Hard Way Fitness Presents The Standard

The Standard is a fitness system inspired by military units. It combines effective and efficient strength, and conditioning with tactical challenges to build resilience, camaraderie, and purpose among its members. We're not selling magic tricks or one-trick fixes here, it's proper hard work built on the fundamentals. Designed for those seeking meaning, brotherhood, and resilience, The Standard offers an innovative blend of physical training and mental empowerment.

Is this for you

This team would suit a person who loves to train hard, probably trains alone a lot, before work or the family wake up, we're starting out looking for good people and hoping to build up a private community of people with shared interests of military training, camaraderie, really hard training, and the feeling after you complete something really difficult.

If that sounds like you, then sign-up and take a free 7 day trial.

7 Day Free Trial

You won't find us on social media, we're not looking for kudos or praise, we just love to train with good people

  • Four soldiers in combat gear, wearing helmets and backpacks, walking through a smoky or foggy environment, possibly on a battlefield.

    The Standards

    The Standard programming mirrors active duty unit training, making it an ideal fit for military, law enforcement, and those who want to train with purpose. No gimmicks just battle-tested training methods that build functional strength, endurance, and resilience. Sessions are time effective and get you what you need, leaving you time to do your other duties.

  • The Approach

    We use proven principals throughout the programming cycles. Compound strength training, mixed reps and ranges as well as strongman training. Cardio is never neglected. We factor in deload training, mobility, recovery and training for longevity. It's the best of both worlds, you'll get tested but you're not going to break your body in the process.

  • A soldier in tactical gear aiming a rifle in a smoky outdoor environment, with another soldier in the background also in tactical gear.

    The Camaraderie

    We are building a team built on challenge. This is to be a community of like-minded hard people. You’ll train alongside those who value discipline, challenge, and growth, forging a sense of belonging and accountability. Whether you’re military, ex-military, milsim, gaming or just want a mission-driven challenge, this is your tribe of relentless individuals.

  • A man sitting on a wooden deck, stretching with his legs extended and reaching towards his toes, with chairs and houses in the background.

    The Purpose

    The purpose is to make the strongest, fastest, and healthiest version of our team mates. Every workout is scalable, allowing you to progress or modify based on your level. As you level-up, so do the standards and you have to rise again. We will hold you accountable to do the things you don't want to do. Cardio, mobility, eating right, are non-negotiables.

Our People

  • A man with a shaved head taking a selfie in a gym mirror wearing a black t-shirt with yellow writing and graphics.

    Coming off the back of a power lifting programme, I completed a 12 week hypertrophy focused program by Hard Way Fitness. Custom made for me with my inputs/testing before we started. It was amazing for me, got me ready for volleyball season.

    Jose, Facilities Engineering Volunteer Firefighter/EMT

  • I've been using kettlebells ~15 years, had stalled & needed a push. Stephen understands the big picture, sleep, recovery, & what fits into real lives & demanding job. If you're busy but takes fitness seriously & needs to work around your life rather than take it over, Stephen gets that from the start.

    Deb, Computers, Fitness and Nature Lover

  • With coach Mooney, the encouragement & support have allowed me make consistent improvements in physical fitness & overall health, with clear, well-explained programmes which are flexible enough to be done at home /in gym and with variety to keep them interesting & a challenge.

    Peter, Business Analyst, Martial Artist

  • Stephen created an excellent community with The Hardway Fitness. His coaching style enabled me to enjoy training, encourage motivation & make fitness a long term priority + goal! He made tailored plans for my goals & adjusts as we go! I would highly recommend!

    Ciara, Teacher

  • Close-up portrait of a young woman with long, light brown hair, wearing a beige knit sweater and hoop earrings, sitting inside a car

    Stephen really knows his stuff, taking time to understand my training & strengths Offering thoughtful suggestions. Seeing how intentionally he designs programs, I reached out about a specific strength goal of mine. He put together a custom plan that feels both challenging & achievable

    Hannah, Mother of Wild Ones

  • A woman with long curly hair smiling at a waterfall in a rocky river setting, holding a striped bag and a phone, wearing a blue top, shorts, and sandals.

    Stephen and the Hard Way Fitness approach is really very good at what he does! I mean so helpful, responsive, kind and he gave me a structured diet and training plan that brings results. I’m in the middle of my training and looking forward to getting the end results! I know it’s soon.

