From park lessons to Brooklyn’s top fitness spot, Anthony Espo is redefining what it means to be a “Bad Ass.”
Anthony Espo’s journey to founding Bad Ass Academy, a functional training facility in Brooklyn, started not in a gym, but in the streets. With little more than passion and a dream to impact as many lives as possible, Espo spent over two years teaching fitness for free in Brooklyn’s parks. His story is one of determination and resilience, showing how far a clear vision and relentless effort can take someone, even without financial resources.
Espo’s commitment to both physical and mental strength has been the driving force behind the academy’s success. His approach emphasizes that strength is built through a combination of effort, determination, and mental resilience. His mantra is simple: “Your input is your output,” a reminder that every small effort contributes to larger, meaningful growth.
The Beginning: Where It All Started
Espo’s initial classes were held in the heart of Brooklyn, not in a state-of-the-art gym, but in local parks. With nothing but his voice and a deep belief of health in a community, he started building a fitness culture rooted in hard work and inclusivity. Over time, his free classes grew in popularity, attracting people from all walks of life. The demand for his training soon outgrew the parks, leading to the idea of creating a dedicated space for the academy.
“The focus has always been on helping people find strength, not just in their bodies, but in their minds as well,” Espo says. “Physical fitness is just the beginning; true strength comes from developing resilience, determination, and a mindset that never quits.”
The Turning Point: Building the Dream
In 2013, Espo took the leap and opened the doors to Bad Ass Academy. Unlike many gyms, which emphasize aesthetics, Espo’s academy places equal importance on mental resilience. The academy’s culture fosters a community of support and accountability, where members are encouraged to challenge their limits and push beyond what they thought was possible.
“We’re not just a gym; we’re a family,” Espo says. This philosophy is evident in the way members support each other during workouts, but also in the relationships that extend beyond the gym. The academy has become a place where individuals come together to grow, not only physically but mentally and emotionally.
Espo’s motto, “1% better each day,” underscores the academy’s commitment to gradual, consistent improvement, whether in strength, endurance, or mental resilience. It’s a philosophy that has resonated with many, helping individuals develop a mindset that thrives on long-term growth rather than quick fixes.
Expanding the Influence: Beyond the Gym
Espo’s impact stretches far beyond the walls of Bad Ass Academy. In addition to training individuals at the academy, he’s also written a book, WAHOOS in Life, that shares his principles of mental toughness and self-discipline. His work emphasizes that these lessons can be applied not just in fitness, but in every area of life.
Espo has also gained recognition in the broader fitness community, being featured on NBC Sports, Yes Network, and MSG Network. His approach to fitness, which balances physical strength with mental resilience, has earned him respect from athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Despite his growing success, Espo remains focused on the core mission that fueled his journey from the beginning: helping people live healthier, more resilient lives. His message is clear: “The choice is always yours. It’s about taking responsibility for your life and making the decision to improve, no matter how small the step.”
What Sets Bad Ass Academy Apart
What makes Bad Ass Academy unique is Espo’s authentic commitment to practicing what he preaches. His hands-on approach and dedication to his own physical and mental well-being make him a relatable and inspiring figure to his members. Espo’s personal investment in his own growth is what has helped foster a gym culture where mental resilience is as important as physical fitness.
Bad Ass Academy has become a leading destination for those seeking more than just physical results. It’s a place where individuals can develop mental resilience, build strength, and become the best version of themselves, in fitness and in life.
To learn more about Bad Ass Academy and the journey behind it, visit their website and follow Anthony Espo on Instagram for updates and daily motivation.