Jennifer Hess
Jen is a CF Level 2 Trainer and has completed the CF Weightlifting Specialty Course. She is married with four children. She graduated from USF with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science/Wellness in 1994. Since then, she has worked as a fitness instructor, personal trainer, and gymnastics instructor. She is a former gymnast and has always had a passion for fitness. She started CrossFit in June of 2011 and has seen amazing changes in her fitness level since then. She loves the challenge that each workout brings and the high felt upon completion of a workout. She also truly enjoys helping others achieve their fitness goals and improve their lives.
I believe in Fit Citrus Park because
“…because it has made me fitter than I ever thought possible.”
I wish every workout had
“Camaraderie, support and minimal intimidation.”
I could go the rest of my life without doing another
“Tuck jumps, but I know that will never happen.”
Nikki White
Nikki has been training at Fit Citrus Park since the age of 13. She joined the gym with her family back in 2012. Nikki has played soccer since she was young and continues to play recreationally. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg with a degree in Environmental Science. She loves weightlifting and is training for her Level 1 USA Weightlifting certification. She also has a gym pup named Iron Mike Tyson.
I believe in Fit Citrus Park because
“I love the challenge of the workouts.”
I wish every workout had
“Cleans”
I could go the rest of my life without doing another
“Pistol squat”
Xavier "X" Ruiz
Xavier was raised in Tampa and is a proud graduate of Alonso High School. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving from 2011 to 2020. During his time in the military, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Management from the University of La Verne.
Xavier first discovered Fit Citrus Park in 2017 while on leave and quickly found a sense of community within its walls. He continued to drop in whenever he was home until completing his service in 2020. In 2025, he officially joined the coaching team, bringing his discipline, leadership, and passion for fitness to every class. He enjoys coaching athletes of all experience levels, from beginners taking their first steps into fitness to seasoned athletes chasing new goals.
When he’s not coaching, you’ll likely find Xavier fishing or kayaking around the Tampa Bay Area. And don’t be surprised if you’re greeted at the gym by his loyal dog Earl—our unofficial gym mascot.
Why I believe in Fit Citrus Park:
"Fitness is both measurable and scalable. Show up, put in the work, and give 100%—you will see results."
If I could design every workout, it would include:
"Heavy back squats—every time."
If I never had to do another movement again, it would be:
"The Turkish get-up. Once was enough!"