A Desert Jewel in Fitness

“I had to do these exercises every day and eventually they helped me. I kept them up until I was a teenager, and it was then that my friends and I would do Jane Fonda workout videos every day after school.”

That early introduction to fitness became the foundation for a career in health and strength training. Today, Rose serves as owner and head coach of Desert Jewel Strength and Conditioning, where she brings a practical, personalized approach to helping people of all ages reach their goals.

Five years ago, Rose and her husband, Edward, relocated to Cottonwood from Upstate New York when he accepted the position of Sedona Airport director. With more than a decade of experience as a trainer and athlete, she quickly noticed a gap in the local fitness scene.

“I found that there wasn’t a gym accessible to the community that focused on the health and wellness aspect of fitness,” she said. “I wanted to give back to the community in a way that I knew would be sustainable for people in their fitness journey.”

With a Level 2 CrossFit certificate and a Level 1 Precision Nutrition coaching certification, Rose began building her vision. In August, she secured a location with both indoor and outdoor space, creating what she calls an “airy, motivating and inviting” gym environment.

“I think it also pushes my clients to push a bit harder,” she said.

Her approach resonates with clients and fellow professionals alike. “Coach Cristy is one of the most impactful coaches I’ve worked with,” said Tim Puckett of Puckett Physical Therapy and Performance. “Her blend of technical skill, motivation and care creates an environment where athletes thrive. I’ve grown stronger, more confident and more capable under her guidance.”

Desert Jewel serves a wide demographic, with members ranging in age from 14 to 78. Among the gym’s most popular offerings are women’s training, Olympic lifting and fitness retreats. The Masters 50+ classes are particularly close to Rose’s heart.

“This is one of the most rewarding programs at my gym,” she said. “At this age, men and women are striving to keep muscle mass in order to remain independent in their lives. I’m striving to help this community live better. It is my passion to help them gain strength, confidence, balance and agility.”

“Cristy has been my fitness coach for over four years,” said Tracey Tibbs, owner of Sedona Soap. “She truly cares about her members and is passionate about helping people. She provides incredible coaching and has created a community of supportive people. It’s absolutely the best way to start each day.”

“We also have a lot of couples that come workout together,” said Rose. “I think this helps with eating better and living a healthier lifestyle.”

Verde Valley Firefighter Matthew Chavez, owner of Chavez and Sons Landscaping, says he met Rose when he first moved to Cottonwood. “I was instantly drawn to her energy. Being a part of her gym is to be part of a family. She knows and connects with everybody there. I’ve never felt more welcome in a gym, and I look forward to every workout and motivating speech. I’ll be a member for life.”

Coaching alongside Rose is Brian Pitcher, a Culinary Institute of America graduate and CrossFit certified trainer. The two met in New York in 2018. “When he moved to Arizona to take a job as a chef, coaching at Desert Jewell was a perfect fit for him so he could keep giving back to the community,” said Rose.

 Now living in Clarkdale, Rose and her husband enjoy gardening, exploring the desert, and spending time with their five German shorthair pointers. Their two daughters are also blazing their own paths: the oldest is a firefighter, and the youngest is studying sustainable horticulture at Arizona State University. VVBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, VVBN

Desert Jewel Strength and Conditioning is located at 417 S. 6th St., Suite D, in Cottonwood. For more information, visit www.desertjewelfitness.com.