About Us
Our
Story
Over the last decade, the National Bar League, founded by Evan "OG" Harden, has become the top global platform for professional competitive freestyle calisthenics. It serves as the cultural leader, driver, and representative of this global cult sport, governing advanced and extreme calisthenics competitions while showcasing the highest level of skill and performance from bar athletes.
About the Founder
Evan "OG" Harden B.C.H.
Evan Harden, a dynamic force in the world of calisthenics, blends his deep passion for bodyweight strength training with a remarkable personal journey and professional achievements. Born in Boston and raised in West Philadelphia, Evan's life took a dramatic turn at 16 when he was shot while walking home from school. The bullet came perilously close to his spine, derailing his high school and college athletic ambitions.
Yet, adversity only fueled his purpose. Today, Evan stands as Philadelphia’s #1 Performance and Calisthenics Coach, renowned for his innovative and rhythmic approach to fitness. Known in the fitness community as OG, he’s earned accolades such as the 2015 Calisthenics Champion and has competed in numerous high-profile calisthenics events. His dedication extends beyond personal triumphs; he cycled 160 miles to raise funds for Multiple Sclerosis and created a new fitness culture in Philly through establishing the National Bar League, hosting international calisthenics competitions in Philadelphia.
Evan’s influence in Philadelphia is profound. He collaborated with former Eagles player Conner Barwin’s non-profit to create the city’s first public Bar Park, a community fitness haven in South Philly equipped with pull-up, dip, and push-up bars. His contributions to fitness and his unique style—marked by choreographed push-ups and pull-up stunts—have earned him notable recognitions, including being named a "Trainer to Watch" by Philadelphia Magazine in 2017, a Health Hero nominee by Independence Blue Cross in 2018 and 2020, and the title of "Most Innovative Performance Coach" by Philly Style in 2024.
Evan's expertise and influence have been showcased on platforms like Fox, ABC, My New Philly, Barstarzz, and Wooder Ice, among others. He also shares his passion by teaching calisthenics at his alma mater, Roman Catholic High School, as a part of his mission to use calisthnics as vehicle for growth and positive mental and physical development.
Notable Features
New Balance x OG Project
ABC Hometown Hero
Philly Mag/ Be Well Philly
https://www.phillymag.com/be-well-philly/2019/04/16/calisthenics/