Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Nicole.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My name is Ashley Nicole and I am a RA Warrior! I’ve lived with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for 16 years and developed a passion for health and fitness along the way. After my first big transformation and deciding to change my lifestyle in 2009, I knew that I could inspire others like me to do the same.
After being laid off in 2018, I decided to obtain my personal training certification. I used my time wisely and also got certifications in fitness nutrition, endurance training and strength training, qualifying me as a Master Trainer. After achieving all of this, you’d think I’d be on top of the world and ready to conquer it, but there was so much self-doubt. A person very close to me told me “how are you going to be a personal trainer and you have arthritis? How are you going to show your clients how to do things that you can’t do? You can’t even do a push-up!” Those words hurt to the core, but also fueled my fire.
Fast forward to January 2020; I was finally ready to walk in my purpose. I attended a friend’s event, called Godfidence, where I was empowered to conquer my fears and walk in my purpose. Then I went through a 21 Day fast with my church and the focus was on purpose. My purpose was revealed. My purpose is unique! While taking a fitness class and making my own modifications, the name came to me: RA Warrior Fitness. I know it was from God because it was so clear. By January 27, I submitted for my LLC.
By March, I had my logo created and website built. COVID-19 began to hit hard and people were working from home, businesses closed and gyms shut down days later. It was unprecedented for so many, but it was my opportunity to finally do what I’ve always wanted to do. To help people stay active and healthy. By March 25, I launched my first online program. More than 60 people signed up!
I’ve continued to build my businesses during the pandemic in the midst of being laid off again. I’m also an activewear influencer and owner of an online activewear boutique. 2020, COVID-19 and God has officially pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me an entrepreneur.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road is never easy! If it were, I don’t think it would be a learning experience. I’ve learned and I’m still learning so much about entrepreneurship and its ups and downs. My days are full with one on one virtual clients, recording new videos for online programs, creating social media posts, engaging followers and clients on social media, etc. It’s a lot of work and requires planning. Although I’m certified in nutrition, I often find myself so busy that I forget to eat! Here are a few of my lessons learned:
1. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Keep a calendar and know what you’re going to accomplish each day. Plan a week in advance if you can.
2. Find tasks to eliminate or automate. Don’t let social media consume you! Schedule those posts as well, engage with your followers and move on to the next important task.
3. Make time for self. It’s so easy to work, work, work for hours, but even entrepreneurs need self-care and rest. You can’t pour from an empty cup. I learned this quickly!
Please tell us about RA Warrior Fitness.
RA Warrior Fitness was founded on January 27, 2020, with the mission to empower, motivate and encourage a healthy lifestyle through faith, food and fitness. I recognize that there are many people, like me, who have physical limitations and may need to modify certain exercises, but nothing should hold you back from accomplishing your goals. Warriors are brave fighters with a “no excuses” mentality. I motivate and inspire my clients to reach their goals while achieving maximum results. The process may not look like anyone else’s, but we get it done like WARRIORS do!
I’m proud that my company has helped so many people reach their fitness goals. Some of my clients have had successful transformations while battling autoimmune diseases like RA, Lupus, Sickle Cell, etc. Not all of my clients have an autoimmune disease… Some just simply want to get active and live a healthier lifestyle. No matter where you are on your journey, I have a program that will meet you right where you are and help you to become the best version of yourself!
One of the things that set my company apart from others is I’m strong in my faith and I’m not ashamed to let anyone know. My faith will always be the forefront of my business because, without God, none of this would be possible. I pray for and with my clients after every session.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I feel that my strong faith and resilience are important keys to my success. Each time I’ve had a setback, the comeback has been stronger because I know where my help comes from!
Contact Info:
- Website: rawarriorfitness.com
- Email: rawarriorfitnessllc@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rawarriorfitness
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rawarriorfitness
- Other: http://www.myzyia.com/RAWARRIORFITNESS/
Image Credit:
Gary Allridge Photography
Kevin Taylor Photography
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