Charles Dexter / SWAT, Boxer and US Army Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom

I am a US Army Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and currently a fulltime SWAT Officer for a major US City. I also competed in amateur boxing.

I began working with Medalist Performance in 2018 after I injured my shoulder training for an upcoming amateur Boxing match. Recommended by my teammates, Lealem worked with me in person extensively to prepare me for the fight through my injury. Immediately his approach was different. He was not only about fixing the injury but educating me on injury prevention, recovery and performance. He focuses on the science and concrete data versus a traditional training approach that led me to injury. Lealem is a dedicated coach to his athletes. He followed up multiple times a week my through my recovery. On the day of my fight, Lealem coached me on my warm-up and mental focus. Even though I went to Medalist Performance for my shoulder injury Lealem took time to learn the dynamics of Boxing and applied a scientific approach to my training.

I severely injured my back in 2021 at work. I didn’t want to have surgery. I reached out to Medalist Performance. I worked with Medalist Performance extensively on my recovery. The coaching I received was tailored for my injury with a goal of returning to work at peak performance. Lealem understands the physical demands of being a SWAT/Tactical Officer and the importance of peak performance on demand. Lealem worked with me in person and through his application I followed the recovery plan outlined. He checked up on me several times a week and adjusted my recovery plan as needed. He coached me on my nutrition and tailored my diet to help speed up my recovery.

Furthermore, I have consulted with Medalist Performance on coaching various aspects of human performance including nutrition, physiological and physical performance as they apply to my current position as a SWAT Officer and life. I continue to use Lealem’s approach to training and recovery. I always enjoy the transfer of knowledge when working with Lealem and the relationship with Medalist Performance.

Delano Harris-Samuels / SWAT, US Army Reserve and Former Track Athlete

I met Lealem at the 2021 National Tactical Officers Association Conference after showing up late to a course he was teaching on enhancing and sustaining physical, physiological and mental performance for the tactical officer. His scientific approach, structure, and the emphasis he placed on recovery peaked my interest.

In January of 2022, I began the virtual medalist performance program with 3 clear goals in mind. The first was to eliminate fast food and eating out as my main source of nutrition. Second, was to achieve a particular physical aesthetic and to increase strength. Third, was to learn how to maintain this condition independently of the program. The program requires discipline and commitment as it can be time consuming. Lealem makes it easy as everything is laid out and explained with great detail. It does not take long to start seeing or feeling the results. Many of my aches and pains were eliminated after the first month.

Lealem, being a peak performance coach, does not focus solely on improving physical capabilities but seeks to assist in improving multiple areas of the clients life. Often during our online meetings after a recap of the week was discussed, we would branch off onto topics like relationships, finances, marksmanship, etc.

Overall the program was worth the price tag as it helped me to achieve the goals I set for myself and develop habits that are beneficial for my lifestyle.

William Senofsky / Former DI Soccer Athlete, Semi-pro Beach Volleyball Athlete and Coach

I played soccer through college and then went on to do CrossFit competitively and coached CrossFit. I then moved on to Beach Volleyball where I play semi-professional and coach as well. I have been involved in sports since I could walk and always had some type of ball I was bouncing off the walls. I have had two major injuries, both to the same knee that really set me back as an athlete. They both happened right as I was breaking into the top of that sport… I had given up hope of ever becoming the athlete I knew my body was capable of before surgeries. Lealem at Medalist Performance gave me that hope back. He significantly improved mobility and pain in my knee and gave me the tools to continue that improvement.

Shawn Goff / SWAT, Boxer and Former DI Track Athlete

As a boxer, runner and tactical law enforcement professional with avid resistance training regiment, my body faces a range of demands and wear and tear. Trying Medalist Performance with Lealem has been a game-changer. Tailored to address these challenges, the program doesn’t just focus on recovery; it’s about preventing injuries from the start. Lealem’s system, rooted in his athletic experiences, not only enhances my performance but also ensures I don’t keep returning for the same injuries, making a notable difference in my overall well-being.

