Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert McNeil III.
Robert, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today.
I have always been a person that always tried to maintain a regular healthy lifestyle. However, my focus in the field of health and fitness was sparked by a series of tragic events in 2007. One, that I was most affected by was the death of my sister. She was morbidly obese, with a slew of health problem. She sadly died four days after having her 2nd child. Less than six weeks after this event, my wife and I welcomed our son into the world. This was the most difficult and overwhelming time of my life. I spent the next six months evaluating what the heck mattered most to me and how could I honor my late sister. A year and a half later, I decided to quit my stable job, and take a leap of faith.
I began a career in fitness in 2009. I actually was a trainer for a year for fun while in college. I literally started with zero clients and worked relentlessly, for three 1/2 years, at a large commercial gym. In this time period, I was building a clientele and establishing my presence outside that facility as a trainer. After my sister’s passing, I made a vow to honor her by being a vessel to help people to better their health through fitness training. January 2013, I went completely independent. I had a wife and young baby at home, but with my family’s support, I walked into the unknown and didn’t look back. One of my greatest success stories, as an independent trainer was my client Adija who lost 110lbs in 11 months. Since then, I have been rated as one of Houston’s Top Trainers in 2014, Houston 50 Hottest Fitness Pros for 2017.
When we are passionate about what we do, sometimes our work can feel like art. Along those lines, can you tell us about your art – what do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
My art to facilitate and assist people, who have the desire, to live a healthy and fit lifestyle. I’m there to motivate and inspire, through my own personal fitness goal. I’m not the typical trainer. I strive to think outside the box and motivate my clients to a healthier way of being. Those that I share my knowledge with, in regards to health and fitness, are my canvas. I utilize my platform to motivate, inspire and change lives. Healthy living does not have a cookie cutter formula. Each individual is different; hence my approach is customized to their individual needs and capabilities. My ‘art’ is my gift to motivate and influence each individual to live a better, healthy version of themselves.
What do you know now that you wished you had learned earlier?
Be authentic. Authenticity is critical. It’s one being their ultimate self through their craft. I don’t have anything that I wish I could have learned earlier. I believe that my mistakes and trial and errors were all apart from my journey. Preparing me for where I am now and what I will achieve going forward.
How can people learn more about you, connect with you and support the work you do?
I am located in the heart of the Galleria/Uptown area in Houston. I train out a private upscale independent gym. I’m best supported by one taking a moment to understand my philosophies, principles, and methodology of health and wellness. Concluding that living a healthy lifestyle is most certainly achievable and sustainable.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4543 Post Oak Place, #100
- Website: elementsoffitness.fit
- Phone: 8327946646
- Email: robert@elementsoffitness.fit
- Instagram: @simply_robfit
- Twitter: @simply_robfit
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Gabi A Mixon
November 28, 2018 at 5:06 pm
Robert is an amazing person and an incredible and inspiring trainer. He makes your life better just by being in it. If you are looking to lead a healthier lifestyle with a trainer who doesn’t judge, that leads by example and motivation; do yourself a favor and contact him. You won’t regret it.