Name: Steve Apsel
Birthday: July 29
Hometown: Ridgewood, NJ
What is your athletic background? Did you play any sports growing up?
“I started out playing baseball and then switched to wrestling in high school and college. I spent many years coaching travel softball and youth wrestling.”
When did you attend your first workout with Arlington Sports Conditioning, and how did you first learn about the group?
“I started taking sports conditioning classes at Gold’s Gym in 2006 and stopped when the pandemic hit in 2020. I joined Arlington Sports Conditioning in June 2023.”
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment, and why?
“In July 2023 I unofficially passed the Russian kettlebell snatch test (100 reps with 24kg in 5 min) in my garage. When the pandemic hit, I stopped going to the gym and switched to kettlebells. Initially the snatch test seemed like an unattainable goal that would be fun to chase. To my surprise, 3 years later, I got there.”
What is your favorite exercise(s)?
“Kettlebells, peloton, jogging, hiking“
What is your favorite workout song or musical artist?
It’s a Long Way to the Top – AC/DC
What is your favorite sports team?
New York Giants
Who is your favorite athlete?
“My son – Max Apsel. I’ve coached/watched him from the age of 5 to develop into the college wrestler he is today. He epitomizes the ideal of the student-athlete. Win or lose, it’s a blast to watch him compete.“
Other than working out, how else do you like to spend your free time?
“Exploring interesting bars with my wife, hanging out at the dog park, learning more about AI/ML, and generally enjoying my almost empty nest.“
What do you like best about Arlington Sports Conditioning?
“It’s a great community that gets me to do things I wouldn’t do on my own. The feeling of accomplishment after each class is addictive.“
What are the biggest benefits that you have experienced as a member?
“This class shows me where I need to focus, from the perspective of fitness and injury prevention. I wouldn’t get that if I was working out alone and solely focusing on my strengths.“
What advice would you offer to new or prospective members of Arlington Sports Conditioning?
“The class is demanding. Don’t burn out. Focus on finishing.“