Besides the physical benefits, Lealem’s strong mental mindset, shaped through athletics and life experiences, is evident in the program.

Marcos Betancourt / LEO Hostage Negotiator

Members of a tactical division who worked closely with Lealem introduced him to me after suffering an injury. I immediately realized he wasn’t your typical and traditional fitness coach. He was full of experience and his technique had a scientific approach. Even though it was very scientifically driven, he explains things in a manner I can understand. Other colleagues have met with him to improve overall skills and abilities. From health and performance, to improving cognitive skills that improved marksmanship. Most of my experience with him has been injury recovery. He has helped several members of my family who had injuries that prevent them from living a normal life. Family members who have met with him vary in ages. Retired family members to elementary age athletes. Not only does he help you feel better immediately, he gives you the tools and knowledge to prevent further injury.

David Garza / David Garza, Captain United States Marine Corps

When I met Lealem, I was still recovering from my shoulder surgery and was unsure if I would ever be able to improve my upper body strength. I lacked overall core strength and the confidence that I would be able to improve my physical capabilities. With his guidance and coaching, I was able to not only l increase my upper body strength, but my core strength, flexibility, and balance improved immensely. I was in the best shape of my life after his program, and my confidence had skyrocketed in all my physical abilities. Due to his coaching and preparation, when I arrived at Officer Candidate School in Quantico, VA, I was one of the most physically fit United States Marine Officer Candidates. Because his coaching and program were so easy to follow, I retained all the knowledge bestowed upon me to carry with me throughout my Marine Corps career. Currently, I am stationed in San Diego, CA, in my seventh year of service. Over that time period, I have completed multiple deployments and Marine Corps training exercises still applying the methods and coaching aspects from the Medalist Performance program.

David Chambers / US Army Veteran, 2019 Soldier of the Year, Engineer

I first started working with Lealem in March of 2018. We worked in-person for a week in March, remotely until May, and then in-person again until I shipped out for the Army in July. I was skeptical of how beneficial Medalist Performance would be. In my mind, I was already in good shape and had a history of athletics, specifically track. However, I learned very quickly that what Lealem specializes in is less personal training, but rather a full system analysis on how to best achieve an individual’s peak performance potential.

Comparing my performance metrics (strength, endurance, flexibility, body composition, shooting accuracy, etc.) from the initial evaluation session to the last session speak for themselves. Out of all of the quality coaching I received, the area that elevated my performance the most, and still helps me to this day, was the recovery and injury prevention methods. I knew the path I was heading towards would inevitably involve injuries but having been coached on what to do to prevent, or at least minimize, these injuries were huge. Additionally, the visualization process Lealem taught me helped immensely throughout my Army career and my life in general.

The coaching I received through Medalist Performance without a doubt contributed to me winning the 2019 US Army Soldier of the Year. Throughout the nearly year-long process of multiple competitions, the techniques I learned helped me show up to every event prepared. My train-ups in-between the different levels of competitions as well as the muscular recovery techniques I used in-between events during the competitions greatly contributed to my body feeling ready for whatever came next. Whether it was Reconnaissance & Surveillance Leadership Course (RSLC) or training up my soldiers, his coaching helped me through the rest of my Army career as well.

Another great aspect of Medalist Performance is the relationship built. It feels like Lealem genuinely cares and is invested in your success. He would periodically check-in on my progress/setbacks and offer advice. Overall, Medalist Performance completely changed my outlook on performance optimization. It is clear that Lealem is a specialist when it comes to maximizing human performance.

Robby Aldridge / MUEP, Track Athlete, and ASU Basketball Alumni

After Three Sessions working with Medalist Performance

(unedited text message)
“Hey man I had a personal achievement today which is the fact I ran repeat 10.5 today. I ran 10.9 at the meet you came to see me…. Today (w/o start blocks) I ran 10.54, 5mins recovery then ran 10.53.

Lets go!”

Jeff Demps / Olympic Silver Medalist and Florida Gators Hall of Famer

Results of a 30-minute consultation on arm swing mechanics.

