With support, we hope to impact the recovery of wounded military, veterans and first responders. When they share victories with us, we will post here.
“I would of never thought 7 weeks attending Athletes’ Performance would transform me into a military athlete again.”
“Without a doubt world-class people, training and facilities.”
“Operators can’t be mass produced and the military needs to invest in the human aspect. We spend money on weapons, planes, tanks etc. but very little on the health of the soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines performing these duties.”
“Gave me the knowledge and drive to recover. I came here at one of the most difficult times of my life and this helped me thoroughly mentally and physically.”
“The individual attention was impeccable. Every member on the staff dedicated their time and attention no matter what was going on. This place is held at such a high regard due to the care and experience that the professional staff portrays. The staff members that I had the privilege to work with day in, and day out were Paul, Tyler and Bobby. Each one of these professionals dedicated countless hours and care on my behalf. Without their unyielding level of care I would not be in the excellent health and shape I am in now. Thank you!”
“When I thought it was over and didn’t really know what to do, my family at AP gave me hope to continue to do what I’ve been called to do. Thank you!”
“AP far exceeded my expectations - the program is definitively the best training/ health/nutritional awareness experience I've ever encountered and that says something: I trained under the head coach of the US Olympic Swim Team and his staff, which included nutritional specialists and therapists, for six years as a competitive swimmer. As a military member, the program is even more beneficial - we are constantly deployed and work long hours all the time...I feel like AP helped "reset" my health and stabilize my personal training. If there were a way to make this program a recurring opportunity or requirement for special operators (like, a requirement to attend AP for 2 weeks every couple years), I would recommend it to the military immediately.”
“I have never experienced anything like this. These guys are constantly problem solving your aches and pains and explain why that pain is there. These guys are the best mechanics for your body.”
“Very grateful for the experience at API. I’ve never been through this kind of training and my improvements were outstanding. I would recommend that all military service members of every branch be able to have an opportunity to receive what API has to offer, even if it's just a couple of weeks. My PT was more advanced than what the military could offer and as a result from API, I am now capable of being fully mission capable in my job.”
“AP gave me my life back, but more importantly they have given the DOD an operational asset again. An asset with over 2 decades of training and experience. I believe that I will be able to functionally perform my job for at least another 3-5 years after attending API. You can't put a price tag on another 5 years of service to this nation.
The Coaches, Therapists, Nutritionists, and Interns all believe in what they are doing and enjoy working with service members from the bottom of their hearts. Their willingness to go above and beyond to help any of our recovering warriors was only matched by their absolute subject matter expertise in their discipline. I am a better person for meeting them."
"Due to Sequestration, many USSOCOM units have cancelled all non-critical TDY's due to budget cuts. This is going to totally eliminate the ability for MANY warriors to attend API facilities. It has been suggested that Eagle Fund look at increasing fund raising to cover expenses normally covered by the US Govt in accordance with the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR). This includes Airfare, Rental vehicle, meals (API provided), and lodging.
Expanding the services provided by the Eagle Fund might be the only way to get some service members that need care the most to API facilities.
I noticed a significant number of service members from Eglin AFB at APFL because their units were not having to pay any TDY. There were at least as many people from that one base as all of the rest of the DOD combined. This is an indicator of the pushback that other units around the world are not willing to pay in order to allow their service members to attend FREE rehabilitation.”
“This facility is world class compared to the services the Air Force has provided. If I had to pay out of my own pocket to come here I would without any hesitation.”
“I have had three major surgeries in the past three years and will have another spinal fusion shortly. When I arrived, I hadn't ran in over two years and suffered through severe back and neck pain daily. This program has truly been a blessing. My pain is greatly diminished, my physical performance is greatly enhanced, and I ran this week without pain. Paul Cauldwell has been amazing as have all the coaches and therapists I have been blessed to work with.”
“It puts importance back on the people for longer, better service to the U.S. Keeping people in the military doing things is what military medicine 100% fails to do for people.”
“Outstanding program! This type of professionalism is hard to obtain through Government Programs/ Support Systems. Each member of the staff works here and maintains their employment by the results they are able to produce from their clients. As much as a physical rehabilitation tool, API does wonders for rehabilitating the mental aspects of their clients lives. Sometimes all we need is a break from work and a chance to focus whole-heartedly on our personal health. Thanks!"
“I have been in and out of several medical facilities and rehab centers. I can honestly say this experience at Athletes’ Performance has been the best and most beneficial experience to date. Their approach to training/therapy works. I would highly recommend this to anyone.”
