Elissa and Henry Schloesser: Finding Strength, Confidence, and Connection at Gifford Fitness

When Elissa Schloesser first walked into Gifford Fitness, she wasn’t necessarily looking for a new gym. Her current trainer was scaling back on class offerings, and a friend of hers recommended she try a class at Gifford Fitness.

“I had a pretty full fitness schedule with a combination of running, yoga, and HIT basement workouts (so I wasn't really looking for a gym), but I said I am always up for trying out a fitness class. I had belonged to a local gym for many years, prior to it closing down during the pandemic, so I thought I might enjoy getting back into that routine again.”

Discovering a New Kind of Challenge

Elissa quickly found herself drawn to the variety and challenge of Gifford Fitness’ classes.

“I like the challenges. My other workouts were getting a little routine. I really feel like I am working out more efficiently and effectively. I never thought I would be doing any of this stuff, but it is fun. And the people are fun, too!”

Her favorite classes  GiffyFit and Strength Days  have given her new ways to push herself and learn.

“This is the first time I have really thought about how technique impacts exercise.”

Breaking Barriers and Hitting New Goals

Recently, Elissa hit a new 5K PR (from 10 years ago)! 

“I can keep improving on my fitness, even in my 40s!”

She’s also been proud of learning skills she never thought she’d attempt.

“A split jerk! The idea of jumping with a bar terrified me when I started. Now, I am not so scared of trying all the new skills.”

The Power of Community

Training in a group has brought a whole new energy to Elissa’s workouts.

“I like getting feedback and having conversations.”

“I am learning new things all the time. I am getting a mental and physical workout. They are helping me gain confidence in my abilities to do new and challenging things.”

The Gifford Fitness community has played a huge role in her growth.

“Everyone, not just the coaches, are helping me out and encouraging me as I learn new skills!”

And her favorite crew?

“8am crew!”

Fitness as a Family

Elissa’s son, Henry, is part of the Gifford Fitness teens program and runs for St. Anthony Cross Country and Track.

“Strength training has been a great compliment to his running workouts. He wasn't really doing much strength training prior to joining the gym. Now he really looks forward to it and seeing his improvements.”

Training has given them something new to share and connect over.

“It gives us something to talk about. By doing some of the same types of workouts I get a better understanding of what he is going through in his training. I like to think it gives me a little more credibility as well.”

And the lessons carry far beyond the gym.

“He seems more confident in his abilities. He has also brought home the saying, ‘did you try your best?’ from the gym. He uses it to evaluate both his weightlifting and running efforts now.”

They even compare notes after workouts.

“Definitely. Learning all these skills is hard! It is nice to have someone to compare notes with. Fitness is beneficial throughout your life and the process is the greatest reward.”

Balance, Work, and Life

Elissa runs her own information design business, which gives her the flexibility to fit training into her routine.

“I am lucky to have some flexibility in my work schedule. I just schedule my workouts like any other project.”

Outside of work and the gym, she keeps busy with family and community activities.

“I enjoy spending time with family, traveling, and learning new things. I read a lot, and I picked up crocheting a few years ago. Fitness related, I also volunteered as a Girls on the Run coach this Fall for the first time, and I organize an annual Turkey Trot in our neighborhood.”

Inspiration and Advice

“My children. Whenever they get interested in something I get inspired, too!”

“You won't regret it!”

And one thing most people at Gifford Fitness might not know about her?

“I have a twin sister!”

Elissa and Henry are a perfect example of how fitness can bring families together  through shared effort, new challenges, and a community that cheers you on every step of the way.