Meet Emmy Vargas | Olympic weightlifting coach and gym owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emmy Vargas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emmy, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Our upbringing and background have a significant impact on how we develop, as well as the choices we make.

My parents, soon to be born brother and I immigrated to the US from El Salvador in the 1980’s, to escape the civil war. According to them it was a decision that was made in less than a week. They are not impulsive people, but they were faced with a difficult choice to leave the country to find safety in the US. They thought they would return soon, but over a decade went by before either were to set foot back in El Salvador. The challenges that they faced were many, and my brother and I saw how they managed adversity. We try to model ourselves after them since they were some of the best examples of drive and resiliency.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m excited that our gym has recently relocated to a bigger facility that is able to offer more to our community. Barbarian Barbell is an all-inclusive safe space that provides expert instruction and coaching in Olympic Weightlifting, Powerlifting, and Strength & Conditioning. We welcome lifters of all ages and experience levels who are looking to develop physical strength and confidence in a fun, disciplined and supportive environment.

There are always challenges when running a business, and I’ve been lucky to have had many mentors along the way. I’m fortunate that one of my athletes is an experienced business owner who has been generous with her time and expertise which has been instrumental in our continued growth.

We want to continue providing a unique place for those that want to learn about the sport and more about themselves.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Personally, I just like to hop in my car and cruise with no destination just to relax.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am fortunate I have the support from my family, my athletes and friends to grow our Club into what it is today.

Website: https://barbarianbarbell.com/

Instagram: @barbarianbarbell

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarbarianBarbell

Image Credits
We would like to credit John McCrary for the amazing images he’s captured of us over the years.