personal trainer in madison wi

Meet Jeff Branske

Personal Trainer & Powerlifting Coach

Purpose & Philosophy


Strength training gave me purpose—and now I help others find theirs, too.

Over the past eight years, I’ve helped people reshape their relationship with training—shifting the focus away from perfection and toward showing up, putting in the work, and trusting the process.


Background & Credentials


I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, and I’m an ACE-certified personal trainer and USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach. But more than the credentials, what drives me is seeing someone go from doubting themselves to walking out of a session taller, stronger, and genuinely proud of what they just did. That’s the moment training clicks—and it’s why I coach.


Training Approach


Powerlifting taught me the value of consistency, patience, and setting meaningful goals—lessons I bring to every session. While I still coach powerlifters preparing for the platform, most of my work is helping everyday people realize they’re stronger than they think.


My approach is built around performance because real change happens when you can feel yourself progressing. Hitting a weight you once thought was impossible, moving without pain after years of stiffness, or finally showing up week after week without burning out—those are the moments that stick. That’s when training stops being just exercise and becomes proof that you’re capable of more.


Who I Work Best With


If you’re looking for a quick fix or a cookie-cutter plan, I’m probably not the right coach. But if you want someone who will meet you where you are, guide you with patience, and challenge you when it counts, then I’d love to be part of your journey.


My best coaching relationships are with people who are ready to do the work—even if they’re unsure where to start—and who want more than short-term results. If that sounds like you, let’s connect. Send me a message and we’ll figure out the right next step together.

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Get to know me

What it’s like to work with me, and who I am outside the gym.


wi powerlifting, fitness coach
  • How did you get started doing this type of work?

    I've always had a lifelong passion for fitness, and made the full transition into the industry in 2018 after completing my Bachelor's program. 


    Since the beginning, I have absolutely loved being able to meet people from all different walks of life. It's gratifying to help people change their life and experience quality of life improvements that they never thought would be possible. After being in the industry for 8 years, I could never imagine myself doing anything else.

  • What advice would you give someone looking to work with a personal trainer?

    Be wary of anyone offering a quick fix or guaranteeing amazing results in a short period of time. Look for someone who will be completely upfront and honest with you about what it will take to get to your goals, someone who takes a big picture and sustainable approach, and who has the educational and experiential background to back up what they are telling you. Most importantly, find someone who you click with on a personal level and enjoy working with!

  • What is your typical process for working with a new client?

    We’ll start with a complimentary consultation to discuss your fitness goals, exercise history, and what’s worked (or hasn’t) for you in the past. I’ll walk you through how I would structure a personalized approach to help you reach your goals and explain how it differs from your current or previous methods. From there, I’ll recommend the session package that best fits your needs, and we’ll get your training schedule set.

  • What is your educational background?

    I have a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and I am a certified personal trainer through the American Council of Exercise. I have 8 years of experience as a personal trainer in both commercial settings, as well as having my own personal training business.

  • What types of clients have you worked with?

    I’ve worked with over 200 people from a wide range of backgrounds, including:

    • Individuals recovering from joint replacements, regaining strength, mobility, and confidence.
    • People of all ages wanting to move pain-free and enjoy an active lifestyle.
    • Men and women achieving full physique transformations — losing body fat, building muscle, and boosting confidence.
    • Recreational lifters pushing their limits and earning national rankings in competitive powerlifting.

    Wherever you’re starting and whatever your goals, I have the experience to help you get there.

  • What do you like to do outside the gym?

    I love spending time with my family, especially my daughter. For fun, I’m into disc golf and collecting retro video games.

  • Got a favorite book or quote that inspires you?

    Definitely Lord of the Rings. I have a tattoo of a quote from the book: “From the ashes a fire shall be woken, a light from the shadows shall spring.

  • Dog person or cat person?

    Definitely a cat person. My guy Leo is fat, fluffy, and runs the place. That said, I’ve also got a soft spot for my fiancée’s dog, Jasper—even if he’s a bit much sometimes.

  • What's your guilty pleasure?

    Catching a good afternoon nap — I’m basically a pro at it.


In Their Words

"Working with Jeff has genuinely improved my quality of life, and I couldn't have asked for a better guide on my fitness journey!"

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Tara V.

3+ year Client, Madison WI

personal training madison wi
personal training in madison

Discover what you're capable of.


Start personal training with Branske Strength and Performance today!

Competition & Coaching Credentials

  • madison wi personal trainer

    USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach Certification

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