Rebecca Holladay shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Rebecca, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
When I first started down this path of health and fitness it was about health and fitness. I’m realizing now it’s about the human spirit and it wanting to live. I’m helping people to live longer and have better quality of lives and have independence as they age. I’ve had some of the same clients for 18 years now. Our relationship has evolved into an imperemenant one
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Rebecca Holladay! I’m a personal trainer/medical exercise specialists /group fitness and mental health professional. I’ve been in this industry for over 20 years. I’ve recently opened up my own private studio called Kolibri. What sets me apart is my empathetic yet tough approach, ability to quickly assess client needs, and wisdom gained from my own life and fitness experiences. From competing in triathlons and CrossFit to figure competitions and long-distance swimming events (including conquering the Alcatraz swim!), I understand the challenges and triumphs of pushing your body to its limits.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I didn’t start lifting weights till I was in college. I had taken a trip to visit my cousin in the city at his health club where he worked. I remember falling in love. I had never been in a place that was beautifully designed for strength training and sports. We went into the basketball court and I threw a basketball at the three-point line. I’m a pretty short girl and I had never made a basket from there before and I made it, something in me lit up, and I realize that it was the strength training that made me stronger.!! I’ll never forget that moment because it changed my life. I decided to quit nursing school and become a personal trainer..
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
So many times I wanted to give up because personal training isn’t a consistent income flow. There were times where I ate protein shakes for breakfast lunch and dinner because I was so broke. I had moved in and out of homes for almost 10 years because let’s face it personal training you just don’t make that much money. So many times I wanted to give up but I’m pretty stubborn. That stubbornness has lead me to open up Kilobri which I also use as an art gallery to sell art. From cleaning gym equipment, working the front desk, cleaning the bathrooms, giving away free personal training sessions, saying yes to teach any class I could get my hands on, to owning my own business now for 3 years!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
The project aim commuted to is people’s overall health until they are no longer here on earth. It’s important to me people/my clients know that their quality of life matters. I’m not just talking about their physical bodies but their emotional and spiritual sides as well. All three of these are important for our bodies to function properly. I’ve got clients I’ve had for 18 years and I will keep on working with them through their last breath. They need to know their bodies, their mind, and their spirit has had a purpose here on earth and I want to support my clientele in any way I can.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
My whole life I’ve been told what to do and it has not been personal training. I’ve been told to go in to more stable jobs with a steady income. I’ve been told to go back to nursing or going in to nutrition or being a teacher. For so long I had been pushed in to having another career. I held strong and stubborn for my hearts desire instead. I’ve always gone against the grain or the “normal” things people do. I never wanted that because I felt like it restricted me and suffocated me. I’m a free bird hinche my company’s name Kolibri which is a humming bird.
Contact Info:
- Website: Kolibri fit.com
- Instagram: rebeccasueholladay
- Facebook: Rebecca Sue Holladay
