Meet Aaron May of Essential Fitness Solutions

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron May.

Aaron, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have been moving all of my life. I had a dance scholarship to FSU. I loved the feeling of leaving a really hard class. After college, I worked various jobs trying to find the right fit and was completely unsuccessful. I got married and had a baby and became a stay-at-home mom. My husband’s company started moving us around all over the Southeast.

We were placed in St Petersburg, FL. It was there that I attended my first Zumba class. I was hooked. I had that feeling that I would get after leaving a really hard dance class. One of the instructors was leaving and told me that the class decided that I should get licensed and take over her spot. I did it unwillingly and that first week had 13 classes. I am an overachiever for sure.

I taught in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. After a couple of years, I wanted to teach other things so I got my AFFA group fitness certification, people had been taking my classes religiously, and getting to know them and know I was helping them was what kept me going. I realized that this was what I was meant to do. I loved meeting new people and hearing their stories. I loved working with people and seeing the changes not only in their physical appearance but in their mental and emotional well-being.

So now I am a single mom and business owner. I added more certifications to the list; NASM Certified Personal Trainer, NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist, and Certified Precision Nutrition Coach. I started my own company last year Essential Fitness Solutions. I don’t teach classes anymore unless it’s for an event or something. I still love to get in front of a group if the opportunity presents itself. I work with clients in person and online.

I have some clients that have been with me for about ten years. Some float in and out. My goal is to help people feel their best, build and retain strength, and learn healthy habits. I feel truly blessed for each person who walks through my door.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely not been a smooth ride. Moving seven times in twelve years was a lot. Each time I had to start over. I would have to find a new gym or gyms to work at, get the lay of the land, and try to fill my time with classes or clients.

I was raising a daughter and trying to work within her school hours, study for more certifications while she was sleeping or at school, and build a name for myself. During the last couple of years trying to start my own company as well as dealing with my own personal issues which included divorce.

I never expected it to be easy. There are rarely days off. I get up at 4:30 am for my first client. I work usually until 7 pm. Sometimes barely a break in the day. I show up always for my daughter as well as clients. You have to there is no other option. It’s what I love.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Essential Fitness Solutions specializes in helping people live healthier lives through, fitness, nutrition, and healthy habit coaching. We offer in-person and online coaching.

All ages are welcome. Senior citizens to kids we work with everyone. Children are welcome with their parents. We feel it is important for kids to see their parents making their health a priority,

Our services are tailored to each person’s individual needs. We offer private rooms where clients can relax and not feel they are out in front of an entire gym for everyone to see.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to fitness or wellness. Everyone has different needs. Sometimes a client just needs to go for a walk, stretch or just breathe. We as trainers need to listen and be aware of their needs above ours. It’s ok to deviate from the plan for the day if a stretch, walk or whatever is needed. Sometimes they just need us to listen, because everyone has a story to tell.

I also learned that I am capable. Maintaining clients, social media/advertising, and the business side of things can be overwhelming. I have definitely learned how to ask for help and who to ask. That is a hard lesson learned. No one wants to ask for help.

I have learned my passion is helping and supporting people on their journey to living happier, healthier lives. I have been fortunate to be able to turn this into my career. It’s not an easy one but it is rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @AaronEdwardsMay
• Facebook: @EssentialFitnessSolutions
• Other: TikTok @EssentialFitnessSolutions