We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shana Abraham. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shana below.

Shana, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

Changing careers is never an easy decision, especially when you have little ones under the age of four. The thought of leaving a job in retail sales to dive into health and fitness in your 40s can feel like standing on the edge of a cliff, looking down at an uncertain future. But sometimes, life’s pivotal moments push you to leap.

I had just given birth to my youngest and was facing an emotional time in my life. Not only was I uncomfortable in my body I was managing the emotions of having two little kids and being a mom.

It was during this tumultuous phase that I decided to work with a health coach who specialized in health and fitness. I needed a change, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Through her guidance, I embarked on a transformative journey. She helped me set achievable fitness goals, but more importantly, she encouraged me to explore my passions and purpose. As I began to shed the weight—both literally and metaphorically—I started to uncover a newfound strength and resilience within myself.

My coach believed in me in a way I hadn’t experienced before. She saw potential where I saw limitations. During our sessions, she often asked, “What if you could inspire others with your journey? What if you could help people change their lives, just as you’re changing yours?” Her words resonated deeply, igniting a spark I hadn’t felt in years. I began to visualize a future where I could use my transformation to encourage others to take their own leaps of faith.

As I embraced this new mindset, I realized that my experience could be a guiding light for others. I began to consider the possibility of changing careers and becoming a health and fitness coach myself. The idea was exhilarating, and the thought of inspiring others was a powerful motivation, igniting a passion within me that I never knew existed.

After weeks of contemplation and encouragement from my coach, I made the decision to take the plunge. I enrolled in a personal training and nutrition coaching certification program. I woke up early to study before the kids woke up and spent nap times working on my assignments. It was exhausting, but every small step I took felt like a victory.

The transition wasn’t without challenges. Starting out during COVID meant navigating a landscape filled with uncertainty. I had to quickly adapt, taking much of my business online while also training clients outdoors to maintain engagement and foster connection. The initial months were tough, however, I gradually found my footing.

As my client list grew, so did my confidence. I found immense joy in helping others reach their fitness goals, and I realized that my own journey was inspiring those around me. I learned to balance my work and family life, setting boundaries to ensure I was present for my kids while also dedicating time to my career.

Looking back, that leap into health and fitness was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It transformed my career and my family life. I became more engaged and fulfilled, and my children witnessed me pursuing my passions. I hope to teach them the importance of following their dreams and embracing change no matter what age!

Taking that risk has allowed me to work with so many clients and help them realize their fitness goals, creating a sense of fulfillment I never knew I wanted. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, the biggest leaps of faith can lead to not only personal growth but also the opportunity to uplift and inspire others along their journeys.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

As a personal trainer and nutrition coach, my journey into this industry began with a passion for health and wellness that developed during my own experiences as a mother. Balancing the demands of motherhood with the desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle led me to explore fitness and nutrition more deeply. After the birth of my second child, I underwent a significant transformation, successfully changing my mindset and physical being, and I have maintained that weight loss for over nine years. This personal journey inspired me to change careers in my 40s and dedicate my life to helping others achieve their own wellness goals.

Through my training, I became certified as a personal trainer and nutrition coach, enabling me to offer a holistic approach to fitness and wellness. I provide online training sessions, personalized nutrition plans, and in-person coaching, accommodating the busy lives of parents, like myself. My services include tailored workout programs, nutritional guidance, meal planning, and ongoing support to help clients stay motivated and accountable.

One of the primary problems I solve for my clients is the challenge of finding balance. Many individuals struggle to prioritize their health amidst the chaos of daily life, especially parents. I focus on creating sustainable habits that fit seamlessly into their lifestyles, rather than promoting quick fixes or extreme diets that are often unsustainable.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my unique perspective as a mother and my commitment to fostering a supportive community. I understand the specific hurdles that parents face, and I aim to create an inclusive environment where clients feel empowered and understood. My approach is not just about physical transformation but also about building confidence and resilience.

I take great pride in the success stories of my clients, watching them transform not only their bodies but also their mindsets. Seeing them achieve their goals, whether it’s losing weight, gaining strength, or simply feeling better about themselves, is incredibly rewarding.

For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that my brand is centered around authenticity, support, and empowerment. I believe in the power of community and shared experiences, and I strive to create a space where everyone can thrive. If you’re looking for guidance that respects your individuality and the challenges you face, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Together, we can make lasting changes that enhance your overall well-being and happiness.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself facing an unexpected challenge that required a significant pivot in my approach to training clients. With gyms closing and people becoming more cautious about in-person activities, I realized that I needed to adapt quickly to continue providing value to my clients.

Initially, I had built my business around in-person training sessions at a local gym. When the lockdowns began, I felt a mix of uncertainty and determination. I knew that my clients relied on our sessions not just for physical fitness but also for motivation and community. So, I quickly transitioned to online training.

Simultaneously, I recognized that some clients preferred outdoor settings, where they could feel safer while still engaging in physical activity. I organized outdoor training sessions in parks, ensuring that we maintained social distancing. This kept my clients active.

Through these pivots, I discovered new ways to connect with my clients, such as virtual challenges and online support groups, which maintained engagement and motivation. While the transition was challenging, it ultimately expanded my skill set and allowed me to reach a broader audience. The experience taught me the importance of adaptability and innovation in the face of adversity, and I emerged from the pandemic with a more resilient and versatile business model.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

A pivotal moment in my journey occurred when I decided to change careers in my 40s while raising two young children under four. After years in retail sales, I felt a strong desire to pursue my passion for health and fitness, but the thought of starting over was daunting.

Despite my self-doubt, I enrolled in fitness certification courses during nap times and late nights. Balancing parenting and education was challenging, yet I was driven by my vision of a fulfilling career. As I networked in the health and fitness community, I faced skepticism and the difficulty of securing clients, but I persevered.

The journey was filled with late nights and moments of uncertainty, but it was incredibly rewarding. Transitioning into this new career not only brought me fulfillment but also set an example for my children about resilience and following one’s dreams. Changing careers in my 40s became a transformative experience that taught me the value of adaptability and perseverance.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://aspirefitnesshealth.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspirefitnesshealth
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/aspirefitnesshealth/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aspire-fitness-health-llc
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@aspirefitnesshealth

Image Credits

Crystal Leighton Photography