Christa K. Hern
Christa Hern is a highly experienced Health and Fitness Instructor with 28 years in the field and over one and a half years in her current role at the Isleta Youth Recreation Center. She is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages achieve their health and fitness goals through personal training, group exercise, and specialized classes. Christa teaches spinning and Zumba, including a new spin class designed to empower those who initially feel intimidated, giving them confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Her approach blends technical expertise with encouragement, fostering a welcoming and motivating environment for all participants.
Christa earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Exercise Science in 2020 and holds certifications as a Fitness Technician, Group Fitness Instructor, and Nationally Certified Personal Trainer. Over the course of her career, she has developed strong skills in public speaking, customer service, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and hospital-based fitness programs. Her dedication extends beyond the gym—she actively volunteers at a local horse shelter, reflecting her commitment to community service and giving back. Christa credits much of her growth to the people she has helped throughout her career, acknowledging that empowering others has inspired and guided her own professional journey.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Christa enjoys a variety of active and creative hobbies, including hiking, snorkeling, dancing, traveling, and gardening. Her enthusiasm for life and movement is evident both in and out of the fitness studio, making her a well-rounded mentor, instructor, and role model. With nearly three decades of experience, Christa continues to inspire confidence, health, and vitality in her clients and her community.
• ACE Certified Personal Trainer
• Certifications, Physical Fitness Technician
• New Mexico Highlands University - BA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible clients I have had the privilege of working with throughout my career. Guiding individuals to achieve their health and fitness goals, watching them gain confidence, and seeing their transformation has not only inspired them but has also fueled my own growth as a professional. Their dedication and trust motivate me to continually refine my skills, expand my knowledge, and create programs that empower, challenge, and support every participant in reaching their full potential.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to follow my heart and pursue my dreams. Staying true to my passions in health and fitness has guided my decisions, motivated me through challenges, and allowed me to create a meaningful career that aligns with my values. By listening to my intuition and committing to what I love, I have been able to make a lasting impact on the lives of my clients while continually growing both personally and professionally.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the health and fitness industry is to be prepared for challenges and to truly believe in yourself. Success in this field requires resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of purpose, as helping others achieve their goals often demands patience, creativity, and dedication. By trusting your expertise, embracing continuous learning, and maintaining self-belief, you can overcome obstacles and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those you serve.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the health and fitness field today is the cost of personal training, which can make it difficult for many people to access professional guidance and achieve their wellness goals. However, this also presents an opportunity to find creative ways to make fitness more accessible, whether through group classes, community programs, or online resources. By developing flexible, inclusive solutions, we can help more individuals improve their health, build confidence, and experience the benefits of professional support without financial barriers.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value in both my work and personal life is taking care of yourself so you can help others. Prioritizing health, wellness, and balance allows me to bring energy, focus, and compassion to my clients and community. By modeling self-care and maintaining my own well-being, I can better support, motivate, and inspire others to reach their goals while fostering a positive and sustainable approach to fitness and life.