Jungle Gym
in Asheville, NC
• Where Strength Grows Wild •
Inclusive Personal Training
in a private West Asheville location
for Every Body
At Jungle Gym, we help people who feel left out of traditional fitness spaces build strength, confidence, and joy in their bodies—without the noise, judgment, or drill-sergeant vibes.
If you’re looking for a supportive Asheville personal trainer or small-group workout classes in a private, inclusive studio, you’ve found your people.
With us, strength training feels more like growing into your natural power than grinding it out under fluorescent lights. Our plant-filled studio is a calm, sunlit space where every body can thrive.
If This Sounds Like You,
You’re in the Right Place
You don’t want to sweat in front of a room full of jocks or deal with a trainer who barks orders.
You’re juggling so much in life and want to feel stronger, steadier, and more powerful.
You’re done with toxic beauty standards and want fitness that celebrates every body.
You want a sensory-friendly training space where neurodivergent folks can feel calm, safe, and comfortable.
How We Work Together
Instead of pushing extreme workouts in a loud public gym, Jungle Gym creates a private, supportive environment where you can:
Explore dynamic movement that’s tailored to your goals
Reconnect with your body with curiosity and compassion
Build sustainable strength in a safe, positive, and sensory-friendly space
“Taija’s infectious energy and vast knowledge of body mechanics make for an amazing personal trainer I highly recommend. They promote body confidence and body awareness, and I have gained so much from our sessions together.”
— Kaley F.
“Taija has gone above and beyond in assisting me with my fitness goals. I have really been feeling better, looking better, and living better. Working with Taija has been one of the best things I could have done for myself.”
— Luke D.
“Safe, effective, targeted, intelligent, sustainable strength training. Taija pushes your edges enough to get great results while always honoring your limits. They will meet you where you are and take you beyond where you thought possible.”
– Laura L.
Our Values
We believe fitness should never be about punishment or fitting into narrow beauty ideals. Jungle Gym is grounded in:
Body Positivity
Celebrating strength in every shape and size, and ability
Social Justice
Building a space that’s inclusive for women, queer folks, neurodivergent people, and anyone who doesn’t feel at home in mainstream gyms
Long-Term Health
Focusing on strength, resilience, and joy through all stages of life
About Jungle Gym
Jungle Gym was founded by Taija Ventrella in Asheville, NC to create an alternative to fitness culture that often leaves people behind.
Our nationally certified trainers understand what it feels like to feel out of place in mainstream gyms—and we’re here to change that. Whether you’re seeking one-on-one personal training or inclusive workout classes, we’ll meet you where you are.
Take the First Step
You deserve a training experience where your body is celebrated, not criticized. If you’re searching for personal training in Asheville that puts your wellbeing first, Jungle Gym is ready for you.