As part our celebration of ACE’s 40th anniversary, we are highlighting how some ACE Certified Pros are living the mission to Get People Moving and shaping the future of fitness.

Meet Ajia Clancy, an ACE Certified Personal Training and Health Coach who has firsthand experience with the power of resilience, movement and holistic well-being. As a cancer survivor and competitive equestrian, Ajia says that her journey into health and fitness was deeply personal. “Overcoming my own health challenges,” she says, “reinforced how vital it is to take care of both body and mind.”

Ajia explains that horses have always been a great source of inspiration for her, as well as her greatest teachers, showing her the importance of strength, balance and mental focus. “Through my own training and recovery,” she says, “I realized that true wellness isn’t just about fitness—it’s about empowerment, confidence and sustainable habits. That’s what inspired me to be a coach. I wanted to help others navigate their own health journeys, whether they’re equestrians striving for peak performance or individuals looking to reclaim their well-being.”

Ajia’s typical client is an equestrian who wants to feel stronger and more confident, but she also works with other individuals who are looking to improve their health and wellness. “My coaching goes beyond workouts and nutrition,” she explains. “I help clients develop self-empowerment, mental clarity and the habits they need to achieve long-term success in their riding, health and life.”

When asked for advice for newcomers to the fitness industry, Ajia says to stay true to your passion and keep learning. “This field is constantly evolving, and the best coaches and trainers are the ones who stay curious, continue their education and adapt to new research and client needs. Never stop growing—both for yourself and for the people you help.”

It’s also vital to build real connections. “Health and fitness aren’t just about exercise plans or nutrition advice,” she explains. “They’re about understanding people, meeting them where they are and helping them create lasting change.”

For Ajia, training and coaching always comes back to her personal experiences with health and wellness: “What I love most about the work I do is witnessing transformation. My goal is to guide people toward feeling strong, capable and in control of their lives—just as I’ve worked to do for myself.”

Ajia’s holistic approach is reflected in the variety of ACE Specialty Programs she has completed, including Cancer Exercise, Fitness Nutrition, Behavior Change, Corrective Exercise and Senior Fitness. Click the links to learn more about these programs.