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Welcome to Racked New York's search for New York City's hottest trainer. Over the coming weeks, we'll profile sixteen smoking locals—fitness experts who not only look hot in spandex, but can make you look amazing too. Once you've gotten to know everyone, we'll host a March Madness-style showdown in which readers vote for their favorites. Let the games begin!
Photos by Sean Gomes for Racked
"I know they're one of the world's most hated exercises, but I love burpees," says Julia Avery. By now, you're probably thinking, How can such a pretty person say such an ugly thing? But obviously those burpees—and a whole lot more—have paid off for this The Fhitting Room instructor. She's been doing high-intensity workouts and weight training since the age of 15, way before it was popular among the masses, after a childhood that was filled with gymnastics.
The instructor of classes like Signature FHIX and Houston native also found time to study economics at Duke University before heading to New York. Read on to learn about what she'd be doing if she wasn't in fitness, her athletic role model, and the ice cream flavor she can't get enough of.
If you weren't a trainer, you'd be a…
Singer. As a kid, I was always recording myself singing, but was too shy to perform in front of people. At least teaching classes gives me the chance to occasionally belt it out. And no one complains about my voice, because they know I'll make them do burpees!
What's always in your gym bag?
Weightlifting shoes, knee pads, wrist wraps, chalk, gymnastics grips, Jaybird tape, lacrosse ball, my speed rope, and a protein shaker.
Who's your athlete role model?
Christmas Abbott, a female CrossFit athlete. She's tiny but strong, beautiful, confident, and not afraid to be herself. She worked hard to get where she is today and is now using her success to inspire others. If I can inspire just one other person the way that she has inspired me, I'll be happy!
Favorite post-workout snack?
A protein shake and a banana. And chocolate chip pancakes with maple syrup if I hit a PR that day!
Food you'd do 50 burpees for?
Ice cream! The real stuff —none of this no-sugar, no-fat fluff. My current favorite is Emack and Bolio's Cookie Monster ice cream in a rainbow sprinkle cone.
· Average 2 Athlete [Official website]
· @juliavery [Instagram]
· @JulAvery [Twitter]
· The Fhitting Room [Official website]
· All Hottest Trainer 2014 Contestants [Racked NY]