Member Spotlight: Steve Brown
If you know the 5:30 AM crew, you know Steve Brown.
Steve, a retired State Trooper, started coming to Ola Kai with his wife, Paula, when they moved to Brigantine full-time during our very first fall in business. It didn't take long for him to become one of the foundational members of the 5:30 AM crew, and he has been showing up consistently ever since.
Steve is married to to Paula, his lovely wife, a dad to Kylie and Brayden, and just an all-around great guy. One of our favorite parts is getting to work out with Steve is when Brayden is home from college. It's pretty special watching the two of them train together. and push each other.
Around the gym, Steve has naturally taken on a bit of a father-figure role with the 5:30 crew. But don't let that fool you. He may give off some wise, seasoned-guy energy, but he can still kick just about everyone's butt in a workout.
Outside of the gym, Steve is always up for a good time, and he makes the best Old Fashioned on the island. Hands down.
Steve, we're lucky to have you as part of the Ola Kai Ohana. Thanks for being one of the people who helped make the 5:30 AM crew what it is and for always bringing the hard work, the laughs, and the good times.
Get to know Steve a little better:
1) How long have you been a part of our gym community?
I started at the gym in November of 2023 when we moved to Brig full time.
2) What do you do when you're not at the gym?
When I'm not at the gym, unfortunately I have a crazy work schedule. But when not at the gym or working I fish, paddleboard, bike ride, help at our church, and spend time with family and friends.
3) Are you originally from here or did you find your way to our island?
I'm not originally from Brigantine but we owned a place here for a year or two and loved the island. We decided to move full time in 2023.
4) Favorite way to spend a day off?
My favorite way to spend my day off like a Saturday is to go to the 6:45am class then go fishing on the beach.
5) What keeps you coming back?
Ola Kai is a great place to be with so many awesome people. I have made so many friends there and we spend time together outside of the gym. Besides the workouts, the gym hosts so many great events to keep everyone engaged and to build a real community feel.
6) Favorite class, workout, or movement?
My favorite class is the 5:30 am class. The coaches and classes are amazing and very challenging. But honestly the best part are the people who go to the classes, it's truly a great group. I can't explain it, you have to be there to experience how we all encourage each other, joke with each other, and there's a real sense of camaraderie in our classes.
7) A movement you used to dread but now kind of love?
A movement I used to dread are burpees. To be honest, I still hate burpees but we do a lot of them.
8) Biggest win since joining?
The biggest win is my overall fitness and strength has improved immensely. The classes really challenge me to do things I would never do on my own. It's a friendly competition that helps us push each other to get better.
9) How has your fitness changed outside the gym?
My fitness has improved so much since joining Ola Kai. My annual physical results are great and I think it is directly related to how hard we train at the gym.
10) What does this gym community mean to you?
The community that Jimmy and Christina have built is amazing. I've made so many friends, some who live on the island year round, and some who come back each season. Many of us spend time outside the gym together and there are so many events throughout the year to bring everyone together to build even more friendships.
11) What would you tell someone who is nervous to try their first class?
I would tell them there is nothing to be nervous about. The owners, coaches, and members are helpful, friendly, and welcome everyone. Just give it a week and you will be so glad you walked in the door.
12)Favorite local restaurant?
Favorite local restaurant is the Cove, great sushi.
13) Go-to coffee spot?
Sips and Wawa
14) Beach or Bay?
Beach
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