Amy Ortmann,CPT,CGFS, aka DJ AO
My mantra as a group fitness specialist and personal trainer can be summarized in four words: we are all athletes. You don’t fit in a box, so why should your workout program? Be open to defining your potential. Enjoy your journey. Believe. Shine. Remain Fearless. You, are your own athlete.
My love for fitness started at a young age and blossomed during college. As a Division I athlete at Boise State University, I excelled on the field as a goalie and off the field as a Student Athlete Representative for my conference. After multiple injuries and subsequent surgeries sidelined my soccer career, I pursued other student leadership roles on campus and in the community. My work off the field, undoubtedly, gave light to my passion and desire for helping others. Upon graduation and my return to Texas, I began working at a local gym. Every day became an opportunity to connect with members and influence their journey to a healthier life.
In 2015 I became certified in Group Fitness and Personal Training. In Group Fitness, there is a beautiful dynamic of teamwork that unfolds; whereas, with Personal Training there is specialized care and attention for each client. My approach to either spectrum is the same. Fitness and wellness must be realistic – while the session should take you outside of your comfort zone, above all – they should be fun, safe, effective and make you feel better. For me – every training session is an opportunity to share encouragement, positivity, education and love.
To do what I love with the people that I love is an honor. I am proud to be a coach, but I am even more proud to be a BLASTer.
Believe. Shine. Remain Fearless. You, are your own athlete.
Lauren Perkins, CGFS, aka DJ LP
Growing up I was completely unathletic and did my best to avoid exercise. That way of life worked just fine until I was a broke grad student with a wardrobe full of clothes that didn’t fit me anymore. With much encouragement from my brother, I signed up for a 5K. Within a year I went from thinking running 3 miles would be impossible to completing a half marathon… and I was hooked on running. The discipline, the personal competition, and the camaraderie of the running community- I loved it all! It was the first time I realized exercise could be enjoyable. However, after 5 years of being very involved in my local running community and over training to the point of being unhealthy, I walked away to start a family.
Motherhood is what changed my perspective on fitness. After living purely in survival mode of raising sextuplets for a couple of years, I realized I needed exercise for my mental well being as much as the physical. I started taking group fitness classes to not just burn some calories and get stronger, but to have time to do something for myself and interact with adults. I believe when we take care of ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually we can better care for our people… and just be happier healthier humans in general!
Once I began taking classes, group fitness quickly stole a piece of this runner’s heart. In 2017 I got certified as a Group Fitness Instructor. I love having the opportunity to share what I’ve learned and encourage others on their own journey to wellness whether I’m taking a class or coaching! Especially all the moms out there who struggle with making time for themselves. You’ve got to take of yourself so you can be better for the people you love.
Cliff Griffin, CGFS, aka DJ CG
I’m a native Southern Californian and now reside in Spring, TX with my lovely wife and 4 incredible children. I’m a sports nut and I’ve been involved in athletics from a very young age, playing baseball throughout most of my youth and running the 200m & 400m at the collegiate level.
My love of competition keeps me competing in local distance and obstacle course races. I became a member of the Blast family around 3 years ago and being one who’s always been part of team I fell in love with group fitness. There’s nothing like having a coach to motivate you and teammates to push you when you need it. Needless to say BMF quickly became a home and the Blasters became my family.
I continue to stay motivated by keeping my focus on the 3 F’s of Faith, Family & Fitness. I use these as my motivation and strive to help as many as I can to reach their fitness goals.