"At Forge Ahead, our mission is to empower individuals to unlock their full potential and live vibrant, fulfilling lives. Through personalized nutrition coaching, innovative fitness programs, and a steadfast commitment to mental resilience, we guide our clients on a journey to holistic wellness. With passion, expertise, and a dedication to community impact, we strive to be a trusted ally in every individual's pursuit of health and happiness."
Get to Know Your Coach!
Hi there! I'm Mike McManus, a Certified Nutrition Coach, lifelong athlete, and passionate advocate for health and wellness. My mission is to help people achieve their fitness and nutrition goals through evidence-based strategies, personalized coaching, and consistent support.
I grew up in an active family and later competed in Division-I football at Marist College. For many years, I believed I could outwork a poor diet. But despite regular training and completing several triathlons, I eventually hit a wall—sluggishness, weight gain, and declining health. That turning point led me to explore nutrition more deeply and ultimately transformed my life.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with various dietary approaches, including plant-based, low-carb, ketogenic, and even carnivore protocols. Through this process, I discovered how powerfully nutrition influences energy, performance, and well-being. My personal transformation didn’t just restore my health; it sparked a lifelong passion for helping others do the same.
To build a deeper scientific foundation, I completed Principles of Biochemistry, a course offered by HarvardX (an online learning initiative of Harvard University). This rigorous program, taught by Harvard faculty, provided a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical pathways that govern metabolism, digestion, and nutrient utilization.
I also earned my Certified Nutrition Coach credential from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Most recently, I became Certified in Functional Genomics, a field that allows me to analyze a client's unique genetic profile and provide root-cause strategies tailored to their individual biology. This added layer of personalization helps me offer precision-based coaching rooted in both science and real-world results.
My academic background includes an MBA from the University of Connecticut and a BS in Business Administration from Marist College, where I concentrated in Finance and minored in Accounting and Economics. Outside of my professional work, I’m a husband, a father to four daughters, a volunteer firefighter, and the founder of Forge Ahead, LLC.
My coaching approach is holistic and performance-oriented. Whether your goal is to improve body composition, build endurance, restore strength, or enhance recovery, I’ll help create a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and fits your lifestyle.
Let’s work together to build a strategy that energizes your life, sharpens your mind, and supports your long-term success.
Warm regards,
-Mike
Michael R. McManus, Certified Nutrition Coach | Certified in Functional Genomics
Owner, Forge Ahead, LLC
