Kim Leverett

A Kick Above personal training studio is a private, member-only facility located in Dogwood Crossing on Highway 10 in Little Rock. The impetus for a career in personal training took root more than 16 years ago. After giving birth to my daughters, moms in my small-group Bible study noticed how quickly I regained my figure and asked me to begin training them. I earned certifications as a trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and the National Exercise Trainer Association. In 2011, I opened the fitness studio.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How did you know this is what you wanted to do?

During the years I worked as a pharmacist, I noticed that I was dispensing medication over and over to patients who simply needed a lifestyle change. I encouraged patients on medication to include exercise and proper nutrition.

I wish I knew how to _________.

I wish I knew how to swim well!! It is one physical activity that I have not mastered yet.

If you could have lunch with any woman, who would it be and what would you order?

I would choose lunch with Michelle Obama. I admire her health initiative, Let’s Move. She is as committed to reducing obesity in children as I am in teens/adults. I would take her to Taziki’s and order grilled salmon.

What is a typical workday like for you?

My day begins when the clock chimes at 4:10 a.m.! I start training clients at 5 a.m. sharp! I have groups every hour from 5-10 a.m. I also train clients a couple of evenings a week.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

As a trainer, I love nothing more than seeing positive results in my clients. I am encouraged to hear about weight loss and reports that medication is no longer necessary to control hypertension or cholesterol.

How do you define success?

I define success by what I give, not by what I get. I strive to help others reach their personal, health-related goals, mentor those interested in this profession and ultimately leave an enduring, integrity-filled legacy.

Best moment of your career so far?

The best moment of my career as a businesswoman has been the opening of my PT studio to service my loyal clients. My goal is to give them a facility where they feel like family, in a private environment.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

With the lessons I have learned over 47 years, I would advise an 18-year-old Kim to seek a Christian mentor, early in life, who exemplifies Godly character. I would also tell her to make education a lifelong pursuit.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How did you know this is what you wanted to do?

I wish I knew how to _________.

If you could have lunch with any woman, who would it be and what would you order?

What is a typical workday like for you?

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

How do you define success?

Best moment of your career so far?

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Neighborhood you live in

Orlé

Hometown

Little Rock

Last good read

“The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg

Favorite Food

Salmon and vegetables

Favorite Lunch Spot

Taziki’s

First thing you do at the office each morning

Set up workout stations for clients

Last splurge

Jewelry from Sissy’s

Hobbies

Travel and watch movies

Dream Vacation

South Africa

SPONSORS