Fitness/Wellness Center Assistant Luke Wendling at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida, is a quiet, modest man with a big heart and an engaging smile. In his year since joining the Fitness Center, Wendling has garnered many fans.

He supports residents’ fitness and wellness by creating personalized exercise programs tailored to their needs and abilities. He leads group fitness classes, including boxing and provides one-on-one support to help residents stay active, safe and engaged.

As Wendling said, “A big part of my role is building relationships. I often work with the same residents regularly, which allows me to better understand their goals and help them make steady progress.”

Wendling is originally from Valders, Wisconsin, a small rural farming community near Manitowoc, just south of Green Bay. His family has lived there for generations, and he grew up in a very close-knit environment with a small high school. He is close with his parents, Craig and Shelly, his younger brother, Mason, and sister, Holly. He still makes it a point to go back home every few months to visit family and friends.

Wendling came to Gainesville in August 2024 to attend the University of Florida for graduate school. Interestingly, he grew up a Gator fan, even though no one else in his family was! He cheerfully admits he “became a fan after watching college football on TV and admired the Gators’ successes.”

He earned his undergraduate degree in exercise science from Winona State University and later focused on applied physiology and kinesiology. His passion for the field comes from his background in sports—he played football, baseball, soccer and wrestling growing up—which naturally led him to pursue a career in health and fitness.

He’d describe himself as more reserved and quieter but genuinely enjoys connecting with others and helping them succeed.

Wendling started at Oak Hammock in June 2025. He was drawn to the role because he enjoys meeting new people and helping others improve their health and well-being.

Before joining Oak Hammock, Wendling worked in personalized training, strength training and conditioning and exercise physiology, including experience with post-cardiac rehabilitation. He also completed an internship with the University of Florida football team, where he worked in strength and conditioning and sports medicine. He said it was a great experience getting to know the players and coaches, and the Heavener Football Training Center was especially impressive.

Wendling is well respected by management, as well as the residents. Fitness/Wellness Center Manager Kim DeStefano said, “Luke brings such a flexible and thoughtful approach to his work, and it really makes a difference for our residents. When they share requests or ideas, he’s quick to adapt and make changes so their needs are met in a meaningful way. I truly appreciate the care he puts into creating a fitness experience that reflects what our residents want and enjoy.”

“Luke is a tremendous asset to our fitness center. Beneath his quiet demeanor lies a deep understanding of how the body’s bones and muscles work together, and he consistently applies that knowledge to help others achieve their fitness goals. He is a strong team player, actively participating in our extracurricular fitness activities. He has also personally helped me develop an effective program focused on strength building and injury rehabilitation.” – Gail Robinson

Recently, Wendling reflected on his role at Oak Hammock.

What do you like most about your job?

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing residents gain confidence and improve their quality of life. I enjoy introducing new physical activity and resistance training exercises to keep things fresh and engaging, while focusing on movements that support everyday functionality and core strength, not just isolated muscle groups.

I take an individualized approach, starting with what makes each person comfortable and adjusting the program based on their specific physical activity guidelines, whether that’s improving balance, strength, overall health or mobility. I try to be creative, adaptable and attentive, always listening to residents’ concerns and applying what I’ve learned to help them succeed.

Teaching boxing classes is also a highlight for me, and I love bringing energy and variety into those sessions. For many residents, boxing is another way to create the right health benefits for overall wellbeing.

How do you apply “We Care” in your work?

The WeCare values of welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive and empathetic are so important for our work here. I approach my work with empathy and attentiveness. I take the time to understand each resident’s concerns, limitations and goals and then tailor their fitness plan accordingly. Being welcoming, responsive and supportive helps build trust and ensures each resident feels comfortable and cared for.

How do you make a difference for residents?

I strive to make a difference by creating balance and exercise programs that are both enjoyable and effective. By keeping residents active, engaged and safe, I help support their independence by improving their muscle strength and overall quality of life.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?

I’m currently continuing my education by working toward an MBA in sports leadership through Lakeland University in Wisconsin.

I’ve really enjoyed living in Gainesville and don’t miss the cold winters back home! I love being part of the University of Florida community and having access to so many activities and sports.

Outside of work, I enjoy playing baseball, exploring local parks, traveling around Florida and visiting friends in places like Chicago and Minnesota. I’ll admit, I probably watch a bit too much reality TV.

My girlfriend, Jillian Johnston, is finishing her last semester at UF and plans to apply to medical school. We met through mutual friends. We also have a cat named Paul, who we rescued after finding him wandering outside—twice!

What are your goals for the future?

I plan to complete my MBA and would also like to coach high school baseball. I’ve previously coached at La Crescent High School in Minnesota and enjoyed teaching and mentoring young people. I also played club baseball in college, which continues to be a big passion of mine.

“Luke first adapted my previous exercise program in the gym to my physical condition at this time, and so far, it is keeping me moving with far less pain than before. Luke always greets me very positively and adjusts my exercises when necessary.  He makes good suggestions and is a great listener.” – Bev Cone, resident

I take boxing classes and Luke really shines! He has new and different warm-up exercises, and with so few people in boxing, he’ll try different ways to make it fun. Plus, I feel his boxing class is the best one here! – Kathryn Clark, resident

Luke is a great addition to the Fitness/Wellness Center. In my Total Body class, he comes up with new, fun and beneficial exercises for us every session. That’s a tough thing to accomplish. – Mary Sanford, resident