When I changed my arm swing, I ran 300m time trial in 34s flat into a headwind on the last 100m. Before I changed my arm swing, I was running time trials in 35s.

Ben Miller / US Army Infantry

I have worked with Medalist twice now, both times in the ATASC program.

Lealem starts at the beginning with a holistic and total assessment of your current state, what your goals are, and how long you have to get there. From there he develops your fitness plan, diet plan, recovery techniques and instructs you in all of it in order for you to get the best results out of the time. Time is set aside weekly to track progress, ensure proper understanding of the material, and address any issue as they arise.

It is work, and it is tailored to you. I personally know a couple other individuals who have been a part of this program, and their layouts, while similar, were adapted to their needs. While I can’t speak for his other programs ATASC is a serious time and energy investment- but the results speak for themselves. Not only does the program increase your performance- it provides knowledge and understanding of how to properly recover, remediate injury and issues over time- allowing you to continue to benefit from this instruction in the future.

If you’re in a high impact career field that requires you put your body on the line consistently- I cannot recommend this program enough.

Silila Tucker / AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Athlete, Entrepreneur and Coach

My name is Silila Tucker and I am a professional beach volleyball player on the AVP tour. I started working with Lealem at Medalist Performance 2022. I originally went to him because I had a shoulder injury that had been an issue for a few years and in one session it was gone forever. I had seen many other PT and chiropractors and nobody had gotten rid of the problem for good. It always came back. After that initial experience, I knew I had to learn more about the Medalist Performance program and what it could do for me. The attention to detail and accountability that Lealem holds you to is transforming. On the Medalist Performance programming, I felt the strongest, healthiest, all around best I’ve ever felt in my life. It allowed me to take my performance on the court to another level because I had taken the off the court Responsibilities up quite a few levels from an already very disciplined place. Medalist Performance is the best program for anyone aspiring to take their performance to new heights. Thank you for everything Lealem I really appreciate you!

Adam Holroyd / Co-founder of Spiritus Systems, US Army Silver Star Recipient

Carey Worrell / Esq.

Lealem with Medalist Performance has helped my gymnast son on several occasions with excellent results every time. On one occasion, my son suffered a pretty dramatic fall at a meet, and Lealem’s immediate intervention and continued follow-up prevented any long term injury, pain, or break in training. In another instance, he resolved my son’s knee pain and taught him techniques to prevent similar strain in the future. He has also been very helpful in teaching breathing and concentration techniques to aid in reducing competition anxiety. He was instrumental in helping my son qualify to Nationals this year and would be an asset to any athlete. These instances were spread over several years of training, and each time Lealem is results and education focused. He teaches athletes how to solve the current problem and how to care for themselves to avoid it in the future. He is also an outstanding person with an amazing story and experience. I would recommend him to anyone with no reservations.

Jennifer Schattle / SWAT

I have been with this program for about 2 years. I receive outstanding individualized coaching in both fitness and nutrition. This program was a career- saver when I needed help regaining my fitness during and after child birth. This program has the perfect balance of pushing performance to the next level and recovery/ injury prevention. This program exceeded my expectations. I’m very happy to recommend this to anyone interested in pushing their performance to the next level.

Jennifer Smallwood

I can’t say enough good things about this program. We contacted Lealem to help my son (a level 8 gymnast) reach his optimal performance. After gathering information from us, his coaches, and my son, Lealem designed a program that targeted multiple aspects of my son’s lifestyle that were contributing to his performance issues. Nutrition, sleep habits, mental mindset, and skill execution were evaluated. Lealem was highly prepared for each and every session, and his attention to detail was impressive. Additionally, he has first hand experience in the sport which was especially helpful.

