Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
When and why did you come to Austin?
I got to Austin April 1, 2023. I moved here to pursue my dreams of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with the team New Wave Jiu Jitsu.
What is your background? How did you get into personal training?
I grew up playing team sports my whole life. At thirteen my dad gave me a basic weightlifting workout to do in our backyard that I would do religiously throughout the week. This eventually led me to study Exercise Science at Arizona State University where I got my bachelors degree. Following my education at Arizona State, I moved to San Diego, CA and worked as a personal trainer for about a year before obtaining my strength and conditioning certification from the NSCA. I then began working at a strength and conditioning facility that specializes in training for combat sport athletes such as Jiu Jitsu and MMA. At this facility I also worked with physique competitors, team sport athletes, and regular working professionals. I was there for two amazing years and learned an excellent amount of knowledge from my bosses and mentors Alex Sterner and Alex Bryce.
Tell us about your current fitness goals and training.
I am very passionate about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and my goal in that realm is to continue improving and having competition success so that I can make a name for myself in that niche little world. As far as weightlifting and strength training go, my main goal right now is to continue increasing my body weight (I am a notorious hard-gainer) and strength in my compound movements.
What is the most common fitness myth you work through with your clients?
The most common myth I experience with my clients is that they are too dysfunctional, out of balance, or not strong enough to perform the basic and effective exercises. I find that many people who begin training with me really underestimate their strength and abilities. They also find that the pain or discomfort they feel in certain areas of their body dissipates when they start moving consistently and strengthening the structures of their body to increase their resilience.
What do you want your clients to take away from each training session with you?
I want my clients to feel better after they leave the gym than when they came in! I want them to have a positive experience in their day and help them on their journey of self development as much as I am capable of. I want them to feel stronger, empowered, and confident.
What sets you apart from other fitness professionals?
I believe my knowledge, experience, passion, and positive attitude make me stand out from the crowd. I am very confident about the exercises, techniques, and methods I prescribe to my clients. I have learned from tremendous teachers over the years that give me the ability to work with a wide variety of people. I love to help people reach their goals and I will be your biggest fan along the way!
Favorite quote and who said it?
“For every one that asketh recieveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” -Matthew 7:7-11.
Who is your hero and why?
I have to include everyone from my immediate family in my list of heroes. My mother taught me how to love unconditionally, work hard, and most importantly have fun! My dad is a true real world hero but he is the kindest, most respectful, most resilient man I have ever known. He taught me about respect, kindness, and humility. My older brother showed me I can follow my dreams, to believe in myself even if everyone thinks I am crazy. He is the epitome of someone who sets his mind to something he believes in, puts in the work, and accomplishes that goal.
Follow Matt on IG: @mattwebb_ma
Click here to read Matt’s advice on how to get the best results by training hard.