The Sect Fitness

STEADMAN

Sun, 18 May 2025 03:48:00 GMT

Coach | Fighter | Father | Hardcore Philosopher

In His Words

“I look in the mirror and no longer see that scared young man—I see someone who can help others find what I had to tear out of every fiber of my being.”

Who is Matt Steadman?

Matt Steadman doesn’t just coach fitness—he coaches transformation . A mainstay and extremely valuable part of our team, Matt brings a rare combination of grit, empathy, dedication, and lived experience. His path didn’t start in country clubs or health science labs. It started in a world most people try to escape from—and he fought his way out.

Raised amid chaos and instability, Matt found meaning in movement and friends—from skateboarding and hardcore shows to MMA and eventually fatherhood. Each chapter sharpened his edge, deepened his purpose, and shaped the coach we rely on today.

From Fistfights to Classrooms

Matt’s fitness journey formally kicked off in his early 20s while training for MMA. That process didn’t just transform his body—it changed his life’s trajectory. What began as a means of survival became a lifelong path of discovery—and eventually of service. Ever since, he’s been coaching, not just in gyms and on mats but also academically. Matt teaches Fitness and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with us while also holding down gigs at Salt Lake Community College and the University of Utah . His schedule is the wildest around… A beautiful mess of early AM lifts, BJJ classes, late training sessions, and maybe a carb or two.

Heavy Music, Heavy Lifts & Now Coffee

Matt’s ideal training day starts with a good breakfast and some delicious coffee after a good night’s rest. Then it’s into the gym for movement prep, explosive work (like box jumps or Olympic lifts), and his favorite strength lift: the Zercher squat —because, of course, it is. Conditioning rounds out the session, which he calls “the vegetables.” After he’s feeling good and alive, he’ll grab a snack, take the dog out, and off to Jiu Jitsu.

Oh, and the soundtrack? Let’s just say it’s extensive, spanning from obscure hardcore, metallic chaos, and—occasionally—your mom’s favorite 80s ballad . His playlists will either fire you up or leave you questioning your taste in music—or both.

Who He Trains Best

Matt thrives when working with honest, consistent, and open-minded people —those who show up ready to do the hard work and engage in real feedback. He’s not in it for aesthetics. He’s in it for progress , resilience , and helping people uncover the parts of themselves that they didn’t know existed.

From the Darkness – Comes Light

Matt doesn’t get into his past much. He’s lived through instability, abuse, incarceration, and self-doubt. But the birth of his first child at 29 sparked a transformation that cleared the slate. It was the shift from fighting against – to fighting for – to be the kind of man his kids can look up to. That turning point redefined his life, washed away hate, and anchored his purpose.

Matt Steadman is more than a coach—he is proof that transformation is possible , no matter how dark the start. He shows up with truth, intensity, and heart that’s been rebuilt from the ground up. And if you train with him, prepare to become more than you thought possible. Just be ready for odd hours, heavy lifts, and music that may terrify your tame playlist algorithm.

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JESS

Mon, 12 May 2025 14:53:00 GMT

Jessica Roberts is a force of nature—equal parts creator, partner, and peer.

Raised in small-town America, her early days were filled with horseback riding and team sports. As a teenager, she moved to the “big city” of Salt Lake and embraced dance and cheerleading, always seeking avenues to challenge herself physically and mentally. She excelled academically, securing scholarships and degrees from Southern Utah University and the University of Utah.

Professionally, Jessica has carved a niche in the design world. As a showroom designer at MLD, she seamlessly blends form and function, crafting beautiful and timeless spaces. Her innovative approach and ability to envision, plan, and execute have inspired fellow designers, world-class brands, and homeowners, securing her dream role with her dream employer and team at MLD .

Jess is not only a Founding Member but a Committed Contributor here.

When the Sect opened its doors, Jessica’s fitness journey transformed. Despite a solid foundation in physical activity, this new “style” of fitness resonated deeply, allowing her to cultivate immense value and capability within herself and her community. From birthing children to injuries to demanding projects, Jessica faces challenges head-on, always finding a way forward rather than an excuse to quit.

