Inspiring Conversations with Kesha Chester of KCW FITNESS LLC, and The Core with KCW FITNESS ACADEMY

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kesha Chester.

Alright, thank you for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us how you got started?
When I read this question, I immediately took a deep breath. Hello, my name is Wanda Lakesha Chester. I am a Process/ Accounting Manager for Sun State International Trucks LLC during the day, Owner and Operator of KCW Fitness by night, and The Core with KCW Fitness Academy by night. I am certified in Xtreme Hip-Hop Step, Personal Training, and Group Fitness.

My motto is to “Empower a community to live a healthy lifestyle by manifesting positive change through, Motivation, Transformation, and Fitness.”

As a kid, I struggled with my weight, and body image became significant to me when I reached high school. I wanted to be on the cheerleading team, but I did not look like everyone else. This was when the nightmare began. No one knew I suffered from bulimia because I could hide it very well. I felt bad about what I was doing until I made the cheerleading team after trying it out several times. What this said to me was, “Kesha, you were not chosen before because you were too fat” Therefore, bulimia made me successful in my mind. I continued to feel successful while suffering in silence. I could not tell anyone because this is something you did not hear about in the African American community. After graduating high school and starting college, I knew it was time to take control of my life. I did not see a professional counselor; I went to the one person I knew who would not judge me and would love me through this recovery journey. GOD! He gave me the strength, wisdom, and understanding I needed to heal this sickness.

After college, life began. I got married and started gaining more weight. In 2004 I got a divorce, and in 2006 reunited with my best friend from high school, Adrian Chester. We married in 2007. At this time, I had lost weight, but by 2012 I was at my heaviest. 245LBS. I said, “NO MORE” I lost 70lbs on the Weight Watchers program, and it was during this time I realized that I had a passion for fitness and made a decision that would change my life. Getting certified in Group Fitness (2017) and Personal Training (2019), I was a fitness instructor and personal trainer at Shapes Fitness for Women.

In 2019 I was certified in Xtreme Hip-Hop Step by Phillip Weeden. I had no idea this would be one of the best decisions of my fitness career. Xtreme Hip-Hip Step is a program like no other. I am sure you have heard of “Step Aerobics,” but this version of Xtreme cardio, Hip-Hop music, and a Step board. People of all ages can do this program, from beginners to intermediate and advanced. It is a fresh spin on an old concept. What do I love about this program? We are a community that has committed to change and saving lives. Xtreme Hip-Hop Step has allowed me to open my own business “KCW Fitness LLC” and travel to other states for events. I love seeing people work out and get in shape, all while having fun.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This journey has not been easy 2018 – 2019, my grandmother passed away, and my nephew committed suicide. Honestly, it took everything I had to get out of bed on most days. But then my mentor Teri Donelson, who I had no idea would be my mentor during this time, was on Facebook live one day, and God used her to speak life back into me. I love sharing this story. She said, “We can only be down for a moment while going through the pain” Even during our pain, we have a purpose that others need from us. That moment was so necessary!!! I began healing with grief counseling and started living out my purpose with the help of my wonderful husband. He supports and loves me through my faults, failures, and accomplishments, my wonderful mother, my oldest brother, and my mentor. I have continued to be successful in my businesses. We all make mistakes along the way, but when you have God on your side, you will not fail. My Pastor, Jomo Cousins of Love First Christian Center, located in Riverview, Florida, taught me many things throughout this journey. He would be one of the best pastors in the world if you did not know. Prayer is the most important conversation of your day. “Your Words Make Your World” and “If you want something different, you must do something different.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business?
KCW FITNESS LLC provides fitness services, including aerobic fitness, strength training, core exercises, and Xtreme Hip-Hop step aerobics.

THE CORE with KCW FITNESS ACADEMY is a six-week program for women that gets to the “Core” of why we struggle with weight loss and fitness.

What sets us apart is KCW FITNESS LLC, and THE CORE with KCW FITNESS is a program designed for all ages. Specifically, Xtreme Hip-Hop Step is a workout that can be done without an actual step board. Both programs focus on mind transformation and motivation and encourage you to be successful throughout your journey. You will know that we’re going through this lifestyle change with you. Our six-week program is designed to work in small groups of 4-6 people, and we offer continued resources to sustain your mental health and wellness with Prestige Health & Wellness Medical Center.

We love surprises, fun facts, and incredible stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Most people think I’m extremely tough. I’m not tough at all. I laugh when people or I train clients to attend my classes. They always ask me, “What branch of the military are you a part of.” I’m shy. No one is going to believe any of this, but it’s true.

Contact Info:

• Website: KCWFITNESS.COM
• Instagram: KESHACHESTER7
• Facebook: KESHA CHESTER
• Youtube: Hip- Hop Step with Kesha

Image Credits
Photo credits: Douglas Black