“Athletes’ Performance is the most under-utilized USSOCOM program for Special Operations Soldiers who have been injured in training and in combat. The dedicated attention and care that API provides on a full time status is unmatched and cannot be replicated at home station. Personally, I broke my Tibia/Fibula on May 2, 2011 on a HALO jump and after two weeks at API, I returned to HALO jump status, and am ready for the next HALO requal and future deployments. Furthermore, the time at API has enabled me to continue my career as a Special Forces Officer during a high operational tempo in the Global War on Terrorism.”
“It was incredible to see that all aspects of the athlete were addressed and the specialists would all communicate with each other (nutrition, strength coach, kitchen staff, PTs) regularly.”
“What Athletes Performance does and the impacts that the Eagle Fund has on injured Special Operators such as myself is simply amazing! In the eyes of recovering SOCOM Warriors, the goals we have in our own rehabilitation are the same goals of the professionals who work to help us recover. AP works seamlessly as a team to attack our limitations."
"Within the first week at AP, most of us see potential to recover beyond even our own medical expectations. Personally during my time at AP I've improved range of motion in both of my injured ankles. Because of that I've improved both my physical performance as a Combat Control Instructor and personally the quality of life as an athlete. Getting back to triathlons, bike racing, mountain climbing, and many more of the things I loved to do before injury was only a dream before my time at AP. Since my three weeks at AP I've done all those things and more.”
“API not only helped me heal from injury; they gave me knowledge to help prevent self-inflicted re-injury during physical fitness training. I am stronger because of API.”
“What a refreshing experience! In the past, when injured, I spent months of physical therapy focusing on a single area of my body. This time, when I was told 6 months of PT, I was referred to API. For the first time in my 16 year Army career, I got to train with professionals who take a whole body approach to healing and fitness for duty. 6 weeks after starting at API, I am stronger and healthier than before my injury and surgery. Further, I’ve been a life-long runner. I’ve been coached, but the techniques and training I received at API have made me a more efficient runner and athlete.”
“From the Six Million Dollar Man: ‘We can rebuild him. We have the technology. We can make him better than he was.’ Better, Faster, Stronger!”
“My time at AP was well spent; it allowed me to think about the basics; about living fit. But, the greatest testimony will probably not make it to a paper like this. It resides in the locker room, it is carried by the men and women; the hurt or injured, that come to this place. It took me but a few days to hear and realize the impact you have made in the lives of the group I had a chance to train with. Great work to all of you, and thank you for your service.”
“Every member of the staff from coaches to Administration to cooks focuses on helping you achieve your goals.”
“The endless amount of dedication and support from the staff has made my individual goals that seemed out of reach possible. This once in a lifetime opportunity has not only been physically beneficial, but has also given me the time and opportunity to mentally prepare myself for the next step in my career.”
“My career has broken nearly every part of my body. Working with the PT’s at Athletes’ Performance is the best my body has felt in years.”
“I’m blessed to have had the pleasure of experiencing Athletes’ Performance. This place has extended my life by adding 15 -20 quality years to my life. I will always be grateful. You are all family to me. I’m proud to call you all my friend.”
“I arrived unable to effectively perform my job. I am comfortable that I can physically complete all the necessary tasks required of me. Furthermore, with what I have learned about movement, strength, recovery, and nutrition, I will be better, stronger, and more effective if I continue to apply these lessons. In 5 weeks I am pain free for the first time in 18 months and I am positioned to be a more effective operator with more longevity. I feel that Athletes’ Performance has performed a small miracle and given me the opportunity to have my job back.”
“This has been one of the best experiences of my military career. It’s unfortunate that I got hurt and had to come here but, I learned a lot of knowledge. Everyone in the facility is extremely professional and would love to come back. There is something to be said about coming down and getting away from the everyday hustle. It was a short visit but gained so much. It was a great place to train! I didn’t want to leave.”
“My strength, mobility, and stability improved beyond what I imagined. I came in not being able to run and left being able to run and achieve VO2 Max of 62.”
“As it was the last time I was here, it was great. This time around I was able to see the negative impact of the some of the bad habits I was still using. My time here reinforced the need to take a Holistic and Systematic approach to nutrition, training and recovery.”
“Since week one I noticed an immediate impact on my own quality of life. I started to sleep better, bowel movements became regular, more energy, and all of this provided a “peace of mind” which brought back motivation and just feeling pretty good again. My mobility has also improved and I can actually cut my own grass without complete exhaustion and pain as well as play with my children.”
“I enjoyed my visit here with you all. You all are down to earth, easy to talk to and understand. I learned a lot from the program and will pass it on to my family and coworkers.”
