Mike graduated from SUNY @ Buffalo with a dual major in Physical Therapy & Exercise Science. He worked alongside one of the pioneers of sports physical therapy in Miami where numerous professional and other high level athletes were seen. After a move to Ohio Mike became an NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) in 1995 and then a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach. Mike and Karen moved closer to their Buffalo roots and families, settling in Rochester in 1995 where he spent 9 years working at University Sports Medicine.

Mike continued pursuing more expertise in sports and orthopedic care, in 2004 obtaining National Board Certification as a Sports Physical Therapy Specialist. Mike moved on in 2005 to open Peak Performance, soon to be joined by his wife, Karen.

His expertise was deeply enhanced in 2009 through the 10-month Gray Institute Fellowship in Applied Functional Science (FAFS) with in-depth training on functional biomechanics and “3D” views of not only human movement but also more deeply appreciating the “mind, body, spirit” sides that make up all patients. In 2012 Mike completed the Nike Golf Performance Specialist (NGS) certification, later advanced through the Gray Institute’s Golf Performance Specialist program in 2021. He has also completed the Excellus Spine Pathway program in 2015.

“I’ve been greatly blessed by a number of things in life…including parents who taught us about caring for others, the value of hard work, and integrity. I’ve also been honored and humbled by the many opportunities to learn from some of the most gifted professionals in the PT and Sports Training world over the years who were willing to share their knowledge and skills.”