Exploring Life & Business with Michael Hildebrandt of CrossFit Bolster

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Hildebrandt.

Hi Michael, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my professional journey as a teacher. I spent three years in education—two of those in Detroit Public Schools teaching middle school, and the last one at the high school level. I always wanted to make an impact on kids, not just through academics, but by showing them what was possible in life. I even started a basketball program because I believed in giving students more outlets to grow, build confidence, and find purpose.

But at the same time, I was pursuing something else that had been a part of my life for years—CrossFit. I had been competing in the sport for most of my life after being a college athlete in pole vault, and I knew fitness was more than just a hobby for me—it was a calling.

One day, I got the honor from the previous owner of a CrossFit gym in Ferndale to come on board and coach. That opportunity opened a door I never expected. I realized that coaching allowed me to teach on a whole new level. Eventually, I made the decision to buy the gym and take over the business.

Leaving teaching wasn’t easy, but I knew it was the right time. Owning CrossFit Bolster has given me the chance to continue making an impact—not just on kids, but on people of all ages. We’ve built programs like Kids CrossFit and high school after-school sessions, and we’re now hosting competitions to raise awareness and support causes we care about, like breast cancer.

What drives me is the belief that anyone can succeed in fitness, no matter where they’re starting from. Whether it’s a mom of three, a high school athlete, or someone just trying to get healthy again—we meet them where they are. That’s what functional fitness is all about: scaling, adjusting, and supporting everyone’s individual journey.

And honestly, this gym is my home. I even get to bring my two rescue pit bulls, Bumper and Zeus, to the gym with me every day. The members love them—they bring so much joy to the space.

At 26, I’m honored to be in this position. I’m still training with the goal of reaching the CrossFit Games and becoming a professional athlete. But even more than that, I want to inspire my former students and everyone watching to believe in themselves. I was a small kid growing up, and if I can chase something this big—so can they.

My mission now is simple: help people move better, live healthier, and realize that with the right mindset and support, they can do anything.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’ve been fortunate to have a family that’s supported me through every stage of life—from early sports to navigating the challenges of dyslexia, ADHD, and being undersized in a world that often favors the opposite. But those obstacles didn’t define me. If anything, they fueled me.

I’ve always felt the need to prove—not just to others, but to myself—that anything is possible with belief, consistency, and heart. I’ve made mistakes along the way—who hasn’t? But I’ve chosen to learn from them. I wouldn’t trade my childhood or any part of my journey because every chapter, every challenge, helped shape the man I am today.

We all face internal and external battles. It’s part of being human. For me, it’s never been about pretending I had it harder than anyone else—it’s about showing up, facing fears, and finding purpose through the process. There’s a quote on my arm that reads: “Embrace how far you’ve come while striving for more.” That’s my reminder. I’ve come a long way, but I’m still climbing. And just like anyone else, I’m trying to make more wins than losses on the scoreboard of life.

As a teacher, coach, and gym owner, I’ve made it my mission to pass that mindset on—to my students, my athletes, and anyone I cross paths with. Whether someone’s been given everything or started with nothing, I want them to believe they can thrive. My purpose has always been to give—whether that’s time, energy, or belief—so others can feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving more than they thought possible.

It’s not easy. But if it were, everyone would do it.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about CrossFit Bolster ?
At CrossFit Bolster, we’re more than just a gym — we’re a community built on purpose, progress, and people. Located in Ferndale, Michigan, we specialize in functional fitness through CrossFit methodology: combining strength training, gymnastics, and conditioning into workouts that build not just athleticism, but confidence and resilience.

What sets Bolster apart is the culture. Our coaches don’t just lead workouts — they lead by example, forming genuine relationships and helping members become stronger in and out of the gym. We create an environment where people of all levels feel seen, supported, and challenged. Whether someone is walking in for their first class or training to compete at the highest level, we meet them where they are.

We’re proud of the community that’s grown here. It’s the members, the coaches, and the shared belief that with consistency, hard work, and support, anything is possible. From youth programs to nutrition challenges, competitions to mentorship, everything we do is rooted in one mission: to help people become better humans through fitness and connection and safety. Partnered with many outstanding companies, Metro-Strength Performance Rehab Physical Therapy, MI Nutrition and an overall mindset safety and health comes first.

We’re not just in the business of building strong athletes — we’re here to help build strong lives. That’s the Bolster way

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
If you ask the people who knew Michael Hildebrandt growing up, they’ll all tell you the same thing: he was the kid who showed up. Whether it was the basketball court, the baseball field, or the track, Michael gave everything he had — not because it was easy, but because it mattered to him to give his best. Even when he was the smallest on the team, he was relentless in his pursuit of improvement, pushing himself harder when others might have given up.

But what really stood out wasn’t just his drive — it was his heart. Friends, teammates, and coaches would say he was the one staying late to help, carrying someone’s books, encouraging the person who felt left behind. Michael wasn’t just chasing his own goals; he was lifting others up along the way.

From a young age, Michael connected with people who didn’t always fit the mold — kids who felt overlooked, seniors who needed extra support, anyone who needed someone in their corner. Those connections only deepened when he became a teacher, fulfilling a dream he’d had since seventh grade. Students and families describe him as the kind of teacher who saw potential in every student, no matter their circumstances. He believed — and still believes — that everyone deserves a chance to be seen, heard, and empowered.

When Michael made the decision to leave the classroom and take over a CrossFit gym, it came with mixed emotions. His family, proud of the difference he made as a teacher, felt a sadness at the change. But Michael was clear: he wasn’t leaving teaching. He was simply expanding it. Today, at his gym, members will tell you the same things his students once did — that he meets them where they are, that he sees their potential even when they can’t yet see it themselves, and that he never lets anyone feel like they don’t belong.

Ask anyone who trains with him now, and they’ll tell you: Michael is still the relentless, compassionate leader he’s always been. He knows firsthand how hard it can be to feel like you don’t measure up, and that’s why he works so hard to make sure no one ever feels that way under his coaching. Whether it’s scaling a workout, giving a cue, or offering encouragement, he makes sure that every person in his gym knows their worth goes far beyond their physical abilities.

While Michael is chasing his personal dream of competing at the CrossFit Games by 2027, the people who know him best will tell you his true legacy isn’t about podiums or trophies. It’s about how he makes others feel stronger — not just physically, but in who they are. It’s about showing up, lifting others, and leaving every space he touches a little better than he found it.

Pricing:

• NO SWEAT INTRO (FREE 1st CLASS)
• $125 8 class Punch Card
• $130 2 days a week Membership (Free Saturdays Always) BRING A FRIEND FREE
• $155 3-days a week Membership (Free Saturdays Always) BRING A FRIEND FREE
• $180 Unlimited Membership

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.crossfitbolster.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossfitbolster?igsh=MWlya3NkdGQ0NDNyMQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16RPb6MKUv/?mibextid=wwXIfr