When you step into CrossFit 425 in Bellevue, WA, you feel it immediately — the energy, the grit, and the sense of community that turns a gym into something much more. At the center of that is Braxton Cleman, majority owner, coach, and driving force behind the “Bulldog Gym.”

A former University of Washington football standout, Braxton brings the same tenacity and leadership that defined his athletic career into every corner of his gym. His journey from Husky running back to respected coach and community builder is a story of hard work, vision, and heart.

From the Gridiron to the Gym Floor

Before CrossFit 425 became one of the most respected fitness communities in Bellevue, Braxton was known for something else — his time on the football field at the University of Washington. As the starting running back in the Huskies’ 2001 Rose Bowl victory over Purdue, Braxton experienced firsthand what it takes to perform at an elite level.

Those years taught him more than athletic skill — they instilled in him the values of discipline, accountability, and teamwork. And those same values form the foundation of everything that happens inside CrossFit 425.

“You can’t fake effort,” Braxton says. “On the field or in the gym, it’s about showing up, doing the work, and trusting the process.”

Building CrossFit 425: Grit Meets Community

When Braxton co-founded CrossFit 425, he envisioned a place where people of all backgrounds could push their limits and build confidence — just like athletes do in sport. Over time, that vision evolved into something even bigger: a community of support, consistency, and shared success.

As the owner, Braxton sets the tone. Every class, every program, and every member experience reflects his belief that fitness is about more than reps and weights — it’s about building resilience and belonging.

His coaching style blends professional athletic experience with real-world relatability. He knows what it’s like to train under pressure, to recover from setbacks, and to build momentum through consistency. That’s what members feel when they walk through the doors.

Why “The Bulldog Gym”?

The nickname “The Bulldog Gym” isn’t just a catchy phrase — it’s part of the culture. Braxton’s love for dogs, especially his two bulldogs Tayo and Oscar, inspired both the name and the spirit behind it.

Bulldogs are loyal, determined, and full of heart — exactly the traits Braxton fosters at CrossFit 425. His four-legged companions are often seen around the gym, soaking up attention and reminding everyone that hard work and heart go hand in hand.

Leadership by Example

Whether it’s coaching a class, programming workouts, or jumping into a WOD himself, Braxton leads from the front. His approach is hands-on, grounded, and focused on connection.

Members describe him as both “humble and intense” — someone who can challenge you to your limits but still make you laugh between rounds. That balance is part of what keeps 425 members coming back day after day.

“Braxton’s energy sets the tone,” says one longtime member. “He doesn’t just tell you what to do — he does it with you. You can tell he believes in what he teaches.”