“Words can’t capture how grateful I am to be invited to the family atmosphere Athletes’ Performance provides. I never imagined I would make these gains in such a short amount of time. I have gained an invaluable amount of information to help me get close to my physical and mental goals.”
“The experience here has been great. It has really opened my eyes to proper nutrition and how it impacts your daily life. The movements were very beneficial with teaching me proper form that I never really thought about. The physical therapy portion was outstanding. I believe they did everything they could to get me back up and running.”
“I have a long way to go to recover from my injuries.” I rehabbed for almost a full year prior to AP with no success. For the first time, with the partnership between AP and Andrews Institute, I feel that there is a plan to finally getting me well. I think without this program I would absolutely be on the road to medical separation. The help I’m getting here is the only chance I have to continue service. This is the Tier 1 medical facility that is needed for Operators trying to save their careers and longevity and quality of life.”
“Thank you all for the wonderful time and understanding of what injured operators are going through.”
“This program has reinforced the importance of smart training. This is without a doubt one of the important aspects of the program. Additionally, it has reinforced the fact of rest and recovery is truly the answer to success. I’m departing with new ideas and goals that would not have come about without the training I received here.”
“The family and I have changed our eating style and hydration habits. I will continue to use all the training techniques that I have learned here at API. The fiancé’ has lost 8lbs. with the changes we have made with types of food and cooking at home. Thomas and Tyler are true professionals in the abilities and make it very educational in all the things they work on with my body. I appreciate the motivational level of Scott each day. It made the program better and made it easy to get up each day looking forward to coming to API to workout. I will continue to work with what I have learned and I should be at my new goal of 12% body fat in the next 12 weeks. Thank you for giving me the ability to improve my quality of life after all the doctors I have seen have told me I cannot do anything. I do feel like I can do almost anything I want in my future.”
“The education received here was world class. I have been so positively impacted that my motivation to maintain the path I’m on is paramount to me wanting to heal myself and continue doing what I do.”
“My time here has been incredible. I have learned a lot of tools that will help heal me and more importantly help me prevent injury in the future. As for working out, I always knew pieces of the puzzle, but now I have the big picture and how all these tools work together. I am now confident that I will be pain free in the near future. I really appreciate working with professionals who are at the top of their game in a top notch facility. This was key for me in my education. Thank you very much!!!”
“Without a doubt world-class people, training and facilities.”
“Operators can’t be mass produced and the military needs to invest in the human aspect. We spend money on weapons, planes, tanks etc. but very little on the health of the soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines performing these duties.”
“Gave me the knowledge and drive to recover. I came here at one of the most difficult times of my life and this helped me thoroughly mentally and physically.”
“The individual attention was impeccable. Every member on the staff dedicated their time and attention no matter what was going on. This place is held at such a high regard due to the care and experience that the professional staff portrays. The staff members that I had the privilege to work with day in, and day out were Paul, Tyler and Bobby. Each one of these professionals dedicated countless hours and care on my behalf. Without their unyielding level of care I would not be in the excellent health and shape I am in now. Thank you!”
“When I thought it was over and didn’t really know what to do, my family at AP gave me hope to continue to do what I’ve been called to do. Thank you!”
“AP far exceeded my expectations - the program is definitively the best training/ health/nutritional awareness experience I've ever encountered and that says something: I trained under the head coach of the US Olympic Swim Team and his staff, which included nutritional specialists and therapists, for six years as a competitive swimmer. As a military member, the program is even more beneficial - we are constantly deployed and work long hours all the time...I feel like AP helped "reset" my health and stabilize my personal training. If there were a way to make this program a recurring opportunity or requirement for special operators (like, a requirement to attend AP for 2 weeks every couple years), I would recommend it to the military immediately.”
“I have never experienced anything like this. These guys are constantly problem solving your aches and pains and explain why that pain is there. These guys are the best mechanics for your body.”
“Very grateful for the experience at API. I’ve never been through this kind of training and my improvements were outstanding. I would recommend that all military service members of every branch be able to have an opportunity to receive what API has to offer, even if it's just a couple of weeks. My PT was more advanced than what the military could offer and as a result from API, I am now capable of being fully mission capable in my job.”
“AP gave me my life back, but more importantly they have given the DOD an operational asset again. An asset with over 2 decades of training and experience. I believe that I will be able to functionally perform my job for at least another 3-5 years after attending API. You can't put a price tag on another 5 years of service to this nation.
