The People Behind Sk8Strong.....

For those of you new to Sk8Strong and discovering this blog, I'd like to fill you in on my background and let you know how Sk8Strong came to life. My name is Lauren Downes, and I am a proud mother of two, an orthopedic physical therapist, and professional skating instructor. I graduated with a masters degree in physical therapy from Boston University in 1999, and have worked in a sports medicine ever since.  Since the year 2000, I have worked with skaters in a strength and conditioning capacity, conducting evaluative assessments, private and group training.  I have been fortunate to work with skaters from a very low level to senior competitive level, as off-ice training is important for all ages and levels of skaters.

Sk8Strong began taking shape in the spring of 2008, when a terrific strength and conditioning specialist, Steve Conca, approached me about putting together some training videos for skaters.  After months of preparation, the first series of Sk8Strong DVDs were born, and we've been going strong ever since.  Starting out with four training DVDs, we've added three additional videos since, and there's always room for more!

My goal is to be accessible to all skating parents and coaches who want to learn the benefits of proper off-ice training, and how to deal with injuries in the correct manner.  I am always available by phone or email, and through seminars and workshops, and love sharing my expertise with those who want to learn.