July 2024 Member of the Month: Annie Fitzgerald
We are ecstatic to introduce you to Annie! Annie (she/her) started at FUELhouse in December 2021. She came to us looking for community coming out of working out at home (she ran in the CF world prior to at home workouts). She is currently a Group Class member, but has dabbled in private training and small group training to keep her on top of her group class game. 💪
Annie is so much fun to watch in class! She works hard, and knows how to (safely) push herself. Annie is always genuine when you talk with her; coaches and members alike look forward to having her in class. She’s constantly supporting those around her, lifting them up when they do something rad, and encouraging them when they need the motivation to try something new. It’s just plain fun to workout along side her 🙌
Continue reading below to learn more about Annie in her own words…
Name: Anne or Annie
Pronoun(s): she/her
Occupation: I've been a Life and Leadership Coach for almost twenty years.
IG: @annieofitz
Where can you be found outside of the gym? What do you do for a living?
When I'm not working, I'm walking my dogs, camping, or traveling.
What are your hobbies?
I spend time reading, walking, puzzling, and I recently aged into birding. In the summer it's fun to spend as much time as I can near and on water.
What brought you to FH in the first place?
After cancer surgery I wanted to get back to strength training but had to do it slowly and carefully.I was intentional about finding a space that focused on technique and strength but also was supportive and fun. I'm tired of comparison in life, I appreciate that people seem to genuinely celebrate each other's achievements at Fuelhouse. That's meaningful to me.
How are we so lucky you picked us (what are your favorite things about FH)?
People have a good time at Fuelhouse and I enjoy being there. Everyone who works there is excellent at their jobs. The community is kind and welcoming. The space of the gym itself is great, plus the excellent community of professionals right next door. I'm sure I could add to the list.
What sports or fitness things did you do before FH?
I've always liked to move... swimming, yoga, running, cross-fit and kettlebell most recently. .
What programs are you currently involved in at FH and why?
Group classes work well for me. Working out with friends makes training easier and more motivating.
What goals are you working towards and/or what’s on your FH bucket list of things you’d like to accomplish?
My goal is always to stay as strong as I can. That's proving to be more difficult as I age but FH programming has helped a lot.
What makes you commit to training even on days you don't feel like it?
I made the decision a long time ago to consistently lift weights. So, I don't ask myself whether or not I'm going. I show up and move how I can on the day. Also, every time I walk into Fuelhouse Brian welcomes me by name, Hayley fist bumps me with a smile. Kari makes me laugh. Vincent waves and says hello. Dre corrects my swings (thanks, Dre!). Sokol gives me a hang loose or thumbs up and a smile. Katherine greets me with a smile and genuine hello. And Molly's handing out hugs! Who wouldn't want to show up all the time?
What's your favorite movement/exercise?
The Get-Up.There are so many possibilities in the get-up. Also, the kettle-bell in general. It's such a versatile tool and I much to learn and improve upon.
What have been your “bright spots” (PRs or accomplishments are you most proud of)?
Completing Simple and Sinister was a fun achievement.
How have these accomplishments affected your life?
These last few years have been rough for me physically and I can only imagine how much harder things would've been if I didn't have strength. Also, the opportunity to lord them over my many nephews!
What is on your general bucket list for life?
Play the drums in David Byrne's band. (I don't currently play the drums or any instruments.)
Tell us a little known fact about yourself or what’s something most people don’t know about you?
I got to spend a little time with Mother Teresa a few decades back.
What's your favorite thing about being a FUELhouse member?
The many wonderful people I've met and the consistently positive environment I get to be in.
What was your first impression of FH? How has that changed?
It seemed like a cool gym with cool members and that's proven to be true.
What advice do you have for new (or experienced!) friends trying out FH?
Remember that at some point we all knew nothing about the kettle bell. Modifications are a great tool to be used throughout your athletic career for a zillion different reasons. When coaches offer you tips/ corrections they do so because they have confidence in your ability and want you to be safe. And have a good time.