Meet Jim and Cam

He may not be back at football training camp, but personal training has given Jim Ayres a physical and mental feeling of youthfulness.

Jim Ayres joined MVP Metro in October 2024. As a former GVSU football player dealing with lingering injuries, Jim sought to improve his strength and maintain his health as he aged. Through personal training sessions with Camden (Cam) Brown, Jim credits Cam with helping him rebuild his strength, ultimately leading to a happier, healthier lifestyle.

Jim began his training journey to rebuild strength in areas impacted during his playing days at GVSU. As a former offensive lineman, he suffered numerous injuries, most notably to his knee and shoulder, both of which required surgery. Years later, he continued to experience lingering effects. “My shoulder, especially, has bothered me as I’ve aged,” he explained. After just ten sessions with Cam, Jim regained a full range of motion in his shoulder and threw a football for the first time in years. “I can actually throw a football around with my grandson again,” he exclaimed.

Both Jim and Cam have been profoundly impacted by the relationship they’ve developed through their sessions. Jim shared how he appreciates that Cam not only introduces him to new exercises and motivates him to push his limits but also takes the time to understand him personally and design a program tailored to his abilities and goals. “It has supercharged my workouts, and I feel like he takes a genuine interest in my fitness and progress,” he said.

For Cam, building relationships with clients like Jim is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a personal trainer. “Jim embodies the true reason I chose this career. His goals—whether it’s throwing a football with his grandkids or hiking with his wife—inspire me to give my best for him,” He explained.

Cam also loves working with clients who go above and beyond, giving their all to the program. Training Jim is always a highlight of his day. “Jim is a beast,” Cam laughed. “He’s one of those guys where, if you tell him to do 10, he’ll try to do 15 behind your back.”

Cam takes pride in being part of Jim’s fitness journey and finds immense satisfaction in seeing him achieve his goals. “I love seeing people’s reactions when they accomplish amazing results. Sharing those moments with them means a lot to me,” Cam said.

As they continue to train together, Jim credits much of his success to the motivation Cam provides. “Cam is a fun coach and a perfect fit for me,” he shared. “If he says I have 60 seconds of rest, I’ll only take 45, Cam adds weight. Cam says 8-10 reps, I do 12, Cam adds weight. He knows exactly how to tap into my competitive spirit.”

The results have been remarkable, with Jim experiencing increased strength, an improved overall lifestyle, and the ability to play the sport he loves with his grandkids. Their training sessions even bring back memories of his days at GVSU. “Sometimes I forget how old I am, and I feel like I’m back at GVSU training camp,” he said with a smile. “I like that feeling.”