EP#24 Trainer Spotlight Series: Meet April Emmers

About April Emmers

April Emmers is a dedicated wellness, fitness, and rehabilitation specialist based in Houston, Texas. She holds a bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a master's degree in Athletic Training from Texas Tech University. Currently, she works at Shanna Ross Fitness, a private studio that focuses on helping clients maintain their athleticism and health as they age. With her extensive background in athletic training, April specializes in working with clients recovering from surgeries or managing chronic conditions.

Training Philosophy and Focus

* Client Demographics: April primarily works with aging clients, including those in their late 30s to 90s. She also trains youth introduced to fitness by their parents.

* Special Populations: Her expertise includes clients recovering from injuries or surgeries (e.g., hip/knee replacements), as well as those managing conditions like Parkinson’s disease, cancer recovery, or menopause.

* Mission: April emphasizes realistic, sustainable health and fitness goals. Her approach is rooted in maintaining strength, movement, and athleticism while adapting to the natural changes that come with aging.

Unique Background

April's foundation in athletic training gives her an edge in rehabilitation coaching. She leverages this expertise to create personalized plans for clients recovering from surgeries or dealing with specific injuries.

Personal Insights

April is a passionate sports enthusiast who enjoys both watching and playing sports. Interestingly, she prefers watching games on mute to avoid commentary but often finds herself echoing the same insights as professional commentators—a skill her husband playfully suggests could have led her to a career in broadcast journalism.

Client Attraction and Retention Strategies

* Attracting Clients:

* The studio has been established for 17 years and initially grew through local wellness talks, cooking classes, and advertisements in community magazines.

* Today, approximately 80% of new clients come through referrals from satisfied clients or recommendations by doctors and physical therapists.

* Retaining Clients:

* Many clients have been with the studio for over a decade due to its personalized approach.

* Each client receives an individualized plan tailored to their evolving goals and needs.

* Attention to detail and a deep understanding of each client’s unique requirements foster long-term relationships.

Client Assessment Process

* Initial Consultation (30-60 minutes): Prospective clients tour the studio, meet the coaches, discuss pricing, and determine if the facility aligns with their goals.

* Two-Hour Assessment:

* First Hour: A detailed discussion about goals, fitness history, nutrition habits, and specific objectives (e.g., weight loss, muscle gain, balance improvement).

* Second Hour: A physical fitness assessment involving various movements to evaluate safety and establish a baseline for training.

April ensures that every client feels comfortable and confident in their decision to join the studio.

Certifications and Continuing Education

* Certified Personal Trainer (NESTA)

* Kinesio Tape Certification

* Pursuing CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist) certification

* Exploring functional movement certifications

* Engages in ongoing education through research articles, professional organizations like BOC (Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers), Z Health courses, and functional medicine studies.

April remains committed to evidence-based practices and staying informed about the latest trends to provide the best possible service to her clients.

April Emmers' passion for helping others achieve realistic health goals while adapting to life’s changes makes her an inspiring figure in the fitness industry. Her expertise in rehabilitation coaching combined with her personable approach ensures her clients feel supported every step of their journey.