Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Kretsch
Hi Brian, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I often get asked the question, “Why did you become a personal trainer?” So I thought I would share a little bit about myself and why I love running a fitness business and helping people everyday.
I had never shared this story with anyone until a few years ago. I suppose I was embarrassed or afraid of what people might think of me. But I realize that I don’t need to be afraid anymore, and that if sharing my story helps someone else then it’s worth telling.
I was always a skinny, shy kid. I wasn’t very confident as a kid and those insecure feelings fed into a depression that was already growing. I was always comparing myself to others and feeling as though I wasn’t as good as them. All the while, not realizing the qualities I had in myself. As a teenager, my depression swallowed me almost completely. I didn’t know at the time what was wrong with me, only that I felt so unhappy and low. There were many days just getting out of bed was a struggle. I felt like a failure and a disappointment to my family. I wasn’t good enough, strong enough, or smart enough.
When I was 19 yrs old…I decided I’d had enough. I felt like life wasn’t worth living, and decided to end my life. I still have the scar on my wrist as a reminder. As I sat there on the floor, covered in blood, I remember falling asleep and hoping I wouldn’t wake up.
I don’t really remember what happened after. Somehow I’m still here. Looking back I realize that I was very lucky to have two things: a family that loved me and supported me no matter what, and friends that got me involved in exercise/weight lifting.
Over the years I have battled many times with my depression. But working out on a consistent basis has gotten me through all the tough times. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that make you feel better. It’s a natural high of sorts. No matter how bad my day has been or whatever stresses life has for me…it’s nothing a great workout can’t solve. I always feel better after exercising.
So when people ask me why I’m at the gym so much, well it’s therapy for me. It’s my happy place.
The physical results you see in the mirror are great, but the emotional benefits are far greater.
This is why I became a personal trainer, and opened my fitness studio. I saw how much my life had been changed by fitness. Actually, fitness saved my life. That is a fact. So now I get the opportunity to help other people better their lives too. It’s the most rewarding thing I can think of.
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 road. But I think that’s a good thing. Looking back at my life, every challenge or obstacle has been a learning experience. At the time, it may have seemed like too much to overcome and those old feelings of doubt and despair come back. But by not giving up and not blaming others, I was able to overcome and get through it. Those battles have made me stronger and wiser.
All the lessons I have learned have made me more prepared to take on new challenges with confidence. I am now a business owner, husband, father, and man of faith. If I had not been through so many struggles, I would not have been ready to handle such important roles. I am far from perfect, but I am using my experience and knowledge to be the best I can be at each of those roles. I want to be a positive force in my family and in my community.
We’ve been impressed with Transform Your Body, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Transform Your Body started with my desire to help people feel better about themselves, overcome their fears, and change their lives for the better. Making my health a priority changed everything for me and even saved my life. I felt like I could show others how to do the same.
My goal is to improve our clients’ quality of life. What does that mean? Quality of life is when someone gets in better shape, not just physically, but also emotionally, and spiritually. Our clients are the top priority and we give each of our clients total attention and effort. We will work together and do everything in our power to help you reach your goals.
I grew up in Minnesota, and I am the youngest of seven kids. Family is very important to me and I believe in making my clients feel like family. This is something that sets us apart from big gyms. You are not just a number. We treat you like family and it truly matters to us that you succeed. There are many clients we’ve worked with years ago that I still have close relationships with and will always be part of our little fitness family.
Our staff have worked all over the country learning the best ways to lose weight, look great, and get fit. Our programs are customized to your fitness level, your body, your goals, and your needs.
Our mission is to empower, motivate, and inspire you to achieve your fitness goals with personalized training and unwavering support. Whether you’re striving to lose weight, build strength, or enhance your overall health, we’re committed to your success, one workout at a time.
Our space is designed to eliminate the distractions and discomforts of traditional gyms, allowing you to focus solely on your fitness journey. From the moment you step into our studio, you’ll feel the difference—a supportive community, state-of-the-art equipment, and a vibe that’s all about positivity and progress.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
There are so many others that deserve credit and have helped me throughout my journey!
I am blessed with a wonderful family who have supported me through all the ups and downs of life. Whether it was my parents who never gave up on me when I was at my worst, to siblings who motivated me and taught me, a sibling that risked her own finances to help me open my gym, and on and on. I could fill up page after page of times my family has been there for me.
My faith. There have been times in my life when I turned my back to God. But He did not turn away from me. Nothing would be possible without Him. Several years ago I had a dream in which He spoke to me. It was the most powerful thing I’ve ever experienced. During all the hard times when I thought he wasn’t there, He was. I was shown something I cannot explain. I now have an incredible wife, beautiful daughter, and a successful business.
Of course I must mention my wife. She has made my life better in every way and has made me a better man. She keeps me balanced, healthy, and happy so I can help others.
My daughter has shown me what true joy is. She brings a smile to my face every day and reminds me how wonderful life is.
There are so many others I could list as well. Friends, co-workers, and even the doubters and nay-sayers. They all have helped me along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tybgym.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transform.your.body.pt/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TRANSFORMYOURBODYGYM/
