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

Meet Ashley Carter, an ACE Certified Personal Trainer who loves helping people—especially women—find their strength. “I love helping them do something they said they couldn't do. In my own journey of discovering fitness, I also discovered that I love supporting, motivating and empowering others. I've worked with a wide range of populations, including seniors and post-injury clients. I find purpose in helping contribute to people's quality of life in a positive way.”

Speaking of fitness journeys, Ashley began hers from an unusual place. “Believe it or not,” she says, “I used to dislike working out! I thought it was intimidating, and that it was something that other people did, not me.”

She was inspired to take a deep dive into the fitness world in order to learn more about it, which led to her earning her personal training certification. She has since trained clients, taught group fitness classes, managed fitness centers and now owns her own business.

Her typical clients, she says, are people who struggle with consistent exercise and healthy eating habits. “I help them achieve consistency by supporting them, educating them and empowering them in their journey. I'm reminded, and I often mention to my clients, that I was once there! I understand where they are coming from, so I am able to meet them where they are, mentally and physically, to help them make progress.”

Ashley offers the following advice for someone starting out in the world of health and fitness: “I would suggest, first, understanding why you want to get in the field. Knowing your 'why' keeps you grounded when things get tough, and it helps attract the right people and opportunities that actually align with your goals. Also, always be a student. In the ever-changing fitness industry, it's beneficial to stay current on the latest information.”

Ashley believes in an empowering, well-rounded approach to helping her clients achieve their goals and this is reflected in the variety of ACE Specialty Programs she has completed, including Functional Training, Fitness Nutrition and Behavior Change.