About Me
Mike Parent
I am an NASM-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. My coaching work is dedicated to improving the physical and mental wellness of busy professionals to improve and enhance their lives inside and outside of the gym.
Training Approach
My approach to training focuses on holistic, effective, science-based practice. I work to foster and leverage clients' strengths while guiding them to challenging and realistic goals.
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I spent 10 years in academia and entrepreneurship, and now work in NPO research, venture funding, mental health startup advising, and more. Drawing from my own background in enhancing my personal fitness and mental wellness while in demanding work contexts, I work with busy professionals to set goals, develop adaptations, and optimize health. My programming is designed to fit your objectives while also pushing you toward new levels of health, fitness, and well-be. I understand that most working professionals have to manage challenging time constraints and contend with disruptions to their schedules. There's no toxic productivity or shaming busy professionals who sometimes have long days or meetings that disrupt training plans in my planning. We will work together to develop sustainable fitness and wellness habits that you will be able to use long-term.
Knowledge and Expertise
In addition to being an NASM-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, I am a licensed and board-certified psychologist with over ten years of experience in behavioral health care. At UT-Austin, I teach Sport and Performance Psychology to 200 undergrads every semester--and I wrote the textbook that is used in that class and in universities across the country.
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While personal training isn't therapy, I use motivational and behavioral strategies from my practice of psychology to inform my work with personal training clients. We will work together to build effective goals, identify and work through barriers to health and well-being, and use physical activity to enhance your mental health and well-being.
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In addition to my PhD in Psychology, as an MBA graduate who has worked in high-demand roles I understand the challenges professionals face in establishing and maintaining healthful lifestyle habits and improving their physical health and well-being. You'll be working with a trainer who understands those demands, because I have managed my own fitness through the same kinds of challenges.
LGBTQ+ and BIPOC Affirming
Not just being ok with taking your client fee--My professional academic career was dedicated to improving the lives of individuals from marginalized backgrounds, and my current work in a foundation addresses the role of technology in the well-being of marginalized youth. I've published dozens of academic papers, advised for startups, and advocated to the Texas State Legislature on issues related to LGBTQ+ and BIPOC health and well-being. I am proud to work with clients of all genders, sexual orientations, and racial/ethnic backgrounds to help empower clients to improve their physical fitness and well-being through exercise and coaching
