How to take your workout to the next level (and location) with Jason Cotsoridis

Jason Cotsoridis became a member of Groundwork early this year and has since skyrocketed his vision and his business. He enthralled a group of members during a “Breakfast of Champions” presentation, when he gave a short, impassioned pitch about what his business is and why it matters. And he is always up for a chat about fitness techniques or the latest installment of Stranger Things. If you want to know more about Jason and his business, now’s your chance; his grand opening celebration takes place at Cisco Brewers Kitchen & Bar next Monday, July 25 at 3pm, and includes complimentary Sculpt and HIIT classes, beginning at 4pm. Read on to find out more about Jason and Agile Health and Fitness.

What is your profession?

I am the Owner, Operator and Head Trainer of Agile Health and Fitness. Prior to this I worked as a high school teacher. During my long career as an educator I coached various sports at the high school. Additionally, I worked as a karate instructor, and personal trainer. I began this venture in response to the global pandemic. I was forced to leave my career of 20 years at the start of the pandemic, at the same time gyms across the country (including my local gym) were forced to shut down. I observed a problem in our community that was not being addressed. How should someone start/engage in a fitness program if they are not aware how to begin and cannot enter a traditional gym. Work commenced on my customized, 400 sq ft mobile gym in October, 2021. Having completed the build in March, I now offer personal training in a sanitized and complete fitness center. I use the skills developed in my classroom to better serve my clients through application of current research and theories. I focus on clear communication to ensure understanding and success.

Describe a typical work day for you.

Given that this business is still so new, most mornings are spent at the computer working to showcase my brand and improve my online presence to get the word out on who we are and what sets us apart from traditional gyms. Afternoons are more hands on, as the majority of my clients prefer to meet in the late afternoon and early evening. After getting my own workout in, I pick up and transport the gym to the client’s residence followed by setting it up and inspecting it to ensure everything is in working order. Once the client(s) complete their workout all surfaces and equipment is sanitized before bringing the mobile fitness center back to its storage space at the end of the day.

What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job?

Currently the biggest challenge I am facing is promoting and marketing my business. Being new to the area and creating such a unique business has been challenging. Describing the mobile fitness center and trainings I offer does not do my business justice. I need to generate more traffic on my social media and website. I also need to work to make more connections to help get more exposure in New Bedford and the surrounding communities during festivals, parades, and other well attended events.

Do you have a morning routine?

My day begins at 6AM with breakfast, the Washington Post, the Standard Times, WBSM and WPRI followed by a scan of articles recommended by the National Association of Sports Medicine health and fitness studies that may be applicable to my clients. My toddler gets up around 7:30AM and I have to shift back into family mode for a bit until my regular work day begins around 9AM.

What are your favorite productivity tips or hacks?

I have found that when I can’t concentrate, getting up and doing some sort of physical exercise: walking the dog, doing a 20-minute HIIT workout, etc. helps me to refocus and leads to a more productive afternoon. And when I need a snack, protein provides a lot more longevity than sugar.

What do you listen to during the day?

When I am alone and working, I need to listen to something that has a good tempo and a strong baseline to keep me moving and energized. My general taste in music is pretty varied. I listen to a lot of 90’s-2000’s rap, R+B, and modern hard rock during the workday. During my time off it is usually pop and country.

How do you benefit from using a coworking space?

My house can get very loud during the day and there’s always a home project that distracts me from my work. Going to Groundwork ensures that I have a quiet and bright workspace surrounded by likeminded professionals. I cannot say enough about the community and environment that Sarah has created. I very much appreciate the advice and camaraderie from the other members. Working in this space has definitely helped propel my business to the next level.

What’s in your digital toolbox?

Fieldd Scheduling app has been a lifesaver. They generally work with tradesmen, contractors (businesses with workers in the field). Fieldd has helped me create a customized booking platform and scheduling app for myself, staff and clients. It is especially helpful in that the A.I. will propose time slots to new clients based on my scheduled appointments and location. This is done in an effort to help me minimize the time between jobs and save on fuel. Fieldd has also worked to partner with Facebook, Instagram, and Square payment solutions to create a seamless experience for my staff and clients.

What’s the best part of your day?

The very best part of my professional day is seeing a client’s reaction when they break through a plateau and accomplish something they did not think was possible!

Jason in his mobile gym, training a client.

What (or who) inspires you?

For many years the gym was my happy place. If I didn’t get to go one day, I would miss it. When the pandemic hit, it seemed like everyone in all industries were struggling to adapt. Aside from training in parks and driveways the fitness industry still has not made any meaningful changes to services offered in the “new normal”. I am inspired to change the game and create new best practices in the modern fitness industry. This all feels like such uncharted territory. I am very excited for the future of this venture.

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Talia

Talia grew up on Martha's Vineyard and spent most of her life there, before moving to New Bedford to expand her community. Before Talia came to Groundwork, she had a career in Early Childhood as a preschool teacher, and in the service industry. Talia loves the ocean, reading, meeting new people, and spending time with her dog, Tobi!