Meet Andrea McCoy, a Core Performance specialist who specializes in fitness and coaching.

Sarah Koszyk, RD: What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? Andrea McCoy, CSCS: I was an athlete growing up, and I always knew that I wanted to do something in the health and fitness field. Being able to educate people on how and why their bodies work a certain way is exciting. The best part: I get to help people realize their potential.

Your Job Title? Assistant General Manager/Performance Specialist

Company you are with now? Core Performance, Walgreens Corporate Campus

Website: careers.coreperformance.com

A typical (or not so typical) day in the work-life for you? My day starts with a 4 a.m. wake-up call. When I arrive at campus, I prepare the facility for the arrival of the first member. Once the first member checks in, I get into coaching mode. I need to have enough energy not only for myself, but also to help motivate the members. Morning activities include teaching proper movement patterns and challenging members to push themselves (and each other) out of their comfort zone. If I’m not coaching, I may be conducting fitness evaluations, which include Function Movement Screens (FMS), VO2 assessments, and goal setting sessions. I also spend time developing my skills and working on innovation/implementation programs for future Core Performance projects.

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? I used to call myself a professional intern. After graduating, I did three internships in a row. Although unpaid, the internships allowed me to surround myself with some of the brightest people in the industry. I was able to take different aspects of each mentor’s coaching style and use it to create my own style. I’ve been lucky to pass along bits of my coaching style to other coaches starting out. My father always told me, “It isn’t about how many people you know, it’s about how many people you made an impression on. Make an impression and don’t let them forget about you.” This was true for me. I moved cross-country, reconnected with an old mentor a year later, and was hired by Core Performance. In the last four years, I’ve been able to grow as a coach, mentor, manager, and teammate because of the impression I left with someone five years ago.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I was born with a natural curiosity. In an ever-evolving industry of new research and concepts, it’s important to have a desire to learn. Working with athletes, wellness clients, and co-workers, I’ve also learned to develop effective ways of communicating. Every situation and person is unique. Being able to adapt accordingly can be the difference between success and failure.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? So many people are afraid of failing. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every mistake is a learning experience. The more experiences we have in life, the more character we build. Also, surround yourself with people that challenge you to be better and wiser. If you soak up the information and share it with others, you’ve found success.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? I would say tickets to sporting events. It combines my love for athletics and the potential for travel.

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.