What makes Jess tick..?

Why do you keep showing up?

“I show up because strength isn’t just physical; it’s how I influence and inspire, how I parent, how I show up in my job and life. My kids are always watching, and they deserve a mother who leads by example. My colleagues deserve someone confident and competent, and I deserve to be the best version of myself.”

How do you set yourself up for success regarding your goals?

“I build structure into my day, and training time is a non-negotiable, no matter how busy I am in the moment. That’s how I stay in alignment. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being intentional, even when things and life get chaotic.”

Describe your fitness journey in a sentence or two.

“After the team sports from my childhood were long over, I started working out again to control something in my life that I could control, and in the process, I discovered strength I didn’t know I had. What began as physical turned into mental resilience, and now, it’s my foundation and how I stay grounded.”

What do you tell yourself when you don’t want to show up?

“You’ve done harder things. This rep, this hour, this choice—it’s where the difference is made. On the days I don’t want to show up, I remember who I’m becoming. And I remind myself: showing up for myself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. I can’t pour into others if I’m empty.”

Jessica Roberts is a literal embodiment of form and function, a testament to intentional living, resilience, and the power of showing up, not just for oneself but for everyone who depends on you.

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FIKE

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 03:25:00 GMT

Jacob has lived in many places and worn many hats—farmer, carpenter, concrete worker, yoga teacher, surf bum, and trainer—but he’s always from ‘Bama. His life hasn’t centered on one thing; it’s been about people, experiences, and constant growth. In many ways, he’s a generalist.

Fike believes deeply in human potential—physically, mentally, and emotionally. That belief drove him to work in mental health, though it can sometimes lead to an idealistic view of others that’s hard to maintain. But supporting people is at his core. He wants others to feel empowered to express their unique qualities because he knows firsthand how tough life can be.

He lives by a few guiding principles: hard work, kindness, empathy, questioning his own beliefs, community, sacrifice, and the inevitable suffering that shapes us all. These are the things that ground him and why he is one of the best examples of what and who we strive to be. Fike feels like an extension of everything we stand for and who we aim to be.

A friend describes him in a way that truly resonates: Fike is part Southern gentleman, part psychonaut. He works with his hands as much as his mind, is quick to laugh, unafraid to cry, and is always honest. He embraces diversity and tolerates differing views but won’t stand for disrespect. He sometimes distrusts society, probably for good reason, but he values people who stand by their beliefs. Loyalty, kindness, and a willingness to grow – define who he strives to be.

Fike’s journey has taken him from bird hunting camps in Alabama to yoga farms in Costa Rica, building fences here in Salt Lake City, and now, to working as a therapist. He helps people grow physically and mentally because he’s walked a crooked path himself. He knows everyone is flawed, but he believes real beauty lies in the scars, the stories, and the journey itself.

We are honored to be in his orbit and are thankful for his contributions to us and those around him; we are better because of it… better because of him.

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HARD THINGS

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 21:52:00 GMT

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HOBBS

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 13:05:00 GMT

Jake Hobbs: Confidant, Guide, Facilitator

High desert dweller, ice cream lover, and high-octane adventurer with a passion for two-stroke’s and high stoke.

One thing is certain about Hobbs—he has strong opinions and they’re usually exactly what we need to hear. We’re grateful for Jake’s uncanny ability to offer insightful honest feedback that consistently guides us toward our true north and we would like to shed some light on our guy

Though he’s lived in various places, Jake’s heart belongs to Arizona and the desert—especially that perfect, damp “cake dirt.” Ironically, despite his love for the desert, he despises being hot.

Jake’s journey began in the BMX and skate shop scene, where he built a tight-knit network of friends at a young age. His career took root when he landed a role with one of the largest distributors in the snow industry, leading him to establish more permanent roots in Salt Lake City.

