My confidence as a professional and as a human was developed from the “I don’t think you’re strong enough to be heres” and a fair share of “you see how they’re doing it? Do it like them.”
I quit a comfortable, well-paying job in an executive office sporting two cell phones (one for bullshit, one for pleasure). I stepped into auditions, I walked out with “needs improvements” and “you’re just not the look.” I decided to let these people and experiences be my teachers. I got wiser.
I surrounded myself with people who saw me and who I saw too. You know, the people who take care of your name when you’re not in the room.
Fast forward to a week ago, I sit on a gym bench responding to one of my many clients via text and I am interrupted by one of my regular students:
“I’ve never told you this but I’m the founder of *insert large boutique I once auditioned for that’s since closed and it rhymes with DieWheel* studio. You are the most talented instructor I’ve met. You know who you are and you care about knowing us too.”
It was a generous statement! One I said thank you to and may or may not have hugged the man for saying. And while I know I’m not the best, I don’t care to be. I know I’m the best at getting better. I know I surround myself with warriors and I became one. I know I am wise because I learn from every person and experience.
It’s because I know who I am. I know you know who YOU are too.
Ya know?
Who is wise? The one who learns from every person.
-A fitting Jewish proverb!
Welcome to a (tough) love note, a newsletter by Amanda Katz (me), a fitness professional and fellow human. It’s about fitness and it’s not about fitness. If you like this newsletter, let me know. If you don’t, bye! For realsies, tag or DM me @amanda_katzz on the ‘gram and tell me what you loved reading this week.
Brags and business…
Whether you’ve had a eating disorder or struggle with food, weight, fitness or body image…should you be rethinking your relationship to exercise? The best advice…is not what you think! My conversation with my dear friend and fit pro colleague
is now LIVE — I want to hear your thoughts! Reply to this email or DM me.
Taking it one step further. Beginning this January, I’m coaching a 4-week masterclass on THIS topic: Gains & Reframes! Myself and Stephanie Roth-Goldberg will help you navigate your relationship to exercise, break up with disordered thoughts and behaviors and create a sustainable, more joyful training experience. Deadline to enroll is Wednesday, January 3. To sign up, complete this form.
And lastly, while my private strength training roster’s been full for a year, I am now officially closing my running roster for the season #bookedandblessed. I’ll keep you posted on future availability for Spring.
As for virtual 1:1 consultations, I am taking a 1 or 2 clients. This is perfect for someone who does not have a trainer or coach or is looking for fitness guidance who has some one-off questions (i.e. preparing for a race this Winter) or wants a check-in every 4-6 weeks related to routine. Ask me anything when it comes to guidance in strength training, running, mobility, resources for injury prevention and fueling, goal setting or simply building out a sustainable routine that works for YOUR life. $150/hour. To schedule, email me at amandaskatz@gmail.com or reply to this newsletter.
I will probably send an end of year note. Nostalgia hits us all.
See you later!
Coach