Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Armbrust.
Jessica, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I grew up in a very big family that is super close-knit, loving and not to mention competitive. With five brothers and one sister, I was inevitable hooked on adrenaline, competition, and the feeling of accomplishment ever since I can remember racing my siblings down the street outside our home in Wheaton.
As close as we are, we always hold each other accountable for our dreams because we believe in each other. My love for fitness and helping people fell into place when I uncovered this passion after watching my dad (a doctor) take care of his patients and my mom who was always so dedicated to her health. The combination of it all inspired me and transformed me into who I am today.
I played club tennis in college and when I graduated I felt like something was missing. I was working in corporate sales and was longing for a purpose. I had to take a step back and refocus on what inspires me. I love to be inspired and inspire others so I was trying to uncover what unlocked my sense of self. It wasn’t until one day I decided that “in order to see a change I needed to make one”.
I was spending a lot of my time in the gym because that is where I feel most like myself. One day, on a whim I decided to study for my NASM personal training license. After two attempts, I passed my test and embarked my side career on health and fitness. Shortly after I also became a spin instructor at Cyclebar in Fulton Market.
For those who know me, I am a very goofy and randomly come up with weird words on the spot. Chickafit came to fruition when I randomly decided to combine my favorite word “chicka” with my passion for “fit”ness. When I think of chickafit I envision a strong independent woman who is not afraid to be herself. Someone who inspires others through her actions rather than words. Someone who is empowered to “be the best version” of themselves through pushing through their ups and downs in life. I believe health and fitness has the ability to unlock confidence that we never knew we had.
As my journey through chickafit started to take shape, I noticed patterns in my food and workouts that made a lasting impact. An impact that I never use to see even when I played sports in high school and college.For example, lifting heavy weights no longer seemed daunting and rather something I looked forward to at the gym. Eating healthy no longer felt like a chore and I actually started to like the taste of green food (who would have guessed ).
These changes ended up not only impacting my body but my mind in a very significant and positive way. It was ironic because, with the endless fad diets that I previously followed and always hearing about what the “perfect body” should look like, I was amazed to learn how eating healthy and working out can make you feel. This was when the changes that I made started to make the change that I envisioned. This was also when I wanted to share them with others.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not always been a smooth road and I still feel like I am constantly learning. A struggle that I had along the way was not passing my NASM personal training exam the first time around. This was a very humbling experience that motivated me more than ever to be successful.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Chickafit – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Chickafit is centered around “being the best version of yourself”. We all have it in us to be fit, healthy and happy. We sometimes do not know how to get there but that is what Chickafit is all about. I work with people on their own personal goals and help them make quick and easy changes to their eating habits and workout routines that will allow them to feel empowered. My program is not just focused on losing weight per se, it is about empowering yourself to gain what you want to achieve in life. I believe that happiness comes from within and when you feel happy with yourself the sky is the limit.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I feel like I am just getting started. I want to develop Chickafit into a lifestyle brand that will inspire women. My goal is for people to trust chickafit as the go-to brand that will enable them to reach their full potential through health and fitness. My next steps are to develop workout videos and customized nutrition meals and potentially workout clothes.
Contact Info:
- Address: 345 N Lasalle Apt 906
Chicago, IL 60611 - Website: https://chickafitcom.wordpress.com/
- Phone: 6307729130
- Email: chickafit@gmail.com
- Instagram: @chickafit
Image Credit:
@otherwisetopless
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