Amber King, a fitness instructor and personal trainer based in Princeville, Illinois, has turned her initial foray into teaching group fitness into a successful career over the past 18 years. What began as a way to save on gym membership fees has evolved into a thriving business that emphasizes personal connections and community.
Having earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Illinois State University and a master’s in urban planning from the University of Illinois, King leverages her educational background to enhance her approach to fitness. Since 2012, she has worked at the Stephens Family YMCA, where she offers a wide range of training options, both indoors and outdoors, tailored to her clients’ preferences.
King describes her training philosophy as one that integrates “friendliness, courage, movement, increased strength, mobility, and joy.” This personal touch is key to her approach, as she believes that movement has been foundational in her life, whether on the softball field, ballet stage, dance floor, or even in the circus.
Commitment to Community and Personal Growth
Throughout her career, King has emphasized the importance of community in fitness. She recalls a transformative experience when one of her training clients progressed from being trained to leading her own fitness classes. This moment stands out as a testament to her impact on others, showcasing how she fosters confidence and competency in those she trains.
King maintains a disciplined work ethic, stating, “We work hard, but we recover harder.” This principle extends to her personal life, where she balances her role as a mother with her professional commitments. After work, she often shifts into her role as “chef, chauffeur, maid,” ensuring that her children receive the attention they deserve.
Reflecting on the challenges of leadership, King identifies the need to consistently deliver excellent service, even on days when her passion for training may wane. “Remembering that I work from discipline, not motivation,” she notes, is crucial to her success.
Building Connections and Embracing Challenges
In her interactions with others, King prefers to keep meetings concise, often suggesting, “make it an email or text if possible, and if not, what can I feed people while we meet?” This approach fosters a collaborative environment that complements her commitment to community building.
King is also mindful of the qualities she seeks in job candidates, with a particular focus on how they handle conflict. “How a person handles conflict says a lot about their character,” she asserts, highlighting the importance of resilience in her field.
Every day begins for King with a review of her client schedule and a preparation of the necessary equipment. Her exercise routine largely consists of the group classes she teaches, along with attending taekwondo sessions twice a week, as she aspires to achieve a black belt by the age of 50.
When asked about her favorite indulgences, King mentions her love for sushi from Harvest Market and the almond-crusted goat cheese salad from Sun Singer. She also places value on rest, having recently invested in a new mattress to ensure better recovery after her demanding days.
King’s journey from a college student to a respected fitness leader exemplifies the power of passion combined with discipline. Her story continues to inspire those around her, reminding them that fitness is about finding joy in movement and building connections within the community.
