Member Spotlight: 2024 Issue 3
Meet three IDEA Members changing lives with fitness: Lanie Todman, Alexandra Szajowski, Francesca Kerr
Lanie Todman
If you’ve ever engaged with Lanie Todman, you’ve felt her dynamic enthusiasm and unwavering positivity, leaving a lasting impression of her vibrant and motivating energy. Whether in person or through her fitness social media profile (@thighsandfrenchfries on Instagram), her fearless, positive vibes inspire, encourage, and make you feel accepted.
“Fit pros are incredibly genuine people who live for the success of others. I get to be inspired by other people and have a never-ending drive to want to learn more to keep showing up as a better professional than I was the day before.”
An IDEA member since 2017, Todman began her fitness career as a Personal Trainer at Renaissance Athletic Club. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Group Exercise Director, Fitness Director in 2022, and overseeing the Personal Training team. With over a decade at the club, she cherishes every step of her journey.
“The BEST gift I have received as a member and attendee of IDEA World was finding an incredible mentor. The best professional advice I have been given is: ‘Find someone who is doing what you want to be doing and ask them to teach you how,’ and I am eternally grateful for Irene McCormick for putting her time and efforts into helping me grow as a fit pro!”
The newly married Todman most recently re-located to Marina del Rey, California, where she and her husband will embrace their new, vibrant fitness community. Known for her innovative classes like Booty Bootcamp and Barre Sculpt, Todman continues to inspire and lead. She remains dedicated to mentoring others in the fitness industry and fostering a supportive environment.
You can find Todman in Southern California, soaking up the sun or in the weight room, always on the lookout for her next fitness leadership endeavor!
Alexandra Szajowski
Meet Alexandra Szajowski, a shining light in the fitness world. An IDEA member for four years, Szajowski is drawn by IDEA’s “exceptional” Fitness Insurance offerings and industry insights.
This July, Szajowski debuted as a Support Squad volunteer at the 2024 IDEA® World, earning CECs and managing behind-the-scenes tasks.
“Attending 2024 IDEA World for the first time on the Support Squad was aligned & rewarding! I feel my leadership skills were utilized all the while assisting other leaders in the health, fitness, nutrition, & wellness field – I would love to volunteer again & again! I also loved connecting at the Expo with like-minded brands – this entire experience was unbeatable!”
Originally from Park Ridge, Illinois, Szajowski began her fitness journey with an Exercise Science internship in Phoenix, Arizona, where she has lived for six years. As the founder of ABSolute Body & Soul, she empowers others through Fitness, Nutrition, Yoga, and Wellness. Her credentials include ACSM-Certified Personal Trainer, ACE-Certified Health Coach, and TRX Trainer (Levels 1 & 2).
“My fitness career journey began at a young age – involved in many team sports. I grew into a teenager who was very active & used working out as my main hobby/outlet to better myself.”
Szajowski trains clients at ConXion in Central Phoenix and leads classes at Life Time Biltmore and The Village Camelback. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her fiancé and nearly four-year-old child. Follow Szajowski on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected with her journey.
Francesca Kerr
Francesca Kerr, a seasoned IDEA member for over two decades, exemplifies a profound dedication to fitness education and client empowerment. Her mantra, “My intent is to help the people I work with celebrate where they are, what their bodies can do, and move them toward their goals with joy, laughter, and fun,” underscores her commitment to holistic well-being and personalized growth.
Kerr’s journey into fitness began with a passion for Exercise Physiology, leading her through roles in corporate wellness, personal training, and beyond. Certified by ACE and ACSM and holding a Master’s in Health Promotion and Wellness Management, she brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. From teaching indoor cycling and strength training to fostering community health initiatives, Kerr’s impact spans diverse fitness realms.
Her career trajectory highlights her versatility and leadership within the fitness community. Kerr’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of fitness disciplines, including indoor cycling, strength training, core conditioning, and mobility enhancement. Post-COVID, she launched her own personal training business, demonstrating her commitment to individual health and wellness.
Throughout her professional journey, Kerr has excelled in pivotal roles—from serving as a Master Trainer for Schwinn’s Indoor Cycling program to pioneering fitness initiatives as the first Fitness Director at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her extensive experience in various settings, including private gyms, hospitals, and community outreach programs, reflects her unwavering dedication to advancing fitness education and practice.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Kerr enjoys spending time with family, engaging in outdoor activities like tennis and surfing, and exploring creative interests such as photography and healthy cooking. Her approach to fitness combines knowledge, positivity, and inclusivity, reflecting a deep-seated belief in celebrating individual strengths and aspirations.
