posted on September 11, 2024
My first time coming into Union Fitness was when I was a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh. I had just joined the Pitt Powerlifting team and was coming off a bodybuilding prep for 2 separate shows. My goal at the time was to be the best as I could possibly be in powerlifting. In essence, I wanted to lift as much weight as I possibly could. While I was lifting at Union for the first time, I was enamored with the community and the overflowing amount of knowledge that this environment provided. Everyone from the coaches to the members were so strong but also willing to teach you what they knew. In that moment, I knew that I had to be at Union Fitness if I wanted to grow not only as a powerlifter but also as a person. Fast forward to 3 years later, I had the opportunity to intern at Union Fitness in the Spring of 2022 where I met Curt, CJ, Todd, Toria, Miranda, Ethan, and many others. Along with that, I also got an inside look of Union Fitness’s community outside of powerlifting. The relationships that I saw from our group classes, our clients, our athletes, and our members is what convinced me that I needed to work here.
Fast forward again another year later, Curtis had stepped down from his position and there was an opening for being the head personal trainer. This is what I had been waiting for and I was extremely excited to apply. Although I had a stiff competition with Maria and Dahveed, I was fortunate once again to be selected as the head personal trainer. I did not want to take this position lightly especially with how great my predecessor Curt was before me.
I did my best to be who I am as a person but also continuing to carry on the legacy and knowledge that Union Fitness has provided for me and so many others. Through all the ups and all the downs, I am forever grateful for this opportunity and experience that was given to me. I have put my two weeks in at Union Fitness and my official last day as the manager of personal training and services will be Saturday September 21st 2024. However, do not fret, I will be staying on part time and continuing to train clients and maybe teaching a class or two when I have the time!
I wanted to take the time to thank each person that I have interacted with during my time here. This goes from teaching powerful bright and early with the OG squad at 6am, teaching powerful at 5pm with the evening homies, teaching countless cardio labs with the dedicated yet psychotic few, all the personal training clients that have trusted me with their progress, and all the members who have made my time as enjoyable as possible. Lastly, I want to thank my coworkers for their trust in me and allowing me to be part of the team with them. I truly felt at home with these people.
Over the past few years, I have gained many new relationships that I hope I can keep for the rest of my life. I view you all as my friends and I care about each and everyone of you. Without a doubt, the community is the best part of Union Fitness and I will die on that hill.
Like I said earlier, I will still be here but in much more limited role. However, next Saturday September 21st I would love to get drinks with everyone that would like to come. We will meet right after the mock meet at approximately noon at federal galley. Please feel free to stop by if you would like!
Zain signing off
Read More
