Tyler Weatherford

Tyler Weatherford is the Co-Founder of Practical Defense Academy and owner of Grow Fit, a functional fitness company focused on helping everyday people become stronger, healthier, and more capable.A United States Marine Corps veteran, Tyler served as an LAV Repairman/Technician, Hazardous Materials Handler and Environmental Compliance Coordinator, and Chaplain’s Assistant/Guard. His background also includes extensive medical and emergency-response training.

He holds an Associate’s Degree in Paramedic Science from Ivy Tech Community College, studied Fire Science and Emergency Management, and is a Nationally Registered Paramedic with additional training in advanced cardiac life support, pre-hospital trauma care, and pediatric emergency care.Tyler has also studied Exercise Science at Andrews University and is an American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer.

His martial arts background includes the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, where he currently holds the rank of Purple Belt. He has trained extensively in takedowns, wrestling, ground fighting, positional control, and submission grappling.

Through Practical Defense Academy and Grow Fit, Tyler combines functional fitness, emergency medicine, martial arts, and practical self-defense to help students develop greater strength, confidence, and real-world capability.