Rakeem Lock

Welcome to my fitness learning hub, where I share practical tips for aspiring young athletes. My journey started in elementary school, where I built a strong foundation in both football and futsal and had the chance to explore different training cultures. In high school, I took up rugby and later joined the wrestling team, meeting athletes of all abilities. Despite having little experience in either sport, I trained hard and eventually made it to the State Championships. I learned that no matter when you start; whether in elementary, middle, or high school, what truly sets you apart is your willingness to learn and put in the work. I also came to realize that sports at all levels demand physical resilience, discipline, and mental toughness. Over the years, I celebrated many victories but also faced my share of sports-related injuries, which pushed me to think more critically about building strength, preventing injuries, and preparing my body for recovery.

After an injury, many athletes face challenges, and I was no different. Instead of stepping away from sports completely, I chose to channel my energy into turning setbacks into opportunities. I shifted my focus from what I couldn’t do (like playing team sports or sprinting) to what I could. That’s how I found strength training, which helped me lift heavier, prevent future injuries, prioritize longevity, and maintain overall health. Within months, I was back to playing recreational football. As a competitive athlete, I’ve seen how poor technique, overtraining, and lack of education often cause preventable injuries, but I also learned that being proactive in your personal and physical development can lead to growth in more ways than you can imagine.

  My approach to strength and conditioning is built for the long haul, grounded in the fundamentals of proper form, steady progression, and respecting the importance of recovery. As athletes, we perform our best when we believe in ourselves and prepare for challenges ahead. Great coaches, mentors, and teammates also play a big part in how we succeed. This platform offers simple insights and resources for young athletes to help them boost performance and reduce risks through evidence-based methods. My goal is to inspire young athletes to train smart, stay informed, and build strength that lasts well beyond competition. 

Always remember you have what it takes. 

Best, 

Abdullah Rakeem 

Your Fellow Athlete