Wade Johnson is a household name in powerlifting. THE LIST OF ACCOLADES TO HIS NAME IS IMPRESSIVE, BUT THE IMPACT HE HAS HAD ON HIS ATHLETES AND THE SPORT IS HIS LEGACY.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re competing across the world or down the road. He shows up. And he’s committed. And he gives you everything he has to offer. And he’ll probably cry. Maybe ask for a sandwich too.”
WADE JOHNSON is the founder of The Ogre Compound and one of the most accomplished strength athletes of his time. He began his powerlifting career in 1999 and has since won national and world titles in powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and strongman. In 2012, he totaled 2400 pounds and was the the number one Super Heavy Weight with a 1,040 pound squat.
“I have been so blessed and thankful to get involved in this sport at such an advanced age. I know I could have never accomplished what I have without the patience, expertise, knowledge, wisdom and guidance of Wade. He is truly the best!”
In addition to coaching over 50 athletes both in person and remotely, Wade works full-time at the Nashville Symphony Schermerhorn Center. He is an accomplished bassist, touring musician and published songwriter.
Wade-isms
Ask any member of Team Ogre about training with Wade and you're sure to hear some "Wade-isms" make their way into the conversation. Wade-isms begin as memorable tidbits of strength training wisdom that stand out in Wade's coaching lectures during training, but they quickly infiltrate into all aspects of life. Wade will tell you, "If the only thing I've done is made you stronger, I haven't done my job." (that's a Wade-ism, by the way). FEELINGS DON'T MATTER!
“I had only been training with Wade for a few months when I landed in the hospital after almost dying of a blood clot in my lungs. The day I came back, Wade told me that a weak person would have died that day, but I didn’t because I was strong. His faith in me and in all of his athletes NEVER waivers. When you hear Wade say “you’re good”—on the platform, at the gym, in the hospital, or in your head—you can’t help but believe him.”
“Wade is the only person I’ve known in my life to invite someone to stay in his home, eat his food, drink his alcohol, and train in his gym for over a week without having met in real life before. The most caring, inspiring, motivational, and funny people I’ve ever known.”