    Dina, Founder & Digital Nomad Coach

  • Headshot of a smiling man with short brown hair, wearing a gray button-up shirt, against a plain gray background.

    Maintaining fitness was difficult considering my desk job. The discipline and routine of this programme ensured I was fit and ready. Staying disciplined over the programme thought me resilience and there was real accountability. It made showing up for training so much easier and effective.

    Eric , Founder Velacor

  • A woman and a teenage boy wearing military camouflage vests taking a selfie inside a building near a door with bright light coming through.

    Following basic training, I wanted to build on my fitness gains, Hard Way Fitness took what I knew in terms of calisthenics and ramped it up, I also learned technique and proper form for kettlebell training, sandbags and other equipment in a very short space of time. I know now the standard I need to beat.

    Marcin, Soldier

  • A middle-aged man with light skin, wearing a dark suit, white shirt, and a striped tie, standing against a gray background.

    Hard Way Fitness took a difficult set of requirements, that limited a lot of common training methods, and found ways and means to still get the job done. Everything I needed was in the palm of my hand with the TrainHeroic app and coaches were on hand for feedback and support

    Liam, Retired Engineer Power Generation

  • I've used the Hard Way Fitness for my training needs for several years now, including before, during and after two pregnancies. It's enabled me to train long term, stay injury free and keep fit. Can't recommend the Hard Way Fitness enough for online training and support.

    Agnieszka, Corporate Actions

  • I met Stephen on his community and we quickly started working on a program that would suit my needs. The program has been so easy to follow and it has the flexibility to fit with my busy schedule. Stephen is so supportive and encouraging every step of the way. Highly recommend jumping on board!

    Daniel Emergency Nurse

  • Line of female soldiers in camouflage uniforms, wearing brown berets with military insignia, holding rifles at attention during a parade or ceremony.

    Support, valuable guidance, and a precisely designed training plan from Hard Way Fitness helped me prepare for military service and achieve my goals. It was easy to balance full-time work, family responsibilities, and preparation for my additional role in the army.

    Katarzyna, Wojska Obrony Terytorialnej

  • Marathon runners crossing the finish line at a race event with banners reading 'Great Ireland Run' and 'SPAR' overhead, spectators and race officials present.

    Working with the Hard Way Fitness, we focused on using strength training to improve my running abilities, specifically for marathons. The programme and training gave are top class and I was able to improve my time and we worked on some weaker areas too so I felt more confident.

    Louise, Lawyer

  • A man in a wetsuit surfing on a wave near a shoreline with buildings and a tower in the background.

    Stephen from Hard Way Fitness and I did our Strength and Conditioning, Functional Screening and Personal Training Courses together, he is all about the 'Personal' aspect first and foremost making sure programmes fit and work with you, and training second, not to say the Training isn't also top class.

    Michael, Founder Surf'SUP SurfSchool

  • Stephen & I studied at Setanta College for our PT and S&C qualifications, he was all about the detail but keeping things simply and straightforward for clients, he's a strong communicator and knows how to drive a person to the outcome they want, in the time they have"

    Philip , Founder Philip Byrne Online Coaching

  • A rugby team group photo on a grass field with players wearing black and yellow uniforms. There are 14 players and one coach, some kneeling, some standing, with trees and houses in the background.

    Stephen at the Hard Way Fitness trained the senior exiles team coming in to help mid-season and got straight into it, feedback was always positive and there was a particular lunging, squatting and push-up sequence the lads won't forget anytime soon. Knows his stuff that's for sure.

    Dublin City Exiles Rugby League Team

  • Hard Way Fitness programmes and their team training are unique in that they blends really good training, with the experience of how to fit it into real working adult and parents busy days. The community aspect is phenomenal for accountability and keeping you compliant

    Daniel, Programmer/Developer

  • Black and white portrait of a woman with long hair, makeup, and earrings, looking directly at the camera.

    Hardway Fitness has changed my training style to a much more efficient and better method. Using the TrainHeroic app made sessions very easy to follow and kept me accountable. I Would highly recommend Hardway Fitness for all levels of skills and experience.

