
Coach Em Up Podcast NFL Strength Coach Shares Nutrition and Body Comp Secrets | JON HECK | | Ep. 100
Jan 27, 2026
Jon Heck, strength and conditioning coach who built Hammer and Chisel Performance after stints at UNC and in the NFL. He discusses why he left playing for coaching, launching a remote coaching business, and the role of nutrition in body composition. He also covers practical nutrition basics, why carbs and electrolytes matter for performance, and tips for becoming a better nutrition coach.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Building A Business From A Side Hustle
- Jon built a social following while competing in powerlifting and bodybuilding, which later seeded his coaching business. Posting training content helped recruiting and attracted clients when he left team jobs.
Bet On Yourself When Passion Calls
- If a role doesn't align with your passions, consider betting on yourself and changing course rather than staying comfortable. Jon says he'd rather risk a rough start than live with long-term regret.
Get Lean First, Then Build Muscle
- Getting very lean first improves insulin sensitivity and nutrient partitioning, making subsequent muscle gain more efficient. Jon frames body composition cycling as a strategic tool for long-term hypertrophy.

