We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Christina Larson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Christina below.
Christina , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share an anecdote or story from your schooling/training that you feel illustrates what the overall experience was like?
As a high school and college athlete, I faced a major setback when I tore my ACL, MCL, and PCL. However, this experience led me to make important choices for my future. Instead of giving up, I pushed forward and focused on my recovery. During this time, my physical therapist mentioned a job opening, and I worked in that field for four years while also pursuing a nursing degree.
While I was determined to become a nurse, a conversation with my cousin during my last semester of college changed my career path. She suggested that I become a personal trainer, and I was intrigued by the idea. I found a vocational training program and poured all my energy into it. I developed a business plan and saved money while still in school, and within two years of graduating, I became a full-time personal trainer and owner of His & Her Fitness with multiple employees.
I have a deep passion for helping individuals prevent injuries and health issues, if possible, and I am dedicated to helping one person at a time live a healthy life. My company, which started with just me in 2002, gained additional employees and trainers in 2004. I love my job and the people I have met along the way, especially those who are committed to their own health. Being able to provide them with the tools for success is truly a blessing. My head trainer often describes me as tenacious, and I believe that you have to be if you want to make a difference in people’s lives.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My passion for athleticism has always been a part of my life, even alongside my entrepreneurial pursuits. As a professional bodybuilder, I had the incredible opportunity to be sponsored by Optimum Nutrition, a global company, for 13 years. This sponsorship was like taking my nutrition education from nursing school and personal training school and turning it into a master’s degree. Through Optimum Nutrition, I gained knowledge about nutritional facts from all over the world. I also had the privilege of traveling with my teammates, who were experts in their own right, representing health at trade shows every other week during the season. This experience not only allowed me to communicate effectively about health and fitness, but also taught me how to master the balance between travel and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
As a bodybuilder, fitness expert, entrepreneur, and full-time personal trainer, I am constantly keeping my mind sharp and mastering the art of travel and health. My clients, who travel frequently and are like my fitness family, have largely been with me since the beginning of my journey. I am incredibly grateful for their commitment to their health, especially during challenging times such as recessions, pandemics, and life changes. Whether it’s raising children, navigating careers, or taking care of aging parents, my clients have shown incredible resilience and dedication to their well-being. It is this foundation of seeing results and making a positive impact on their lives that fuels my love for being a personal trainer.
I am a firm believer in the power of community, which is why I am always available to provide support and positive energy to anyone who reaches out to me. Whether it’s through a call, text, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or TikTok message, I am here to inspire and motivate individuals to lead healthy lives. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and remember, I am just a message away if you need a boost of positivity and inspiration on your fitness journey.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
As a small business owner, I have faced challenges when larger companies have tried to recruit my staff and take away clients. In one instance, a large gym came to the surrounding cities and actively approached my staff, offering them jobs and legal support to take clients with them. Despite losing all but two employees, I chose not to fight it because I believe in starting fresh and creating a positive work environment for both the remaining clients and the ones who chose to leave. It’s important to me that I only train individuals who genuinely want to be a part of our community.
Shortly after that, a well-known shoe company also provided opportunities to my staff, resulting in more departures. However, I see these experiences as blessings in disguise. It’s better to work with a dedicated and loyal team than with individuals who may not be fully committed. I am grateful for the current staff I have, as they not only care about the clients’ experience but also embody the work culture and values of H&H Fitness. I enjoy coming to work knowing that I can trust and rely on the people around me.
These challenges have taught me valuable lessons as a gym owner and employer. I have learned to be more discerning and to create a better work environment for my team. It’s also a testament to the success and reputation that my small business has built since 2004. I take pride in knowing that larger companies recognize and seek what His & Her Fitness has established.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
My education in nursing, personal training, and nutrition has provided me with a strong foundation for success. However, my experiences as a cheerleader and community-oriented individual have also played a significant role in shaping my career. Even though the teams I cheered for may not have always won, I loved seeing people come together and have a great time at games. My energy and enthusiasm earned me the nickname Skippy, which reflects my vibrant personality.
Community engagement has been a crucial aspect of my marketing strategy. I believe in the power of personal connections and reaching out to individuals who may be interested or could benefit from my services. Fitness is something that everyone desires, but many people need inspiration and motivation to take action. Through my partnerships with Optimum Nutrition, Nike, Joe Mikoli, and other modeling opportunities, I have been able to showcase myself as an athlete, entrepreneur, and healthy woman. These experiences have inspired countless women to prioritize their fitness and health. Additionally, I am grateful to my male clients who have allowed me to share their stories, inspiring other men to embark on their fitness journeys as well.
Stepping out of my comfort zone and seizing these opportunities has been instrumental in the growth of His & Her Fitness. I am proud to say that over 5,000 clients have trained at our gym throughout the years, and I am grateful for each and every one of them. Their trust and dedication have fueled my passion for helping others lead healthier lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hisandherfitness.net
- Instagram: Christinalee_fit
- Facebook: Christina Larson Fitness
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-larson-698a729
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/mJqrGmZwYh4?feature=shared
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/his-and-her-fitness-leawood
- Other: Tik tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hisandherfitness?_t=8hAfFQseq58&_r=1
Image Credits
Paul Buceta Joe Mikoli Meredith