What\’s Next for fitness in Pittsburgh? Boxing — and more pilates and spin – Elevating the news in Pittsburgh

When it comes to unique fitness trends, Jordan Rose — co-founder and master instructor at Elevate: Fusion Fitness — is a leader.

One of 17 Who’s Next: Fitness honorees in January 2018, Rose’s Lawrenceville gym was the first in the city to focus solely on full-body workouts using VersaClimber machines. Rose, an in-demand instructor with a following at Elevate, was praised for his work ethic, commitment and positivity. One nominator wrote, “Completing one of his classes gives me the feeling of one that can ‘take on the world!\’”

Since launching in 2016, our Who’s Next series, presented by S&T Bank, has honored more than 400 young leaders across the Pittsburgh region.

Here, we’re checking in with veteran Rose to get his advice on fitness in Pittsburgh, to see what he’s been up to this year, and what he’s looking forward to in 2019, ahead of our Who’s Next: Fitness & Health class announcement.

Be sure to save the date: You’re invited to meet that class at our 6 p.m. Jan. 30 happy hour. More details coming on that soon.

(Editor’s note: This Q&A has been edited for length and clarity.)

Q: What were your highlights of 2018?

A: It was the “most amazing year,” Rose said, adding that 2018 was filled with travel, attending weddings, and turning 30.

Elevate continued to be “an amazing place to call home” with a community of diverse ages and cultures, he said. Elevate added a cardio boxing gym with 30-minute boxing classes and launched climbing fight nights (a workout that’s a mix of climbing and boxing) on Mondays and Fridays.

Q: What are you looking forward to in 2019?

A: “I want to enjoy the fitness community,” Rose said. “Pittsburgh is loaded with great instructors.”

But as an instructor himself, he knows how busy they all are and how easy it is to skip each other’s classes. That’s why he wants to make a point to try more classes in the city — to try new things, share ideas and support others.

“That’s how you grow culture and community,” he said.

Q: What fitness trends do you predict for 2019?

A: Outside of VersaClimber workouts, like at Elevate, Rose said boxing is on the rise. Plus, workouts like solidcore, pilates and spin will stay popular, too.

Q: What would you tell someone who wants to try a new workout, but is apprehensive?

A: It’s not just about your body, but about incorporating and growing your mind and spirit, too. The best thing to do is to get in the door, and turn your mind off, and open your heart before a workout, he said, adding that’s what he tells clients at Elevate.

“Enjoy it. Leave your best there, and be present.”