AJ
Instructor
Columbia, SC
I grew up in Inkster, Michigan and I now live in Columbia, SC where I have lived for the past 30 plus years. I will be retiring from education in May of 2026, and I can’t wait! As an educator I enjoyed helping students to believe in themselves, work hard to accomplish their goals, and for them to encourage other students to do the same.
In the process of working on my fitness goals, I became a Certified Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor so I can help others reach their fitness goals. I try to help my fitness members like I would my students… cheering them on to be the best versions of themselves with focus, hard work and consistency.
This is all pretty new to me, but I’m looking forward to getting better each day. When you take my HIIT class bring your water bottle, a towel, and a positive attitude.
We’ll be pushing each other to be GREAT, and holding each other accountable.
My Upcoming Classes
Quote to live by:
What you do today, can improve all of your tomorrows.
~ Ralph Marston
Fun Facts:
I’ve been married to my wife Sharon for 30 years
We have 4 kids and 4 grandkids
I love the Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, and South Carolina Gamecocks
Monthly Subscription - Engage Fitness Collective Membership
Your membership provides you unlimited access to all live classes with every instructor on our team, not just me! - including yoga, dance, senior fitness, HIIT, kickbox, Pilates, strength training and more.
With the monthly membership, the recurring charge will auto-bill on the same day each month. There is no commitment. You may cancel at any time. Partial months are not refundable.
I can freeze the membership for a specified amount of time in cases of illness or injury.
If you are connected with an instructor other than AJ, please visit her/his page or contact them directly to join.
Testimonials
I've been attending AJ's HIIT workout class since July, and the number one thing l've gained is the ability to push past my comfort zones and truly challenge myself. Before joining, I had never done HIIT-style training, but this class has completely shifted how I approach fitness. AJ's energy, motivation, and communication style are what make his class unique. He doesn't just push you to be better, he reminds you that no matter how good you think you are doing, you can always be doing better. My self-motivation has also improved, and I now find myself setting higher standards for myself. I feel stronger, more disciplined, and more confident in what I can achieve. I am inspired to want to be the best version of myself for me, and I am thankful to AJ and this class for creating a space that challenges me to keep growing and going. - Q. Pinckney
Trainer AJ has pushed me wayyyyy past my initial expectation for myself. I look forward to his "beat down", LOL, each week. Because of his element of surprise, AJ's workout has become my pivotal session for the week.
AJ you keep getting it right! - P. Alford