The Coaches, Therapists, Nutritionists, and Interns all believe in what they are doing and enjoy working with service members from the bottom of their hearts. Their willingness to go above and beyond to help any of our recovering warriors was only matched by their absolute subject matter expertise in their discipline. I am a better person for meeting them."
"Due to Sequestration, many USSOCOM units have cancelled all non-critical TDY's due to budget cuts. This is going to totally eliminate the ability for MANY warriors to attend API facilities. It has been suggested that Eagle Fund look at increasing fund raising to cover expenses normally covered by the US Govt in accordance with the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR). This includes Airfare, Rental vehicle, meals (API provided), and lodging.
Expanding the services provided by the Eagle Fund might be the only way to get some service members that need care the most to API facilities.
I noticed a significant number of service members from Eglin AFB at APFL because their units were not having to pay any TDY. There were at least as many people from that one base as all of the rest of the DOD combined. This is an indicator of the pushback that other units around the world are not willing to pay in order to allow their service members to attend FREE rehabilitation.”
“This facility is world class compared to the services the Air Force has provided. If I had to pay out of my own pocket to come here I would without any hesitation.”
“I have had three major surgeries in the past three years and will have another spinal fusion shortly. When I arrived, I hadn't ran in over two years and suffered through severe back and neck pain daily. This program has truly been a blessing. My pain is greatly diminished, my physical performance is greatly enhanced, and I ran this week without pain. Paul Cauldwell has been amazing as have all the coaches and therapists I have been blessed to work with.”
“It puts importance back on the people for longer, better service to the U.S. Keeping people in the military doing things is what military medicine 100% fails to do for people.”
“Outstanding program! This type of professionalism is hard to obtain through Government Programs/ Support Systems. Each member of the staff works here and maintains their employment by the results they are able to produce from their clients. As much as a physical rehabilitation tool, API does wonders for rehabilitating the mental aspects of their clients lives. Sometimes all we need is a break from work and a chance to focus whole-heartedly on our personal health. Thanks!"
“I have been in and out of several medical facilities and rehab centers. I can honestly say this experience at Athletes’ Performance has been the best and most beneficial experience to date. Their approach to training/therapy works. I would highly recommend this to anyone.”
“Athletes’ Performance is the most under-utilized USSOCOM program for Special Operations Soldiers who have been injured in training and in combat. The dedicated attention and care that API provides on a full time status is unmatched and cannot be replicated at home station. Personally, I broke my Tibia/Fibula on May 2, 2011 on a HALO jump and after two weeks at API, I returned to HALO jump status, and am ready for the next HALO requal and future deployments. Furthermore, the time at API has enabled me to continue my career as a Special Forces Officer during a high operational tempo in the Global War on Terrorism.”
“It was incredible to see that all aspects of the athlete were addressed and the specialists would all communicate with each other (nutrition, strength coach, kitchen staff, PTs) regularly.”
“What Athletes Performance does and the impacts that the Eagle Fund has on injured Special Operators such as myself is simply amazing! In the eyes of recovering SOCOM Warriors, the goals we have in our own rehabilitation are the same goals of the professionals who work to help us recover. AP works seamlessly as a team to attack our limitations."
"Within the first week at AP, most of us see potential to recover beyond even our own medical expectations. Personally during my time at AP I've improved range of motion in both of my injured ankles. Because of that I've improved both my physical performance as a Combat Control Instructor and personally the quality of life as an athlete. Getting back to triathlons, bike racing, mountain climbing, and many more of the things I loved to do before injury was only a dream before my time at AP. Since my three weeks at AP I've done all those things and more.”
“API not only helped me heal from injury; they gave me knowledge to help prevent self-inflicted re-injury during physical fitness training. I am stronger because of API.”
“What a refreshing experience! In the past, when injured, I spent months of physical therapy focusing on a single area of my body. This time, when I was told 6 months of PT, I was referred to API. For the first time in my 16 year Army career, I got to train with professionals who take a whole body approach to healing and fitness for duty. 6 weeks after starting at API, I am stronger and healthier than before my injury and surgery. Further, I’ve been a life-long runner. I’ve been coached, but the techniques and training I received at API have made me a more efficient runner and athlete.”
“From the Six Million Dollar Man: ‘We can rebuild him. We have the technology. We can make him better than he was.’ Better, Faster, Stronger!”
“My time at AP was well spent; it allowed me to think about the basics; about living fit. But, the greatest testimony will probably not make it to a paper like this. It resides in the locker room, it is carried by the men and women; the hurt or injured, that come to this place. It took me but a few days to hear and realize the impact you have made in the lives of the group I had a chance to train with. Great work to all of you, and thank you for your service.”
