Military to Nutrition Mastery: Faulkenberry’s ISSA Achievement

Weston Faulkenberry's story reads like a Hollywood movie script, showcasing the relentless and tough mindset of a military special operations leader. After serving 14 years in the U.S. Army, Faulkenberry transitioned seamlessly into the world of fitness, nutrition and wellness. Completing a series of certifications with the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), he now applies his disciplined, no-nonsense approach to help others achieve their health and fitness goals, offering personalized plans grounded in his military-honed resilience and expertise.

Military Background and Initial Interest in ISSA

Faulkenberry served in the Army, specifically in Special Operations, where he developed a keen interest in fitness and nutrition due to the unique demands of his role. "We have a different level of fitness and nutritional needs," he explains. "We don't look like bodybuilders, but we are constantly moving, which means nutrition plays a big part."

As his military career was winding down, Weston began exploring options for his post-service life. He discovered ISSA and its comprehensive range of courses, which seemed like the perfect fit. "ISSA stuck out because it offered everything I wanted to do, with nutrition being one of them," he recalls.

ISSA Certification Courses Completed

Weston embarked on his ISSA journey in 2022 while still deployed, using his time efficiently to complete several courses, including:

1. Personal Trainer Certification: "This was the easy one," Weston notes, emphasizing that it was the foundation for all his subsequent learning.

2. Tactical Conditioning: Given his military background, this course was particularly relevant. "ISSA is way more thorough than just picking up heavy stuff, which was what the Army taught me."

3. Group Exercise Instructor: Surprisingly challenging, this course taught Weston how to create and deliver fitness programs for groups.

4. Bodybuilding: This course piqued his interest in muscle development and aesthetics.

5. Corrective Exercise: Timely and practical, this course allowed Weston to apply what he learned immediately in the gym.

6. Nutrition Certification: The capstone of his training, this course tied everything together for Weston.

Reflecting on his educational journey with ISSA, Faulkenberry recalls how each step built upon the last, leading to a comprehensive understanding of fitness and wellness. “Nutrition was the last course I took and that was definitely the Capstone and I'm really glad I took that one last because everything came together with nutrition.”

Integrating Nutrition with Fitness

Weston found the ISSA Nutrition Certification to be the most transformative. "If you don't have that fuel portion, then you just have those two bits. You need the whole triangle," he asserts. The course not only provided him with a comprehensive understanding of nutrition but also equipped him with practical tools to help his clients.

One section of the course stood out most to Weston: navigating fad diets. "We see fad diets coming up all the time. I encounter it every time I get a new client," he says. This part of the course empowered him to guide clients effectively through the noise of trendy diets and focus on sustainable nutrition habits.

Weston now uses the knowledge from his ISSA Nutrition Certification in every client interaction. "Nutrition plays a part in everything that I do, no matter what. Most people just want to feel good throughout the day, and nutrition is key to that," he explains. From helping a golfer prepare for a tournament to advising clients on basic dietary habits, Weston's approach is rooted in the solid nutritional foundation he built through ISSA.

Building a Business

With his ISSA certifications in hand, Weston successfully transitioned from military to civilian life, founding his own health and wellness business. "I started my own little business, training regular soldiers, first responders, and spouses in basic physical activity," he shares. Relocating to Texas, he now runs Find, Fix, Finish Health and Wellness, subcontracting through various gyms.

Weston credits ISSA with providing invaluable support throughout his transition. "Once you become an ISSA member and complete all the courses, you have the knowledge ready to go. You get all the documents, the required logos, and step-by-step guides to start your business," he says. This comprehensive support system made his transition smoother and more manageable.

Advice for Aspiring Nutrition Coaches

Weston offers clear advice for anyone considering the ISSA Nutrition Course: "This course is the foundation, don't skip over it. Understand it. You need to fuel your knowledge, and nutrition is a way to do it." He emphasizes the importance of practical application and continuous learning, encouraging others to build a robust base in nutrition as a cornerstone of their fitness careers.

If you're inspired by Weston's journey and are passionate about health and wellness, consider enrolling in the ISSA Nutrition Certification course today. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to make a significant impact on your clients' lives. Join the ranks of dedicated professionals like Weston Faulkenberry and start your path to becoming an ISSA Master Trainer today.