We had the good fortune of connecting with Joshua Neal and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Joshua, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Being in this fitness industry and being a top performer for 25 plus years, the most important factor is consistency, striving to be the best version of myself instead of trying to compete and understanding that my purpose it to help others be the best version of themselves
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At the CORE of my SOUL. I love helping people live a healthier and happier live through Fitness. Especially Group Fitness. What sets me apart from others is that I am spirit driven. By that I mean I let the spirit lead me in every single class I teach. This can not be taught or practice. Its truly a gift from God. I am always trying to be the best version of myself so that I can always deliver an UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE. In my 25 years as a Fitness Pro, only up to about 3 years ago I realize I know longer TEACH a class, I DELIVER an EXPERIENCE. This can not be duplicated or taught. What also sets me apart is that I understand who I am now. I understand my purpose. I understand that its not about me its about experiencing the journey by continuing to be in the present. Is it easy all the time? Hell NO! I have had a traumatic childhood since before I was even born with my dad being murdered months before I was born. More trauma throughout my life from being homeless all the way up to having a heart attack about 3 years ago. I have used my trauma, pain, hardship and past NOT to define who I am but to help me continue to be resilient and be a testimony for others to see that they too can get through challenges in life. Somehow my past tends to come out spiritually in a positive way when I am on stage delivering a fitness class experience.
I love to dance and to create. This is my outlet. I am the Creator of the format Kickbox Jam and grateful that its been the number 1 Live Streamed format nationwide for the last 12 months. Donna Smith, Kelly Hall and Jamara Stallworth also teach this class with me and I am thankful for them.
If I was to leave this world today, I would want the world to say that He was one of a kind and love helping people. He indeed was the Superman of Fitness
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Atlanta is an awesome place to live and visit. Since I am a Black Gay Man. I would definitely take a visitor to a good Drag Queen Show and Blakes after we had a nice dinner at South City Kitchen. The next day we would get up and walk the beltine tour piedmont park and then go to Lifetime to workout in some HOKA shoes lol. #thebest shoe brand btw.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First – I would like to give honor and praise to God. He has blessed me with a gift and I am fulfilling his purpose for my life. Second- I am completely grateful for Lifetime athletic destination. Lifetime is my vehichle and gives me the platform to do what I Love. The CEO, Bahram Akradi, vision includes DEI and Culture of Care. This gives me joy going to work for a company that believes in ME.
Thirdly- My Lifetime Family. My LT JCK Team, JCK Members and Virtual Members Nationwide. I could not be where I am not with their support and dedication.
Finally but certainly not least – My Family and close Friends. My mom -Gloria Neal, Sister -Uvanda Neal, Cuz- Aretha Neal, and BFFs Brian W., Davian O. Larry F. and Jamara S. They have been there for me through my good times and tough times
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuahdneal/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshua.neal.942
Other: if you want to join lifetime digital platform for 100’s of live stream classes a week and on demand classes etc for $2.99 click/copy link below https://www.lifetime.life/join/overview-page.html or lifetime.life
Image Credits
Erika Krupansky Ellen Nicoll Debby Stone