As most of you know, as of April 1, 2023, Fit Impressions studio will be closing it’s doors. My husband has taken a job in Florida, so we will be moving to the sunny state.
I opened Fit Impressions, LLC in 2012 and it has been quite a journey ever since!
It all started by stepping outside my comfort zone and signing up for an on-line weight loss/fitness program called Cathy Savage Fitness. I learned so much more than fitness and nutrition by being a part of that program and sisterhood. It led me to compete in numerous fitness competitions in my 40’s and eventually having the confidence to open Fit Impressions. Fit Impressions began with me training clients in their homes since I didn’t yet have a space to train in. I then began teaching group fitness classes at Family Martial Arts, Jodifit and teaching Kelly’s Boot Camp in the Park on the weekends. When my paralegal job ended six years ago, I took a leap of faith and rented a small room in a pilates studio where my love of pilates began. Then two short years later, I moved into my current space on my 50th birthday. Happy Birthday to me! I’ve successly run my business for four years as a small boutique fitness studio and have received several community rewards in the process.
The reason we become personal trainers is not for the glory and definitely not the money. The schedule is rough – working early am and returning in the pm – basically working a split schedule. We are at the mercy of our client’s schedules and our mood has to be “on”. You can’t be “debbie downer” and train or teach a class. We must be good listeners and occasionally play therapist (ok ……we might play therapist a lot).
However, the reason we do what we do is because we receive so much gratification by helping others “feel” better and teaching clients to better understand the benefits of moving their bodies. I will admit when I first started in this business, I wanted to help other’s lose weight and look and feel their best. But as the years went on, I realized that my true passion was helping others “move” their bodies and feel confident in their own skin no matter their age, shape or size.
I’ve enjoyed all the ladies that have walked through my door and I truly believe there is a reason that each one entered my studio. So many of you have taught me life lessons about myself – to be more patient, find more empathy and to laugh more! From working with 70 years olds to working with 17 year olds, I’ve had fun with all of you – sometimes laugh out loud fun. I’ve danced and sang with my 70 year old client, discussed prom dresses with my 17 year old client and have hugged many sad clients on their dark days. I have so much gratitude for all my friends, family and clients who have supported me from my boot camp days to providing recommendations on the Cheshire Forum. My success has been because of all of you.
So as I wrap up this long winded note, I want all of you to keep these tips in mind:
- I’ve come to realize that so many of us are lonely. I don’t believe it was my amazing personality or my creative workouts that made all of you return to me, it was human interaction and friendship. Hug each other more, call your friends more often and chat to strangers in the coffee line.
- Please stop being so hard on yourselves. We come in all shapes and sizes. Love your body and appreciate your healthy body. Life is short, enjoy the cookie!
- Women are so strong and freaking amazing!! We can do anything if we put our minds to it. We make little humans, we overcome life changing obstacles, we have careers and we run households. ROAR! Remember that.
- Lastly, just drop those darn shoulders and breathe!
I am looking forward to turning the page onto the next chapter of my career. You may find me running a new and improved on-line wellness program or possibly co-hosting a Podcast. You just never know! Just keep following my social media! But never be afraid to step outside that comfort zone because had I not done that, I would never have had this amazing career or business.
Hugs to you all!
Kelly
