Coach & Member Spotlight: Christine Fennell & Christine Oliver

What can we say about these two—as individuals and as a podcasting dynamic duo? Both have been members since we opened in 2023, and they bring a level of drive, grit, and a fun-loving energy that makes them such a great duo.

Chris Fennel has been coaching classes with us for over two years. As a former Physical Education teacher and gymnastics coach who has always made fitness a core part of her daily life, stepping into this role felt like a natural fit. She’s constantly introducing new, creative movements into our classes. Like many of our coaches, she’s also a dedicated member who takes several classes each week. And if there are push-ups or burpees in the workout—good luck keeping up. It’s seriously impressive to watch.

Christina Oliver is one of those early risers I get to work out alongside during the week. She shows up hungry to learn and get stronger every single class—and it shows. Watching her progress in strength movements has been incredible, and she’s become a force on the rower, really dialing in that powerful combination of form and strength on the erg.

One of the coolest things about these two is the podcast they created, Not Your Mother’s Midlife Crisis, almost a year ago. I listen every week—and yes, I download too (you should be doing the same). I’ve taken something away from every single episode. If you haven’t followed or listened yet, take a quick pause, head to your podcast app, and hit that follow button… alright, welcome back.

Now let’s hear from these two and get a little more personal below:

Coach Chris Fennel:

How long have you been a part of our gym community?

I’ve been here since day one of Ola Kai!

What do you do when you're not at the gym?

I love being outdoors, traveling, and spending time with our adult children.

Are you originally from here or did you find your way to our island?

I’m originally from Voorhees and raised my family in Lumberton. I ended up in Brigantine after visiting throughout my childhood.

Favorite way to spend a day off?

Starting the day with a solid workout, followed by outdoor activities or family time.

What keeps you coming back?

The community. I can work out anywhere, but I love working out at Ola Kai.

Favorite class, workout, or movement?

I genuinely love burpees—I'm not lying!

A movement you used to dread but now kind of love?

I don’t really dread any movements. I try to learn from all of them, as long as my body agrees!

Biggest win since joining?

I can do unassisted pull-ups again. It has been 30 years since I was last able to do them.

How has your fitness changed outside the gym?

Hormone replacement therapy has really supplemented my fitness. It’s personal, but I hope sharing that might encourage others to become more educated about it.

What does this gym community mean to you?

It’s where my friendships are formed, my confidence grows, and my life gets longer.

What would you tell someone who is nervous to try their first class?

Ola Kai is very welcoming. Almost everyone uses modifications and no one cares, so just be yourself.

Favorite local restaurant?

It’s a tie between La Scala’s, The Bistro, and Soul Berry—I can’t decide!

Go-to coffee spot?

At home. I love drinking tea on the porch where I can hear the ocean.

Beach or Bay?

Both! The beach during the day and the bay in the evening.

Member Chris Oliver:

How long have you been a part of our gym community?  

Since Ola Kai opened - initially just in summer but full-time for the past 2 years

What do you do when you’re not at the gym? 

Love to read, walk my dog, spend time with friends and family, plan my next trip

Are you originally from here or did you find your way to our island? 

I am originally from NJ but not Brigantine - I have lived in different states but grateful that my journey led me back to NJ and specifically Brigantine. My dear college friend has been here for many years, which is how I found Brigantine.  

Favorite way to spend a day off? 

Walking the beach and reading a good book

What keeps you coming back? 

100% the community - can't even put into words how special the Ola Kai community is to me.

Favorite class, workout, or movement? 

Saturday partner workout is my favorite class and anything with Kettlebells is my favorite movement.

A movement you used to dread but now kind of love? 

The rower - big thanks to Coach Rob, Coach Christina, and Kali who helped me improve my rowing efficiency.

Biggest win since joining? 

Unassisted pull-ups

How has your fitness changed outside the gym? 

I have always been a gym/fitness person and loved trying new workouts but this year I trained to be a basketball referee which was a goal I set for myself. I think I was the oldest trainee in the group but could get up and down the court without an issue thanks to my training in the gym. 

What does this gym community mean to you? 

To me it is more than just a place to workout, it is a close-knit group that supports you and makes the hard days easier and the good days even better.  I am extremely grateful for everyone at Ola Kai.

What would you tell someone who is nervous to try their first class? 

 There is really nothing to be nervous about and you will wish you came sooner.  Every class can be tailored to any level and ability. Every coach looks out for you and is ready to modify movements, so you have the most success.  This community is cheering for you.

Favorite local restaurant? 

Sandy Jacks for sandwiches and Brigantine Bistro for breakfast/lunch

Go-to coffee spot? 

Sandy Jacks

Beach or Bay?

 Beach

About the Podcast

Not Your Mothers Midlife Crisis:

Chris and I would walk and talk about the trials of parenting and aging, and we realized other women were likely going through the same things. One day I asked, "Do you want to do a podcast?" and Chris said, "Sure!"

We started in June 2025, focusing on midlife struggles like menopause and the empty nest, but the show has evolved into a crusade to empower women at all stages of life. We’ve learned that women in midlife desperately need this support and education. We release new episodes every week, and the Ola Kai community has been a huge part of our content and listenership. As we head into our second season, we’re excited to feature some high-profile guests and share even more education and tips on aging through the stages.

Find the Podcast HERE