Client Spotlight: Jen Maksad – Personal Trainer with a Passion for Strength, Confidence & Community


If you've ever met Jen Maksad, you know her energy is the perfect mix of powerhouse and heart. She's a personal trainer, group fitness coach Navy veteran, and currently pursuing her master's in social work... All while helping others step into strength, confidence, and sustainable wellness. I had the honor of capturing branding photos that reflect her bold, no-nonsense approach to training and her grounded, nurturing spirit.


Here's a closer look at the heart behind her business:

Woman with long wavy hair, wearing a brown shirt and smartwatch, stands with arms crossed, smiling confidently against a split b&w wall
Woman with long dark hair and floral tattoo on her arm holds a plank position on the floor, wearing a brown shirt and white smartwatch

🏋️ From Navy Beginnings to Personal Training Passion


"The gym has become my second home—honestly, it feels like part of who I am," Jen shared. "I wanted to help others see that fitness doesn't have to be intimidating. Whether it's a public gym or your living room, it's about taking that first step.


Jen's journey started when her Navy recruiter told her to "gain some weight." At the time, she was 95 pounds—but that moment lit a spark that hasn't stopped burning. After serving six years as a hospital corpsman and earning her degree in Health Sciences she's now in grad school and coaching full-time with a mind-body approcah.

💪🏽 Her Fitness Philosophy: Real, Flexible, and Fun


Jen's motto? Do what works for YOU.


"There's no one-size-fits-all in fitness," she said. "Some people love CrossFit. Others find joy in yoga or circuits. The key is to find what keeps calling you back. It should feel like something you GET to do—not a punishment."


Affordability also matters to her. "Health is an investment, yes—but not one that should leave you stressed."

💥 Personalized Coaching for All Walks of Life


From beginners to post-surgery recovery to strength training or weight loss goals, Jen meets her clients exactly where they are.


"No cookie-cutter programs here," she says. Every client begins with a consultation so she can build a realistic, sustainable plan tailored to their needs and lifestyle.

Woman with tattooed arm holding a dumbbell close to her chest while smiling during a workout
Female fitness instructor in black shirt leading a class, with two participants lifting dumbbells in the background.

✨ Capturing Her Brand: Strong + Soft


When Jen reached out for branding photos, she had a clear vision: "I wanted something bold, different, and fully me. I'm a woman who lifts heavy, coaches hard, trains in jiu-jitsu—and still embraces my femininity. You can go hard and still show up soft."


You'll now find her new images across her website (jenmaksad.com), Instagram (@jenmaksad), and business cards.


Her favorite part of the shoot? "Definitely the kids! Her son (and really both of her children) brought such amazing energy. It made everything feel fun, authentic, and full of joy."

❤️ Strength Beyond the Surface


Jen isn't just focused on physical reps. Her coaching is deeply rooted in mental well-being too.


"Strength doesn't come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn't," she says, quoting Rikki Rogers. That mindset is what fuels her—especially when it comes to group coaching at Tribe Fitness.


"Even on hard days, my clients show up for themselves. That inspires me to show up too. They're doing 90% of the work—I'm just guiding the other 10%"

🚀 What's Next for Jen Maksad Fitness


Jen is expanding her offerings to meet clients wherever they are:


  • Hands-on online coaching with weekly check-ins
  • Personalized 3 month self-guided programs
  • In-person 1:1 training
  • Partner and small group sessions (because fitness is more fun with friends!)
Woman stands in front of a black with with "Tribe Fitness - Uplift, Motivate, Inspire" logo, smiling in a branded t-shirt
Fitness instructor walks around a gym as participants perform bicycle crunches on the floor
Group stretching session in a gym, participants lunging while instructor leads at the front near a mirror wall.

📲 Ready to Work with Jen?


You can click here to visit Jen's website or book a free consultation directly by clicking here. Whether you're starting from scratch or leveling up, Jen is here to help you feel strong, supported, and more at home in your body.


P.S. Jen, thank you for trusting me to help tell your story. Your fire and empathy are the kind of strength the world needs more of. 💥

Instructor demonstrating a curtsy lunge with leg lifted exercise list displayed on screen behind her.
Group fitness class performing curtsy lunges together, instructor guiding at the front of the room.

📸 Why Branding Photos Matter—Especially for Fitness Professionals


In a saturated industry, your story is what sets you apart. Branding photography is more than headshots—it's a visual representation of who you are, how you serve, and what clients can expect when they work with you.


For fitness professionals like Jen, branding images help:

  • Build trust before a single session is booked
  • Reflect your training style and personality
  • Show up confidently on your website, social media, and print materials
  • Create cohesion across your brand


Whether you're running group classes, offering 1:1 coaching, or launching new programs, professional photos help you connect with your audience in a real and powerful way.

Woman smiling in front of a wall sign that reads "Tribe Fitness," wearing a sweatshirt and standing in a casual pose

✨ Ready to Elevate Your Brand?


If you're a coach, trainer, or business owner looking for photos that feel like you—bold, natural, and full of life—I'd love to work with you!


Let's connect and create something custom together!