Who is behind House Call Fitness?

The owner of House Call Fitness is Abby Kurtz. Abby has a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where she was a varsity athlete in Cross-Country and Track & Field. She has been an ACE certified personal trainer since 2003 and has worked in a variety of fitness settings. Abby has worked with a wide range of clientele.

Why did you choose to become a personal trainer?

As a long time athlete with highlights including four years on the University of Illinois Cross-Country and Track & Field teams, I have always had a passion for competition and for physical fitness. It was a natural transition to make fitness my career choice.

Why did you choose to become an in-home personal trainer?

After working in the commercial fitness industry for three years, I realized that many facilities can become sterile, competitive and tiresome. Why not meet the needs of my clientele right where they are on any given day? Since doing so, I have found my clients are more relaxed and motivated in their own environment.  

How are you different than other personal trainers? What is your specialty?

My education and experience set me apart from other personal trainers. In the field of personal training, many trainers do not have a college degree or the proper certifications. A degree in Exercise Science has allowed me to work in various environments such as hospitals and private gyms. I have held positions ranging from personal trainer to an exercise physiologist. This varied work experience has led me to my extensive knowledge of injury rehabilitation, cardiac rehabilitation, sport-specific training and general fitness.

How do you deal with clients who are not fufilling their workout regimne?

I am always honest with my clients. If I notice a negative pattern developing, I will sit the client down and get to the root of the problem. Together we will create a plan to remove the roadblocks.

Who has been your greatest success story?

I had the privilege of working with an 85 year old woman who went from never exercising to completing 30 minutes of cardio and lifting weights 3 times a week. Prior to that she had been very frail and was afraid of falling. She gained enough strength to better achieve her daily activities of living and was more confident as a result.