meet
doug briggs
With over 30 years in the world of strength and conditioning, I’ve coached clients to become stronger, both physically and mentally. My approach is grounded in experience, backed by science, and driven by a passion for coaching real people toward real results.
I hold advanced degrees from multiple universities, including Arizona State, and am recognized as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS,*D) and a Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach, Emeritus (RSCC,*E) through the National Strength & Conditioning Association. These aren’t just titles. They reflect a career built on rigorous training, research-backed practice, and a commitment to excellence.
My specialties include youth and adult strength training, tactical performance, and Olympic weightlifting. I’ve coached high school athletes pursuing Division I scholarships, elite soldiers preparing for deployment, and everyday professionals seeking strength, energy, and confidence.
In fitness, and in life, it’s structure and consistency that build resilience. Not fads. Not technology. I believe in smart training, honest effort, and measurable progress. Every client I coach receives personalized attention and a program that fits their life, not the latest trend.
I opened my first gym in 1989, just 900 square feet in a HUD housing project. By the time I closed my last gym, it had grown into a 17,000 square foot Powerhouse Gym, one of the largest in the Southwest. What started as a personal love for training evolved into a mission to help others unlock their own strength.
Outside the gym, I’ve served as the U.S. Army’s Holistic Health & Fitness Program Director, coached Olympic weightlifters, written multiple books, and contributed to publications like Army Times and Pure Power Magazine. But at my core, I’m still the guy who just loves helping people move better, feel stronger, and live healthier.
If you're ready to stop winging it, I’d be honored to be your coach.
YOUR CERTIFIED STRENGTH COACH
About Me
- Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS,*D), 1994–Present
- Registered Strength & Conditioning Coach, Emeritus (RSCC,*E), 2011–Present
- NSCA Fly Solo Mentor, 2008–Present
- NSCA Tactical Strength & Conditioning – Training the Tactical Athlete, 2008
CERTIFICATIONS & CREDENTIALS
National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA)
- Certified Coach, 1996
- Certified Regional Coach, 1996
- Assistant Coach for Men’s & Women’s National Teams (International Competitions)
- President & Secretary, New Mexico Local Weightlifting Committee
USA Weightlifting (USAW)
- Biomechanics of Strength Training Specialty Certification, 1996
- Physical Fitness Specialist, 2004
- Providing Dietary Guidance Specialty Certification, 2005
The Cooper Institute
- American Heart Association CPR/AED/First Aid Certified, 2006–Present
- Bod Pod Certified, 2007
- Clayton College of Natural Health – Natural Wellness Certificate, 2006
- Dumbbell & Nutrition 101, Staff Certification, 2013
- FMS (Functional Movement Systems) Level 1 & 2, 2013
- Fitness Anywhere TRX Instructor Certification, 2008
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) – Master of Fitness Science, 1996
- Keiser Indoor Cycling Certification, 2010
- KFIT Kettlebell Certification Level I & II, 2013
- MicroFit FAS-2, Ph.D. Level, 2014
- MicroFit Certified FAS-2 Assessment Operator, 2009
additional certifications
- NSCA Tactical Strength & Conditioning Facilitator of the Year, 2014
- NSCA Assistantship Recognition Award, 2001
- Personal Fitness Professionals (PFP) – Personal Trainer of the Month, 2018
- Pan American Masters Weightlifting Champion – 2002, 2005
- USA Weightlifting Masters National Champion – 2005, 2007
- Set Pan American Masters Snatch Record – 2002
- Named “Athlete of the Year,” New Mexico Games – 2002
- Holder of 100+ State Records in Olympic Weightlifting
AWARDS & HONORS
Alexander, 6/2/2001, New Mexico Games Youngest Registered Weightlifter in the World
— LINDA | EL PASO, TX
"For a nurse with two decades of dedication to running, finding a strength coach who truly understands the intricacies of endurance, recovery, and lifestyle demands is vital—and Doug Briggs exemplifies that standard. As the owner of Doug Briggs Strength and a coach certified by the NSCA, Doug has crafted weight training programs specifically designed for runners transitioning into strength work. His method emphasizes durability, power, and injury prevention, all tailored to real-life demands—especially for professionals like nurses who balance long shifts and physical stress. With client testimonials and collaborative programming Doug’s approach is evidence-based and deeply personalized. His work reflects not only technical excellence but also the empathy and adaptability that make a coach exceptional"
— ZACH R | SAN ANTONIO, TX
"I’ve had the privilege of working with Doug since I was 15 years old, and I can confidently say that his impact on my athletic career has been invaluable. Through his summer weightlifting program at Fort Bliss, I not only learned the fundamentals of lifting, but also gained critical insight into sport-specific training that helped shape my development as an athlete.
Even today, I still use the programs Doug developed. They’ve stood the test of time and remain an essential part of my training routine. If you’re serious about your fitness or athletic development, Doug’s training is the way to go. His dedication to helping clients reach their full potential and his constant drive to push athletes to be their best is unmatched. I highly recommend Doug to anyone looking to take their training to the next level."
— KENDALL | JOHNS CREEK, GA
"Working with Doug Briggs this summer has seriously improved me as an athlete. He made me a personalized strength, speed, and agility program, and in just six weeks I’ve made huge progress. I’m faster, more agile, and I’ve hit new maxes on all my lifts. One of the biggest things was how he taught me the right form for every lift—now I feel way more confident in the gym and I’m getting stronger without getting hurt.
Doug’s programs are super structured, goal-based, and actually work. Every workout had a purpose, and I could tell I was getting better week by week. His attention to detail and ability to tailor everything to my goals really sets him apart. I never felt like I was following a generic plan—he designed everything to help me become a better, more explosive athlete.
If you want to get stronger, faster, and see real results, I definitely recommend working with Doug. His training made a huge difference for me."
— Brandon G.
"I’ve had the privilege of working with Doug for over a decade, both as a personal trainer and as a program designer for my fitness goals. He’s helped me achieve milestones I never thought possible — from stepping on stage for a men’s physique competition to hitting PRs in bench press, squat, and deadlift.
Doug creates highly individualized programs that balance performance, physique, and health. Despite major injuries — including two separated shoulders and three ACL replacements — I’ve not only maintained my fitness, but thrived. At 42, I can still keep up with my teenage daughters thanks to the durability and strength I’ve built under Doug’s guidance.
I trust him completely and recommend him to anyone serious about fitness, performance, or lifelong health."
Take the guesswork out of your training. Let’s build a program that fits your goals, your life, and your level. Finally get results that last.
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