If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I recently left Austin and moved back to Northern Virginia, where I grew up. The truth is, my fiancée Staci and I both really needed a fresh start in the New Year, and it was 100% the right move for us. But at the same time, it was really hard to leave my family at Big Tex Gym.
Big Tex has been my home since I became a high-level lifter, starting with my first major meet (Boss of Bosses 3). And that’s no coincidence — great gyms produce great lifters. Yes, you absolutely can become a great lifter at a commercial gym (just look at Jesse Norris), but it’s a hell of a lot harder when you’re not surrounded by strong, knowledgeable people who can help push you, teach you, and make you better.
About Big Tex
I think a lot of the atmosphere at Big Tex can be attributed to the owners, Rob and Esther, and I want to thank them for all their help and support they’ve given me over the years. When they bought the gym, they set out to truly make it a Mecca for strength training — for bodybuilders, powerlifters, and strongmen alike. They weren’t chasing profits, they were chasing a passion. And that’s the same attitude many of the members at Big Tex have.
And it’s easy to see that. Each year, Big Tex sponsors events in all three sports. Rob and Esther are constantly investing in new equipment. And more than anything else, they’re leading by example and pushing the limits themselves. Rob, for example, is on a quest to become the biggest bodybuilder ever to step foot on stage — and I have no doubt he will accomplish that goal. That’s why I’ve asked him to help me reach my own size goals: I know there’s no one better than someone who talks the talk and walks the walk.
And because actions speak louder than words, I want to end with this video of the most recent powerlifting meet at Big Tex. I think it captures the energy, intensity, and spirit of the gym better than I ever could!
If you’re in Central Texas, make the trip to Big Tex. It’s worth it.