In today’s digital age, ‘tech neck’ has become a common ailment, but for Jayyiah Fields, it became a catalyst for change. After suffering from debilitating neck and back pain due to long hours working on her laptop, Fields discovered the power of targeted exercises. This personal journey led her to found Lift Up Fitness, a boutique gym in Roselle Park, New Jersey, designed to foster community and provide a welcoming fitness experience.
From Pain to Purpose: The Genesis of Lift Up Fitness
Fields described her initial struggle: “I was working crazy long hours, and I also was in a one-bedroom, 600 square foot apartment staring down at my laptop on my kitchen island. I destroyed my neck and my back.” Despite seeking help from chiropractors and orthopedic doctors, the pain persisted for months. She realized the need for a better workspace setup, more time away from the computer, and a focus on strengthening her muscles.
Her efforts to combat the pain through movement evolved into a healthier lifestyle, prioritizing fitness. Initially using her apartment building’s gym, Fields found it lacked the social connection many seek. This observation, coupled with noticing the isolation in her commuter town, highlighted the growing loneliness epidemic.
Creating a Welcoming Fitness Community
Feeling intimidated by the intense atmosphere of traditional gyms, Fields envisioned a different kind of fitness space – one that was more intimate than a large club but offered more than a small storefront. She sought a balance that encouraged socializing while still providing options for intensive workouts. This vision led her to open Lift Up Fitness in Roselle Park, New Jersey.
Lift Up Fitness caters to both members and drop-ins, offering specialized, “out-of-the-box” classes alongside ample space for individual workouts. Fields’ primary goal is to inject a “refreshing social aspect” into fitness, creating an environment where newcomers feel welcomed and encouraged to discover what works best for them, a stark contrast to the “snide energy” sometimes found in other gyms.
Overcoming Adversity: The Flood
Fields meticulously researched the fitness industry and developed a solid plan, securing and renovating a space. However, just a month after opening, her dream was threatened by a severe flood caused by intense rainfall. Watching water pour into her new business, she feared her year of hard work and life savings were lost. “To see literal water just pouring in. It was just like this is all over,” she recalled.
The experience of natural disasters can be devastating for small businesses, particularly those bootstrapped by Black women. Fields found solace and strength in her community. Upon returning to survey the damage, she was met by neighbors who arrived with mops, buckets, and vacuums to help rebuild. This outpouring of support allowed Lift Up Fitness to reopen after only a week, a testament to the power of community connection.
Building Community Through Fitness
Now fully operational, Lift Up Fitness also organizes a popular run club, providing another avenue for members to connect outside the gym. Fields finds immense joy in seeing neighbors connect and friendships form through these initiatives. She believes that fostering community is key to the longevity of her business, creating a “melting pot” where diverse individuals can come together and pursue their wellness goals.
What do you think of Jayyiah Fields’ journey in creating Lift Up Fitness? Have you experienced ‘tech neck’ or found community in a boutique gym? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