    Susan, KYC Consultant

  • Stephen and I were in the same army recruit platoons throughout training and beyond. Stephen always displayed very high levels of fitness and resilience thanks to the way he designed and implemented his own training. A lot of people took notice and he supported many of us in achieving the fitness standards

    Ilze, Emergency Medical Technician

  • Close-up of a woman with long, wavy gray hair outdoors, with a blurred grassy background.

    With a demanding job and three kids, I needed a training solution that was both effective and realistic. Hard Way Fitness is exactly that. The workouts are thoughtfully structured, easy to follow, and push me just the right amount. Stephen’s approach made strength training accessible and sustainable.

    Kasia, Vice President Global Bank

  • 6 kids means time is of the essence for me when it comes to training. Hard Way Fitness analysed my week and found two spots for me to train and with a little bit of planning I was able to implement it, the accountability helped a lot. The Programme was exactly what I needed.

    Małgorzata, Civil Servant

Below are examples of our in house unique challenges.

A fitness workout plan titled 'Swing When You're Winning' displayed on a screen with a monochrome background photo of a woman exercising, showing a list of exercises, repetitions, and calorie counts, from beginner to advanced levels, provided by Hard
A fitness workout plan titled 'Hubbub' with details about duration, level, style, a workout list, notes, and a logo at the bottom. The background features a woman exercising in a gym.
A woman performs a workout in a gym using various equipment, including a rowing machine, barbells, and an ERG bike, with fitness instructions overlayed on the image.
Workout plan titled Perseverance Series - Ache from Hard Way Fitness, including exercises like rowing, kettlebell swings, erg bike, goblet squats, treadmill run, push-ups, kettlebell press, walking lunges, with details and instructions.
Kettlebell workout plan details for Kettlebell County, including exercises, repetitions, and safety notes, set against a black and white background of gym equipment.
A woman performing a deadlift exercise in a gym, with weight plates on the floor behind her. Overlaid text describes a workout routine called 'Death Lifts' for 48 minutes, including deadlifts and pull-ups, with tips and instructions for proper form.
Workout plan titled 'Row, Row, Row your Boat' detailing a 40-minute intermediate rowing workout with multiple rounds of rowing, walking lunges, prisoner squats, walkout push-ups, pull-ups, and a final 1,000-meter row to beat the initial time, includi
Workout plan titled 'Swingers' with details about duration, level, and style. Contains instructions for a high-intensity circuit workout including kettlebell swings, push-ups, walking lunges, pull-ups, running, kettlebell goblet squats, and burpees.

One app with all you need, no noise, no distractions.

Meet Your Coach

Stephen Mooney

Founder & Head Coach Hard Way Fitness

My health and fitness journey started in 2012, by that point I’d let it get very bad. Physically I was weak, regularly sick, unhappy and had some signs of early stage diabetes as well as undiagnosed pains and aches across my body.

My career suffered as a result and did so for many years. I didn’t have the energy or state of mind to deal with the rigors of corporate management.

There was no catalyst, or single solution for me back then. Instead it was a long haul journey of trial and error to get back to health and fitness. I tried and failed a lot and never managed to string together a consistent campaign against the habits that were holding me back.

It was in this struggle and constant stream of failures that the Hard Way Fitness, and the C-Suite Programme was born and given its Baptism of Fire. Hard Way Fitness began as a personal diary, a tool for self-accountability, with reminders, plans, photos and whatever I could think of to motivate me to exercise during the busiest days.

Over time, it transformed into something much bigger. It became a movement to empower others to rewrite their stories through fitness. From the corporate world and martial arts to military service, each step of my journey shaped the programme I stand behind today.

I have qualifications in personal training, functional screening, and strength and conditioning from Setanta College Ireland, alongside degrees in business and finance from University College Dublin, my journey has been and continues to be one of continuous growth. So can yours.

Nothing is Expensive or Cheap, there is only Good Value for Money

All are eligible to join, we are selective but not exclusive in our clients as we require commitment and collaboration over several months to effect the changes required, teach the skills needed, and share the knowledge and aptitudes that will set you apart. There is nobody else with our combined military experience, and corporate world knowledge who can give you what with community can.

Your attitude and commitment is far more important than your current state of fitness.

Join us, and set a new standard for yourself.

7 Day Free Trial