Jake’s circle is small, but once you’re in, you’re in for life. We’re fortunate that one of our major contributors, Jeremy Jones, brought Jake into our fold about five years ago. Since then, Jake has been an invaluable part of our Crew.

As a contributor, Jake has guided more participants through our M.A.P Program than anyone else, offering wisdom and support at every turn. His commitment to quality movement and effort is top-notch, earning himself a coveted top ten spot in our “Committed” M.A.P. lineup.

Training with Jake is always an experience—he often starts with a bit of disdain, but he always pushes through, ultimately crushing every session. It’s zero hope, fueled by spite, and his relentless effort drives him to succeed every time.

Jake’s understanding and appreciation of mental wellness, fitness, and ability gained though the physical training we do, is profound. When he’s not with us, he’s busy with a variety of ventures. Jake owns and operates BOLTS ROADHOUSE, a project dedicated to serving up good times. He’s also the best Sprinter Van outfitter in the business and works professionally as a facilitator on media production gigs.

One of Jake’s recent insights that has really resonated with us: Change is inevitable. Regardless of our intentions, everything changes—people, projects, perspectives. We can either be victims of change or take an active role in championing it.

Hobbs is brought to you by: Hazelnut Coffee Creamer, In-N-Out, Ben N Jerry’s, Dewalt Vacuums, and QOTSA

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C. O. D.

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 02:33:00 GMT

Our landscape has been polarizing.

So polarizing, it tended to become paralyzing. Over the last year we have found ourselves yet again, living in a “disunited state.” Whatever side of the fence you were on, Left or Right, Red or Blue, Black or “All,” the lines were drawn, and we found ourselves unable to relate to the other side. To perpetuate the problem, we are constantly hand-fed endless scrolling of self-confirming views and opinions by programmed algorithms and politicized information to identify, target, scare, and influence you to buy what they’re selling… However, the message we deliver is not to join us, not to believe what we believe or do what we do; but to remind us to be willing to step onto the other side of the line and work together towards a better future. The problems lie not in our differences but our disinclination, not our colors, but our character.

As a reminder, look up, look out, open your ears, mind, and eyes to the world around you. Break the cycle and choose collaboration over separation.

We are all different, and will never be the same nor equal in every aspect. We differ in color, belief, priorities, and perspective.

The problems do not lie in being different; they lie in not being willing and able to work with one another towards a shared better reality.

We are the problem – We are the solution.

Collaborate or Die.

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TRANSITION

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 19:27:00 GMT

This is how we brought in the new year at the gym

————

WARM-UP

3 Rounds of:

5x Romanian Deadlift +

5x Bent Row +

5x Muscle Snatch +

5x Overhead Squat +

5x Behind the Neck Press

*All done with #35/45 barbell in wide grip “snatch” position

_________________________________

WORKOUT

Buy in: 2,018 meter Erg (rower or ski)

Work: 100x Kettlebell swings @ +/- 50% Bodyweight KB

Cash out: 2,019 meter on same Erg

–

Expectations:

Advanced < 20min

Intermediate < 22min

Beginner < 24min

–

Cool Down w/ 100m bodyweight farmer carry (50% in each hand)

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Some things change, some things don’t

–

Be strong enough to accept the change you can’t control… and persistent enough to the see change you desire

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METTLE

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 22:38:00 GMT

It goes by many names, but your grit, resilience, heart or mettle, will be the most significant factor in whether you succeed or not. The “success” spoke of is also not limited to the gym and whether or not you pull a new “personal best” deadlift, but also life in general. Whether you live a good productive life, obtain that promotion, maintain that valued relationship or raise decent human beings, perseverance will be the most significant factor . As we all are aware, anything worthwhile doesn’t come easy… so do not be scared of the trials and look to develop traits that will help get you through the hard shit.

“Its far easier to strengthen yourself than to attempt to take the teeth out of the world that is around you.” -Ryan Holiday

When looking to build mettle in the gym we should commit to constant improvement .

