Brooke Van Raay

From hating sports when I was younger to absolutely falling in love with fitness and training, whether group fitness, running, or lifting weights, I have been on quite the journey. I first fell in love with running as a mental outlet years ago, and that pushed me into loving all things health and fitness. I wanted to be able to practice the things I loved as an athlete instead of viewing working out as "punishment." Since finding running, I have also been an avid group fitness attendee, hiker, and outdoor activity person willing to try anything.

Once I realized my love for training and its impact on me, I wanted to provide that feeling to someone else. Having a goal, feeling strong, and working towards scary things can be difficult, and having someone on your team is your best resource. I got my personal training certificate and started coaching functional group fitness and kickboxing classes. Since then, I have coached, aided in research on fall risk reduction in older adults, and started my journey to become an occupational therapist (it is fine; you can ask me what that is!), where I understand the importance of being able to do the things that are meaningful to you, which can be health and fitness.

I have primarily worked with women and the general population. I always want to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to push themselves in a way that may be outside their comfort zone, but never alone. I am constantly working towards new goals, always learning, and always welcoming to anyone ready to begin their journey!