I own a fitness and nutrition company. We offer personal training, yoga, pilates, and nutrition and wellness training, either in the studio or at the client's home.

EDUCATION | BS in Business Administration; MBA; Certified Personal Trainer; currently studying to become a registered dietitian

HOW TO GET STARTED | First, hire a personal trainer yourself. Ask them about the field, to see if this is really something you want to do. If it is, complete a reputable personal training certification program.

MUST HAVE TRAITS | Diligence, patience and a motivating spirit.

how I got started | I was an overweight child and hated working out, recess, and even going outside to play. When I graduated from college and prepared to enter the work world, I could no longer wear the jeans and sweats I was used to wearing. It was hard to find trendy clothing in my size, so I started working out, first just walking. Then I hired a personal trainer. I liked how she helped me get in shape, and I wanted to help other people. I became an aerobics instructor eight years ago on the side while working in Corporate America. Then I became certified as a personal trainer. A year ago I quit my corporate job to open my own studio, Cafe Physique.

why this job?| When I started working out with a personal trainer, it made an amazing difference. I became stronger, healthier, and happier. It was also amazing that a person could go from loathing physical activity the way I used to, to becoming very active and fit. I want to help other people do that - real people, not just people who were born to exercise.

why I love this job!| I love that I can make healthy living accessible to everyday people. I love that I can help build people's trust in the fitness community. I don't try to sell them any products or tell them there's a quick fix, so hopefully I can change some people's perceptions of the fitness industry. And, I get paid to do what I love. Unless you're a professional athlete, very few people get paid to work out, but I do.

my typical day| I wake up without an alarm clock, go to the gym (not mine) and work out anonymously. Then I go to my own studio and train clients. I work on growing my business, and spend time on the computer, keeping in touch with clients. I take breaks from sitting at the computer by getting up and walking around or working out. When I get done for the day, I hang out with my friends. I work probably 20 hours more each week than I did in my past corporate life, but it feels like I work part time.

what they are | Conveying to potential clients that wellness is a necessity, not a luxury. Helping clients be accountable and make healthy choices during the 23 hours a day they're not at the studio. Keeping the focus on health and fitness instead of society's perception of beauty.

all about growth | The potential is definitely there for growth. As society focuses on prevention due to the rising cost of health care, fitness and nutrition experts will more often partner with the medical/health care industry.

my website| www.cafephysique.com