SwagHer Spotlight: Beverly Johnson

Beverly Johnson, a lover of music and fitness, founded Genesys Fitness to help women grow into their better selves. She wants to help the “forgotten” women who have seemed to have lost their way in life. As a fitness coach, she not only helps them with their physical appearance but also their emotional and mental wellbeing. Johnson believes that through fitness, everyone can grow and become better.

 

Christina: What is your SwagHer? What makes Beverly, Beverly?

Beverly:  My SwagHer is bold, optimistic, dry-witted humor, fierce yet humble, and thankful. What makes me, me? That’s a tough one. I’ve learned that I’m not one thing. I’ve learned that I’m multifaceted. I’ve given myself permission to be whole and authentic. I have multiple interests that make my world interesting. My tastes can range from enjoying my quiet moments to becoming excited when I hear “Cash Money Records taking over the 99 and 2000s”. And I think that’s what makes me, me. 

Christina: Tell our readers about Genesys Fitness. What are some things that you offer? 

Beverly: This has been an intentional year of growth for GenFit. This year, I’ve expanded into the world of virtual fitness. With virtual training, I’m able to work with clients across the country. I’m excited to offer that platform as well as nutritional coaching finally. My goal has always been to offer a total wellness program for my clients. 

Christina: You were a Zumba instructor for years, then decided to open up your fitness center. What motivated you to open up Genesys Fitness?

Beverly: Over the years as an instructor, I would have students asking my questions about how to improve their exercise program and reach their goals. As an instructor, I wanted to provide the best information that would enable my students to reach their goals effectively and safely. It was a natural progression for me to create GenFit. 

Christina: Genesys Fitness got its name because it signified a rebirth for the forgotten woman. What is the forgotten woman? 

Beverly:  At certain points in our lives, we’ve all experienced this feeling. The forgotten woman: Works at a job and is often unrecognized for our efforts; Works tirelessly to provide for our families and often put ourselves last; Becomes depleted because we’ve poured out everything for everyone else. It’s not uncommon that we forget ourselves. My goal is to help women rediscover their “magic” and take care of themselves.   

Christina: How do you think GenFit has helped these “forgotten” women? 

Beverly: Over the years, I’ve seen my clients (affectionately called my DEVAS) reached their goals. I’ve seen them lose weight and lose the emotional baggage that has held them back from being the best version of themselves. When my DEVAS are able to identify and heal from the emotional wounds, that’s when the change happens. And if I’m able to become a catalyst for helping my DEVAS rediscover themselves, I’m happy.  

Christina: Personally, I know nothing about fitness. What do you tell people like me, who have no idea how to start being fit? 

Beverly: The first thing I encourage everyone to do is set a goal. The goal has to go beyond “lose weight.” Your goal should go be “lose 10 pounds for my baecation” or “the doctor said I need to take high blood pressure medication, and I don’t want it”- those are goals. It has to be SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and has a time limit). Your goal becomes your “why.” Once you establish your “why,” it makes it easier to remain focused. You won’t always feel motivated to make changes or exercise. That’s when discipline kicks in. But when you have your “why,” you’ll remain on course. 

Christina: Please tell our readers some things they can do to improve their self-care journey.

Beverly: Self-care allows you to hit the reset button. Become intentional about setting aside time for yourself. It’s recognizing that you need to recharge. It can be setting your phone to “do not disturb” for a few hours and taking a nap. It doesn’t have to be expensive.  

Christina: I’m going back to this “forgotten” woman term that you use. Why do you fight so hard for the “forgotten” woman? 

Beverly: I’ve been the forgotten woman. I’ve lived that experience of feeling tired and depleted yet feeling guilty for not measuring up to the “strong” woman narrative. It created a vicious cycle of being busy and trying to save the world. With that, I can relate to my client’s struggles and understand the desire to make the change but unsure of how to get started. 

Christina: Not only do you help women get into shape physically, but you help them mentally and emotionally. I would think by doing this 24/7; it takes a toll on you. What are some things you do to destress? 

Beverly: The coach has a coach and a safe space to unwind. I make sure that I schedule breaks to nurture my soul. I have no problems reinforcing my boundaries.

Christina: What are your plans for Genesys Fitness? Do you plan on expanding? Do you want it to be worldwide, like Planet Fitness?

Beverly:   I would love to be worldwide like Planet Fitness. I think it’s every business owner’s dream to have that level of brand recognition. My plans include increasing my online client base. My goal is to provide virtual training to clients across the country. I have several clients who are exclusively online, and it’s been very successful. 

Christina: Do you have any upcoming events you would like our readers to know about? 

Beverly:  I’ll be launching my first wellness webinar. We’re working on the details now and will roll out the registration links soon. 

Christina: Is there anything else you would like to say? 

Beverly:   Let’s stay connected! On Facebook, join my tribe, The Fitness DEVAS. Fitness DEVAS is dedicated to all women looking for fitness inspiration and coaching. And follow me on Instagram (@bevkjohnson) and receive your daily fitness tips and motivation. Thank you for the opportunity to share GenFit with your audience.