Coach Jason Rivera is a U.S. Army combat Veteran and Purple Heart recipient whose life changed in 2004 when an IED explosion in Iraq left him with severe physical and psychological wounds. Through faith, family, and physical training, Coach Rivera reclaimed his purpose and discipline, eventually joining Catch A Lift (CAL) as a participant. Today, he pays that gift forward as a CAL Coach, helping fellow combat injured Veterans rebuild strength, restore confidence, and take ownership of their health.

Coach Rivera holds a Master of Science in Exercise & Human Performance, a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, and is a Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Health Coach. He is currently pursuing his Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential through the NSCA and board certification through the NBHWC. With extensive experience coaching general populations, adaptive athletes, and Veterans online and in person, Coach Rivera specializes in strength, mobility, conditioning, and adaptive programming tailored to pain management and injury recovery.

Grounded in CAL’s four pillars, Nutrition, Fitness, Emotional Wellness, and Community, Coach Rivera meets every Veteran where they are, guiding them one honest step at a time. Outside of coaching, he is a husband, father of four, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, and outdoorsman who stays anchored through faith, family, and community.