We were lucky to catch up with Vikki Kopriva recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Vikki thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.
I had the chance to be with my four children at home when a neighbor invited me to join her at the gym. Despite being hesitant, I took classes, discovered a passion for spinning, got certified, and began teaching. Inspired by motivating others, I delved into running and triathlons, eventually realizing my potential to inspire people to live healthier lives as a profession.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I initially worked at Shapes, a women’s-only gym, until it closed in 2014. Faced with a choice, I consulted my clients who pledged to follow me. I took a leap, opened a small space, and those clients are still with me today. My passion is enhancing lives, promoting strength, balance, and vitality into one’s 90s. In 2018, I expanded to a larger space with a team of trainers, classes, small groups, and a digital gym. I cherish my profession, finding joy in making a positive impact every day.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
I hold a background in computer science, dedicating 15 years to a prominent corporation. Subsequently, I devoted another 15 years to nurturing my four children, which catalyzed my transition into the fitness industry. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of positively impacting numerous lives, empowering individuals to enhance their well-being and strength, I am deeply fulfilled in my current career and wouldn’t choose any other path.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
In the realm of fitness, I’ve come to appreciate the intricacies of the human body and the individuality of each person’s capabilities, I consistently emphasize the importance of recognizing that everyone operates at their unique level My mantra echoes, “just because you can do it, doesn’t mean you should”. I firmly believe that personal training is a customer service -oriented profession. I meticulously attend to my clients, prioritizing their safety and well-being to ensure they experience no harm during their fitness journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: pumpsgym.com
- Instagram: pumpsfit
- Facebook: pumpsfit
- Twitter: vikkikopriva@gmail.com