I first found out about Austin Dunham, when I begain my journey into calisthenics, over a year ago now.
He has a transformation video that was truly impressive, and of course, was able to achive such stellar results using only his own bodyweight.
What stuck out most about Austin, was his great ability to break down how he made such huge gains. His subsequent videos were no-nonsense and full of awesome little pearls of wisdom, especially for those just starting out in the world of calisthenics.
His tutorials are extremely helpful, and practical.
Austin, is currently in college, and while in school has managed to create a nice following of YouTube subscribers.
I was super excited to interview him to learn more about his way of thinking and what drove him to originally get into calisthenics in the first place.
Calisthenics Magazine, is proud to present, Austin Dunham.
Thanks Austin for your time, to begin…
Could you tell us a little bit about how you got into Calisthenics?
My original goal was to look for ways to do more pushups on my ROTC fitness test. I stumbled upon some calisthenics videos and transformations, and from there I decided I wanted to be able to exceed my original goal
You have inspired people all around the world, who has inspired you in your life?
In my life definitely my mom. She has done a good job keeping me motivated and without her sometimes I’ve could have lost it.
If you could thank three people in your life who would they be and what would you say to each of them?
Mom- Thank you for being a great mentor and leader towards me
(not a person) ROTC – without enrolling in this program I would have never heard of calisthenics.
Grandparents – Thanks for the love and support throughout my life.
There are a lot of myths or just plain non-truths when it comes to Calisthenics what is one that you seem to hear over and over?
One big one that I hear over and over is that calisthenics cant build muscle and strength. People are ignorant to the idea and assume that all you do is 1,000 reps of pushups and pullups. Wrong. Calisthenics come with variations just like weightlifting.
What’s the most important lesson you have learned in life either personally or professionally?
I’m still young but I’d say that barriers will come your way left and right, and sometimes you feel hopeless. But there is always light at the end of the tunnel whether you can see it or not.
In one sentence or phrase how would you define success?
Work Ethic.
What was the most challenging or difficult decision you had to make?
Whether or not I wanted to leave college. I just got hopeless and unmotivated. But like I said there was light at the end of the tunnel and now I’m doing well.
As an inspirational and motivational fitness star, what pearls of wisdom or words of advice would you have for those chasing their dreams?
You must have a strong work ethic and always look for ways to improve yourself. If your dreams were easy everybody would be doing it. Everything takes time and effort. Put in the work and you will see a positive return.
Looking over your accomplishments thus far, is there anything you would have done differently or that you possibly regret?
Honestly no. My first few videos were spontaneous out of boredom. Never did I expect to come to this level, I’m very grateful.
What was the best decision you have made?
To start working out and sharing my knowledge/motivation with others.
What question should I have asked you that I didn’t ask? Why is that question important and what is the answer?
Where do you see yourself in the future?
This question is important because I’m on a road of continual progression and I’m never satisfied. The answer is, I want to finish my Bachelors degree while commissioning into the Air Force. I want to continue to make videos and workout and eventually reach a more broader audience and possibly making myself a brand.
