Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Pisana
Jonathan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Austin, one of the rare true Austinites! While pursuing my degree in Kinesiology from St. Edward’s University, I took a Personal Training elective. I knew that I wanted to do something in the realm of Kinesiology, but did not consider Personal Training as a viable career path until completing the course. After graduation I became a Certified Personal Trainer and was hired by 24 Hour Fitness. Over the next 3 years in the corporate gym environment I became a Master Trainer with over 5,000 sessions serviced and was the top performing trainer for a year before going out on my own. I established Austin Art of Fitness in 2016. For the following 3 years I rented space at a local gym and continued Personal Training. In 2019 I had the opportunity to take over Ironsmith Fitness, what is now the current home of Austin Art of Fitness. I went into 2020 with the employment of two Personal Trainers and a plan to quickly grow…
The real challenges began after the COVID shut downs. I was able to keep my business running by quickly pivoting to online training, applying for government assistance, and selling gym equipment that I planned on upgrading in the future. When gyms were given the clearance to reopen, I appeared twice on the local news pioneering COVID safety protocols for other gyms to follow. A few years later after rebuilding my business, I received the opportunity to teach the exact same Personal Training course at St. Edward’s University that got me started on my journey. This full circle moment kept me pursuing what I initially envisioned Austin Art of Fitness could become. To be continued.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Looking back the road looks paved and intentional, but the reality was far from that. I initially planned to climb the corporate gym ladder and see how far I could go. That wasn’t for me. I heavily disagreed with the way members were being sold on training. Personal Training is a service, not a product and I’m not a sales person. After realizing this, the first struggle was leaving to start my own business. I was about to get married and afraid I would be making a big mistake leaving something that felt secure and safe for something that felt uncertain. I chose to trust myself and the people closest to me that believed in me. Side bar: That gym did not survive COVID, mine did. Speaking of COVID, that was hard. As I said before I was able to act quickly and keep my business alive, but during those years it felt like a never ending challenge just to stay afloat. I did not do this alone and it would not have been possible without the support of family, friends, and the community of Austinites, what I call Austin Art of Fitness members, to help me along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Austin Art of Fitness offers personal training as an effective holistic approach to fitness. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, our world-class trainers are dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness goals through personalized programs designed to challenge and inspire you. We know that starting a fitness program can be difficult, which is why we are here to support and empower you every step of the way. Our community of Austinites are here to cheer you on, celebrate your successes, and provide accountability to help you reach your goals. Join our movement and improve the way you move!
How do you think about luck?
I truly believe in the classic philosophical quote “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” I have practiced to be as prepared as possible in life and in business to take advantage of every opportunity presented to me. When something happens that feels like bad luck, like COVID, I lean into trusting myself and those around me. Prepare for what you can and prepare to be brave for the rest.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://austinite.fit
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinartoffitness/
