The Training Room
2025-01-24T17:25:33.999Z
I originally met Dr. Ells Parham because of a back injury. One day I decided to get back into powerlifting. I had competed in the past and placed third at a USAPL Nationals nearly a decade ago, and my goal was to train heavy again and surpass my old competition numbers. Unfortunately, I ended up injuring my back by training and programing incorrectly which led me to reinjure a previously herniated disc that had driven me away from powerlifting.
Looking for help, I discovered a physical therapy clinic in my city where Dr. Ells worked. I discovered while doing therapy that Dr. Ells was also training in weightlifting and powerlifting, and we immediately bonded over our shared passion for strength sports. His professional expertise in physical therapy, combined with his deep understanding of both the science of strength and conditioning and the mental dedication needed to compete, made him stand out from day one.
After making significant progress in my rehab, I realized that Dr. Ells’s knowledge beyond physical therapy could be a unique training opportunity for my training. Recognizing his specialization in strength coaching, I asked if he would train me. I had worked with other powerlifting coaches before, yet his blend of physical therapy and strength and conditioning was exactly what I needed. He designed a program around my strengths, weaknesses, and individual mechanics, minimizing the risk of injury while maximizing progress.
There have been ups and downs, mostly due to my own impatience, but I recently matched my old bench press record of 405 pounds, which I hadn’t hit in almost eight years. My squat has returned to around 575 pounds, and my deadlift is close to 600 pounds. Even more exciting, I’m on track to exceed those numbers in the near future. Along the way, Dr. Ells guided me toward improving my form for greater efficiency, strength, and safety. Despite decades of training, I discovered there were still areas to refine, all thanks to his expert insight.
We use an app called Everfit to strategize, check in, and modify the plan when necessary. It’s quick, responsive, and allows me to message Dr. Ells directly whenever I need to. If I’m not feeling great or need to switch up a movement, he updates my schedule right away. This flexibility keeps me motivated and engaged in my progress. My current goal is to compete at the Masters level in the next couple of years, aiming not only to win but possibly set new records along the way.
I couldn’t have reached these goals without Dr. Ells. There may be plenty of coaches who know how to develop strength and power, but few can match his depth of knowledge regarding recovery, mechanics, and the demands of powerlifting. He knows how to push you in a methodical, safe manner so you can surpass your goals. He also brings genuine positivity to training, celebrates every win—big or small—and is sincerely invested in seeing you achieve new milestones. His coaching style is both inspirational and collaborative, valuing my feedback while still challenging me to do what’s necessary for real growth.
Dr. Ells will design a program specifically for you. He will consider your body type, training history, and personal goals, while giving you the confidence and motivation to excel. With his expert guidance and unwavering support, you won’t just achieve your goals, you’ll set personal best. I can’t recommend him strongly enough to anyone serious about getting stronger and achieving their 100% of their human potential
I originally met Dr. Ells Parham because of a back injury. One day I decided to get back into powerlifting. I had competed in the past and placed thir... More