Following her calling: helping others live their best lives in Alexandria
Jessica Downing was eager to leave small-town life in the rearview mirror. After graduating from St. Cloud State, she moved to the Twin Cities, where she became one of the top trainers at Gold’s Gym and a master trainer at LifeTime Fitness. “Working in this industry is way more fun than I thought I could have at a job,” she said.
Now, she’s back in Alexandria and is the owner, manager, master trainer, and instructor at Vital Fit Club in Alexandria.
Alexandria through new eyes
Moving back to Alexandria wasn’t in the plan, but several things made the timing right for a move, including an opportunity for her husband, Adam. Now they’re embracing the joys of family life with their four kids: Ella and triplets, Sofia, Mia, and Aiden.
“Coming here with a family, I realized how established and awesome it is. You don’t know how much amazingness there is until you witness it from a different perspective. It’s just solid values. It’s a good community.”
Fitness in the family
Health and wellness are a central part of the Downing family’s life. “I think the biggest thing you can do for your children is to set an example and walk out what you want them to do. The habits that you instill become lifelong.”
Their children are benefiting. “They eat healthier and probably work out more than me now, too.”
That doesn’t mean that she is perfect. “Am I going to eat junk food? Am I going to lie on the couch? Yes.”
A passion for health and a heart for people
Jessica’s commitment to fitness comes from the heart. “I know that when I’m healthy and free of ailments, moving my body and eating proper foods, I feel amazing. I feel like it’s my life’s calling to teach people so they can feel the same way.”
When she works with clients, she considers their overall well-being. “We come at people with a complete wellness program. It’s more than ‘we’re going to work out and lift weights this many days.’ But also emotionally, how does the person feel? How is their body functioning on the inside?” She believes this whole-person approach is the way to real, lasting change.
Service and superpowers
Jessica believes all businesses bring something special to a community. “I feel like we’re all just very unique humans. God created us all to be our own special people.”
Even so, she believes women have superpowers. “I feel women do the best job of listening, lifting, and supporting. The opportunity to be heard and to speak our minds allows us to get the stress out of our bodies.” And that helps women thrive.
Earlier this year, the Lakes Area Professional Women (LAPW) honored Jessica with the 2024 Champion of Women Award at its Annual Gala. “Being recognized by that group is uplifting. LAPW has been the best group for me to join in this town. It’s very empowering, and there’s nothing like it.”
The Heart of Vital Fit Club
Jessica aims to serve, love, and inspire healthy living. “I love helping people walk through life and feel like their best selves.”
At Vital Fit, she’s creating a wellness community based on a genuine desire to help others thrive in body, mind, and spirit.
