There are many people who are working behind the scenes to ensure that people get trained, products get sent and everything runs smoothly. Nicole Gillett is one of those people, not only keeping everyone in line at the office, but also manages the TRX Training Center in San Francisco and is one of the top instructors.
Nicole Gillett
I started at FAI in Feb, 2007 as the tradeshow coordinator, after a brief stint at a political PR career. The job was on craigslist and this whole Fitness thing sounded pretty interesting. Although when I arrived at the interview (on Taraval street out in the boondocks of SF), I was slightly skeptical. But I fell in love with the team and the TRX. I believe I was employee number 10; within a few months, we were at about 20 people and if you were late for work, you were stuck working on a box instead of at your desk. Luckily, working the tradeshow circuit, I was on the road a lot. Soon I moved into our Events Management role and the following April, I took on the job of being a "Project Manager", working directly for Randy tackling different projects and problem areas in the company.
Where did you first hear of the TRX:
When I interviewed for the job. I had never heard of it before, and I immediately fell in love with it. The day after my first workout, it hurt to laugh.
What excited you most about the TRX:
It was new, exciting and truly different. People latched on to it immediately. I loved that I was able to take it with me anywhere and it was always a conversation starter. The inherent qualities of Fitness Anywhere (authentic, best in class and fun) are also qualities of the TRX. It's amazing that you can kick your ass with a set of straps. And I've never, ever found a better core workout.
How have you incorporated the TRX?
That would be an understatement. I've hung up my "gym rat" title, trading it for a more outdoor focused lifestyle. (Living in SF as opposed to Boston helps). Because of the TRX and my increased fitness level, I completed my first marathon and triathlon last year, and I've gotten stronger, leaner and fitter. I am outside more. I'm more active. My "gym" is Crissy Field, the Lyon Street Steps and the Presidio. My 75 year old dad uses it and my boyfriend, a former collegiate athlete, loves it. I am on the TRX, literally every day.
Where do you typically workout using your TRX?
At the TRX Traning Center, of course! But if not there, I usually use it at the Lyon Street Steps. Hang it at the top of the stairs on Broadway St, do the stairs from hell, and get my TRX work in at the top. Do it again. Incredible circuit based training. My workout is interrupted more than once however with curious onlookers :)
What are your fitness goals?
Now that I've completed my first marathon, I'm totally on board with the running thing. My next Marathon is in October and I hope to improve my time this year. And my secret weakness has recently been revealed by my boss: I cannot do a pull-up. That's next on my list, or else I'm getting downgraded on my review ;)
How do you stay motivated?
This is going to sound strange, but I don't actually need motivation to work out on the TRX. I look forward to my workout each day. Plus I try to motivate others, which naturally helps motivate me. It does help to set goals and to have a work out "buddy" to challenge yourself with (thanks Jennie!) Plus, working for the company helps; encouragment is key!
What does it mean to you to be fit and why do you think it is important?
I think being fit is all about balance. You can be physically fit, but not mentally fit, and I think it is important to keep things in perspective. We all would love to have 6-pack abs, but I know that I love my glass of wine at the end of a long week. Would I be willing to give that up in order to achieve a fitness model body? Nah. I'm pretty happy with my "level of fitness" and I think part of that comes from goal setting, maintaining balance and having a great support team in my life.
What advice or words of encouragement would you give people?
The first time you do anything it feels weird. Especially the TRX! But soon it becomes second nature and you'll be a TRX junkie in no time.
Thanks Nicole! We'll see you at the TRX Training Center!