About Coach Nik Aston
Certifications/Degrees:
Master of Science in Exercise Science, Appalachian State University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, University of New Mexico
NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
USAW-1 Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach
Specialties:
Strength Training
Olympic Weightlifting
Highland Games/Track & Field Throwing
Strongman Training
From an early age I’ve been obsessed with improving my athletic performance through strength & conditioning. My passion for the weight room drove me to pursue a degree in Exercise Science from UNM and a Master’s degree in Exercise Science with a Strength & Conditioning Concentration from Appalachian State so I could learn how to best help others accomplish their fitness/athletic goals. At both schools, I was lucky enough to learn from some tremendous strength coaches who helped shape my training philosophy and gave me hands-on experience coaching athletes. I’ve also worked in gyms as a personal trainer/strength coach since 2015. During this time, I’ve gained experience coaching clients of varying ages, backgrounds, experience/ability levels, and limitations. I’ve helped high school and college athletes, competitive weightlifters, powerlifters, highland games athletes, and general fitness enthusiasts get stronger, put on muscle, lose body fat, and get rid of nagging aches & pains. No matter your goals, I’m confident that I can help you reach them!
I am also a lifelong athlete. I played various sports growing up including baseball, football, and track & field. I competed for the UNM track & field team through college, and since graduating I have competed in the sports of olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and Highland games. Sports and competition have played a huge role in my physical strength and fitness, and they will always be a part of my life.
When I’m not training clients or working out myself, I enjoy hiking the beautiful mountains of New Mexico, hanging out at local breweries, watching football, and spending time with my friends.
Accomplishments:
2023 5th Place at the Celtic Classic (USA National Professional Highland Games Championships)
2021 Amateur World Highland Games Champion
2021 IHGF All-American Champion
UNM Javelin Thrower 2013-2017
Fun Facts:
I play the guitar
I have lived in 3 states including New Mexico, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania
I played baseball on ESPN at the age of 12