Lance Dreher, (Doctor Fitness) PhD
Lance Dreher, widely known as “Doctor Fitness,” is a veteran personal trainer based in Scottsdale, Arizona, with nearly four decades of experience helping clients—especially Baby Boomers—lose weight, build strength, and age with confidence. A two‑time Mr. Universe and former Mr. America, he brings the discipline and knowledge of an elite bodybuilder to practical, sustainable programs tailored for everyday people.
Born in Chicago, Illinois on June 27, 1955, Lance competed at the highest levels of bodybuilding, placing in the top three in 10 professional championships and earning recognition for his extraordinary 23.5‑inch biceps. His competitive résumé includes titles such as AAU Collegiate Mr. America, AAU Mr. America (Heavyweight), and multiple Mr. Universe wins, culminating in a professional career that extended through the early 1990s.
After his final competition in 1992, Lance transitioned from stage to science, completing a PhD in Nutritional Counseling and Physical Education and becoming a certified life coach. This combination of advanced education and coaching credentials allows him to address not only exercise and diet but also the mindset and behavioral patterns that often sabotage weight‑loss and fitness efforts, particularly for clients struggling to maintain long‑term results.
As a Baby Boomer himself, Lance deeply understands the realities of the aging body—joint limitations, changing metabolism, medical conditions, and the need for safe progression. He specializes in designing programs for older adults, including those managing issues such as obesity, cardiovascular risk factors, diabetes, or orthopedic concerns, with an emphasis on functional strength, mobility, and sustainable weight loss rather than extreme, short‑term transformations.
Beyond one‑on‑one training, Lance has built a public presence as an educator and advocate for practical fitness, including hosting the radio talk show “Fitness Talk w/ Lance Dreher” on KFYI, where he translates complex training and nutrition concepts into clear, actionable guidance for a broad audience. Across his work in media, coaching, and personal training, he combines world‑class bodybuilding experience, academic depth in nutrition and physical education, and life‑coaching skills to help clients reshape their bodies, improve their health markers, and build a more confident, active life at any age.