Today we’d like to introduce you to Noah Alexander Pantaleon.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Noah. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I am 48 years old. I’m married to an incredible human and we have two teenage boys. I am a “people person”. I started on my career path as a Realtor and Mortgage Broker. I did this from the time I was 18 to about 38. While this was good for some time, I realized that I was not following my passion. In 2005, the market was so bad I decided it was my out.
I did a small stint at Huntington Learning Center in Coral Gables as their Managing Director. While I was trying to inspire young minds to prepare them for college, I realized that I was not doing in my life what I was asking them to do for themselves. I was not passionate about my career path. I did some major soul searching. I put together the things that were important to me. I wanted to be around people, I wanted to teach, I wanted to wear shorts and sneakers to work and I wanted to inspire people through movement. At 40 years old I decided to courageously take a step to fulfill on my passion and I became a personal trainer. I got certified as a Personal Trainer and Sports Nutrition Specialist with NCSF (National Council for Strength and Fitness) and I got my Spinning Certification.
I quit Huntington and within a week, I was working at a small boutique gym in Coconut Grove. Within six months, I was hired at Equinox to teach two cycling classes. I worked for Orange Theory Fitness for a few years and developed my skill set. In 2016, I was hired at the Group Fitness Manager at Coral Gables and I feel incredibly fortunate and blessed to be working for such an amazing company. In 2017, I was honored with the Equinox Group Fitness Inspiration Award. This was out of 100 other GFM’s throughout the entire Company across the globe.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Here’s the coolest part of this story. When I started eight years ago as a Personal Trainer — I was Magda (female). I’ve always known that I identified at a man from as far back as I can remember. I didn’t have the courage to transition until four years ago — as a manager and in front of my entire community (members and colleagues).
Equinox has been an incredible ally. The love and support that I’ve received from staff, members and colleagues is overwhelming. This is NOT the case for most transgender people like me My story is a bit more intense than others, but to BE who we authentically are is a gift and to be able to share that gift is what I strive to help people do.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
Equinox is a lifestyle Luxury Fitness Club. We believe that #itsnotfitnessitslife. I teach many formats. I’m known for Main Studio Bootcamp or HIIT Classes. I also teach — indoor cycling and running. I think what sets me apart, is that I really care about injury prevention. I’m a stickler for proper form and most of all I’m here to make class fun. I’m most proud of how inclusive Equinox is…
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I would say that along the way I’ve had a few people serve as mentors/supporters. First and foremost, my wife Natalie Pantaleon and our kids. Without their love and support, I truly would not be the human I am today. I would like to acknowledge my boss Christina Leon, for always challenging me to be the best version of myself and for pushing me outside my comfort zone.
Luke Jude, for being my friend and trainer over the years. Jennie Hansen, Human Resources Manager for Equinox Central Region. She was the first person I called — I wanted to make sure I wasn’t going to get fired if I transitioned. She’s one of my biggest fans. Jennie and my co-workers made it so easy and comfortable during the hardest parts of my transition, while at work.
The biggest shout out goes to ALL of the MEMBERS and staff at Equinox Coral Gables have had my back and have shown me so much love and kindness.
Contact Info:
- Address: 370 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables FL 33146
- Website: www.equinox.com
- Phone: 786-497-8200
- Email: noah.pantaleon@equinox.
com - Instagram: @noahpantaleon
- Facebook: @noahpantaleon
- Twitter: @noahpantaleon
Image Credit:
Starr Sarriego Photography
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