Strefling named medical fitness “Rising Star”

Sarah Strefling, fitness manager, Beacon Health & Fitness, last week received the Rising Star Award from the Medical Fitness Association. The award recognizes those individuals who have made outstanding achievements and demonstrated significant leadership within the medical fitness community.

“Sarah has been instrumental in leading us into an ever-expanding relationship with medical fitness,” said Alan Loyd, director, Beacon Health & Fitness. “Her efforts have improved the lives of thousands of members who have come through our medical fitness programs and it’s awe-inspiring to think about the impact her work will have for many years to come.”

Sarah has worked in the health and fitness field for the past 13 years. In addition to serving as Beacon’s fitness manager, she is also a NASM certified personal trainer, AFAA group exercise instructor, cancer fitness specialist (Rocky Mountain Cancer Rehabilitation Institute of Greely, Colo.), ACE wellness coach and a CLIMB trainer (Indiana Parkinson’s Foundation). Sarah earned her bachelor of exercise science degree at Bethel College and her master of science in exercise physiology degree at the University of California of Pennsylvania.

The Medical Fitness Association is a non-profit organization formed in 1991 to assist medically integrated health and fitness centers achieve their full potential. Its mission is to ascertain and respond to the needs of medically integrated centers across the world.

Sarah has a passion for populations that suffer from different conditions and ailments that require special training. She spearheaded Beacon’s Best Medicine programs and is always looking for new ways to meet the needs of those with special considerations. 

“The long-lasting relationships that Sarah has formed with our members sets her apart. This commitment and impact resonated strongly with the Medical Fitness Association this year as they considered who to recognize,” Loyd said. “With just four such awards made across the country, it’s truly an honor for Sarah to be identified as a role model for others in her position. We’re fortunate to have her as a key part of our team. Beacon Health & Fitness is a better place because of Sarah’s innovation, determination and kindness.”