Lara Dolnik / CEO | Legal, Communication & Leadership Consulting

To deliver the high-stakes results my clients deserve, I need to consistently bring my a-game under intense, fast-paced conditions. There’s not a lot of room for error. Through the Medalist Performance system, Lealem has systematically taught me how to continue to push the envelope on what I previously believed to be the ceiling of my physical and mental performance. Working with Medalist Performance, I have gained an edge I never thought I’d attain. Along with the scientifically rigorous methods, we measure progress. Physically, I am measurably faster, stronger and have greater endurance than I ever had. Similarly, my mind works faster, I need less sleep and I can maintain intense focus for longer periods. I have increased my bone density, learned to do the splits and some day soon I’ll have that handstand down. Yes, this takes commitment and hard work, but it has also been a fun journey. This is not for the faint of heart, nor is it for someone looking for a “fitness trainer”. This is a complete system that offers a leading edge that may surprise you. Thank you Lealem and Medalist Performance for continuing to help me push that performance edge.

Dr. Margaret Martin / D.M.D., M.S.

My daughter is a competitive gymnast who is now at a level where the physical and mental skills are getting more challenging… My daughter has had some episodes of acute onset muscle tightness that Lealem has been able to identify and eliminate quickly. In the past two competitions, my daughter has come in first place in the all-around for all of the events, and yet in the days before the meet, I was unsure her body would be healthy enough to even compete. If Lealem had not been able to address her acute tightness and muscle limitations so effectively she likely would not have competed, much less won her meets.

Not only does Lealem provide the injury recovery and prevention sessions effectively, he is proponent of trying to educate the athlete and parent about the scientific basis for his techniques; he is tremendously knowledgeable and generous with sharing that knowledge… As my daughter told me yesterday, “he’s able to tell me how to help myself.”

Lealem has significant passion for what he does which is perhaps why he is so knowledgeable. Beyond the muscular issues that have arisen with my daughter during this competitive season, so too has the need to address keeping her mind healthy. Lealem has offered up advice in this area as well…

I know a big component of my daughter’s gymnastics successes, thus far this year, are due to Lealem.

Dr. Natacha Chough / MD, Flight Surgeon

Lealem is outstanding. Full disclosure- we’ve been friends for years, prior to his starting Medalist Performance, but I set up a formal consult recently when I developed some musculoskeletal issues related to over-training. He quickly zoned in on the issue, and after just a few days of following his recommendations, my next training run felt effortless! No muscle fatigue, much better endurance, and my pace was not only objectively faster on each consecutive mile compared to prior runs this season–it’s the fastest I’ve run in YEARS (I’m early 40s, and am now back at my pace from my 20s).

Lealem is great about explaining the rationale & importance behind myofascial release, and why stretching only does so much (things physicians don’t get taught in med school). Even if you have any sort of background in the human physiology/biomechanics/healthcare realm, it’s always nice to have someone who can dust off your cobwebs or provide some really high-yield, evidence-based pearls to optimize your performance.

It’s also worth noting that he build this business from the ground up. Lealem is passionate about what he does, and it truly shows. Would absolutely send my friends & family to him!

Elizabeth Blome / Engineer

I had also been an active, athletic person. Unfortunately, shortly after my 40th birthday, due to a series of events beyond my control, I found myself weaker than I had ever been. My endurance was gone, as well as my muscle tone. I struggled for several years, trying to regain my prior level of fitness. Injuries plagued me and I saw my weight slowly increasing. I was frustrated, and wondered if the weight gain and lack of mobility was inevitable.

I saw Lealem’s flyer at the gym where my children trained. I took the flyer and let it sit on my desk for several months. I had never used a performance trainer/coach before. Finally, one day, when I was tired of the pain, and tired of feeling years older than I really was, I reached out to him. It was one of the best decisions I have made. I have learned a tremendous amount about fitness, proper form, and proper nutrition. All of that being said, the best part is I have regained confidence in myself and accomplished more than I thought I was capable of.

Chris Wommack / SWAT, Former Army Ranger

I took the Advanced Tactical Athlete Strength and Conditioning class from Lealem in November 2017. The class was comprehensive and covered many aspects an operator needs. Hands on demonstrations were a great help in learning the techniques for injury prevention and pain management. The workouts the class completed were beneficial and were a nice change from the workouts I was doing prior to the class. Of extra importance to me was the nutrition information. I didn’t realize how much I lacked in knowledge until this class. Overall, this week of training was very helpful to me as a street police officer and a member of our Tactical Response Team.

