Leading the way with Juanita Thompson | Personal Trainer | Cockeysville , Maryland
Posted on May 20 2019
What’s inspired you to enter into the world of health & fitness? What’s your story?
My journey and love for a healthier lifestyle began almost 10 years ago, right after I gave birth to my daughter. I was getting married in less than 5 months and I needed to fit into my wedding gown. So I decided to start running because it was free and that was all I could afford at the time. After the wedding, I began looking into other ways to workout. I gravitated towards a few of the Beachbody programs for a little awhile then finally settled into group training and weight training. Both training styles became a huge outlet for me as I was going through some of life's obstacles. Without them and without the ability to move and dedicate time for myself, I would have not gotten through it all. For me, fitness is more than lifting or losing a weight, it's has become my lifeline.
What’s Your Training Style? (bootcamp, one-on-one, group?)
I run group training classes that can easily fall into the bootcamp category as well as personal training specifically for those who are just getting started on their journey or hitting the refresh button.
What are some of the barriers (if any) that you face as an African-American in the fitness community? How do you overcome them?
Which ones don't we face? I am a black/native woman attempting to become apart of an industry that rarely recognizes me, let alone my sisters who are darker than me. From a marketing aspect, it's so saturated with white woman with big butts or the one latina or the one light skin girl with curly hair, selling products left and right. These companies don't see me or my sisters. Another barrier would have to be from our own. It's unfortunate but too often black trainers feel competitive towards one another vs taking the opportunity to support one another. I have dealt with all of this by remaining focused on the end goal. I have a been given a gift and purpose for being in this space and if I want my daughters to see themselves within this space, I have to remain apart of it because they won't get it from Gymshark, Instagrams algorithm or even magazine covers.
"Stay focused on your why. Why you started, why you're here, and why you deserve this! Everything else doesn't matter."
What’s your primary vision and mission as a trainer? How does this translate in your work with current or potential clients?
My mission as a trainer is to get clients to see the bigger picture. That this has to become a lifestyle otherwise their health with be effected. I tell them at the beginning of every single class to set their intentions for being there, to have a purpose for showing up and to not waste their time. I also teach them the importance of making time for themselves and helping them to realize that they deserve some time to take care of their health ( especially the mamas).
What impact do you desire to make in your community?
I want to be able to reach other trainers who want to start something of their own, who want to make an impact in their communities. I feel strongly that if we can support one another, we all can win.
Where do you see your business in the next 5-10 years?
I see classes running morning and night, with me popping in every now and then. I want the business to achieve passive income level so I can then focus on the heart of it, the people. Coaching them on ways to move pass their barriers and fully succeed at their fitness goals.
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3 comments
I am inspired by your story. You inspire me to tell my own. Maybe one day soon I will. Thank you for sharing.
Love this girls energy and encouragement. Fitness training is new for me and there are times I really have to make myself go but I always feel good about myself when I am done. She makes sure of it!! You can’t miss here!!! She is very people and family oriented in all she does!
I can personally attest to Juanita’s passion for people and health. I’ve know her for over 10 years and watched her grow into such amazing person. Her training isn’t just about working out, it’s about improving all of your health, improving your life, and most importantly loving yourself. It’s about creating sustainable habits and behaviors that create long term success. I’ve met many of her clients who have been truly touched and impacted by her style of training, and her attention to not only their physical needs but their personal ones as well. I can’t wait to watch and see what she does next! She has always accomplished anything she puts her mind to, and is capable of anything. To say that I’m proud of her would be an understatement.