His Calling to Care
Dr. Kashif Latif, Medical Director at AM Diabetes & Endocrinology Center, initially trained in internal medicine and began practicing in 1995. A few years into his career, his firstborn child was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just 11 months old. Navigating the challenges of the diagnosis gave him a deeply personal understanding of the condition and inspired him to pursue additional endocrinology training.
From 2000 to 2002, Dr. Latif completed his endocrinology training and began focusing his practice on diabetes and metabolic health. He recognized early on the importance of nutrition and physical activity in managing the condition.
Having played soccer, field hockey, and cricket at the varsity level in college, Dr. Latif already understood the value of an active lifestyle. His own fitness journey would eventually help him bring that knowledge into his practice in a more practical, personalized way.
Inside the Practice
Over the years, Dr. Latif has expanded his approach to diabetes care by emphasizing specific, measurable exercise goals. Rather than simply telling patients to be more active, he encourages them to incorporate resistance training, aerobic exercise, and movements that support overall strength and mobility.
Dr. Latif, in partnership with AM Diabetes and Endocrinology, founded AM360 Fitness, a fitness and wellness center focused on helping people build strength, improve their health, and maintain independence as they age. With an average participant age of around 70, the program challenges the idea that aging inevitably means losing independence. Dr. Latif wants patients to remain active enough to travel comfortably, navigate stairs, and participate in the experiences they love.
As an endocrinologist, he monitors his patients’ muscle mass, bone density, and overall physical fitness alongside weight. He can therefore help patients better understand their progress and identify what their bodies need to stay healthy.
His Fitness Prescription
During his endocrinology training, he began working regularly with a personal trainer and discovered the benefits of structured strength training. He later took up running after a patient mentioned training for the St. Jude Memphis Marathon® Weekend half marathon. Although building endurance took time, Dr. Latif eventually completed several half and full marathons.
When knee pain led him to seek help at Campbell Clinic, he discovered that tight hamstrings, not a problem with his knees, were contributing to the discomfort. Yoga helped resolve the pain and introduced him to another dimension of whole-body wellness.
His fitness journey and experience helped shape his work and his guidance for patients. As he explains his vision for healthy aging, “I tell patients, I want you to be the last one off the dance floor at your grandkids’ wedding.” This means working regularly on strength training, cardiovascular endurance, and mobility.
Beyond the White Coat
Dr. Latif continues to practice what he teaches. Now approaching 60, he enjoys running, skiing, and traveling, including trips to China and Machu Picchu. He appreciates tackling challenging terrain and experiencing new places without feeling limited by age.
His philosophy is grounded in the belief that physical health is one of a person’s greatest assets. By measuring progress through strength, muscle mass, and functional ability, Dr. Latif hopes to help patients focus on what their bodies can do rather than simply what they weigh.
Learn more about AM360 Fitness Center at AM360fitness.com.
By Zoe Harrison
Photo by KimbaWayne Photography
