Meet the Squat Doc
I’m here to help you live better, move better, and feel better. If you’re ready to start your journey, I’d love to be your co-pilot. Let’s take that first step together—your best life starts now. Read my story here.
After spending much of my childhood inactive, overweight, and unhappy...
I started my fitness journey at 13, after spending much of my childhood inactive, overweight, and unhappy. I remember seeing the "gym rats" at the daycare where my mom taught water aerobics, and I could tell there was another way to live. I wanted that. Thanks to my older brother, I was lucky enough to learn the proper techniques for the major compound lifts early on, and those early lessons set the foundation for my lifelong passion for lifting heavy things.
I struggled with my physical and mental health...
In 2005, when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, I lost my gym and, for a time, my way. Weight training became less of a priority, and I struggled with my physical and mental health. After years of searching for a quick fix—attempting medication to solve my problems—I realized in 2011 that what had worked for me before was the squat rack.
No good life can be lived without caring for and developing our bodies...
Returning to weight training wasn’t easy, but I rediscovered the mental and physical benefits that had helped me before. That’s when I realized: no good life can be lived without caring for and developing our bodies. I wanted to share this with others, so I became a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine in 2013. I started working with clients right away, and it didn’t take long for me to realize that not everyone has the same advantages I had. I made it my mission to learn everything I could to help people improve their lives through fitness—no question left unanswered.
I can confidently help almost anyone find their own answers...
In 2024, I earned a doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine, bringing me one step closer to my goal of helping others achieve their best lives. Along the way, I learned that I’ll never have all the answers—but I’ve reached a point where I can confidently help almost anyone find their own.
Now, as Dr. James Lightell, I’m here to help you live better, move better, and feel better. If you’re ready to start your journey, I’d love to be your co-pilot. Let’s take that first step together—your best life starts now.