Written in Partnership with Amir BakianFor most people, the gym can be an intimidating space to feel empowered in. This is particularly true for people who may be less experienced with fitness. ‘Gymtimidation’ has always been a problem since these organizations were mainly based on bodybuilding, reinforcing a culture of aesthetics over health. However, many businesses have taken a different approach to helping people stay in shape, and 4Fitness is one of them. The studio was founded by Tracie Thompson, a certified personal trainer with over 20 years of experience assisting people of all capabilities in finding routines that work for them. As someone who was never on board with the negative side of gym culture, Tracie intentionally makes 4Fitness a safe space for all people to take control of their fitness experience, and she does this through a unique ‘no machines’ methodology.
When people imagine a gym they often visualize a room with various machines for strengthening individual muscle groups. However, a gym simply needs to be a space where people are focused on moving their bodies. Tracie Thompson takes this idea to the next level, designing her classes to provide tangible impacts on their everyday lives.
“The 4Fitness philosophy is simple,” says Tracie Thompson. “We train our body as a machine because it has a direct translation into how easily we can take on physical activities throughout our day-to-day and improve our quality of life. Without machines, we can make bigger movements, offer more options, and let clients begin their fitness journey comfortably until they’re ready to challenge themselves further.”
In addition to offering engaging classes like, Surfset, Fly Bungee, Fly Pilates, Aerial Yoga, TRX, and Power Core, 4Fitness ensures that every client receives a personalized experience. By keeping class with six or fewer people, Tracie can easily monitor every participant and their progress. If they’re not challenged by the current movement, she can suggest something a bit more advanced if they are comfortable. On the other hand, she can assist beginners if they need any help along the way. Tracie has done larger classes previously but believes that this size is perfect for accommodating her tool-centered class structure.
Tracie cares deeply about enhancing her client’s physical well-being, but she also speaks about the importance of mental wellness and how they work hand-in-hand through Raw Fitness Chats. In these meetings, clients speak about various topics that are often suggested by the gym attendees. So far, Raw Fitness Chats have revolved around body positivity and the psychological relationhttps://www.laweekly.com/wp-admin/media-upload.php?post_id=610511&type=image&TB_iframe=1ship humans have with food.
“If I can empower clients to see that they control their fitness experience, I’m providing a possibility for them to feel confident and capable enough to seek fitness classes that meet them where they are but also challenge them,” Tracie shares.
4Fitness predominantly serves women, but the innovative studio is open to all people who want accessible and sustainable training. As Tracie envisions expanding her business and speaking services domestically, she hopes that more people join their supportive community.
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