Katie Austin’s rise to prominence as a fitness personality is rooted in her love for sports, a legacy shaped by her iconic mother, and a drive to connect with others through health and wellness.
Austin’s path to becoming one of the most recognized fitness influencers of today has been far from typical. Starting with a foundation in lacrosse at the University of Southern California, her connection to sports was clear from the beginning. But her aspirations went beyond just playing the game.
“I loved USC, loved the coach, and loved playing the game,” Austin explained during an interview. “But my whole dream was to be the next Erin Andrews.” From the moment she stepped onto campus in 2013, Austin knew she wanted to be a sports broadcaster. She quickly immersed herself in the world of sports journalism, becoming a student journalist covering USC’s athletic teams, and later taking on a role with Fox Sports West post-graduation. Yet, her journey would take an unexpected turn toward fitness, a path she now walks with great success.
A Legacy of Fitness: From Mom to Daughter
Austin’s deep-rooted passion for fitness is no coincidence. Raised by Denise Austin, a fitness icon with a 25-year-long TV career, fitness was not just a hobby; it was a way of life. Denise Austin’s fitness legacy includes creating over 50 home workout videos and serving as chairperson for the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition from 2002 to 2009. Growing up in such an environment, Katie Austin was exposed to fitness culture at an early age.
“I traveled with my mom on-site for her fitness shows, even when I was really young,” Austin recalled. Fitness was part of her DNA, and she says it felt natural to merge her love for sports with her growing interest in fitness.
It didn’t take long before Austin decided to carve out her niche in the fitness world. Blending her experience as an athlete with her passion for fitness, she quickly became a recognized personality in the industry. Austin launched the Katie Austin On-Demand Studio, an online platform offering a variety of fitness classes. From dance cardio and kickboxing to strength training and Pilates, Austin’s classes have attracted a loyal following.
The Power of Online Fitness and Connecting with Fans
Austin’s fitness platform has exploded in popularity, largely due to its accessibility. While online fitness classes existed before, it wasn’t until the pandemic that the demand for at-home workouts truly surged. “For me, it’s always been a thing, but the pandemic made more people aware of how accessible at-home fitness is,” Austin said.
Her platform provides short, effective 20-minute workouts, many of which are on-demand. These short yet intense sessions cater to busy people who want a quick but rewarding workout. Austin also offers live workouts, connecting with her audience in real-time—a feature that sets her apart in the saturated fitness space.
“The one thing my mom always taught me is to have a smile on your face,” she said. That smile and her infectious energy are a key part of Austin’s connection with her audience. “It just worked out on its own, combining my love for fitness with my passion for sports and being in front of the camera,” she added.
Katie also emphasizes the importance of offering fitness on your own terms, especially for those in busy or fluctuating lifestyles. “I really started my platform for girls and ex-athletes who maybe didn’t know how to work out. It works especially for busy moms and women who feel uncomfortable at the gym,” she explained.
Redefining Fitness and Beauty
Aside from fitness, Austin has become a voice for redefining beauty standards. As a veteran of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Austin has become an advocate for body positivity. After appearing as the “Swim Search co-winner” in 2021 and “co-Rookie of the Year” in 2022, she continues to challenge outdated ideals of beauty, focusing on mental health and encouraging others to embrace their bodies as they are.
MJ Day, the editor-in-chief of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, recognizes Austin’s unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. “Katie inspires a new generation to embrace their bodies, prioritize mental health, and redefine what fitness and beauty truly mean,” Day shared.
Katie’s Personal Brand and Future Plans
As her career continues to grow, Austin has expanded her brand beyond fitness. Recently, she interviewed celebrities at the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMs), further cementing her status as a multi-talented personality. And with her fitness empire and television appearances, she shows no signs of slowing down.
With the influence of both her parents—her father, Jeff Austin, a former tennis player and sports agent—Katie’s approach to her career remains grounded. “Katie combines a crazy work ethic with professionalism,” said Jeff Austin, who is also proud of her ability to maintain authenticity in all of her brand deals.
With plans to continue her work in fitness, media, and beyond, Austin’s future is bright. Through her ongoing connection with her followers and dedication to helping others reach their fitness goals, Katie Austin is more than just a fitness expert. She’s a role model for those seeking balance, health, and happiness in their own lives.
