For longtime friends and business partners Jules Herrmann and Jason Giardino, launching a gym wasn’t just about opening another fitness center – it was about bringing something truly different to a growing community. That vision came to life with The Iron Plate, which officially expanded into Liberty Hill in January 2025.

“Corporate gyms just weren’t cutting it anymore,” said Herrmann, who made the leap from corporate America and aesthetics to fitness. “I was bored of seeing the same equipment, the same setup, the same routine. I wanted to create a space that felt exciting again.”

That spark led to the first Iron Plate location in Leander in 2019 – just months before the world shut down. The duo hustled to keep the doors open through the pandemic, determined not to lose the community they had built. “We worked our tails off to stay open,” Herrmann recalled. “We had built something special and we weren’t going to give up on it.”

When the time came to grow, Liberty Hill rose to the top of their list. “We considered Hutto,” said Herrmann, “but Liberty Hill just felt right. The growth, the energy, the people – it was an easy yes.”

That energy now pulses through The Iron Plate’s second location, located at 14933 TX-29 Suite 100. Known for its specialized equipment, cutting-edge recovery tools and unmatched customer service, the gym delivers a workout experience that goes far beyond the norm.

Take the “Peach Pit” for example – a dedicated glute-training zone equipped with machines like the Glutenator, which aren’t found in any commercial gyms. “It’s a fan favorite,” said Herrmann.

The Liberty Hill location also offers a full wellness experience, including a cold plunge, infrared sauna, zero gravity massage chair, red light therapy and healthy pre-made meals and smoothies on-site. Memberships start at $60/month with family add-ons for $45, which include the gym access and the wellness tools. Making both fitness & wellness accessible for individuals and families alike.

Giardino leads many of the training sessions in person, while Herrmann handles behind-the-scenes operations. “We greet every person who walks through the door,” Herrmann said. “Connection is a big part of what we do.”

Of course, launching during a time of shipping delays and equipment shortages didn’t come without challenges. “There were definitely delays,” said Herrmann, “but we just kept pushing. Seeing people walk in and say, ‘Wow!’ or ‘Thank you for opening this here’ – that made everything worth it.”

From powerlifters, runners and athletes to busy parents and wellness beginners, The Iron Plate welcomes everyone. This isn’t just a gym – it’s a place to grow, to feel supported, and to push past your limits.

Her advice to others chasing their dreams? “Don’t give up. Obstacles will come, but if you want something bad enough, keep going.”

To learn more or schedule a tour, visit www.theironplate.com or stop by their Liberty Hill location. Your next level starts here.