Hidden Gems: Meet Marquita Baldwin of Pretty Savage Fitness, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marquita Baldwin.

Hi Marquita, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
What started as an outlet during Covid 19 became a passion for me. Being a healthcare worker, on the front line at the height of the pandemic, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks took over my life. Looking for a way to release, I came across a step aerobics class and fell in love.
I loved it so much that in June 2021, I was certified to teach Xtreme Hip Hop step aerobics.
My passion is to help others find a safe space. A space to workout, to get healthy, to let go of stress, anxiety, and things that weigh us down, and to have an Xtremely good time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have definitely been challenges. One of the biggest obstacles was physical limitations. During the time I was trying to elevate my business, I was diagnosed with Achilles tendonitis. What I thought I could just shake off, proved to be literally one of the most painful things I’ve had to deal with physically. In fact, the doctor told me that if I didn’t stop stepping temporarily, I may never be able to step again. That shook me. One of the things that helped me get through some of the worst times could be taken away from me. Although I didn’t want to, I stopped for almost 6 months. Through therapy and lots of coaching, I was able to heal almost completely. I still have some issues, but now I know what to look for and how to adjust accordingly.

I was also diagnosed with anemia. There have been many days that it was extremely hard to even get out of bed. And there have been times recently that I wanted to give up. But that little voice inside of me kept telling me, and is still telling me, that I’m stronger than anything I may be going through. So with the help of my herbalist, my trainer, and several other very special people, my anemia is under control. And I’m reclaiming my strength, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Pretty Savage Fitness, LLC?
Imagine women of all ages, all shapes and sizes, all races feeling beautiful, feeling fierce, feeling unstoppable and invincible. That is Pretty Savage Fitness, LLC!!

We specialize in step aerobics, group fitness, and toning.

I am most proud that in a fitness world dominated by a certain look, a certain walk and talk, I am relatable. I too have struggled with consistency, with feeling less than, with feeling unseen. And so when women come to me broken, sad, uncertain I get that. When women come to me determined and ready to push past barriers, I get that too. My focus and purpose to build a confidence, a drive, a passion so beautifully savage that nothing can shake it.

I am passionate about my brand. I want the world to know that no matter what you go through, no matter who doesn’t see you, no matter how unsure you feel, you are enough, you are beautiful, you are worthy!!

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I can’t pick just one.
I feel it’s important to be authentic. People connect with real energy, not fake hype.

It’s also important to be empathetic and compassionate. Understanding different fitness levels and life situations. And meeting people where they are, not where I am.

You have to be motivating and uplifting. Sometimes the right words can be the spark that someone needs. And helping them to see even the small things are big wins.

Being community oriented is essential. Making people feel included and connected, not just to me but to each other. And building on that togetherness everywhere I go makes me so happy.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: marquitasb1983
• Facebook: Marquita Baldwin

Image Credits
Darrell Moye Photography

Merrell Photography