April 1, 2024
Central Athlete Origins
WRITTEN BY Michael Richwein

Over the course of the last year, we have seen a lot of new faces: you’ve either joined us from afar, training remotely, or graced us with your presence at HQ—first in downtown Austin, and later at our current location in East Austin. We are grateful for you all and wouldn’t be here without you. With that said, allow us to either reintroduce ourselves, or share our origins with you for the very first time!

In 2015, what began as a mentorship under James Fitzgerald of OPEX in Scottsdale, Arizona blossomed into the genesis of something remarkable in Austin. Jesse and Amanda O’Brien, fueled by years of experimentation, application, and refinement of OPEX principles, established what you all know as Central Athlete, a holistic fitness business that would redefine the fitness landscape in Austin.

Central Athlete's journey mirrors the dynamic evolution of its founders' vision and commitment to excellence. From its inception as a manifestation of OPEX principles to its current incarnation as a beacon of holistic fitness, Central Athlete has remained dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their optimal state of well-being.

In 2018, Central Athlete embarked on a new chapter as it joined the vibrant community at Springdale General, a thriving hub of innovation and creativity in East Austin. Set amidst a diverse array of businesses and amenities, including the renowned Austin Bouldering Project, Central Athlete found its home in a space that epitomizes the spirit of growth and collaboration.

At the heart of Central Athlete lies a philosophy rooted in personalized, results-driven coaching. Jesse and Amanda's combined expertise, coupled with a commitment to integrating proven strength and conditioning principles with holistic approaches, forms the cornerstone of Central Athlete's methodology today.

Since its inception, Central Athlete has grown in influence and size, adding to its team a host of coaches from all over the country, with some positioned afar, operating completely remotely, while others have packed up their lives and relocated to Austin to partner with the vision. The team comprises a group of diverse individuals, from all walks of life, all deeply educated and passionate about helping you experience the highest version of yourself!

Central Athlete stands out for its dedication to individualized care and attention. Through the utilization of motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral techniques, the team at Central Athlete strives to understand each client's unique needs, goals, and aspirations. By co-creating tailored training programs that prioritize consistency, mindfulness, and nourishment, Central Athlete empowers individuals to redefine their relationship with fitness and embrace a lifestyle that aligns with their personal vision of wellness.

Central Athlete is more than just a fitness studio; it continues to evolve with the needs and demands of the fitness landscape. It's a community-driven sanctuary where individuals can come to feel supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential or become their highest selves. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a newcomer to the world of fitness, Central Athlete welcomes you with open arms, ready to embark on a transformative journey toward comprehensive health.

In a world inundated with fad diets and one-size-fits-all fitness solutions, Central Athlete stands as a beacon of authenticity and integrity. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation, and personalized care, Central Athlete continues to redefine the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of fitness and health. Join us at Central Athlete, and together, let's embark upon a journey toward a healthier, happier, and more empowered version of ourselves.

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