Our Staff

Steve Reese

Steve Reese M.S., ATC/L Owner

Steve is a native of the Des Moines area. He grew up in Pella, Iowa and attended the University of Iowa. At the University of Iowa he worked with athletes for each sport including male and female sports from 1987-1994. Upon completion of his undergraduate degree in Physical Education/Athletic training he pursued a master of science degree in Exercise Science at Iowa.

Following his extensive work with elite level athletes at the Division I level he worked in a sports medicine and physical therapy clinic in Waukesha, Wisconsin. In this setting he served as the coordinator of athletic training services, rehabilitating patients ranging from total knee replacement, total hip replacements, chronic injuries and sports related injuries. He also performed athletic training outreach to a local Division III college, Carroll College. After seeing the growth of the sports medicine clinic he was chosen to be the Curriculum Director for Athletic Training at Carroll College. Over a five year span, he successfully organized and developed an athletic training education program for accreditation. He continued to work as an athletic trainer with all sports at the Division III level during this time.

It was at this time he was introduced to Fitness Together by a former student. Following his experience in the university, collegiate, high school and sports medicine clinic setting, he felt he was ready to move closer to home and start his own practice for health and fitness for the general population. He says, "I am fortunate to have the opportunity to help so many people improve their quality of life through health and fitness." His approach to personal training is one that focuses on injury prevention and empowering clients to help them reach their goals.

Jay Steffen

Jay Steffen B.S., CPT
Director of Operations
Fitness Consultant
Nutrition Consultant

Jay graduated from South Dakota State in 2000 with a degree in Health Promotion.  He has twelve years of extensive background in health and fitness with clients of all ages and skill levels.  One constant that every client can expect is something new in every session.  Jay says, "I like variety in every session I train, it keeps my clients motivated and helps improve their physical abilities." 

After graduation, Jay began personal training at Fitness Together in Edina, Minnesota.  After a move to Iowa were he trained in a health club setting for three years, Jay knew his passion was to get back in a Fitness Together studio.  He feels, "No where else can people go for accountability, motivation and experience.  Fitness Together trainers are compassionate about helping people achieve their goals."

Abbie Knapp

Staff Trainer

Abbie is a 2010 graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Exercise Science.  She is originally from Des Moines and attended Valley High School.  She is actively involved in running and fitness and has a genuine passion for helping people.  She enjoys building relationships with her clients and empowering them to attain their goals.