Today we’d like to introduce you to Genevieve Quarfoot.
Hi Genevieve, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Into my early 30s, I practiced law as a civil and criminal litigator which was incredibly taxing work in a stressful environment. I began my fitness journey at this time simply to relieve stress. As I became a busy mom of three kids, the gym continued to be my happy place and I soon realized I wanted to build a new career that encouraged joy and good health.
I obtained my NASM personal trainer certification and over the next decade provided private in-home training, taught pilates classes and became a long-standing coach at Orangetheory Fitness in Solana Beach.
After the pandemic, I obtained my life coaching certification so I could empower people outside of the studio as well. As a dually-trained coach, I provide a space of motivation, mentorship, confidentiality and accountability.
Now with Duet, my goal is to combine the best of both worlds! The rush you get from a great workout creates a space of openness and positivity to discuss life in a meaningful way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the most difficult points of transition in my life occurred in my mid 30’s – leaving behind my career in law, diving into motherhood, and starting a new career in fitness. I had a deep internal struggle with my ego to admit to myself (and others) that after all of my hard work in law school, passing the bar, and intense law focus (litigation is not for everyone!), I wanted to be home more with the kids. I struggled with my new, albeit chosen, identity outside of the courtroom. I eventually asked myself, if I could design my new life as a mom, what would it look like? I knew I wanted to work in some capacity; that I would be a better, happier mother if I had outside fulfillments. The things that consistently energize me are exercise and being around people. Becoming a certified fitness trainer was a logical and exciting choice that offered me the flexibility I wanted as a mother.
Over a decade later, I have nothing but gratitude for that journey. With fitness, I help empower people to find their inner strength and surprise themselves in the best way when goals become reality. In addition, now as a life coach, I connect with people on a deeper level. Full circle to my days as an attorney, I provide listening, support and confidentiality to those who need it in challenging times.
We’ve been impressed with Duet, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The cornerstone idea for Duet came from the realization that after exercise, people are at their most open and expressive. Throughout years of coaching group classes, members would often stay after class and chat with me, or I’d see them drift off to the nearest Starbucks to cool down with friends. Occasionally, a client would become emotional after class and share something personal with me that the rush of endorphins had brought to the surface. Hearing about people’s struggles, goals, worries and hopes is a privilege I do not take lightly. Furthermore, personal connection is more important than ever in a post-pandemic and A.I. reality.
So I wondered what if you could leverage the physical and mental effects of a workout and follow it up with an open and engaging conversation right after, all in the same place? I created Duet to offer a private setting for one-on-one coaching. Each session is 90-minutes divided into 2 parts. The first 45 minutes is a vigorous workout – the second 45 minutes is the life coaching conversation.
The 45 minute workout includes both a cardio and strength component. For cardio, you can choose the treadmill, bike or elliptical. For strength, you can choose free weights or the pilates reformer. As your coach, I will instruct you through timed intervals and varying levels of intensity.
After a brief cool down, we sit in a comfortable space to talk about whatever is on your mind for that session. Life coaching is not therapy. Instead, I am a strategic partner who collaborates with you to clarify goals, navigate relationships, and remove obstacles so you can live with more intention and less stress.
I believe in coaching the connection between physical and mental fitness. To that end, I’ve created a space where I am hopeful this duet in wellness can flourish.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The greatest lesson I learned early in life was to bet on myself. Every time a new challenge, fear or major life change comes along, I just remind myself that hey, you’ve figured things out this far! It is helpful to continually reaffirm my ability to do hard things. An old proverb I heard recently is “Fall 7, Rise 8” and I just love that. It’s so simple but really powerful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.duet-coaching.com
- Instagram: @duetcoaching
Image Credits
Headshot by Solifoto
Owner: Laura Bravo Mertz
