In January of 2012, I was 37—overweight, unhealthy, and feeling stuck. I knew I needed to make a change. So I made a decision: to reclaim my life, my health, and my purpose.
From that moment, Fityak was born—not just as a nickname, but as a mission.
- 🏋️♂️ I transformed my body.
- 💼 I built a brand.
- 💻 I launched a blog filled with workouts, nutrition, and growth.
- 🏁 I became a sponsored triathlete and certified fitness professional.
My Life Continued to Evolve
I met my wife, Anna, a lifelong educator with over 25 years of experience. She opened the door to a new path—teaching. Her belief in me led to a career where I could support my family and pour myself into the lives of others. And this was my life for 7 years while I coached cross country and track.
Eventually, I stepped away from coaching to be more present at home—for our kids, who continue to inspire me every single day:
- Natalie lives in New York, managing a brand and pursuing her dream of performing on Broadway.
- Sydney is graduating with a degree in photojournalism and beginning her master’s program this fall.
- Addison competes in collegiate indoor and beach volleyball and leads with quiet strength.
- Davis is a multi-sport athlete—football, basketball, and hurdles—and is already on a college-bound athletic path.
Refocusing on My Own Health
Somewhere along the way, with all the roles I’ve taken on—husband, father, teacher, mentor—I found myself without the time or energy to take care of me the way I’ve taught so many others to.
Now, at 51, I’m saying this:
- 👉 I’m not done.
- 👉 I’m not starting over.
- 👉 I’m building on everything I’ve learned—this time with more clarity, purpose, and heart.
What Fityak Really Means
Fityak isn’t just about fitness. The name started as an idea—a space where people could “yak” about getting fit. But like everything else on this journey, the meaning grew deeper.
In the Himalayas, the yak carries the heavy gear up the mountain. It’s strong. Dependable. Steady.
That’s what Fityak has come to represent:
A kind of fitness sherpa.
Here to help guide the journey, carry some of the weight, and walk the climb with anyone ready to rise again.
Let’s Climb Together
If you’re ready to reset your life—or just need someone walking the same road—let’s do this together. This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up again, and again, with purpose.
Thanks for being here. Let’s take the next step.
— Ryan
