VALDOSTA STATE MAGAZINE 31 “In a way it feels surreal and kind of crazy,” Dunham said of his progress. “I remember I used to tell myself, ‘I’ll never be able to do a handstand. Just imagine that. That’s not possible for me.’ Now I do it with ease as a warm-up. “I’ve always been the skinny kid … and I’m proud of myself for getting to this point.” Four months after starting calisthenics, around the beginning of 2015, Dunham decided to create a YouTube video to show his progress. The clip attracted interest, and people started asking questions. They wanted more, so Dunham began making a series of videos, showing workout routines and giving fitness tips. His videos regularly garner hundreds of thousands of views, with a few reaching over one million. The comment sections are full of people who say they are inspired by Dunham’s life. People have told him, “You’ve changed my life. Because of you, I transformed.” “Making a difference in the lives of others is what keeps me going,” he said. Dunham’s platform as an emerging fitness star is what helped to launch his online business, AD Workout. He coaches clients virtually by offering workout plans and premium tips. His customers are 95 percent male. They live all around the world, but the majority are from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Unlike most businesses, Dunham does not pay for advertising. Clients discover his services organically through social media and YouTube. Dunham is also supported by several sponsors, including a protein brand, a jump rope company, and a clothing line. They send him stipends and products in exchange for shoutouts online. Dunham has built his brand with a Do- It-Yourself attitude. As he taught himself calisthenics, he also picked up photography, video editing, and website management skills. His business management classes have also helped, he said. “I can relate some of what I’m doing now to what I’m learning in class, and if not now, then in the future,” he said. Dunham expects to graduate from AV in Fall 2018 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in management. He plans to work on expanding his business and online following. The amount of effort you put into something is what you get back. It might not be now, but over time you will. — AUSTIN DUNHAM “ “