Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Katrina Hills. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Katrina, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.

Shortly after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I earned my initial certification as a personal trainer and began assisting a friend in achieving her wellness goals. She frequently remarked on my patience and often said I was “born to do this.” At that time, the prospect of having clients was not even on my radar; I was simply focused on improving both my own fitness and that of a friend.

Several years later, life presented an unexpected challenge, prompting me to seek a constructive outlet. I reached out to a local gym owner about the possibility of training clients. Within two weeks, I had secured my first official client.

Katrina, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My journey into fitness began over 20 years ago when I enrolled in a weight training class during my college years. I followed up this initial experience by taking several additional fitness courses throughout my time in college. After transitioning into a career as an educator, I was asked to sponsor two cheerleading squads at a local high school. As their sponsor, I introduced weight training into our weekly conditioning routines, recognizing that increasing strength was crucial for performing cheer stunts safely and effectively. This approach proved to be a foundational element of their success, and I enjoyed many fulfilling years in this role until my career led me to a different school setting and position.

In my new role, which involved long hours and a more sedentary lifestyle, I found myself gaining weight and feeling less physically active than I had been before. In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, I faced several challenges, but the time away from work gave me the opportunity to refocus on my personal health. Motivated by this newfound time, I pursued further training in resistance training, and since then, I have earned certifications in Nutrition, Stretching & Flexibility, and Yoga.

With this expanded knowledge, I am able to offer my clients a comprehensive, well-rounded approach to fitness. I tailor each program to meet the unique needs of the individual, ensuring it aligns with their personal goals.

Above all, I take the greatest pride in the personal relationships I’ve built with my long-term clients. Our sessions are more than just workouts; they are safe spaces where trust is fostered, and genuine connections are formed. We laugh, we talk, and at times, we share emotional moments together. Since beginning my client work in 2023, I have had the privilege of working with over 15 individuals, each of whom has become an integral part of my fitness community.

Partnering with me is not just about achieving fitness goals—it’s about becoming part of my extended family.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

If I had the opportunity to go back, I would undoubtedly choose the same specialty. The knowledge I’ve gained as a certified personal trainer has equipped me to work with clients across a wide range of fitness levels. While exercise is essential, I firmly believe that you can’t outwork a poor diet. To complement my personal training certification, I pursued further education in nutrition, allowing me to guide clients in making informed food choices that align with their wellness goals.

Beyond exercise and nutrition, rest is a crucial component of the fitness journey. After a challenging workout, the body needs time to recover, and it is during this recovery phase that muscle growth occurs. This realization led me to earn certifications in Yoga and Stretching & Flexibility, which help promote recovery and prevent injury.

The most fulfilling part of my work is witnessing clients achieve their fullest potential. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the months of consistent effort, encouragement, and dedication begin to pay off. Helping others reach their goals and thrive is a deeply satisfying experience.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

In addition to training and technical knowledge, strong interpersonal skills are crucial to having a successful career as a personal trainer. It’s essential to relate to your clients’ experiences on their journey to a healthier lifestyle. Clients need to feel they’re not alone and that you understand their struggles because you’ve been there yourself. Getting to know your clients on a deeper level allows you to recognize when they need a gentle push or when they could benefit from a bit more grace.

Creating workouts that are both fun and challenging, yet achievable, is key to keeping clients motivated and engaged. When you build a relationship that is both personal and professional, it becomes easier to guide them through their fitness journey while fostering trust and success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kwaucks-juiehn-mcclaorf.yolasite.com/
• Facebook: GR8Shape, LLC