And then I got a new job
Did I mention that I left the corporate world behind a couple months ago?
Well, I did.
My professional career has included some great jobs in communications, writing and public relations at The Walt Disney Company, Starwood Hotels and two public relations agencies.
I’m not doing those roles any longer.
But that doesn’t mean I won’t be using those skills. In fact, my next full-time job will also include client relations, sales and communication, in an entirely different way.
Using my recently obtained certification, I’m going to be a personal trainer at a brand new Equinox opening in the Marina neighborhood of San Francisco next month.
Joining the team at Equinox
If you’ve never heard of Equinox, it’s known as one of the best gym chains in the nation. It’s located in major cities in the U.S., United Kingdom and Canada, and it’s pretty hip and luxurious. Just take a look at some of the company’s advertising and you’ll see it’s not your average budget gym.
Here’s the new one, coming soon.
Equinox has one of the most highly regarded personal training departments around. Every single trainer has to go through a long process before they hit the floor, no matter what outside certification they already have.
I’ve already attended my first meeting, and I begin my one-month training this week, which will continue through May until the gym opens in June.
I can’t wait to build on my fitness knowledge, learn the Equinox way and begin working every single day to help people reach their fitness goals, both one-on-one and in a group setting.
From the office to the gym
For many years I’ve held a “day-job” in the corporate world, while teaching Les Mills group fitness classes on the side. When I moved to San Francisco, I had a contract job at a company that meant a lot to me, but it didn’t pan out into the dream role I had hoped for. Disappointed and jaded, I spent quite some time doing freelance work and looking for a full-time job. Even though I was going through the motions to be in a management position in the communications field and finally found a role in San Francisco that I held for a few months, it was never satisfying to me, and it never felt right.
Something in my mind always told me, “health, wellness and fitness is your passion, so you need to give it a full-time shot. ” I sure do.
Of course, I’m going to continue to teach group fitness and write daily. But my new work-day outift will look a lot more like the following, than it did in the past.
My incredible husband Dave has been nothing but supportive of his wife, as I’ve walked away from a secure paycheck to pursue the unknown.
Yes, it’s scary to start something new. But if you never let yourself get uncomfortable, you never get to make big gains.
After moving across the country and leaving everything and everyone I know behind, my ability to adapt to change has increased exponentially. It’s now how I have to live my life everyday. And that’s why, the Equinox tagline means so much to me:
“IT’S NOT FITNESS. IT’S LIFE.”
True story.
Questions of the day
Have you ever worked with a personal trainer? If so, what did you think?
Is there an Equinox in your city? What’s your favorite gym chain?
That is great news! There is something to be said about following your intuition. I def want to try it out when it opens ( not to mention the Kiehl’s products as an added bonus). I currently belong to Crunch (which is whatever) and Core40 (pilates and spin behind TJs in Nob Hill). I love Core40 as it the classes are small and it feels like you have your own PT.
Hi Nicole,
I’ve never tried a Core40, but I have been to a Crunch before. You should definitely check out Equinox when it opens. And if you’re looking for a trainer … 🙂
Congrats on the new job, career, and adventure! Sounds like it’s right up your alley. I worked as a personal trainer for awhile, but eventually decided it wasn’t quite my cup of tea. I’m sure you’ll be awesome – rock it!
Thanks, Ashley! I’m really excited to get started. There’s nothing better than helping other people get fit!
Hey, you changed your profile picture, ha! I wish I could pull off both light and dark hair! Anyway, I have never worked with a personal trainer, but would love to before my wedding…just not sure if I can fork up the cash right now 🙁 P.S. Congrats to you!!
Thanks for noticing. I’ve certainly gone through a lot of hair colors, so why not put another one up there. heheh :). Personal training is something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time, so I can’t wait to get it going!
Congratulations!
Thanks, ma’am!
Yay Ashley that is so super exciting!! I love the fact that Equinox actually puts you through extensive training! It really proves that they are looking for the BEST possible trainers! Well done girl! I’m sure you will rock your new job as a trainer!!
Thanks, Karen. I’m really excited to learn from the best.
Congratulations! Been reading you’re blog and love all the exciting new changes. So happy for you!
I really life your healthy eating tips and have started eatting overnight oats as a breakfast too:)
Can’t wait to read more.
PS. Equinox is such a cool gym, that’s awesome you’ll be working there!
I’m so glad you’ve tried overnight oats. It’s a life-changer. Thank you so much for being a loyal reader! Miss you guys!! 🙂
Bring Les Mills to equinox!
I know!! I’m always going to be a member of the tribe though:)
Congrats on the new job!! You will rock it 🙂 And it is amazing to leave the corporate world behind and pursue what is your real passion. Way to go!!
“IT’S NOT FITNESS. IT’S LIFE.” I like this tag line. Being fit is indeed a choice that you need to stick with. If it is your passion, then go for it. Would like to congratulate you on taking a leap of faith in doing something you love. For sure, it would turn out great.
I’m reading this years after you posted it, but this was inspiring to read! I’m curious, are you still teaching at Equinox? I am 26-years-old and work a full time job in Boston doing compliance for an investment management firm. I am so secured financially but I’m getting to the point where I’m just unhappy. My passions are yoga (I have my 200 hour teacher training certification but am not currently teaching), healthy cooking and fitness and I just dream of making a career out of them. Now that I have a mortgage, though, it’s risky…
Hi Sarah! I’m not at Equinox any longer, no. I moved out of SF and being a trainer full time was not the goal for me– it was great experience I’ve used though. It’s a big risk to leave a cushy job, so I’d suggest teaching yoga part time as a hobby and getting an additional certification as a trainer or health coach while working. Then you can slowly build some freelance clients before taking the jump. It’s tough to work for yourself though. But rewarding. Good luck!!!