Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Young.
Hi Chelsea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, I’m Chelsea, the Owner and Founder of PITYFitness — which stands for Prove It To Yourself Fitness. PITYFitness was born out of one of the most challenging seasons of my life. In 2022, after undergoing intense shoulder surgery, I could’ve easily made excuses to stop moving. Instead, I chose to prove to myself that I could still show up, adapt, and overcome. That mindset — combined with my faith and trust in God — became the foundation of PITYFitness: a place built to inspire others to do the same and to remind them they’re capable of far more than they think.
With over 12 years of experience as an ER Nurse and as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves, my career has always centered around helping others — whether that’s saving lives in critical situations or guiding people to take charge of their own health. I’m also a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Nutrition Coach, and hold over seven NASM certifications, allowing me to blend medical expertise with practical fitness and nutrition strategies.
Growing up, I was an athlete, playing softball and volleyball, which taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. But it was my years in healthcare that truly opened my eyes to how many people struggle with preventable health issues simply because they don’t know where to start. That realization inspired me to create PITYFitness — a proactive approach to helping people build strength, confidence, and sustainable habits for life.
In 2024, I faced another major setback after suffering an injury during Army training that required two left hip reconstructions. That experience reignited my mission even more. It reminded me how powerful recovery can be — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally — and deepened my empathy for those facing their own challenges. I want people to know that no matter what they’re going through, they can come back stronger.
PITYFitness’s mission is simple but powerful: to change one life at a time to change the world through personal excellence. I believe when people take control of their health and prove to themselves what they’re capable of, it creates a ripple effect — empowering families, inspiring communities, and shaping the next generation for success.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but I’m a firm believer that the best things in life are worked for. I went from working in a hospital, where I always had people in charge of me, to stepping out on my own and becoming my own boss. I truly didn’t know the first thing about running a business. Honestly, I’ve learned everything the hard way — from setting up a website to filing for a business tax receipt. I didn’t even know how to make an ad or schedule an event on Facebook at first!
There’s been a lot of trial and error, and there are still moments I struggle. But every challenge has taught me something new, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to look back and see how far both I and PITYFitness have come. It’s all part of proving it to myself — just like I encourage my clients to do every day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At PITYFitness, I help people take back control of their health and confidence — physically, mentally, and emotionally. My focus is on simplifying fitness and nutrition so it feels realistic, sustainable, and personal. I work with men, women, and youth to help them look, feel, and be their best — not just for a season, but for life.
What I’m most proud of is that PITYFitness has become more than just a gym or a workout program — it’s a community. It’s a space where people feel supported, seen, and motivated to prove to themselves that they can do hard things. That’s what truly sets PITYFitness apart. We focus on the whole person — their mindset, their goals, and their lifestyle — not just the number on a scale or the weight on a barbell.
Beyond fitness, giving back to our community is a huge part of who we are. We love finding ways to make a positive impact — from sponsoring local golf tournaments and donating to fire departments, to organizing school supply drives, food drives, and toy drives throughout the year. It’s all about creating a ripple effect of support, kindness, and encouragement that reaches beyond the walls of our studio.
With my background as an ER Nurse, Army Officer, and NASM Certified Trainer with multiple specializations, I bring a unique blend of medical knowledge, leadership, and empathy into everything I do. I understand how the body works, but I also understand how the mind and spirit play a vital role in transformation.
What makes me proud every day is watching clients realize their own strength — when they go from saying, “I can’t” to “I did.” That’s the moment I know PITYFitness is doing exactly what it was created to do — changing one life at a time to change the world through personal excellence.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are so many ways to connect with and support PITYFitness!
People can train with me in person at PITYFitness in Apopka, FL — or virtually from anywhere. We offer personal training, small group classes, and specialty programs like Pilates, HIIT, and mobility training — led by myself and our amazing coaches, Crystal and Aaron. I also provide online coaching for those who want customized fitness and nutrition guidance but may not be local.
For collaborations, I love partnering with other local businesses, community events, schools, and organizations that share a passion for health, wellness, and positive impact. From hosting pop-up classes to speaking engagements and charity events, I’m always open to opportunities that bring people together and spread the message of personal excellence.
And honestly, one of the best ways to support PITYFitness is simply by sharing our mission — inviting friends to a class, engaging on social media, or showing up to community events. Every bit of support helps us continue to change one life at a time and build a stronger, healthier community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pityfitness.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pityfitness_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085001138013
