Who I Am

My name is Austin Pettitt, and I am the founder of Applied Strength and Tactics. At Applied Strength and Tactics, my mission is to deliver elite physical preparation for first responders, military personnel, and any individual committed to achieving a higher standard of readiness. We were founded on the conviction that conventional forces—such as Army and Marine Corps infantry units—and first responders deserve specialized training protocols tailored to the unique demands of their professions. Our methodology is the result of integrating rigorous academic principles with practical, field-tested experience. The focus is on the conjugate training system, a training modality that allows for year long performance with an emphasis on durability and strength.

As a U.S. Army Airborne Infantryman, I saw firsthand how conventional fitness programs often failed to build the durable, mission-ready strength that modern soldiers require. I witnessed a critical gap between the demands of the field and the quality of physical preparation. This drove me to build a better solution—one forged by real-world experience, founded on scientific principles, and validated by the industry's most elite credentials.

My approach begins with a Bachelor's in Exercise Physiology, providing a deep understanding of the human body. This academic foundation is sharpened by the premier certifications in the field: the NSCA's Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and the specialized Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F). To ensure these programs are delivered with maximum strategic impact, I also hold an MBA, allowing me to build comprehensive performance solutions, not just workouts. My mission is to use this unique synthesis of knowledge to build more resilient, effective, and durable operators for the military, police, and fire communities.

Whether I am structuring a multi-million dollar investment portfolio for my clients at a major financial firm or designing a mission-critical strength program for a Tactical Athlete, my methodology is identical: it is strategic, data-driven, and relentlessly focused on mitigating risk while maximizing performance. This is my passion, and I am dedicated to improving the wellbeing and operational readiness of every client I serve.

Institutional & Athletic Program Development

Beyond my work with individual Tactical Athletes, I leverage my experience to enhance organizational readiness. I have pioneered the first-ever Ranger Challenge Strength and Conditioning program with my comrades at the Tarleton State Kinetic Performance Lab and have coached new cadets within the Tarleton ROTC program. I offer dedicated consulting and contracting services to optimize the physical preparedness of any Military Unit, First Responder Department, High School and Collegiate athletic programs, drawing on experience coaching groups of all sizes, from 1-on-1 to teams of 30+.

Credentials & Verification

  • NSCA Member ID: 001063908

  • CSCS ID: 7248282294

  • TSAC-F ID: 7248230806

Contact us

Ready to move beyond generic training? Let's schedule a consultation to discuss your specific goals and operational demands. We will leverage my unique synthesis of infantry experience, advanced degrees (BS, MBA), and elite certifications (CSCS, TSAC-F) to build your precise path to peak performance. This is a no strings attached and completely free consultation.