To forge iron, we place it into the fire to the point of being red hot, pound it with a hammer, and then repeat till we have the desired shape and strength. How we build our own character is not much different. We as many others, use the gym and physical effort to build, forge and hone our mettle. The more time we think of and practice the virtues we seek, the more likely we are to attain or improve them. The physical world of effort is a great medium to do this, it’s quite easy to push ourselves physically to the point of wanting to quit… The iron pushing into your neck, the feeling of acid being accumulated in your legs and your lungs starving for oxygen and wanting to turn inside out are all things that hurt; and with pain being the best deterrent there is, it is very effective. If we can push through these things, then we can push through other things. In a controlled environment like the gym, we can get ourselves to these points quite easily and despite the temporary discomfort, we will generally be just fine. If done correctly the risk is minimal while the return is maximal.

To be worth your mettle you need to be disciplined and never conform to complacency . You build it by showing up, by doing hard things, and above all else being consistent. Some days we need to immerse ourselves into the flames and hammer out the inconsistencies of our character. Other days we need to let it cool and solidify, but the point is to keep the cycle repeating.

I want people to feel the urge to give up and give in, then to feel the sense of accomplishment when they don’t.

“When you keep searching for ways to change your situation for the better, you stand a chance of finding them. When you stop searching, assuming they can’t be found, you guarantee they won’t” -Angela Duckworth

Doing these things have more to do with attitude and action, than specific movements and output. It’s about deliberate practice towards achieving your goals. It’s about having a purpose, being focused, reflecting and then repeating. Rather than focusing on your strength, try focusing on your weakness , you may not look as cool to those around you, and not get as many “likes” on Instagram, but in the end, your training will pay dividends that far exceed the gym. What you are currently good at will eventually stagnate and fade… and if that’s all you’ve practiced, you will not have trained the ability to move on, to learn something new, to persevere.

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Although someone’s mettle can be seen and trained in how they approach most things, specifically static holds prove to be a great indicator and training tool for building mettle. People rarely fail a static hold due to a physical weakness, we fail because of metal ones. An example of this is the Front Leaning Rest or “FLR,” Most of us, choose to stop holding and drop because its uncomfortable and it sucks, not because we are physically unable, but rather mentally weak. Geoff Vincent pictured below held the position for 22 mins straight and strict, people have held longer but he was not trained to do so, he simply possesses mettle that others do not. Another individual, Tim Lawrence, who on paper has a “disability” (Cerebral Palsy) but is way stronger than most of us mentally, held the same position for 12min.

Geoff Vincent shortly after holding an FLR or plank for over 20min

There are smart ways to build mettle in the gym and very dumb ways… In general pay attention, listen to the warnings and don’t be stupid.

The problem often isn’t the movement, it’s the man.

Don’t let ego run the show , learn when to push the boundaries and when to hold back… sometimes going easy can be the hardest thing to do. Think about the long term and have patience; Character isn’t built over night or even in six weeks. Having an experienced coach or friend by your side to provide honest outside perspective is often the best resource to have. There is undoubtedly a point of diminishing returns, and pushing through shitty reps for “mental fortitude” is not the answer. Generally, in our experience it all comes down to intensity and volume. Both have their place and can be used for this end but when we start wanting to ride both lines is when we really need to pay attention.

With things like anxiety, depression and suicide steadily climbing, it’s obvious we are losing a war. We’re not claiming to know the cause nor antidote for the epidemic, but we all could use more mettle and, in my opinion, physical effort is the best way to gain it. Strive to persevere, to be worth your mettle; and when doing so… commit to resist complacency.

