SWEAT with Jess — Local services in Minneapolis

Since joining the Sweat with Jess community a year and a half ago, I feel as if I am part of something that is bigger than just me getting my workout in. I originally started as I had been a member of Los Campeones for a while and witnessed this new group of people having a blast while getting their lift in together. I was intrigued and once I joined, I knew I had found the community I had been looking for since moving to MN and trying different gyms. Self love, kindness and inclusivity are practiced and preached by all to create this wonderful, welcoming environment for people of any age or ability. Jess makes a connection with each person who walks through the doors and ensures that they have the tools needed to grow and succeed-while getting hyped up along the way. Not only is the programming incredibly strategic, consistently progressive and nonstop challenging, but it’s always got a great variety yet holds true to the basics-including cardio. As a powerlifter who dislikes running, I’ve actually come to enjoy conditioning and could definitely feel my endurance build over the course of the last 18 months.

Outside of class, it truly is remarkable the difference that the members of Sweat have made on the local Twin Cities communities. Between raising awareness and money for military and veteran events, collecting Christmas gifts for children in need, gathering workout clothes to donate to a local wellness center, or finding a home for rescued dog, I am in awe of the goodwill and compassion that this group brings out in each other. I didn’t know exactly what I was looking for when I started, but I know why I stayed. With Covid and working from home, oftentimes my 6 am class would be the only time I would leave the house. It has filled my cup in more ways than I could...

Today I jokingly said I would be a few minutes late to class unless I decided to opt out and go to the bar instead. While I was joking, Jess said “let the gym be your therapy”. She later followed up with me with a text, human to human. I promise you, you will not find another coach, program, or community quite like SWJ. I’ve watched my fitness journey flux over the years but never have I been so positively influenced to enjoy all the stages of my body. From fit to …maybe had too much fun this summer :). I joined SWJ last summer as lockdowns were being lifted and I was missing group fitness. For someone who likes group fitness but isn’t one to chat or make friends after class, I was so so so amazed how quickly I felt like I belonged with Jess. Not only were the workouts amazing and also challenging af, the people were so cool. I’ve made some forever friends in just a year and I’m feeling strong and super motivated. Jess is passionate about her craft, sharing her life, and meeting people where they are at- she is a coach, a mentor, and a friend. Many people say it looks intimidating what we do at Los, but I can commit to you that Jess and the sweat community will meet you where you are and you’ll have the very best time...

I cannot say enough about Sweat with Jess and Jess - it’s hard to summarize my experience but I’ll try! In Jan 2021 I walked into Sweat a little nervous and apprehensive, yet excited. I discovered Jess on Instagram. It took me a few months to build up courage to try her class, but after experiencing a huge loss in my life I realized “life’s too short” and I jumped in. I am now SO glad I took the leap (wish I wouldn’t have waited so long) and forever grateful that Jess created the Sweat community. After my first class, all anxiety and apprehension went out the door. Not only is Jess a super knowledgeable and motivating coach, she’s an incredible human being and one of my biggest role models in life. Jess doesn’t just care about her Sweatlettes while in the gym, she takes a holistic approach to coaching that impacts lives well beyond the barbell. She’s helped me find my confidence in the gym and encouraged me to follow MY goals and dreams. As long as you show up as you are, Jess will meet you exactly where you’re at with a big hug and lots of laughs along the way. I wish everyone could experience a Sweat class. I promise you won’t be...