This month’s Meet the Coach blog features NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) Certified Personal Trainer Karissa Saville, O3’s newest (and most bubbly!) coach. A Chicago native, Karissa has called the AVL home for the last 14 years. She earned a B.S. in biology from Illinois State University, and obtained a K – 6 teaching credential from UNCA. Prior to moving into the personal fitness field, Karissa worked as a Microbiological Analyst at Pace Analytical, and as a teacher in the Buncombe County School District, for which she taught 2nd and 3rd Grade ESL.
And now… 10 questions for Karissa, prepped by Writer and O3 Member Cindy Eaton:
1. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A PERSONAL TRAINER?
I’ve always been interested in fitness, and have been involved in sports, weight lifting, etc. I was a softball and volleyball player in high school, and have taken up running and obstacle racing as an adult. I also taught step and kick boxing classes at World Gym in AVL about 12 years ago. I want to share my passion for living fit and healthy, and help others do the same. The NASM has a philosophy that matches mine, so decided to get certified through them.
2. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO O3?
I worked out at O3 as a client before I started my internship there. My first experience was back when I was coaching Girls on the Run. Keith was generous and allowed GOTR coaches free Saturday classes. Then, a couple years after that, I started taking classes there with my husband. I always loved the atmosphere, the community feel, and the style of classes. After obtaining my NASM certification, I interned there from July through August of 2013, and started working there in September. Now, I train individuals and small groups, and teach mostly Afterburn classes, along with some Foundations classes.
3. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF WORKOUT, AND WHY?
My very favorite style of workout is an Afterburn style. I love to push myself very hard physically and mentally, so a “bootcamp” style class works for me. I love a combination of strength moves and conditioning practice. My other love is running… I crave it. It is almost like meditation for me.
4. FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT IN THE AVL:
Oh wow… I LOVE FOOD! My top places to eat would be: Dough, Curate, Farmburger, Neo Burrito, Lobster Trap, Biscuit Head, 12 Bones, Laughing Seed, Nona Mia, and the list goes on and on…
5. DO YOU HAVE A NICKNAME?
My nickname is K-Dog, but isn’t used on a regular basis.
6. FAVORITE PRE-WORKOUT MORNING MEAL:
Kashi with sliced bananas and almond milk.
7. IS THERE A SONG STUCK IN YOUR HEAD RIGHT NOW, AND IF SO, WHAT IS IT?
“Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin.
8. CARTOON CHARACTER YOU MOST CLOSELY IDENTIFY WITH (OR RESEMBLE):
I don’t really know cartoon characters well… not a huge fan, I guess.
9. FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING AT O3:
Our clients!! We draw in a very cool crowd 🙂
10. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPER POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE, AND WHY?
I would LOVE to be a superhero and save lives and the world!! This is a very hard question though… I’d definitely want to have the power to heal, but I’d love to also have super ninja powers and be able to fly. Is that too much to ask?!