Tom M. / Publishing Executive

It’s my honor to recommend Lealem and the Medalist Performance system. Lealem is a phenomenal performance coach. His Medalist Performance system has transformed my nutrition and physical exercise program which has translated into superb physical training experiences and results. Bar none the best performance coach and exercise system I’ve had the pleasure to work with over the years. I’d highly recommend Lealem and Medalist Performance System to help achieve your performance goals. He stands above his peers.

Gary Phillips / SWAT, TX Ranger, Former USMC

I met Lealem about a year and a half ago at a tactical conference where I attended an 8 hour course. I was extremely impressed with his vast knowledge regarding fitness and conditioning. Lealem also proved to be very knowledgeable regarding the nutritional aspect of health and wellness. I made it a point to attend his 3 day course this year and again, I was very impressed with his knowledge and his passion for what he does. Being a tactical athlete, I have trained for years and I have a very good base of knowledge regarding fitness and nutrition. That being said, Lealem shed some light on things I could do to recover from injuries that I had received over 20 years ago. With his help, I have become more flexible and I have regained some of the lost range of motion. I look forward to attending future courses with Lealem.

William Challis / SWAT

I attended Lealem’s Advanced Tactical Athlete Strength & Conditioning Class.

I was extremely impressed with Lealem and the material he taught. It’s obvious he has a passion for this and truly cares about helping law enforcement. I have a greater understanding about how important it is to keep your body healthy through rolling, warm up, muscle release points, and nutrition. Lealem really emphasized you only get one body so take care of it.

I highly recommend his class.

Chris P. / Federal LEO

I’ve had several trainers over the past but one stands out beyond the rest. Medalist Performance Advanced Tactical Athlete Strength and Conditioning (A-TASC) training program is by far the best and most successful, with that being said one must understand that you get out of it what your willing to put into it. If your willing to put forth the effort, time and have the discipline to follow instructions that Medalist Performance provides, you will be amazed. I personally have been involved in Law Enforcement ten plus years, most of which where on Tactical / Elite squads, and I highly recommend this program which is challenging but ultimately very rewarding.

A Special Thanks Lealem/Medalist Performance, a trainer that is committed, willing to go above and beyond, very flexible with hours and days, he is always willing to help and shares knowledge to be successful.

Kyce Darouiche / Collegiate Soccer Athlete

I worked with Medalist Performance for 12 months and am extremely satisfied with the results that I have seen. I am most impressed by the multidimensional training program that was catered to me. Being a college athlete, Medalist Performance significantly increased my speed, agility, strength, and endurance. Medalist Performance not only made me less prone to injuries but also taught me how to prevent or deal with future injuries. In addition, Medalist Performance gave me a personalized meal plan which took into account my goals, activity level, and schedule. Finally, I was also given techniques that help with visualization and mental preparation for competitions in efforts to further increase my focus on the field. This customized, multidimensional program would not have been successful without the accessibility that Medalist Performance provides. Through virtual, in person, and over-the-phone coaching, I was always able to access the resources that Medalist Performance provides whenever I truly needed it. The integrative approach that Medalist Performance provides significantly increased my performance on the field.

Ryan Schaefer / SWAT Paramedic, Former USMC

So I have over 13 years SWAT and at least 8 years coaching a popular functional fitness program. Even owned and operated my own gym and have multiple certs of said functional fitness program and a couple nationally recognized ones. I’m also a Paramedic and have a pretty good understanding of A&P and pathophysiology. I say that to say I’ve taken a lot of fitness and wellness classes over the years and Medalist Performance is the one I would recommend over all others. They are extremely knowledgeable but able to explain it in way that make sense. I promise if you take their class you will change the way you train for the better!

Brandon Smith / SWAT, Physique Athlete

Lealem has been my coach for almost a year and the level of muscular strength, size, and definition has far exceeded my expectations…which were high because I am a former trainer myself. His knowledge and experience translates directly to the results you will get if you follow the program. Everything down to the nutrition is laid out for you so the only thing that will hold you back is you. The program is customized and easily accessible through Dropbox/Excel. Any fitness goal you have in mind for yourself he can make it happen for you, you just have to put in the work. In my profession (law enforcement) being physically fit is critical to my safety and I have never felt more physically capable of handling anything. I would highly recommend anyone who wants to better themselves to go with Medalist Fitness.

