A.R. Swanson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning A.R., we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
First 90 minute of my day are strictly for me. It is a time where upon wake up, I reflect, pray meditate & stretch.
It’s very important to attend to yourself before you attend to the World.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Arthur “A.R. Swanson” Baton Jr. knows what it means to fight for transformation. Once a teenager struggling with obesity, he refused to settle for limitations — instead, he turned his struggle into strength. Through relentless discipline and self-discovery, A.R. built a lifestyle rooted in performance, purpose, and passion.
Today, he’s not just another trainer — he’s a certified movement specialist (NASM, CFSC, Pre/Post-Natal) and motivator who’s helped people from every background break barriers and reclaim their confidence. Whether he’s leading a high-intensity session or coaching mindset between sets, A.R. brings the same energy: push harder, aim higher, never settle.
His journey has even caught the eye of pop culture — with a recent feature appearance on Netflix’s Chef’s Table Season 7, showcasing his dynamic presence beyond the gym.
Driven by the belief that growth happens outside your comfort zone, A.R. continues to inspire others to rewrite their own stories — one rep, one rhythm, one breakthrough at a time.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mother has always been the foundation of me believing in myself. As a kid, she always told me that I was going to leave an impact on people and the world.
I credit her for giving me the tools needed for self confidence….even on the days where life hits its hardest.
If I’m ever blessed to be a father, I can instill that same belief into my children.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Wow that a deep question. Honestly it would be the fear of being vulnerable. Letting people in. Growing up I was always closed off on truly letting people get close to me.
Especially with dating.
It was the fear of judgement, or betrayal. Nowadays I have learned that sometimes being vulnerable is what can help you connect more with people.
Walking in your truth and facing each fear head on.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
That everything I do is rooted in God. There has been times in my life where I absolutely had no idea how I was going to make it through adversity and obstacles, however God always makes a way.
I give credit to the most high for my highs and lows. Each moment is a lesson.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I did my best to bring out their BEST, Each session, each encounter, each phone call, meeting, interaction is an exchange of energy.
The days where I may not be feeling on top, I still dig deep enough to encourage folks to be better, see better, do better and truly be proud of the steps they’ve taken along the way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: AR.Swanson
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