July AOTM: Isaac McManus

Finding His Place in a New City

When Isaac (he/they) moved to Minneapolis in 2023, he knew he wanted more than just a gym. He was looking for a way to build community and meet new people.

“I started at the old Solcana location when I first moved to Minneapolis,” he says. “I wanted to work on my confidence in the gym, learn how to use a barbell, and move in functional ways.”

Like many newcomers, they’d been warned about “Minnesota Nice” and that making real friends in this city could be tough. But what he found at Solcana flipped that narrative entirely.

“That hasn’t been my experience at all. I’ve made so many friends through Solcana.”

One of his favorite rituals? Joining the Trans Strength class for a trip “to the bakery to stand in a sweaty line for baked goods after doing squats on Saturday mornings.”

“I love being in the same space as Isaac either coaching or working out. Isaac is so kind and love the energy that he brings to class. Isaac is so open to feedback and always so kind to everyone. It is always fun to watch Isaac make progress with their lifts and getting stronger. So happy that Isaac is a part of Solcana.” -Coach Traci

“Isaac is so fun to work out with and such an inspiring athlete. They are always so mellow and kind in the gym while also putting a lot of focus, energy and drive into their personal progress. It is a nice mix to be around that is both inspiring and motivating while also feeling very welcoming and encouraging. Isaac is a dream to coach as he takes feedback eagerly and with grace. It has been really fun to watch him grow as an athlete and get to work out with him.” Coach Garrett F.

Redefining Goals, Ditching Toxic Fitness Culture

When Isaac first stepped into a gym, he wasn’t sure what goals he should set. So much of what he saw felt wrapped up in toxic body image culture, and he didn’t want that. What he found at Solcana was something different entirely.

“It wasn’t until Solcana that I witnessed what positivity and inclusion could actually look like in a fitness space.”

Isaac is also coming up on a big milestone—250 classes—and he’s just getting started.

“I find a lot of reward in the ritual and mental health benefit,” he says. Isaac also just signed up for Drop Deadlift Gorgeous (DDG) and is looking forward to “maybe developing some more specific training goals to prep for that.”

Off the Gym Floor

When he’s not lifting or squatting, Isaac is likely knitting, watching women’s soccer with his boyfriend Liam, or playing pinball (badly, by his own admission). His work is rooted in care, too—he works in trans healthcare and organizes with mutual aid and advocacy groups in his less “free” time.

It’s no surprise, then, that the community care at Solcana speaks deeply to them.

“Events like the queer self-defense class, neighborhood pickup, and investing in the Black Strength class are just a few examples of the way the Solcana community rises up to take care of each other.”

“I love coaching Isaac! He’s such a dedicated athlete, always looking to improve form and get even stronger than he already is. He’s a great addition to our community - it’s always a treat to have him in class ❤️.” -Coach Garrett H.

“Isaac brings such a kind and calm energy to class. He's really dedicated to improving and open to feedback and SO FUN to workout with! It's been so fun watching him grow as an athlete these last few years!” -Coach Cate

Thanks for being at Solcana

For Isaac, Solcana isn’t just about what happens in the gym—it’s about the connections made, the rituals formed, and the ongoing work of showing up for yourself and your community.

Thank you, Isaac, for being such an intentional, thoughtful, and vibrant part of the Solcana community. We’re so grateful to move alongside you.