The Future Of Fitness Podcast Explores Athlete Performance With D1 Training CEO | D1 Daily

More than 20 years after founding D1 Training, CEO Will Bartholomew continues to focus on the same mission that started it all: developing athletes through elite coaching and purposeful training.

Appearing on The Future of Fitness Podcast, Bartholomew shared his vision for where D1 is headed, why coaching matters more than ever, and how the company is continuing to invest in athletes across the country. Here are five of the biggest takeaways from the conversation.

Listen to the full Future Of Fitness podcast here

1. D1 Has Always Been About More Than Performance

Bartholomew didn't start D1 simply to help athletes run faster or lift heavier weights. His vision was to create an environment where sports could be used to develop character just as much as athletic ability.

After experiencing the structure and discipline of collegiate strength training at the University of Tennessee, he realized the weight room could shape confidence, leadership, and resilience, not just physical performance.

"This is more than just getting bigger, faster, stronger. It's about building your mind, your heart, and your soul," Bartholomew said.

That philosophy continues to guide every D1 location today.

2. Every Athlete Receives a Personalized Development Plan

According to Bartholomew, every athlete's journey begins with an assessment.

After meeting with a coach and discussing goals, athletes are placed into the training environment that best fits their age, schedule, and objectives. Every athlete follows an eight-week training cycle with measurable benchmarks before being retested to track progress.

Outside of the facility, athletes also receive educational resources and support through the D1 app to help maximize recovery, nutrition, and overall development.

3. Technology Is Helping D1 Better Track Athlete Development

One of the areas Bartholomew is most excited about is D1's investment in technology.

The company is developing tools that will allow athletes and parents to better understand long-term athletic development through verified testing data and performance tracking.

“We’re going to be able to take where a kid is in seventh grade and tell you exactly, ‘This is what you’re projected to be.’” Bartholomew recalled during the podcast.

READ: D1 Training Launches D1 Verified To Bring Trusted Performance Testing To Athletes Nationwide

Combined with new partnerships, D1's goal is to provide athletes with clearer benchmarks throughout their journey.

Rather than simply measuring performance today, D1 wants to help athletes understand where they can go tomorrow.

4. Great Coaching Will Always Be D1's Competitive Advantage

While technology continues to evolve, Bartholomew believes nothing replaces great coaching.

He emphasized that the best coaches do more than teach proper technique. They inspire confidence, build relationships, and create an environment where athletes enjoy the process of improving.

“My dream is for when athletes across the country go, ‘When I got to D1 it’s because of my coach,’” Bartholomew said.

D1 continues to invest in coaches who are passionate about mentoring athletes and creating lasting impact within their communities.

5. The Mission Remains the Same

Although D1 continues to grow across the country, Bartholomew says success isn't defined by the number of facilities.

Instead, he measures success by the number of athletes reaching their goals and the number of communities being transformed through positive coaching.

"We're on a mission to put inspiring and motivating coaching in every community in the country," Bartholomew said. “As long as you keep serving athletes first, you'll accomplish whatever mission you're on.”

More than two decades after opening the first D1 location, that athlete-first mindset continues to shape every workout, every coach, and every athlete who walks through the doors.

Listen to the full Future Of Fitness podcast here

D1 Training is built for the Everyday Athlete—no matter your age or fitness level. Whether you’re looking for personalized coaching through personal training, the energy and accountability of a group fitness class, or a variety of high-impact fitness classes, our expert coaches are here to help you reach your goals. D1 also specializes in youth strength and conditioning, developing young athletes with age-appropriate programming that builds confidence, strength, and long-term success. Wherever you are in your fitness journey, D1 is the place to train.