*Photos by Tobi Macphee and Zeb Watson

* Recommended reading: “Obstacle is the Way” Ryan Holiday; “Grit” Angela Duckworth; “Endure” Alex Hutchinson

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D.O.M.S is a Dick

Fri, 04 May 2018 20:45:00 GMT

[groups_member group=”Premium Member”]

D.O.M.S is a dick…

But I like him

“Standard warm-up”

3 Rounds of:

5x Goblet Squat +

5x Romanian Deadlift +

5x Overhead Press (Each arm) +

5x Pull-up

*Weighted movements typically done with around 20% of bodyweight (BW) Kettlebell

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Squat Work-up

4x Front squat + 8x Back squat @ +/- 30% of Front Squat

3x Front squat + 6x Back squat @ +/- 60% of Front Squat

2x Front squat + 4x Back squat @ +/- 80% of Front Squat

–

Squat Complex: 3 Rounds of the following strip set

2x Front squat + 4x Back squat @ +/- 80% of Front Squat (Goal: 150% BW) +

3x Front squat + 6x Back squat @ +/- 70% Front Squat (Goal 125% BW) +

4x Front squat + 8x Back squat @ +/- 60% Front Squat (Goal 100% BW)

*2min rest between sets.

Rounds look like: load bar up with heaviest weight, perform 2 front squats then immediately 4 back squats, take off around 25% of the load get right underneath and perform 3 front and 6 back squats, take off an additional 25% and right back under for 4 front squats and 8 back squats… then rest and repeat for two more rounds.

The standard rules apply, only go up in weight if able to get though all movements clean. If technique and or form falter swallow your pride and drop down in weight. Training consistently will beat any one effort. Stay smart.

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25% Bodyweight (pounds) in calories on the Rower for time

Expectation is sub 1:30

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Cool down with Movement and Mobility

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EARN YOUR PLACE

Sat, 21 Apr 2018 17:51:00 GMT

Many gyms offer your first month at a discount or even for free. Others open their doors as wide as possible to let the masses pay their minimal fee, and expect that you won’t use their facility, because they care more about their profits than they do the people around them. We are something different.

We prioritize the people here and place the utmost value upon what is earned. We earn more than t-shirts… we earn their trust, and we all earn our place.

We are tremendously grateful for the interest and support this project received out the gate. In fact, THE SECT wouldn’t exist without the people who supported it and continue to do so. Therefore the people here by our side are our top priority. The majority of the current members have been with us in some way, shape or form for five-plus years. Loyalty is a trait we appreciate, reciprocate and do our best to reward. We are extremely proud of how far we’ve come so quickly, where we are going, and have no intent on slowing. We confidently anticipate that the interest in what we have will grow, as we are honest when we say that “we are here for you, as you are here for us,” which is real and uncommon, especially in this fucked up industry filled with greedy, ego-driven narcissism and posing.

Apply yourself and wield a pair

With the foremost said, all “new” or prospect members will be invited through application and need to earn their spot as full-fledged members with us. Those interested, engage in a three month probationary period with the following expectations:

COMMITMENT
1. Two months Unlimited Membership dues upfront
2. Attend at least three training sessions per week

CONDUCT
1. Care
2. Be true
3. Try Hard
4. Give Respect
5. Pay Attention
6. Take Responsibility
7. Strive to Understand
8. Possess Self Discipline
9. Know that there’s not one way
10. Improve yourself and your surroundings
11. Be a part – work together yet stay self-reliant
12. Stand up right with confident capability gained through
humble effort; over arrogant insecurity seen through selfish
egotism

CONSEQUENCE
1. If you quit, we keep the initial financial investment, you go on your way.
2. If we (your peers) deem you unfit for the crew, we give back your initial financial investment; you go about your
way.
3. If you make it through the first two months, the third month’s dues are “on the house,” you choose to stay or go.

Care – required and reciprocated

Our membership is capped, and we are very proud of our extremely low turnover, however, if spots do open up and people are interested in becoming members, this is the current process. If it sounds like too much to ask, then it is. If it seems as though we are assholes, it’s because we care enough to be considered so.

As stated, we choose to work through handshakes over contracts, as contracts are typically not needed if you treat people right with no intention of pulling the wool over their eyes

Be a part – leave your ego and bullshit at the door

*Probie – Derived from the Fire service to denote someone holding a position on a probationary basis, subject to performance or examination.

*Photos by Tobi Macphee of a couple of the 3rd wave of Probies (Tom and Jeremy)

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