Intrinsic Fitness and Lifestyle is an Indigenous owned gym in Thunder Bay, ON. The owner, Amy Slemko, is a Lakehead University kinesiology graduate who is passionate about modifying the public’s perception of wellness. Thus, she has designed a safe and comfortable space where everyone at different fitness levels can feel confident when they are using weights and the exercise equipment.

 

The atmosphere of Intrinsic is guided by Amy’s expertise about the human body and the lack of judgement that is normative to the gym culture. Her knowledge and expertise/competency stems from her education and her personal experience as a dedicated female bodybuilder, who has participated in several competitions. As a result, she can provide personal anecdotes as a learning tool to help her clients make attainable and realistic goals. Moreover, her values of inclusion and diversity in the fitness world are continuously demonstrated through her dedication to partnering with local Indigenous agencies.

 

Intrinsic Fitness and Lifestyle was a gamble on whether it would be successful in Current River because there are no similar places like this one. However, the pivotal success of this business is largely influenced by Amy’s vision of creating and maintaining a safe and inviting fitness center in Thunder Bay that attracts her clientele and has flourished since opening in 2021.