Help Coach Charis Get Lifted

In 2012, I was 28 and teaching English in South Korea (where I grew up). I never assimilated to life in the US, so I just resigned myself to hide there, partying myself into oblivion. On April 8, my oldest brother Dougie killed himself. A few months later my siblings and I unexpectedly received some money from Doug’s life insurance policy.

That money was so bittersweet, but it allowed me a chance to pursue a dream I never thought was possible.

I quit my job, bought a ticket to Denver (it seemed nice), and moved here not knowing a single person, without a bank account or credit, and never having driven a car. All I knew I was passionate about fitness and this was my only chance.

I got a car and apartment, and hit the ground running. I worked my ass off. So many hours. So many terrifying drives on interstates. So much unpaid work.

I taught any class anyone would let me, early or late. I learned anything I could get my hands on. I spent every dime I had on courses and certifications taught by the masters in the industry I looked up to. I barely made enough money to survive, but l never considered stopping. My hard work paid off and grew confidence in my talent as a coach.

And here I am today, in a commercial space I have leased for my very own training facility. I don’t have money, so I never thought it was possible for me. But after working in facility after facility that didn’t measure up to what I knew I could create, I knew I could never be happy unless I tried.

My vision is to show people the power of advocating for your own body and wellness through strength-training and movement. I want people to see that they are capable of incredible things if they spend the time to learn about their bodies and how to move the most effectively. There is not enough emphasis on this for people’s longevity, happiness, independence, and well-being.

The main purpose of Lux Strength is provide a space that is free from bullying. None of that toxic macho BS that has kept so many people out of the weight room through intimidation and harassment. Regardless of race, sex identity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity. And we’re going to host fundraisers and events that prove it. I plan to regularly invite special guests such as clinicians, activists, and organizations so that this spot is available to the community to learn as well as socialize, virtually and in-person (limited, of course for now). In fact I’m already working with people to provide free or discounted services so we can teach STRENGTH in a truly inclusive way and particularly to those who really need it.

I have what I need to get started— some kettlebells, a barbell, some plates and other odds and ends. I have some things I can borrow from friends, a couple things have already been donated (thank you so much). But I’ll need a couple squat racks, benches, plates, bars, dumbbells, more kettlebells, and flooring. I also want to finally integrate my extensive Pilates background in with my coaching with the proper equipment. No more carrying 3 bags full of bands around town (I was thisclose to getting a rolly suitcase). Equipment is expensive, but quality matters and the investment is absolutely worth it.

If you want to help me build this into the non-douchey space the strength community needs, I am humbly asking for donations. And if you can’t donate money or equipment, maybe you can donate your time to one of the many events we’ll be hosting here at Lux Strength.

My brother sacrificed himself for me to be able to do this and I will never, ever forget it. He saved my life. Having survived a serious suicide attempt of my own, my heart hurts so much for him. I feel tremendous guilt. My life is right now is surreal. Life has not been easy for me here in Denver. But even at their darkest, pursuing my dream has given my life meaning and purpose. I’m so grateful that I didn’t give up. I just wish so badly Doug was here to realize his. 

You CAN do anything. You ARE loved. Just please don’t give up. Find the light.