Meet Justin Grier | Personal Trainer & Clothing Brand owner of Lead By Example Fitness

We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Grier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind creating my own business, was honestly self motivation. After spending time trying to play professional football and deciding to hang up the cleats, I was trying to find myself. During the time I was working warehousing/ logistics and was trying to move up the chain within my company. After a month of interviews with several companies I knew deep within my heart this wasn’t the career path that I wanted to take. I didn’t want to work a 9-5 making someone else rich. So I spent a couple of days thinking what I really wanted to do. After spending to think and spiritual prayer I came up with the answer. I knew that I wanted to work for myself, but I also wanted to be able to leave a positive impact in peoples lives, and that’s where becoming a personal trainer came about.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have been working as a personal trainer for four years now, and I feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to positively impact the lives of over 100 clients. While I wouldn’t say I specialize in any particular area, I consider myself well-rounded in various aspects of fitness, including weight loss, muscle endurance, muscle hypertrophy (building muscle), core training, form and technique, as well as Olympic lifts and CrossFit exercises. I believe what sets me apart, from what I have heard from my clients, is the attention to detail to form and technique, and just being patient with them. What I’m most proud of are the transformations and achievements my clients have made under my guidance over the past few years.

Making the transition of becoming a personal trainer had its ups and downs. Everyone has a gift that God has given us and sometimes fear prevents us from taking that step to use or pursue it. As mentioned earlier, my family and friends had suggested years ago, after I graduated college, that I should consider becoming a trainer on the side. However, at the time, I was quite stubborn and focused solely on pursuing my dream of playing professional football. When I eventually decided to retire from football, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of what my next chapter would entail and which career path would allow me to continue making a positive impact on people’s lives. To be honest, I was lost and searching for direction.

Then, one day, I had a heartfelt conversation with God, expressing my willingness to accept whatever plan or purpose He had in store for me. It was during this moment of reflection and surrender that I felt a calling to pursue a career in personal training. I wholeheartedly embraced this divine guidance and embarked on the journey to become a trainer.

What I want people to know about our brand is, Lead By Example Fitness, is more than a fitness brand; we’re a vibrant, family-based community fostering health, unity, and empowerment.

Our mission is to provide a holistic approach to fitness, nurturing physical and mental strength, and building a supportive community. Regardless of background or skill level, everyone is welcome. We aim to be a cornerstone of positive change, uplifting and inspiring through the embodiment of leading by example.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course we are going to workout everyday!

Day 1: We will start with a workout at the gym to kick off the day with energy. Next, we have to head to The Breakfast Boys on Main St. in College Park or South City Kitchen for a brunch experience. Exploring the BeltLine, taking in the various parks and trails, or spending time at Ponce City Market is a good afternoon activity. In the evening, we will freshen up and head out for some fun at Your 3rd Spot or The Painted Duck, enjoying games, food, and drinks.

Day 2: Start the morning with Rosie’s, because they never disappoint. Mid-Morning we can visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden or go to Fetch with my dog and grab some drinks. The afternoon can include Piedmont Park, enjoying the greenery and perhaps renting bikes for a ride around the park. In the evening, we can hit up Rock Steady for some food and drinks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to some very special people in my life who have played pivotal roles in my journey as a personal trainer. First, I would like to thank to my mother and my friends. Their encouragement and constant support has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue this path. Without their belief in me and their gentle pushes, I wouldn’t have had the courage to take the leap of faith into pursuing this career.

I also want to extend a massive shoutout to my incredible wife, Lauren. Since day one, she has been my rock. While her support might often go unnoticed by others, behind the scenes, she is the true backbone of Lead By Example Fitness. Her unwavering love, understanding, and sacrifices have enabled me to chase my dreams with confidence and determination.

To my mother, my friends, and my beloved wife, I am blessed beyond measure to have such amazing individuals by my side as I strive to inspire and empower others through fitness. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything you do.

Website: lbefitness.com

Instagram: justin17grier

Other: IG fitness page Lbefit