We recently had the chance to connect with James Banks Jr. and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning James , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day start with me saying a quick prayer in the morning to get my day started, then I usually go to the gym to get a workout in before I start training for the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is James Banks, and I’m a Sports Performance Coach dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential on and off the field. Through my brand, Forward Performance Athletes, I specialize in private and small group training, position-specific skill development, and speed and agility training for all sports.
My mission is to bridge the gap between training and game-day performance, making sure every drill translates to real competition.
Based in Katy/Fulshear, TX, I’ve built a program that’s more than just workouts—it’s about developing confidence, discipline, and next-level athletic ability.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents taught me the most about work. Growing up, I saw firsthand what consistency, discipline, and sacrifice looked like. They showed me that real work isn’t just about effort, it’s about doing things the right way even when no one’s watching.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Stay the course, never let anyone tell you what you can or can’t be in this lifetime. Always bet on yourself no matter what! Everyone has a purpose, but it’s up to you to define what that calling may be!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Often times, the biggest lies in the sports performance industry are that more is always better, flashy drills equal real development, weight room strength always translates to the field and youth athletes should train like pros. This is all far from the truth!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that James Banks poured everything into helping athletes reach their full potential, not just on the field, but in life. That he built confidence, character, and work ethic in every athlete he trained, and left behind a legacy of opportunity, integrity, and leadership.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fpathletes.weebly.com
- Instagram: @forwardperformanceathletes
- Twitter: @ForwardAthletes
- Facebook: Forward Performance Athletes
- Youtube: Forward Performance Athletes
- Other: TikTok: @fpathletes
