FLORENCE, Ky. (WXIX) – Two Northern Kentucky veterans who served in the United States Marine Corps are now channeling that experience into personal training, pushing clients toward better health at Iron Rig Fitness in Florence.
John Waters is a personal trainer and Joe Stotlar is the owner and head trainer at the gym.
From the Corps to the gym floor
Waters signed up for the Marines the day he graduated high school. During his nine years of service, he said he found his calling.
“There was a point where I was placed in a position to have a hands-on approach helping other people reach their goals,” Waters said. “It really set something on fire in me — and I decided, when I get out, I would love to do this in real life.”
Stotlar, a five-year Marine veteran, said he came into the Corps out of shape and barely able to do a single pull-up. His progress was enough that his sergeant put him in charge of helping other recruits.
“My sergeant was like, ‘Man, whatever you’re doing — you need to teach these other guys,’” Stotlar said. “So I got put in charge.”
Clients feel the impact
Training client Emily Hildebrand, a mother of two, said the experience has been significant.
“It was life-changing for me,” Hildebrand said. “I’ve learned so much — and I plan on doing this for the rest of my life.”
Hildebrand, whose father is a Vietnam veteran, said the salute carries personal meaning for her.
“My dad is a Vietnam veteran, and so yeah, I’m very thankful to them,” she said.
Hildebrand also described Waters’ training style as results-focused.
“He’s definitely going to keep you on task,” she said. “He’s a little strict — but that’s what you need.”
Iron Rig Fitness is located in Florence.
Waters can also be reached through his own platform and website.
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