- Tell us a little about yourself and what you do outside the gym.
I’m from Falconer, NY, a small town near Jamestown. Growing up, I was a hardworking kid who started working at 13 and had two jobs by the time I was 15. I was in accelerated classes and graduated high school a year early, earning a scholarship to my local community college. I went on to complete my associate’s degree in criminal justice at JCC and then earned a bachelor’s in psychology at SUNY Fredonia, where I also played rugby. Currently, I work at ADT Security Services, helping to protect what matters most to the WNY community. Family is important to me, and I visit my hometown regularly to see my parents and our three dogs. I also have grandparents nearby, including my grandma, who’s in her 80s and still running marathons—she’s a real inspiration! I’m passionate about self-care and spend time meditating, hiking, reading, and journaling. I love connecting with others and spreading positivity in the community.
- What inspired you to start your fitness journey, and how did you get started?
I started working out when I was 14, but my dedication wasn’t consistent. My initial motivation came from a place of insecurity, wanting to feel more confident. It wasn’t until about five or six months ago, when I quit drinking alcohol, that I started taking my diet seriously. A friend from Jamestown inspired me to improve my lifestyle, and though he’s currently recovering from a motorcycle accident, I think of him often as I continue on this path. - How long have you been a member at Catalyst Fitness, and how has your routine evolved?
I’ve been a member since early 2023. Initially, I focused on getting bigger and stronger, but everything changed after I herniated my L-5 disc while lifting heavy on the Hack Squat. The injury was excruciating—I ended up in the hospital, and it took three paramedics to get me into the ambulance. After that, I committed to physical therapy, focusing on a lighter, more mindful workout routine. Now, my training includes stretching, mobility work, weight lifting with proper form, and cardio. My goal is to be healthy and functional, rather than just big and strong. - Have you faced any challenges, and how did you overcome them?
The disc herniation was a huge hurdle. I tackled it by doubling down on my diet and committing to physical therapy. Another major challenge has been substance abuse. I stopped drinking in March 2024, then quit smoking marijuana in September. Since then, life has felt clearer, and the gym has been a sanctuary for me. The Catalyst community has been a constant source of support, helping me push through tough days. - What motivates you to keep coming back to the gym?
My motivation comes from many places: the physical progress I see, the mental clarity I gain, and the connections I make at the gym. Even on days when I don’t feel like working out, I know I’ll feel better once I’m there. I’m also driven by the thought of those who look up to me and are inspired by my journey toward sobriety and fitness. - Who or what inspires you to push yourself during workouts?
I’m inspired by how far I’ve come, and I want to keep moving forward. The community at Catalyst keeps me going—whether it’s people I know well or just seeing others putting in the work. I also draw inspiration from motivational podcasts and books, especially from people like David Goggins. My physical therapy program motivates me to stay on track; I never want to experience the kind of pain I had with my back injury again. - What are some goals you’ve achieved since joining Catalyst, and what are you working toward next?
I’ve been sober for a month and lost 60 pounds in the past five months. Moving forward, I’m focused on maintaining sobriety and transforming the remaining fat into muscle. I’ve never had visible abs, but I’m getting close! Another goal is to inspire others by sharing my story. I’d love to be a motivational speaker and advocate for mental health and fitness. - How has being part of the Catalyst community impacted your fitness journey?
The Catalyst community has made a huge difference for me. The energy in the gym is electric, and it motivates me as soon as I walk in the door. The people here inspire me every day, and I truly can’t imagine working out anywhere else. There’s something special about Catalyst that makes it more than just a gym—it feels like a second home. - What advice would you give to someone just starting out on their fitness journey?
Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is different, and the best time to start is now. Make working out a priority and reach out to people at the gym—having a support system can make all the difference. And remember, your health is the most important thing; don’t neglect it. - How do you balance fitness with your everyday life?
I treat fitness as a non-negotiable part of my daily routine. I prioritize my workouts and find time for the gym, no matter what. On days when my body needs rest, I listen, but overall, I stay committed. If you’re struggling to fit fitness into your life, take a step back and reflect on what activities may be holding you back—then make the change.
Trevor Mackenzie’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. His story is a testament to the power of commitment and the strength found in community. Thank you, Trevor, for sharing your journey and for inspiring us all at Catalyst Fitness!
