With over a decade of experience across Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, CrossFit, and bodybuilding, I built Barbender Academy on a deep commitment to sharing strength through barbell sports.

I began my journey in fitness at the age of seven, learning from my father, Jean Senior, a professional bodybuilder whose discipline and passion shaped my foundation. His guidance taught me early that strength is more than performance, it’s a practice, a responsibility, and a way of carrying yourself in the world.

As an athlete, I’ve competed on national stages in both powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting. Those experiences taught me lessons that I now bring into my coaching, helping me translate high-level principles into clear, digestible guidance for every athlete I work with. As a USAW/USAPL certified coach, I’ve had the privilege of training athletes at every level, including lifters who have stepped onto national platforms. My approach is guided primarily by the athlete. I believe that a strong coach-athlete relationship is the best line towards great progress. 

Whether someone is stepping under a barbell for the first time or preparing for elite competition, my focus is consistent:

• Build strong fundamentals and reinforce the basics

• Train with intention and clear purpose

• Create resilience that lasts

• Foster a supportive environment where athletes feel confident and capable

At Barbender Academy, my mission is simple: help people express their strength, physically, mentally, and in ways that carry into every part of their lives. Strength is elemental, a core of who we are, and a power we can use to lift ourselves and others.

Cooper Johnson brings over a decade of competitive combat sports and barbell experience to Barbender. He began his athletic career at just 7 years old in boxing, building an 11-year competitive career that included winning NY Metros, placing second at the Metro Junior Olympic Championships, and reaching the semifinals of the Ringside Amateur World Championships two years in a row.

In 2020, Cooper transitioned into powerlifting, quickly establishing himself as a Regional Champion, and 2x National competitor. He expanded his hybrid performance background in Olympic weightlifting beginning in 2022, qualifying for U25 Nationals twice and earning recognition as a U25 National Medalist.

Cooper is USAW Level 2 certified and USA Boxing certified, allowing him to bridge strength sport and combat sport development seamlessly. At Barbender, his coaching focus includes strength development for fighters, hybrid performance training, individualized boxing sessions, and barbell coaching for athletes of all levels.