Meet Jonae Steinman, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, who has a passion for fitness and health that shines through to her clients and colleagues. Her lifestyle also practices what she preaches. She walks the walk and talks the talk and is living her dream job. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? About 5 years ago I found myself in a place I didn’t want to be. I was 50 pounds overweight and I didn’t like what I saw in the mirror. My husband and I decided enough was enough and we made the commitment together to get our lives back and get back in shape. We both have always been active with sports growing up but once we got married we both just got comfortable and gained a total of over 100 pounds together. We started eating right and working out at our local studio in Washington State. I became close friends with the owner and after her witnessing my dedication, passion and drive she asked me to become an instructor for her. So I got certified in TRX and from that moment I knew I wanted to be a fitness professional and hopefully one day become a Personal Trainer.

Your Job Title: ACE Certified Personal Trainer

Company you are with now: Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios

Website:   jimwhitefit.com

A typical (or not so typical) day in the work-life for you: I love my job so much! I recently adopted a baby girl and was allotted 3 months to take maternity leave and after 3 weeks I just had to come back to work. I get to have personal, one on one relationships with people who are on the same journey as I once was and still am. I work with some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met that have become close friends. It’s hard to say what a typical day is here because it doesn’t feel like work, it feels like a second home! My clients are some of the most determined, passionate and driven people I know and their dedication is what motivates me to live the life style I preach!

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? When I moved to Virginia Beach I attended The Art Institute to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts (I LOVE FOOD) and I did a project for one of my classes that was for Jim White. My Culinary Instructor knew my background in fitness and told Jim all about me. Once Jim met me he knew I would be a perfect fit for his team and asked me to come aboard.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I have always been a pretty autonomous person when it comes to physical activates. Exercise has always made sense to me and I have always been aware of how the body should move and operate. The things I struggle with are all the technical terms for exercises and the body. I have a great photographic memory but for some reason I have a hard time retaining information I read. I am more of a hands-on, kinesthetic learner.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? One thing that has always kept me going is this, “Never give up on a dream or goal because of how long it may take to achieve, the time will pass regardless.” To be successful it takes hard work, determination, dedication, time, and a willingness to sacrifice in some areas of your life, but the rewards and payoffs are worth it!

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? Food…..I love food!!!

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.