See Inside the Gym With a ‘Secret’ Crochet Studio in the Back

Most of these crocheted animals reside in a hidden “secret room” at the back of the gym, as revealed by comedian and Strength Academy client Kate Micucci in her viral Instagram reel showcasing the gym. This room serves as Cruz’s personal crochet studio, known as Crochet Arts, where she creates and displays numerous handcrafted, intricately dressed critters.

“We previously had a massage therapist occupying that space, but he transitioned to a mobile service,” Cruz explains. “That’s when I decided to showcase my crochet pieces in that area.”

Cruz, who has been a personal trainer for the past decade, reintroduced Crochet Arts into her business just a few months ago. While she initially learned to crochet from her aunt during childhood, she revisited the craft in recent years.

The decision to use the room as a crochet studio stemmed from Cruz’s need for proper storage space for her creations. She produces these pieces rapidly and does not sell them; rather, it’s a personal pursuit that she undertakes for self-enjoyment—an aspect of Cruz that surprises her clients.

Despite her reputation as a tough love trainer, Cruz believes that both her strength training expertise and artistic endeavors complement each other and play a role in stress reduction, mood enhancement, anxiety alleviation, and relaxation.

Notably, hobbies like crocheting have demonstrated mental health benefits, and physical activities such as exercise are renowned for their stress-relieving effects. Both activities, through their repetitive motions, contribute to reduced brain activity in certain areas, fostering well-being and creativity.

“Both the strength [part] as well as the artistic part help reduce stress. They boost your mood, reduce anxiety. Both enhance your focus and both actually promote relaxation—one after and one during.” —Jocelyn Cruz, owner of Strength Academy

While the presence of a crochet studio at a gym may initially surprise visitors, it has captured the curiosity of Cruz’s clients and garnered attention online. Micucci’s video showcasing the gym has amassed over four million views, with viewers expressing enthusiasm for the idea of a hidden craft room within every fitness facility.

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Many clients have shown interest in exploring the crochet studio and some have inquired about the possibility of participating in crochet sessions post-workout. While plans for formal lessons are in progress, Cruz is excited about the prospect of combining strength training with crochet activities to benefit her community.

“I didn’t know people really needed it,” Cruz reflects. “Sometimes the physical and mental aspects go hand in hand.”