Ken Hunt is a prominent figure in world of fitness, he’s an AFI-certified personal trainer, a fitness expert and the owner of Steel Gym in New York and the recently open location, in Miami, Florida. located at 5556 NE 4th Ct.
He frequently shares his knowledge of proper fitness routines and nutrition through various channels, always expressing the importance of keeping one’s body in shape and staying healthy at all times.
In addition to his fitness career, Ken Hunt has reached out his helping hand to several fundraisers for LGBT rights, as well as the American Cancer Society breast cancer awareness non-profit organization, along with his private donations to non-profits including GLAAD, HRC, SAGE, and many others.
Recently, Hunt has joined an effort to help raise funds for Hope’s Voice, an HIV/AIDS awareness organization that boasts an international initiative funded in part by the United Nations. Hunt has additionally, and just as importantly, joined in helping one of the only shelters offering support and housing to LGBT homeless youth – Sylvia’s Place – where his efforts will ensure that these youth are offered proper clothing and housing, and that they are provided with food to fulfill basic dietary needs.
In this exclusive interview with Queer Me Up Ken Hunt talks about his career in Fitness, the best and worst part of being the owner of Steel Gym and what makes this ‘Fitness Mecca’ so popular.
How did you get involved in fitness?
I have always been active and focused on both my physical and mental well being. In high school and college I ran track and played tennis. In my 20’s I had been approached by one of the wrestling promotions about joining their training program and pursuing a career in professional wrestling. When the opportunity to purchase Steel Gym came along it seemed like a natural extension of everything that was important to me. And the chance to share my ideas and business approach to creating a successful fitness Mecca.
You are a very busy and highly sought-after fitness information provider and writer. Tell us about your work.
I enjoy sharing my ideas and thoughts on fitness. I try to take a different angle—offering suggestions and programs that are “out of the box” Anyone can put together a program of exercises and reps. However how many times have you thought about “mental toughness or mental health as part of your well being? A recently did an article on sex as exercises outlining how all kinds of activity in bedroom can equate to keeping fit and being healthy. I would like to think that those kinds of topics make my writings different from others.
Has your career in fitness transpired the way you expected? What has been the biggest surprise so far?
I am constantly surprised at the way my life has transpired. I never would have imagined all that has happened and what is on the horizon. The biggest surprises are the people that have written to me for advice and help—I enjoy that kind of interaction. And, from a business perspective, I am amazed at the many business opportunities that surface.
You have written many articles about fitness-related topics, what has been the people’s reaction to these articles?
The reactions vary. I have had people come up and tell me that the look for my articles and try to incorporate my advice into their lives and their workout routines. Its always gratifying when someone tells you that you have made a difference in their lives. I have had some people who have challenged me on my ideas and asked me to explain further. What ever the reaction I am always happy to meeting people who have read my articles and want to chat. People are surprised to find that I am very approachable. I think that sometimes my size scares them off
Would you consider writing a fitness book someday?
I am working on that right now
What is the best part about being owner of Steel Gym? What is the worst part?
The best part is seeing our clients reach their fitness goals. I am thrilled when someone has joined the gym and then is motivated to come and work out on a consistent basis. I try to meet as many of my members as possible. I like to be hands on in as many aspects of the gym as possible. The worst part is dealing with dishonest people who try to take advantage of you. The mistake kindness for weakness—and that just isn’t me
Can you describe briefly what the Steel Gym philosophy is all about?
Our tag line is our value proposition. The Only Real Gym We are not a health club or spa. We are gym It is a no nonsense place to come and achieve your fitness goals. We have won awards for our customer service as well as the quality of the equipment and the cleanliness. Those things are very important and key to delivering on our value proposition.
What makes Steel Gym so popular?
I think it’s our reputation. And I think people realize that they don’t need a lot of frills and extras in order to achieve their goals. People have said there are intimidated by the people at Steel. Many times they believe that its all body builders and muscle guys and girls who work out there Yes we have our share of those folks- but we also have housewives, college students and senior citizen. It’s a great mix. And frankly I would hope that some of our clients who are in great shape would be motivating and inspiration to those who are trying to get into great or better shape.
What impulse you to work with GLAAD, HRC, SAGE, Hope’s voice, Sylvia’s Place and other LGBT non-profit- organizations? Why is so important for you?
Steel Gym is a very strong community of people. Many consider it their home gym and a place they look forward to coming too. There is power in this kind of community and I am grateful that when I have asked our members to support worthwhile causes—they have stepped up to the plate and joined in. Our gym gives back to the community and to great organizations. We are also politically minded having opened our doors to NYC politicians to come and meet and greet our members. I like to think of the gym as more than just a great business, but a great force that promotes and supports positive endeavors.
What direction would you like to see Steel Gym head in? What would be your future dream regarding Steel Gym?
The Brand has gained a very strong following and I am eager to take this fitness philosophy further. We just opened up a new facility in Miami. My dream would be to see more of Steel Gym across the US.
Visit STEEL GYM for more information.
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