Meet Angela Nichols, president and partner of Elevation Health, who has more than 32 years of expertise in corporate and residential fitness and wellness. With a well-rounded understanding of the industry, she has successfully led the design, management, and implementation of comprehensive fitness and wellness programs for a wide range of organizations.
What path led you into the fitness industry?
My path into the fitness industry started with advice from my mom: “Choose a career you love so it never feels like work.” That stuck with me. I’ve always loved sports, movement, and being active and adventurous. That passion naturally led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology, followed by a master’s degree in Sport and Recreation Management/Business. From there, I built a career that allowed me to combine my love for movement with leadership and business growth.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the fitness industry?
One of the biggest challenges is developing strong leaders within the industry. Many people enter fitness because they love movement and helping others, but leadership, administrative responsibilities, and business operations aren’t always what initially drew them in. Bridging that gap and helping them grow into well rounded professionals can be challenging. The most rewarding part is seeing both clients and team members achieve meaningful personal wins whether that’s improving their health, gaining confidence, or advancing in their careers. Knowing you played a role in guiding and supporting that journey is incredibly fulfilling.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Personally, completing a marathon and an Ironman are accomplishments I’m very proud of, along with becoming a Nana and showing up for myself every day. Professionally, my proudest accomplishment is helping grow our business through genuine relationships and meaningful connections. Building something sustainable and impactful alongside people you trust is incredibly rewarding.
What has surprised you most about working in the fitness industry?
What has surprised me most is how much the industry has evolved. Fitness used to focus primarily on movement and exercise. Now, it’s much more holistic encompassing recovery, mental health, stress management, and overall well-being. That shift has been both exciting and necessary.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
The industry is moving toward a deeper understanding that movement alone doesn’t equal wellness. True health is multi-dimensional, and the future of fitness will continue to integrate physical activity with mental health, recovery, and lifestyle support.
What positions have been most influential in your career?
Continuing to teach yoga and train clients, even while leading a multimillion-dollar company, has been one of the most impactful decisions in my career. Staying connected to the front line of fitness keeps me grounded and builds credibility with our team. People respect leadership more when they see you actively engaged in the work, not just managing from a distance.
Was there a decision that changed the trajectory of your career?
Early in my career, I had a choice: stay in a management role at a client location by switching companies, or remain with Elevation Health and move into business development. From a financial perspective, switching companies may have made more sense at the time. But instead, I followed my instincts and prioritized the relationships I had built within Elevation Health. The company’s leadership had invested in me, and I believed in continuing to learn from them. That decision ultimately shaped my entire career path and led me to become president of the company more than 20 years later.
If you could work in any other profession, what would it be?
I always say that when I retire, I’d love to become a flight attendant. It combines two things I enjoy, travel and serving others.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Lead with passion, stay connected to your purpose, and invest in people. Focus on building strong relationships and consistently show up, for yourself and others.
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
I enjoy hiking, baking, reading, and most importantly, spending time with my family.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
- Family
- Health and wellbeing
- Personal growth and meaningful connections
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
“You are what you eat.” It’s simple, but it speaks to a larger truth, what you put into your body, your mind, and your life directly impacts what you get out of it.
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