Gill McClean / Yogi

It was a fantastic experience working with Lealem. I was struggling to achieve a difficult arm balance and within 6 weeks I was able to hold this pose for a few minutes unaided. Lealem was patient, encouraging and from the get go understood what had to happen mentally and physically for me to achieve my goal.

Sami Darouiche / USMC Officer (Pilot)

I began working with Medalist Performance roughly 40 days before leaving for Marine Corps Officer Candidates school. Lealem Mulugeta analyzed and diagnosed my deficiencies going into the program, and created a complete physical, nutrition, and recovery plan in order to maximize my success, and earn a commission as a Marine Corps Officer. Lealem has helped many tactical athletes, such as myself and other officers, prepare for the rigors of a military training and a continued career. Most importantly, he teaches the fundamentals of preserving your body during difficult training, and resolving unknown muscular distortions that may be hindering performance. My performance increased exponentially after just a short time with him, and my only complaint is that I did not start working with Medalist Performance sooner. I would highly recommend Medalist Performance for any tactical athlete looking to increase performance, purely based on the scientific expertise, attention to detail, and personalized care that was provided to me to ensure my success.

Ellis Boyd / SWAT, Combat Athlete, Former USMC

I attended the Advanced Tactical Athlete Strength and Conditioning (A-TASC) held in Houston back in April of this year. As a police officer, Marine Veteran, and Mixed Martial Artist, I have experienced a wide variety of fitness/recovery training regiments. This course was excellent and changed my approach to my fitness routine. The course is very practical and offers some sweet science as to why recovery is an important part of any regiment. Lealem Mulugeta knows his stuff and is an excellent coach.

Nicholas Palomo / LEO

I attended the A-TASC course last April and was very impressed by how the course was done. We focused on doing workouts that were designed on being able to benefit officers regardless of what capacity they were currently functioning in. The importance of proper warm-ups and cool downs was stressed throughout the course and injury prevention was certainly a top priority. Our workout sessions were outstanding and challenged each person to push their limits and to focus on muscle groups that were often forgotten about, but critically important to the physical health of men and women in uniform. I highly recommend this course and have implemented much of what I learned into my workout routines.

John Boyd / IA Engineer

I dropped 15 pounds while gaining strength and flexibility with Lealem, even though I live 4000 miles away in Belgium. My son did the executive program with Lealem as well, and became a fan as well. Highly recommended!

Michael Otule / MBA, IFBB Pro

Meeting Lealem (founder of Medalist Fitness) has really changed my perspective on the way I workout. From my warm up, to my form, to the recovery process. I have learned that they all play a major role in any goal that I want to achieve. During my bulking season we work on different goals that I want to achieve before I begin competition season. One of those goals was to be able to do deadlifts with 500lbs for 5 reps. I started at 365lbs in January and 6 sessions later I was lifting 500lbs for 7 reps. He pushes you past the limit we set for ourselves, helping us set new goals which improves performance.

Matthew Condara / USMC Officer

…unprecedented ability to integrate an extensive knowledge of the human body, achieved through numerous years of higher education and in depth studies as a Scientist at NASA, with a dedicated and genuine commitment for their clients to succeed. Medalist Fitness was relentless in their efforts to see that I was selected as an Officer in the Marine Corps and I undoubtedly know that I would not be near as prepared as I am heading in to the Officer Candidate School (OCS)  in Quantico, Virginia.

Billy “Buck” Rogers / NTOA PM, Triathlete, Retired SWAT, Former USMC

Medalist Performance does a great job. A very knowledgeable trainer with lots of practical experience to increase SWAT officer’s fitness and athleticism. I learned a lot about preventing injuries and have used this knowledge to help other officers with injury prevention on the job. Highly recommend this company!