Staff Spotlight: Kimberly Uelmen
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: Group Fitness Instructor Kimberly Uelmen! You may know her as the friendly face at the front of the studio in classes like Barre, In a Minute, and more, but did you know she’s a singer in a polka band?
Q: How long have you been teaching group fitness?
A: Since 2017
Q: What is your job outside of group fitness?
A: Director of School & Community Relations at the Howard-Suamico School District
Q: What made you want to become a group fitness instructor?
A: I grew up an athlete, so fitness is part of my DNA. When I moved back to the area, I started going to Western with a friend. After attending an assortment of classes, I was approached to start teaching the classes. I haven't turned back since! It brings me joy to witness members pushing their limits, making gains, and including exercise in their every day!
Q: What is your favorite class to teach? (Or a few favorites if you can’t pick.)
A: In a Minute
Q: What is your favorite kind of workout outside of group ex?
A: Pickleball, baby!
Q: Do you participate in any other fitness activities outside of Western?
A: I play in a "geezer" basketball league, play in pickleball tournaments, and lift on my own.
Q: What’s your favorite non-fitness hobby (or hobbies)?
A: I am a singer in a polka band called The New Generation.
Q: What motivates you?
A: Winning. Kind people. Doing the right thing.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: People who serve their communities without expecting anything in return.
Q: If you could have any famous person in one of your classes, who would you pick?
A: Zac Efron 🤤
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or any words of wisdom you can share?
A: "Relax enough to let your natural ability take over." -Billi Jo Vertz, Pulaski High School softball coach
Q: What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever visited?
A: New York City
Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
A: P!nk, Celine Dion, Jessica Vosk
Q: What’s your favorite junk food?
A: Popcorn
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
A: To visit every state in the USA.
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: As the Director of School & Community Relations, I am there for the best of times, the worst of times, and every time in between. It's an honor to share major and minor miracles that happen within HSSD school walls each day.
Q: What’s something you’re proud of?
A: I won 2022 Female Vocalist of the Year through the United States Polka Association.
Q: What are some fun facts about you?
A: (1) Being outside is my favorite thing. (2) I wish I could wear athletic shorts every day. I would be the most productive human ever!
Lightning Round: This or That Questions
Coffee or tea? Coffee
Cats or dogs? Humans
Early bird or night owl? In the middle
Power of flight or invisibility? Flight
Tattoos or piercings? Piercings
Outer space or the bottom of the ocean? Outer space
Christmas or your birthday? Christmas
Breakfast or dinner? Breakfast
Texting or calling? Texting
Burgers or tacos? Tacos
Movie at home or movie in the theater? Move at home
Introvert or extrovert? A little of both!
