The early morning silence at Evolve Strength North is broken only by the rhythmic clanking of weights and the controlled breathing of Jason Parrish. The 32-year-old Edmonton police constable moves with deliberate focus between massive atlas stones and specialized strongman equipment that would intimidate most gym-goers.
“Some days, I’m here at 5 AM before my shift starts,” Parrish tells me, chalk dust billowing as he prepares for another deadlift set. “Other times, it’s late evening after a 12-hour patrol. The schedule isn’t ideal, but the dream keeps me going.”
That dream? Standing on the podium at the 2025 World’s Strongest Man competition.
Behind Parrish’s quiet determination lies an extraordinary journey that began just six years ago. While many elite strongmen start training in their teens, Parrish discovered the sport at 26 after a colleague invited him to a local competition.
“I was always the strong kid growing up in Beaumont, but I never knew competitive strongman existed until I saw it firsthand,” Parrish explains, between sips of his protein shake. “Something clicked that day. I knew this was what I wanted to pursue.”
Since then, Parrish has methodically climbed the strongman ranks while balancing his police career. His breakthrough came last month at the Canadian Strongman Nationals in Halifax, where he secured third place and qualified for next year’s international circuit.
Chris Gear, owner of Evolve Strength and Parrish’s longtime coach, isn’t surprised by his success. “What separates Jason is his mental approach. Most guys just want to lift heavy things, but he studies the sport like a scientist.”
This analytical mindset has helped Parrish compensate for his relatively late start. His training journal reveals meticulous attention to nutrition timing, recovery protocols, and performance metrics that would impress professional sports organizations.
The Edmonton Police Service has taken notice of Parrish’s accomplishments. Chief Dale McFee recently approved a modified work schedule allowing Parrish to attend international qualifiers while maintaining his duties.
“The department has been incredibly supportive,” Parrish notes. “They see how my training translates to better performance on the job. Plus, it’s created some unique community connections.”
Those connections include monthly strongman demonstrations at Edmonton schools, where Parrish discusses fitness, goal-setting, and making positive choices. Last week at Westglen School, fifth-graders watched in awe as he flipped a 900-pound tire across their gymnasium.
“Seeing Officer Jason lift things I didn’t think humans could move makes me want to try harder in gym class,” says 10-year-old Mackenzie Reeves, one of many students inspired by the demonstrations.
Parrish’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. Two years ago, a shoulder injury during a car-pulling event nearly derailed his strongman aspirations. The six-month recovery period tested his resolve.
“That was my darkest time,” he admits. “I questioned if I was just fooling myself thinking I could compete with guys who’ve been training their whole lives.”
Edmonton physiotherapist Sarah Nguyen worked with Parrish through his rehabilitation. “His discipline was remarkable,” she recalls. “He never missed a session and followed every recommendation precisely. That’s rare even among professional athletes.”
The road to World’s Strongest Man 2025 involves qualifying through several international competitions next year. Parrish will travel to contests in England, Australia, and the United States while using vacation time to supplement his modified work schedule.
Financial challenges remain significant. Unlike many professional sports, strongman competitions offer minimal prize money until reaching the highest levels. Parrish estimates he’ll need nearly $30,000 for travel expenses, specialized equipment, and the 12,000 daily calories required to maintain his 320-pound frame.
Local businesses have begun stepping up. Northern Nutrition recently became Parrish’s first sponsor, providing supplements and recovery products. Owner Marcus Williams sees it as an investment in Edmonton pride.
“Jason represents the best of our city,” Williams says. “Hard-working, humble, dedicated to service both on and off duty. We’re honored to support his journey.”
Community support extends beyond sponsorships. Fellow officers frequently cover shifts when competitions conflict with Parrish’s schedule. Training partners volunteer as handlers during events. Even Parrish’s neighbors pitch in, with one elderly couple regularly delivering home-cooked meals to help meet his massive caloric needs.
For Parrish, this community backing creates both motivation and responsibility. “On days when training feels impossible, I remember all the people who believe in me. I can’t let them down.”
As our interview concludes, Parrish returns to his training session. I watch as he hoists a 400-pound log overhead with a focus that suggests he’s seeing beyond the gym walls to a podium that awaits him in 2025.
Whether he achieves his ultimate goal or not, Parrish has already demonstrated something remarkable about Edmonton’s character – a blend of everyday service and extraordinary ambition that defines our city at its best.
“Not many people get to chase dreams while wearing a uniform,” Parrish reflects. “I’m representing Edmonton in both worlds, and that’s something special.”
