Trainer Spotlight: Allie Jackson
Meet Allie Jackson! She just joined the Balance team earlier this month as the Personal Training & Group Exercise Director at Thomas Circle, and already feels like Balance was where she’s meant to be! Read on to get to know Allie, and make sure to say hi the next time you’re at Thomas Circle!
Name: Allie Jackson
Occupation: Assistant General Manager/Personal Training & Group Exercise Director
Hometown: Detroit, MI
How long have you been with Balance? I have been in my full-time role for 3 weeks!
Tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your fitness background?
I was born in Detroit, MI but moved around a lot as a kid due to my dad being in the Marine Corps. I have 4 siblings and we all grew up being active and playing sports. I played basketball, soccer, and field hockey as a kid and also took up distance running at a young age. In 2013, I ran 10 road races, finishing with the Marine Corps Marathon. After I hung up my distance running shoes, I started dabbling in CrossFit and yoga. My workouts currently include a little bit of everything – lifting, running, swimming, yoga, CrossFit, etc!
How did you get started with fitness training/teaching?
When I was in college, I signed up for a weightlifting class and was really nervous because I was told I would be the only woman in the class. I had very little experience with weightlifting at the time and almost dropped the course before the first day. The first day of class a woman walked in and announced herself as the instructor and my fitness journey changed from that day. I knew I wanted to be an influential woman in the fitness world. I took my first personal training certification test at age 19 and from there received a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Exercise Science. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher, a Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and a Certified Exercise Physiologist.
What do you think are the most beneficial things about personal training, and how can people benefit from Balance’s personal training program?
One of the most beneficial things about personal training is exactly that – it’s personal. The Balance trainers are able to asses the way you move, how you feel, and what your goals are to create a program specifically for YOU.
Tell us about your training style?
What are your favorite kinds of workouts (either to take or to teach)? I LOVE teaching and taking yoga classes. My training style is a little of everything. Taking classes, lifting, running, metcon-ing – I never say no to any type of movement!
What are some of your gym must-haves? (can be gear, clothing, snacks, etc.)
My Manduka Pro Yoga Mat, the Supernova from MobilityWOD, and the Bear KompleX Hip Igniter
What’s your favorite healthy meal or snack (to cook at home or to eat on the go)?
Cooking is one of my favorite things to do outside of the gym. Right now I am playing with bone broth recipes. So far the best “secret” ingredient has been anise and cooking the broth in the crockpot instead of on the stove.
How do you suggest people fit working out into their busy schedules?
I suggest finding something you enjoy! The great thing about fitness is there are SO many choices! You can lift, dance, run, do yoga, hike, swim, bike… the possibilities are endless. If you find something you actually enjoy, you are more likely to stick with it!
What suggestions do you have for people who are new to fitness/working out?
I suggest people start making small changes over time. It is really difficult to change your entire schedule and your habits all at once. Pick one day of the week or one activity at a time. A great way to stay accountable is to workout with a friend or hire a trainer!
What are your favorite things about Balance? Why do you love working here?
I love the Balance family. Everyone from staff to members have been so welcoming. I feel like I am exactly where I am supposed to be!
#BalanceLife is: doing what makes you strong and happy.
Anything else you’d like to add? I have the 2 best pups in the world – Richard, the lab, and Laurel, the mix!
