JEFFERSONVILLE, NY — When Liberty native Dustin Pritzert opened VIP Fitness in Jeffersonville, he wasn’t just building a gym; he was creating a space where community, strength and local pride could thrive together.

Pritzert, who played football at Liberty High School and studied physical education at SUNY Cortland, returned to Sullivan County with a clear mission: to help people move better, feel stronger and live healthier lives. 

After graduating from Cortland in 2010 with a degree in physical education, he found himself in a tough job market—teaching positions were few and far between. So then he decided to take a new path that would put his education to good use. He began earning personal training credentials and eventually completed Level 1 CrossFit certification. 

Less than a year later, he opened his own gym. 

As a business owner, his top priority is providing the best possible program for his clients, he says. He holds three CrossFit specialty certifications: in gymnastics, kettlebell and Olympic weightlifting. These are tools he said he uses every day to help people of all ages and backgrounds build strength, mobility and confidence.

Pritzert loves seeing the difference it makes when someone feels seen, supported and challenged. “It’s about more than fitness—it’s about helping people move with confidence, especially as they age,” he said.

At VIP Fitness, he works with clients of all ages, from high school athletes to older adults working on balance, mobility and strength. His training philosophy centers on longevity, functional movement and building real-world strength that helps clients thrive outside the gym, he said. He also has a nutrition practice that is habit-based: not about dieting, but meeting people where they are—ready, willing and able to make even small changes to see results, Prizert said. 

But Prizert’s commitment to community extends far beyond his business. He serves as the assistant coach for the Sullivan West modified football team as well as the varsity basketball team. So he mentors student-athletes and give back to a program that shaped his own journey. For him, coaching is a way to stay rooted in the community, and to be a positive presence for the next generation.

With personalized training programs, a welcoming atmosphere, and a deep commitment to the people of Sullivan County, VIP Fitness is more than just a gym—it’s a homegrown hub for health and connection.

Learn more at vipfitnessny.com or on social media @vip_fitness_jeffersonville.