Get to Know Alicia

This month, we’re featuring Alicia Mills! Alicia, along with husband Nate Kresge, took over ownership of Burn30 in 2022. She is also a Physician Associate in Urology with UPMC. When they are not working their day jobs, you can find Alicia and Nate running to their kids’ sporting events, snowboarding, or exploring the outdoors. 

What made you and Nate want to take over Burn30? 

About a year into our marriage, Nate was approached about the opportunity to take over and own Burn30. He had been a member for several years, so the gym already felt like home. We talked about it together, and he was genuinely excited about the opportunity. 

We both believe deeply in Burn30’s mission and value living active, healthy lifestyles. We want to encourage others to make their health a priority. Since joining, the gym has truly felt like family. We’re continually inspired by the clients who show up consistently and give their best effort every day. 

Outside of being a gym owner and a mom, you’re also a Physician Associate in Urology with UPMC. What inspired you to get into that field? 

I worked as a Physician Associate in Family Medicine for over six years before transitioning into hospital based Urology. I had just returned from maternity leave with my son, Jacob, when a friend and colleague who worked in Urology encouraged me to consider an open position. 

After meeting with the physicians and staff, I felt it was the right move. I felt supported, encouraged, and welcomed. It was a great professional opportunity, and at that stage in life, the additional income was also important for our family. 

How do you balance fitness with the rest of your life? 

I’ve always been active. Growing up, I played sports year-round and enjoyed running, ski-ing and biking. Movement has always been part of my daily routine. 

Now, I prioritize weightlifting, some cardio, and going for walks and hikes with my family. Fitness isn’t something I “fit in” — it’s part of who I am and how I manage stress and stay energized. 

What was your fitness journey like? 

I played nearly every sport my middle and high school offered, including ski club, softball, basketball, and volleyball. My twin sister and I played together, and many of my close friends were teammates, which made it even more motivating. 

I eventually stopped playing softball after breaking my nose and continued with volleyball through my senior year. Our volleyball team made it to states both junior and senior year, which was an incredible experience. I also chose to work during high school, so I stepped away from basketball — which I didn’t mind too much! 

In college, I played intramural basketball and volleyball and started running more seriously. I had asthma growing up, so long-distance running was challenging at first. But with time and consistency, I ran my first half marathon in 2011. My dad, who was passionate about long-distance and trail running, was a big inspiration and motivator for me.  I now enjoy running a few 5K races a year.   

I also picked up snowboarding in high school because my brother's board. What started as something fun to try has turned into something I’ve continued over the years. I still go a few times each winter and love that it keeps me active in a different way. 

What are your current personal fitness goals? 

I want to continue moving my body as much as possible and focus on building muscle. As a 42-year-old woman, I can definitely feel my body changing, and I believe exercise is key to longevity and overall health. 

I’m also mindful about reducing stress and balancing cortisol levels. For me, fitness isn’t just about appearance — it’s about strength, health, and feeling good long term. 

What’s your favorite exercise? 

Lifting weights. I love feeling strong. Pushing through challenging lifts reminds me that I can do hard things — and that mindset carries over into other areas of my life. 

What’s your least favorite exercise? 

Running isn’t my favorite, but I do enjoy an outdoor jog when the weather is nice. It clears my head and gets my blood flowing. 

What type of workouts do you enjoy most? 

I enjoy lifting heavy, incorporating yoga, and adding a little HIIT here and there. I like variety — our bodies need it, and it keeps things interesting.