Staff Spotlight: Alex Awve

Welcome to our "Staff Spotlight" series! In this collection of ongoing posts on The Western Blog, we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make Western special! From passionate trainers & instructors to knowledgeable nutritionists and tennis pros, and many other dedicated staff members, we'll introduce you to the talented team behind the scenes. Learn about their expertise and background, plus some fun facts!

Our staff member in the spotlight this week: Fitness Director and Certified Personal Trainer Alex Awve! You may know him as one of the friendly faces you see behind the trainer's desk and in our Trainer Tips videos, but did you know he was once a drummer in a band?

Q: How long have you been at Western?
A: A decade!

Q: What is your title/job description at Western?
A: Fitness Director

Q: What made you want to work at Western?
A: The members/staff/atmosphere

Q: What is your favorite activity to do at Western?
A: Lift weights and talk to members

Q: What is your favorite kind of workout?
A: My favorite type of workout is strength training, with cardio surges spaced throughout the workout.

Q: Do you participate in any fitness activities outside of Western?
A: I enjoy playing all sports and trying different activities to stay active. As a kid, I played soccer, track, and cross country. Now some of my favorite workouts are long distance bike rides and hiking on trails.

Q: What’s your favorite non-fitness hobby (or hobbies)?
A : I am a gamer. I love video games that play a twist on history. Assassin’s Creed, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima to name a few.

Q: What motivates you?
A: My family motivates me. I am married and have two children, ages 2 and 5. They all keep my life fun and exciting and are a huge motivating factor to provide the best life possible to them. They are my life.

Q: Who inspires you?
A: Georges “Rush” St-Pierre

Q: If you could work out with any famous person, who would you pick?
A: Georges St-Pierre. One of the best UFC fighters of all time and huge inspiration for me in terms of his dedication, and calm demeanor.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or any words of wisdom you can share?
A: "Do the right thing." Words of wisdom from my father. No matter what you are faced with in life, be a good person and make good choices.

Q: What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever visited?
A: Mayan Ruins in Tulum, Mexico

Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
A: Mötley Crüe. I used to play drums and even had a band in high school. We played at local coffee shops. I was always fascinated by drummer Tommy Lee and his ability to not miss a beat, and his crazy lifestyle.

Q: What’s your favorite junk food?
A: Hot wings, pizza, and beer.

Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
A: Travel to Egypt and see the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: I love working with people from all walks of life. I have learned so much over the years just from listening to my client’s stories. I am blessed to work with such an amazing staff. I truly enjoy coming into work each day and talking to members on the PT team. They are also a huge inspiration to me.

Q: What’s something you’re proud of?
A: I am proud of the work and dedication I have put into my life from all different platforms. I am proud of my family, my career, and the person I am today.

Q: What are some fun facts about you?
A: Although I’m very active I do enjoy doing nothing. There is nothing better than sitting outside by a fire and enjoying nature. Trainers need breaks from being active all the time and eating healthy too. My perfect day involves playing with the kids, video games, pizza, brewery tours, and campfires.

Lightning Round: This or That Questions

Coffee or tea? Coffee
Cats or dogs? Dogs
Early bird or night owl? Neither
Power of flight or invisibility? Flight
Tattoos or piercings? Tattoos
Outer space or the bottom of the ocean? Outer space
Christmas or your birthday? Birthday
Breakfast or dinner? Breakfast
Texting or calling? Calling
Burgers or tacos? Tacos
Movie at home or movie in the theater? At home
Introvert or extrovert? Extrovert