Aside from our super fun, sweat-inducing workouts, here's a bit more about how this small fitness studio with a big heart got started.
HIIT LAB was founded in 2016 by local West Seattleite Cathy Kerns. Having always had an affinity for health & fitness and past experience working for some of the biggest fitness franchises in the country, she left her career in corporate America behind to do something closer to her heart and home.
After commuting all around Seattle and beyond (Capitol Hill, SLU, Queen Anne, Redmond) looking for the best workouts (and working at several of them), I felt like West Seattle deserved a world-class fitness experience. Instead of opening a franchise, I wanted to draw from all the best practices of the 'big boxes,' take out the stuff I didn't like, and infuse it with some extra local love.
My initial goal was to have a clean, upscale studio with loud, fun music and challenging workouts. What has come to fruition is a community of people who value their health and appreciate how much fun working out can be. I sometimes marvel at all the different types of clients who are part of the #HIITFam and how we all support each other. It's inspiring to witness so many ages, sizes, ethnicities, professions, etc. work hard and progress each day.
As West Seattle has grown and even survived a worldwide pandemic, I had the opportunity to try and bring the magic over to another amazing community - the Central District. Our doors are open and we are excited and honored to be a part of this historic neighborhood. We're still working on getting the word out to fill our classes and can't wait to meet more like-minded people who are looking for fun and effective workout classes in an inclusive environment.
Lastly, running a small business is tough, whether navigating a pandemic, 9-months pregnant relocating the studio or almost losing a finger in a treadmill (all true stories!). But if you surround yourself with great people, you can accomplish great things. I sincerely believe a rising tide lifts all boats so we partner regularly with other small, local, independent businesses and nonprofits like Grillbird, Bohemian Studios, Ounces, Westside Baby and WS Food Bank. We look forward to getting to know and supporting organizations in the Central District, please let me know if there are any we should contact to connect. We are all at our best when we work to lift the boat together and give back to our community.
Thanks for learning a bit more about HIIT Lab and my story. I hope to meet you IRL soon!
Ready. Set. Go.
Hear from real people
"I learned about HIIT Lab from a friend. The location was really convenient for me so I decided to check it out. HIIT Lab's program is very thoughtfully designed, with a great mix of cardio and strength training. As a runner, I find the use of treadmills and emphasis on speed work is highly complimentary with my fitness goals outside the studio."
"Her instructors are top notch and place a lot of importance on proper form. Since I started regularly attending classes, running injuries are less common for me and my fitness has definitely improved."
-Nick W.