About Us

Dr. Jack Barnathan and
myself in Westlake
Village, Ca. 6/07

Page Title

Tom Shoffner – M.A., C.F.T.,C.S.H
Member - International Sports Sciences Association
& Fitness Professionals International

I have spent my adult life researching techniques on mental and
physical health and well-being. Learning and applying a variety of
these techniques have led me to a greater understanding of the
mind/body connection and the importance of balanced strength.

Strength, in both body and mind, is a fundamental indicator for
confidence, peak performance, and longevity. I have observed that
people who have balanced a strong mind with a strong body display
qualities of dependability, confidence, fairness, and joyful living.

Physical strength alone, while important and useful, is limited if it is
not accompanied by mental, or perhaps a better term would be
inner, strength. Likewise, inner strength, while being perhaps the
noblest type of strength, is of limited use if it is housed in a frail and
short-lived body.

Balancing both types of strength has been my quest. The
scientifically backed techniques that I have researched, collected,
and personally tested are now the foundation for my Strength
Workshop training programs.

My education background has included a comprehensive study of
world history in which I earned a B.A.degree in historical studies
with an emphasis on ancient civilizations. I have attended seminars
and workshops in the Yucatan and Peru where I studied
ethnobotany and shamanism and participated in collecting, sampling
and experiencing the centuries old arts of authentic
curanderos/healers. Their knowledge of the psycho-physical
connection of disease and healing reinforced my decision to work
with mind and body when training.

I have engaged in one on one training with masters in yoga, tai chi
chuan and martial arts, and also recently completed my study of
Eastern philosophy in which I graduated with distinction, earning a
M.A. from the University of the West.

My studies and hands on training with the International Sports
Sciences Association led to my certification as a fitness trainer. It
was with the ISSA that I met the internationally known "Dr.
Strength" - Dr. Jack Barnathan creator of New York Strength and
Fitness Professionals International. I have assisted Dr. Barnathan
at the ISSA seminars and have earned his prestigious Certificate of
Muscle Mastery from New York Strength.

Adding to my foundation in Buddhist psychology and Eastern
meditation I completed my studies with the National Endurance
Sports Trainers Association and earned certification in sports
hypnosis.

Along with private training through the Strength Workshop, I
currently train clients at Total Health and Fitness in Lancaster,
Ca. It is located in the Ralph's shopping center on Ave. L at
20th street west. If you are looking for a great local gym to join
contact me at thestrengthworkshop@verizon.net for special
discounts on membership and training packages.