We try a unique approach to personal training at Union Fitness. We don’t have trainers walking the floor trying to sell you things you don’t need. Instead, we first assess each client’s physical health and wellness, fitness background, and goals. Then we pair that individual with one of our trainers that is best suited to help the client reach their goals in the most efficient way possible.
Most clients are just searching for motivation, accountability, or knowledge. They want to lose weight, strengthen nagging injuries, or just get back into the swing of things at the gym. However, our North Side Pittsburgh gym has also successfully trained clients to improve their hobbies inside and outside of the gym including downhill bicycle racing, marathons, powerlifting, and olympic weightlifting.
Hannah Empfield
Personal Trainer
Pittsburgh native Hannah grew up in a family where there is a heavy focus on living a healthy and active life. She played fast-pitch softball for over a decade and has been an avid golfer since middle school. When not in the gym you can find Hannah spending time with family, on the golf course, or hiking with her dog Quinn. Hannah originally pursued a degree in Forestry from West Virginia University with the intent to work in the national park systems. With a change of heart post covid and a short stint as a rock climbing instructor Hannah then put her focus into becoming a part of the Health and Wellness community. She received her personal training certification through NASM and has been working as a trainer ever since. With her clients Hannah focuses on helping them build sustainable habits in the gym that can improve their overall wellbeing and day to day life. If she’s not with her one on one clients you can find Hannah coaching group classes where she creates a high energy and inclusive space for anyone and everyone regardless of their past experience. Hannah works hard to create a personalized approach that prioritizes balance in making healthy choices both attainable and enjoyable for her clients.
Mary Howski
Personal Trainer
Mary has been an athlete since she was in grade school, competing on a school volleyball team that went to state championships and a club volleyball team that went to nationals. She is currently studying Exercise Science at Pitt, and she hopes to pursue a career in strength and conditioning. Originally she studied psychology at Boston College, but once she got her certificate in personal training, she realized quickly that she had a much stronger passion for working with athletes and figuring out how to make them perform at their highest possible level. She helps with Chatham Women’s Soccer and Chatham Men’s Hockey at Union, and will be working with Pitt Men’s and Women’s Basketball. She enjoys working in personal training and with group exercise where she has experience, but her favorite atmosphere will always be with a team in the weight room.
Tyra Bell
Personal Trainer
Hi y’all, my name is Ty/Tyra, though I am new to coaching, I am no new face here at UF! I have been a member for over 4 years and decided to get into coaching as my blend of athleticism and creativity has become a tool for healing into my vision of therapeutic practices. As a Black and queer professional, I am committed to creating affirming spaces where all individuals can explore support in achieving wellness goals, cultivate resilience integrating music, movement, and strength training into practices that empower people to live healthier, more liberated lives. I am a lifelong athlete, community outreach worker, and current student. Whether through outreach, coaching, or conversation, I strive to be a resource for my community and a partner in growth and learning.
Raven Thorton
Personal Trainer
Raven is a dedicated personal trainer with a strong foundation in human performance, currently studying Exercise Science at Pennsylvania Western University. A retired military veteran with over eight years of coaching and training experience, Raven brings discipline, adaptability, and a deep understanding of physical preparation to every client. Growing up an athlete, Raven played basketball, ran track, and cross-country, building the foundation for a lifelong passion for movement and performance. As an adult, Raven has competed in functional fitness competitions (CrossFit), marathons, and shorter-distance races. Raven is still pushing her limit at 30 and is currently competing as an amateur boxer. Raven holds certifications through NASM and the National Association of Speed and Explosion (NASE), earning a Level II Speed & Performance credential. With a strong background in strength training, mobility, and conditioning, Raven focuses on helping individuals move at their best and feel like athletes no matter their starting point. Raven’s coaching style emphasizes proper movement, confidence, and creating a performance-driven environment where every client can succeed.
