one sentence cannot fully explain what a company is truly striving to achieve. This will provide you with a more in-depth look at why we consider our personal training superior and how we leverage this to elevate results beyond the other options out there in the fitness industry.
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