Episode #052: Justin Blatnik

Justin Blatnik is the Head Strength Coach and Owner of the Strength Empire Gym in Indian Trail, NC as well as Firefighter for the Charlotte Fire Department. Prior to opening Strength Empire in 2017, Blatnik was a self-employed strength coach and personal trainer, working with clients out of his garage since 2015. In addition to coaching at his own training facility, he’s worked as a personal trainer at Appalachian State Universities’ rec facility and a commercial gym as well been an intern at both Marvin Ridge High School and with the Carolina Panthers. 

Blatnik is the definition of a strength sport enthusiast. After playing football for a season at Saint Vincent College he began focusing his efforts competing in Powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and Highland Games. He has also tried his hand competing in MAS Wrestling, grip strength, and Highlander competitions. Blatnik continues to compete nationally in Highland Games all while being an active duty firefighter and has placed as high as 4th and 3rd place as a lightweight competitor at Nationals and Worlds, respectively.