Academy of Athletics in Rossville offers everything from boot camps and personal training, to an American Ninja Warrior-style course and more, with memberships beginning at $29.Owner: Ashley Lott
Humble beginnings: As a personal trainer for several years prior to opening, Lott mostly worked in homes or at parks with her clients, until one day, someone approached her and said he wanted to build a gym space and lease it to her for a full-time business.
"I pretty much just prayed one day and said, 'Lord, I need somewhere,'" she recalled. "And not long after, I got a message about a space."
Business concept: AOA is about much more than just the rotating monthly boot camps and personal training it offers in addition to regular gym workout space. The gym offers challenging courses, but ensures modifications are always available for those who are at a different level in their fitness journey.
"... Everyone has different goals and backgrounds and stories," Lott said. "We work more on encouragement than pushiness."
And, the Rossville spot is equipped with an American Ninja Warrior-style arena. Anyone who completes it wins a free month of VIP membership - though the gym, which opened in January, has yet to see someone successfully complete it, Lott said.
Background: Lott grew up playing a variety of sports, and her husband, a former full-time Mixed Martial Arts fighter, now serves as her personal kickboxing instructor.
Before finishing college, she planned on joining the U.S. Armed Forces, and now works with others planning to do the same to ensure they can pass any required fitness tests. She is a certified P90X instructor.
What the future holds: In addition to more classes and a dream of expanding to other locations, Lott intends to start member game nights, UFC fight and soccer match watch parties and more.
"I want it to be more than a gym," Lott said. "We're trying to shine some light on the Rossville community."
Pricing: Membership costs range from $29-$79, with personal training sessions which anyone can take advantage of starting at $15. AOA offers discounts to all police and firefighters, as well as discounts for U.S. Armed Forces members and students.
"We understand that half the battle is getting in the gym; the other half is paying for it," Lott said.
Where to find them: AOA is located at 506 Chickamauga Ave. For more information, call 615-478-1401 or find the business on Facebook.