PERSONAL TRAINING TAKEN TO ANOTHER LEVEL

Liam "TAKU" Bauer • May 13, 2019
A muscular man is lifting a barbell in a logo for a gym.

In this week's Podcast #47, we are joined by one of Canada's top strength coaches, Michael Petrella.

A man wearing a black t-shirt is standing in front of a wall.

Michael is the owner and head trainer at STG Strength and Power .  To date Michael has opened and expanded through 5 facilities over the past 12 plus years. Michael is the current recipient of the coveted R.E.C. “Envy Award,” earned for his current training location, which is regarded by many as one of the finest and best equipped private gyms in the world. Michael works one-on-one with clients, who range from young teens to 70 and 80 year olds.

Michael holds several high-level certifications including being a MEDX /HIT/Arthur Jones certified personal trainer with the I.A.R.T. and a Certified Master Trainer with S.P.A.R.T.A.

Michael’s achievements include being recognized by the World Head of Family Sokeship Council for having the “Most Innovative Training Program” and being published in Fitness Science Annual and RescindX’s Strength from the Shadows magazine.

A woman is lifting a barbell in a gym while two men watch.

Michael and his team at STG are known for working with competitive power lifters. They have trained two clients to WPC/AWPC World Championships in powerlifting and the powerlifting team has achieved over 50 world records that are recognized in 4 different powerlifting organizations – the WPC, RPS, 100% Raw, and IPA.

Michael Petrella practicing what he preaches.

Michael Petrella practicing what he preaches.

TAKU’s NOTE: Jesse and I were lucky enough to meet Michael Petrella and other members of the STG Team at the 2019 Resistance Exercise Conference in Minnesota. We are both looking forward to having the opportunity of visiting Michael and his team to explore all of the amazing machines, and strength training tools he has amassed at STG.

Experience the TNT Strength difference with a free workout.

START YOUR FITNESS TRANSFORMATION WITH A

FREE WORKOUT

Complete the form and we'll set up an appointment for you.

Recent Articles

By Liam "TAKU" Bauer August 3, 2026
Why "Interspersed Stretching" may be the missing link in your workout. Learn why stretching before lifting can hurt performance, and the smarter approach TNT Strength recommends.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer July 27, 2026
Discover why TNT Strength's Minimal Effective Dose approach delivers better strength, recovery, and results than high-volume training for busy Oakland-area lifters.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer July 20, 2026
Discover how anti-inflammatory, low-carb nutrition supports joint health and reduces pain. TNT Strength shares food tips for active adults in Oakland & North Berkeley.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer July 13, 2026
TAKU Bauer of TNT Strength breaks down the science on Creatine Monohydrate — strength, muscle, recovery, brain health, and healthy aging benefits for North Berkeley, Oakland, and Piedmont clients.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer July 6, 2026
Discover how resistance bands build real strength, muscle, and joint-friendly fitness. TNT Strength's Oakland coach breaks down the science and programming.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer June 29, 2026
Discover how TNT Strength Oakland uses the Minimal Effective Dose approach to build real strength in just 15 minutes. Serving Rockridge, College Ave, and the East Bay.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer June 22, 2026
H.I.T. and H.I.I.T. sound alike but train very different systems. Learn how combining Arthur Jones' strength method with interval training may be the ultimate time-efficient fitness solution.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer June 15, 2026
Stop counting shakes—start counting total protein. TNT Strength coach TAKU breaks down exactly how much protein you need, when to use shakes, and how to get strong in Oakland.
By Liam "TAKU" Bauer June 8, 2026
The leaner and fitter you become, the fewer calories the same workout burns. Learn why this happens and how TNT Strength Oakland uses unaccustomed stimulus to keep your body adapting.