The Brand

Our Story: Conquering Barbell - From Hardship to Triumph

Welcome to Conquering Barbell, a family-owned and operated company that has been a symbol of strength and perseverance since 2013, formerly known as Forged Iron Training. Our journey is one of resilience, determination, and an unyielding spirit to overcome all odds.

Conquering Barbell was born from the indomitable spirit of our CEO and Founder, Audie Antonino. Raised amidst the challenges of life in the Philippines, Audie learned early on that everything worth having is earned through hard work and determination. Growing up in the slums and facing trials from typhoons to gang wars, Audie's background molded his perspective on life, giving him the drive to keep moving forward.

The iron game became Audie's sanctuary when he began weightlifting at the age of 15. With each lift, he found solace, empowerment, and a path to unleash his potential. In 2013, faced with job loss and financial hardship, Audie harnessed his creativity and determination to embark on a new journey. What started as a small personal training business evolved into Forged Iron Training, marked by the creation of a t-shirt design that resonated with the fitness community.

Through hard work and sheer determination, Audie hustled to promote his brand, reaching out to local gyms, the online community, and his own social network. However, it wasn't until December 2014 that Conquering Barbell emerged, redefining the brand's identity. Conquering Barbell symbolizes blue-collar warriors, those who embrace the challenges and rewards of heavy lifting, and who walk the talk both in and out of the gym. It stands for the grit and determination that Audie witnessed in his grandparents, who rose at 3 a.m. every day to provide for their family.

Speaking of 4 a.m. training sessions, it's a tradition that runs deep in Audie's heritage. He recalls his grandparents' unwavering commitment to their daily routine, showcasing sacrifice and unwavering dedication. When his alarm sounds at 3:45 a.m., Audie pays homage to his grandparents' spirit by never hitting the snooze button.

At Conquering Barbell, we embody the values of hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness. We understand that success is born from the willingness to face adversity head-on and to pursue our dreams relentlessly. Our aim is to motivate and inspire others to conquer their own challenges, just as we've conquered ours.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. As you explore our website and discover our products, we hope you feel the passion, dedication, and unyielding spirit that define Conquering Barbell. We invite you to be a part of our story, a story of triumph over adversity, forging strength, and conquering the path we choose.

Your brother in iron,
Audie