TESTIMONIALS

THE ATHLETES

"I've been working with Matt for a little over five years, and I can confidently say he's one of the most dedicated and knowledgeable coaches I've ever met. When I started with him, I was at a low point in my powerlifting career—PRs were rare, I was dealing with pain, and my physique wasn’t where I wanted it to be. From our very first training block (right before the pandemic), I hit a squat PR for the first time in over a year—with more in the tank. Within a year, I had added 50 pounds to my bench and 40 pounds to my deadlift.

What truly sets Matt apart is how he navigates the tough times. As life brought more stress and physical challenges, Matt never wavered. He approached my setbacks with the same urgency and care as if he were dealing with them himself. Whether it's applying his deep understanding of biomechanics, consulting with colleagues who specialize in physical therapy, or thinking outside the box, Matt always finds a way forward. His dedication to problem-solving and athlete well-being is unmatched.

Matt gives 100% to every athlete—whether you're highly competitive, intermediate, or just starting out. He also brings a wealth of knowledge in exercise selection, introducing me to movements I never would have discovered on my own, many of which have become staples in my programming.

Working with Matt has not only made me a better athlete but has also connected me with someone I consider a true friend. If you're serious about training and want a coach who will go above and beyond, Matt is the real deal.”

— CHRIS C. 83kg

“From day 1 of working with Matt, I knew I was in good hands in terms of coaching and being able to reach my short- and long-term goals as a lifter. It was clear, upon speaking with him for the first time, that he first and foremost had a passion for helping others. In the short time we have been working together, Matt has instilled in me a confidence in my ability as an athlete that I did not have previously in the 2 years I have been competing in powerlifting. Every training block, training day, and prescribed movement serves a purpose and he is always willing to explain the purpose and progression of the program. The detail and thoroughness he puts into our weekly check-ins is unparalleled. As a lifter, I am obsessed with my technique and form. Matt’s ability to effectively convey visual cues to me was a fundamental reason we were able to make adjustments to my technique that would ultimately result in more efficient movement.

 Matt continues to impress me with his deep knowledge of the sport and his innate coaching ability. This was especially evident on meet day. From start to finish, he made the day less stressful, he called every attempt perfectly, and helped me execute a smooth 9-for-9 platform performance.

Having been an athlete in various sports throughout my life, I’ve worked with many coaches over the years. I’ve learned that the most effective coaches are not merely those that know the sport inside and out but also those who take that knowledge and experience and know how to apply it individually to each of their athletes. Matt is not just effective but he is also kind, thorough, deliberate, and patient. There is a reason why his reputation precedes him. It is clear to me that Matt is an incredibly talented coach who immensely cares about his athletes and being able to bring out the very best in each of them.”

— ASTRID G. 52kg

“As an “older” non-elite lifter at 32 with 10 years of powerlifting experience, I wasn’t sure if I could still make big progress, but I figured I’d give it a shot with a new coach.

I hired Matt in April of 2023 and I think it’s the best decision I’ve ever made with my training. In my first meet with him I added nearly 20kg to my best total, and training is trending to add even more at my next meet.

As a coach, Matt is a wizard at problem solving and programming. I had a meniscus tear and surgery that we worked around and ended up matching my PR squat. We also got a huge bench PR after not hitting one in over 5 years.

I think what really sets Matt apart though is that he is a genuinely good human who cares about his lifters. He has fostered a great community between those of us he coaches.”

— BRAD A. 93kg

THE COACHES

“Over my years as a coach and gym owner, I can count on one hand the people whose opinions in strength and conditioning can make me rethink, and reorganize, how I do what I do. Matt Cronin is one of those people. His careful approach to observing details and finding training options that suit his clients exact needs, and not his own individual beliefs, are fundamental to what makes Matt great. After owning a facility that has trained thousands of people and employed dozens of interns and coaches, Matt is at the top of the list of trainers I have had the pleasure to work with. Without question you cannot get better results and coaching than what Matt provides, as he may be the brightest young coach in the industry today.”

— BILL ROM, OWNER OF SUPERIOR ATHLETICS

“I've had the pleasure of working with Matt at Murder of Crows Barbell Club, where he was a huge value-add to the community as a part-time coach. He is gifted in his ability to explain advanced powerlifting concepts in a very relatable and friendly way, but also demands excellence in the execution of his instruction while remaining empathetic to the needs of the individual athlete in front of him.

Matt brings forth an unparalleled level of care, humility, and intelligence to anyone who's lucky enough to receive his guidance, and he is extremely consistent in his coaching demeanor and application regardless of the skill level he's working with. Furthermore, his work ethic is unprecedented both in and out of the gym- his desire to learn and improve shows both in his ever-growing total and remarkable coaching ability.

In short, Matt is an exceptional coach, colleague, and human- simply put, I regard him as an important thought leader in powerlifting, and I feel extremely lucky to call him a close friend and contemporary. Any individual seeking to gain a unique competitive advantage, or simply seeking to improve their performance in this sport, would be hard-pressed to find a coach more qualified than Matt Cronin.”

— SEAN COLLINS, OWNER OF SINCERE TRAINING SYSTEMS