The Visionary Behind D1 Training Westchase

Ben Milsom, a renowned sports expert and entrepreneur, has brought his vision to life with the opening of D1 Training Westchase, a cutting-edge fitness gym in Oldsmar. This state-of-the-art facility offers a unique approach to fitness training, catering to athletes of all ages and skill levels. As Milsom himself puts it, “Opening my own gym was a passion project to give back to the community.”

A Community-Driven Approach

Milsom’s motivation for opening D1 Training Westchase stems from his desire to provide a supportive environment for young athletes to develop their skills. He notes, “We saw what was going on in the community with physical education and kids showing up and not being ready to compete. I have two kids of my own and there were not places like this for them to work out.” By offering age-specific groups, including Rookie (7-11), Developmental (12-14), Prep (15-18), and Adult, Milsom aims to cater to the diverse needs of his members.

The Five-Step Training Process

Each training session at D1 Training Westchase follows a structured five-step approach:

* Warm-up

* Performance work

* Strength building

* Core and stamina training

* Cool down

This comprehensive approach ensures that members receive a well-rounded fitness experience, addressing both physical and mental aspects of athleticism.

A Proven Track Record

Before embarking on this venture, Milsom drew upon his extensive experience working with top-tier teams. His impressive resume boasts stints with the Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and a Super Bowl victory with the Buccaneers in 2020. This expertise has been recognized by pro athletes across the country, who have invested in D1 Training centers nationwide. Some notable franchise owners include:

* Chris Paul

* Peyton Manning

* Von Miller

* Tim Tebow

* Michael Oher

A Legacy of Excellence

The concept of D1 Sports Training was first introduced by Will Bartholomew, a former fullback for Tennessee, in 2001. Since then, the brand has grown exponentially, with D1 Training Westchase being the latest addition to the family.

A Supportive Community for All

The gym is abuzz with activity, as kids from Westchase and Clearwater gather for training sessions. Early birds take advantage of morning workouts, while after-school athletes fill the space after 3:30 p.m. Summer months bring additional training times, catering to the diverse needs of its members.

Specialized Training for Diabetics

Living with Type 1 diabetes himself, Milsom is committed to creating a supportive environment for members with the condition. He plans to launch a specialized program for diabetic members, focusing on nutrition and community building. As he notes, “We hope it will grow a little community within D1 Westchase, with those coming together and being there for each other.”

A Personal Story of Resilience

In December 2024, Milsom shared his inspiring story in “The Fearless Diabetic,” a book that sheds light on managing Type 1 diabetes since age 17. This personal account fills the gap between medical advice and day-to-day life with diabetes, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of living with this condition.