“Every member of the staff from coaches to Administration to cooks focuses on helping you achieve your goals.”
“The endless amount of dedication and support from the staff has made my individual goals that seemed out of reach possible. This once in a lifetime opportunity has not only been physically beneficial, but has also given me the time and opportunity to mentally prepare myself for the next step in my career.”
“My career has broken nearly every part of my body. Working with the PT’s at Athletes’ Performance is the best my body has felt in years.”
“I’m blessed to have had the pleasure of experiencing Athletes’ Performance. This place has extended my life by adding 15 -20 quality years to my life. I will always be grateful. You are all family to me. I’m proud to call you all my friend.”
“I arrived unable to effectively perform my job. I am comfortable that I can physically complete all the necessary tasks required of me. Furthermore, with what I have learned about movement, strength, recovery, and nutrition, I will be better, stronger, and more effective if I continue to apply these lessons. In 5 weeks I am pain free for the first time in 18 months and I am positioned to be a more effective operator with more longevity. I feel that Athletes’ Performance has performed a small miracle and given me the opportunity to have my job back.”
“This has been one of the best experiences of my military career. It’s unfortunate that I got hurt and had to come here but, I learned a lot of knowledge. Everyone in the facility is extremely professional and would love to come back. There is something to be said about coming down and getting away from the everyday hustle. It was a short visit but gained so much. It was a great place to train! I didn’t want to leave.”
“My strength, mobility, and stability improved beyond what I imagined. I came in not being able to run and left being able to run and achieve VO2 Max of 62.”
“As it was the last time I was here, it was great. This time around I was able to see the negative impact of the some of the bad habits I was still using. My time here reinforced the need to take a Holistic and Systematic approach to nutrition, training and recovery.”
“Since week one I noticed an immediate impact on my own quality of life. I started to sleep better, bowel movements became regular, more energy, and all of this provided a “peace of mind” which brought back motivation and just feeling pretty good again. My mobility has also improved and I can actually cut my own grass without complete exhaustion and pain as well as play with my children.”
“I enjoyed my visit here with you all. You all are down to earth, easy to talk to and understand. I learned a lot from the program and will pass it on to my family and coworkers.”
“Words can’t capture how grateful I am to be invited to the family atmosphere Athletes’ Performance provides. I never imagined I would make these gains in such a short amount of time. I have gained an invaluable amount of information to help me get close to my physical and mental goals.”
“The experience here has been great. It has really opened my eyes to proper nutrition and how it impacts your daily life. The movements were very beneficial with teaching me proper form that I never really thought about. The physical therapy portion was outstanding. I believe they did everything they could to get me back up and running.”
“I have a long way to go to recover from my injuries.” I rehabbed for almost a full year prior to AP with no success. For the first time, with the partnership between AP and Andrews Institute, I feel that there is a plan to finally getting me well. I think without this program I would absolutely be on the road to medical separation. The help I’m getting here is the only chance I have to continue service. This is the Tier 1 medical facility that is needed for Operators trying to save their careers and longevity and quality of life.”
“Thank you all for the wonderful time and understanding of what injured operators are going through.”
“This program has reinforced the importance of smart training. This is without a doubt one of the important aspects of the program. Additionally, it has reinforced the fact of rest and recovery is truly the answer to success. I’m departing with new ideas and goals that would not have come about without the training I received here.”
“The family and I have changed our eating style and hydration habits. I will continue to use all the training techniques that I have learned here at API. The fiancé’ has lost 8lbs. with the changes we have made with types of food and cooking at home. Thomas and Tyler are true professionals in the abilities and make it very educational in all the things they work on with my body. I appreciate the motivational level of Scott each day. It made the program better and made it easy to get up each day looking forward to coming to API to workout. I will continue to work with what I have learned and I should be at my new goal of 12% body fat in the next 12 weeks. Thank you for giving me the ability to improve my quality of life after all the doctors I have seen have told me I cannot do anything. I do feel like I can do almost anything I want in my future.”
“The education received here was world class. I have been so positively impacted that my motivation to maintain the path I’m on is paramount to me wanting to heal myself and continue doing what I do.”
“My time here has been incredible. I have learned a lot of tools that will help heal me and more importantly help me prevent injury in the future. As for working out, I always knew pieces of the puzzle, but now I have the big picture and how all these tools work together. I am now confident that I will be pain free in the near future. I really appreciate working with professionals who are at the top of their game in a top notch facility. This was key for me in my education. Thank you very much!!!”