A childhood shaped by two worlds
Jesper Neumann, 36, was born in Colombia and adopted into a warm, loving family in Denmark. Growing up between two cultures shaped his early identity and gave him a strong sense of resilience. Those early years also sparked a desire for belonging, something that would deeply influence the direction of his life.
A difficult path during teenage years
At just 13 years old, Jesper fell into the wrong crowd. What followed were nearly ten years marked by drugs, crime, and repeated trips in and out of prison. His teenage years became a cycle of poor decisions and lost direction. Yet even in the darkest periods, he held onto a quiet desire for something better, though he did not know what that “better” looked like.
The turning point that changed his life
Two forces helped pull Jesper out of that destructive spiral. The first was a dedicated contact person named Cecilie, who believed in him long before he believed in himself. The second was calisthenics—a sport that would eventually reshape not just his body, but his entire future. Calisthenics entered his life when it was still relatively unknown in Denmark, with no proper competitions or gyms dedicated to the practice. The simplicity of the sport, requiring only one’s own body and determination, drew him in.
Falling in love with calisthenics
Jesper discovered that calisthenics was more than a workout routine. It was a method of rebuilding, step by step, using discipline as the foundation. Because the exercises can be scaled to any ability level, he found motivation in watching his own progress and seeing how accessible the sport could be for others. He immersed himself in training, committing fully to learning new skills and challenging himself daily.
From competitive athlete to community leader
His journey began with national and international competitions, where he experienced the highs of winning and the lessons that come with losing. But over time, Jesper saw a deeper purpose. He noticed gaps in the calisthenics community—lack of structure, limited opportunities, and missing guidance for newcomers. Slowly, he shifted from athlete to organizer, investing his time into training events, community sessions, and competitions aimed at bringing people together.
Creating VICI GYM and transforming a sport culture
One of Jesper’s most transformative accomplishments was the opening of VICI GYM, the first-ever calisthenics gym in Denmark and the first of its kind in the Nordic region. At the time, many doubted the idea. A gym dedicated solely to calisthenics seemed unrealistic, especially in a country where the sport was still unfamiliar. Yet Jesper’s passion and persistence proved what was possible. VICI GYM became a symbol of progress, inspiring not only Danish athletes but also those in neighboring countries.
Today Denmark has multiple calisthenics gyms, and similar facilities have opened in Sweden and Finland. Jesper’s work helped set this growth in motion. Without VICI GYM, the Nordic calisthenics landscape would look very different.
A sport built on accessibility and discipline
Jesper has always emphasized that calisthenics is for everyone. The sport’s simplicity and adaptability make it one of the most inclusive forms of training. Beginners, advanced athletes, and professionals can all participate at their own level. Jesper has guided countless individuals through personal milestones, and he often describes the joy of watching someone achieve their first pull up or complete a skill they once considered impossible. These moments motivate him as much as they inspire his clients.
A new chapter in Kuwait
Even as he continues to own and oversee VICI GYM in Denmark, Jesper’s expertise led him to the Middle East, where he was headhunted to coach in Kuwait. Today he trains clients at The Burrow Life, bringing his knowledge, structure, and passion to a new audience. In Kuwait, he sees immense potential for the growth of calisthenics. While he remains focused on his coaching responsibilities, he openly expresses interest in one day opening a calisthenics gym there as well.
Building people as much as physical strength
For Jesper, calisthenics has never been just about physical ability. It is a pathway to personal transformation. He believes in creating safe and supportive environments where people can push their limits and build confidence. His own journey—from addiction and crime to international coach and gym owner—allows him to connect deeply with clients who feel stuck or uncertain about their abilities. He shows them that change is possible with patience and persistence.
A vision that reshaped a community
Jesper’s achievements extend beyond the gym walls. From founding a federation to organizing Denmark’s national and international calisthenics competitions, he helped build an entire ecosystem for the sport. When he first shared his dream of a dedicated calisthenics gym, many laughed. Today there are multiple gyms in the capital, and the sport continues to grow at a pace once unimaginable. Jesper’s commitment to the community and his refusal to give up on his vision have left a lasting mark on the Nordic fitness scene.
Lessons from a life rebuilt
Jesper’s story is a powerful reminder that a person’s past does not define their future. His transformation required discipline, support, and the courage to step away from old patterns. He encourages others to find something meaningful to commit to—whether it is a sport, a hobby, or a skill—and to show up consistently. According to him, small steps taken daily create the foundation for life-changing results.
Looking ahead with purpose and passion
Jesper continues to shape the world of calisthenics with the same passion that helped him rebuild his own life. His goal is to keep expanding the sport, empowering individuals, and supporting communities wherever he goes. Whether in Denmark, Kuwait, or beyond, he remains dedicated to helping people discover their own potential through movement and discipline.
A message of possibility for those facing struggles
Jesper’s journey demonstrates that transformation is always within reach. From years spent in environments filled with crime and drugs to becoming a respected coach and gym owner, his life reflects the power of resilience. He hopes his story inspires others to believe in their ability to change, to seek support, and to pursue a path that brings meaning and growth.
Do follow him on Instagram.
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