Success in the fitness world isn’t just about physical strength, it’s about mental resilience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to personal growth. Anthony Espo, the founder of Bad Ass Academy, embodies this philosophy through his journey from humble beginnings to running one of Brooklyn’s most sought-after functional training facilities.
Espo’s story is one of hustle, determination, and a mission to impact as many lives as possible physically and mentally. In a world where many people are motivated by trends or temporary goals, Espo stands apart by practicing what he preaches every single day. He doesn’t just work with his clients in the gym he lives his message, offering a powerful example of what it means to commit to a life of improvement.
From Humble Beginnings to Bad Ass Academy
Espo didn’t come from money. He didn’t inherit a following, he built everything from the ground up, starting with nothing but a deep passion for fitness and the drive to make a difference. For two years, Espo taught free fitness classes in the park, driven by the desire to help people live better and more active lives. He wasn’t just teaching exercises, he was building a community, creating an environment where people could push themselves beyond their limits and achieve real, lasting change.
However, it wasn’t always an easy path. Like many entrepreneurs, Espo faced obstacles that would have deterred many others. There were days filled with uncertainty, financial struggles, and moments when he doubted whether his dream would ever become a reality. But he pressed on, driven by the belief that he was destined to make a real impact.
His breakthrough came when he decided to open Bad Ass Academy. With a vision of creating a gym that wasn’t just about working out, but about transforming lives both physically and mentally, Espo took a leap of faith. The gym was born from a combination of his personal philosophy and his desire to build a space where people could push past their excuses and achieve greatness.
A Gym Like No Other
Bad Ass Academy isn’t your typical gym. It’s a place where people don’t just work out, they grow. Espo’s focus is on functional training, an approach that emphasizes strength, agility, and endurance for real-life activities. But it’s not just about the body; it’s about the mind as well. Espo’s mantra, “The choice is always yours,” is a reminder that transformation begins with making a decision and committing to it every day. Whether it’s a physical challenge or a mental hurdle, Espo teaches his clients to rise above and become the best versions of themselves.
“The choice is always yours,” Espo says, echoing his belief that personal growth starts with taking responsibility for one’s choices. “1% better each day is my approach, and that applies to every aspect of life, not just the gym. Your input is your output.”
Espo is not just a fitness coach but a mentor who understands that lasting change comes from a holistic approach physical, mental, and emotional. This philosophy resonates with his clients and has led to a community of individuals who are not just focused on getting stronger but also on improving their lives.
A Book and a Vision for the Future
In addition to running Bad Ass Academy, Espo is an author. His book, WAHOOS in Life, is a testament to his belief in resilience and personal growth. Written for people who may not set foot in a gym but want to improve their lives, the book extends Espo’s reach beyond his gym’s walls. The message is clear: regardless of where you are in life, you have the power to take control and make positive changes.
Espo’s commitment to helping people extends far beyond the confines of his gym or his book. His work has been featured on major networks like NBC Sports, YES Network, and MSG Network, further solidifying his reputation as someone who is dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives.
What Sets Espo Apart
What makes Espo different from his competition is simple: he practices what he preaches. He doesn’t just talk about personal growth and transformation he embodies it every day. For him, fitness isn’t a trend or a business opportunity. It’s a calling. Whether in the gym, through his book, or on his social media platforms, Espo consistently encourages his followers to push themselves, believe in their potential, and stay committed to their journey.
“You have to have discipline,” he says, stressing the importance of consistency and mindset in every part of life.
Join the Bad Ass Academy Movement
For those looking to take their fitness and mental strength to the next level, there’s no better place than Bad Ass Academy. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve your mindset, or find a community that truly supports your journey, Espo’s gym is more than just a place to work out, it’s a space for personal transformation.
Join the Bad Ass family and begin your journey to becoming the best version of yourself. As Espo reminds us, “The choice is always yours.”
To learn more about Bad Ass Academy, visit Bad Ass Academy and follow @iAmAnthonyEspo on social media for daily inspiration and updates.
