When it comes to leading an active and healthy lifestyle, David and Josh Long are proof that fitness runs in the family. This father-and-son duo exemplifies dedication to movement, strength, and overall wellness, each pursuing their own athletic passions while supporting and inspiring one another along the way.

Josh, a WSU grad and now an accountant, has always had an active lifestyle. "I grew up as a physically active kid, always involved in sports and activities. As an adult, I love being active in numerous ways, including lifting weights, running, riding my dirtbike, hiking the 14ers in the summer, and skiing in the winter," he says.

While his interests rotate, one thing has remained constant for Josh—lifting weights. These days, his training is centered around strongman competitions, a sport that challenges athletes with unique tests of strength. "One cool thing about strongman is the events are different in every competition. While competitions may follow similar formats, each event is truly unique to how it is performed."

For David, staying active is a necessity, especially to continue enjoying one of his favorite activities—skiing. "The running and weightlifting are necessary so that I can go skiing and not only survive, but do well!" he says. With a background in finance and accounting, currently serving as CFO of Youngers and Sons Manufacturing, David knows values consistency, which is reflected in his fitness journey. He has completed ten half marathons and is contemplating the challenge of a full marathon. "It’s the next logical distance I’ve not accomplished," he says, though previous injuries have kept him from committing just yet.

Despite their shared commitment to fitness, the Longs have different preferences when it comes to exercise. Josh is always chasing new challenges in strength training, currently working to improve his overhead pressing ability in strongman competitions. "I’ve done well in local pressing events, but that’s a big hole in my game as I look to move up to compete beyond the local level."

David, on the other hand, finds pride in his consistency over the years. "As I get older, I realize the importance of staying fit. I look at many others my age and realize how easy it would be to be lazy, pack on 50 lbs, and do nothing."

Both men agree on at least one thing—swimming is not their favorite. "I sink. I don’t float at all," Josh admits. 

Josh attributes much of his progress to the community he trains with. "Training with the Hamms Hero’s crew under Austin Hamm at Top Crop Barbell the past few years has been great for me. Everyone I train with wants to get better and is striving for new heights. We all help push each other and are always there if someone needs a spot or just another guy to talk to."

He also highlights the importance of working with a team of professionals, including his strongman coach, nutritionist, physical therapist, and massage therapist. "Build a team, find coaches that care about your progress, and invest in you as an athlete. You’ll take years off your journey by seeking the knowledge and wisdom of those that know more than you."

For both David and Josh, the PTs at Natural Wellness Physiotherapy has played a role in keeping them healthy and moving. "Sciatica and hamstring issues have plagued me for years. This past year is the first time I’ve actually addressed them, and it’s paid off in being relatively injury-free," David says.

Josh echoes the sentiment, as he has overcome multiple mobility restrictions and injuries over time. "What part of me hasn’t Clayton helped at this point! We started by unlocking lost range of motion in my ankles, releasing knots in my quads that were leading to knee pain stemming from a meniscus repair at 19, and then rehabbing chronic high hamstring pain."

When offering advice, David keeps it simple but impactful: "Don’t stop! It’s easier to continue exercising than regularly starting and stopping." 

These two demonstrate what it means to maintain a lifelong commitment to fitness. Whether it’s lifting heavy, tackling half marathons, or simply staying active enough to enjoy their favorite hobbies, they prove that staying fit and healthy isn’t just about the workouts—it’s about mindset. 

Their dedication, support for each other, and willingness to push their limits make them an obvious choice for February's Athletes of the Month!

[Pain free runner - Part 1]

[Pain free runner - Part 2]