Originally from Ventura, CA, James Engesser moved to Charleston in 2016 and began his career in Charleston’s fitness community. His life is in the gym. Every day, James wakes up thrilled because he gets to live his dream: husband to incredible wife Abby, dad to sweet puppy River, and owner of one of the top gyms in Charleston, Hustle One Fitness! James’ passion in life comes from helping people achieve their goals so they can live the life they deserve. As a people person, and it brings James so much joy to witness the amazing things that happen everyday inside Hustle One Fitness.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I love owning a gym! I love the energy, the atmosphere, and most importantly I love meeting new people! I get to connect with people from all walks of life!
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Swig n Swine, Wild Olive, Dashi, Indaco, Locals Sushi
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have been living in Charleston since 2016.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
My wife! She’s from VA and moved down to the Keys (FL) to become a dive instructor!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Greece, Italy…the entire Mediterranean!
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
My favorite TV shows are The Office and Impractical Jokers!
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Your future self will thank you for the positive actions you take today.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Go skiing in winter! And we are doing that this year!
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Drake
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Hustle One Fitness: best gym family in Charleston!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to have lunch at Halls with an astronaut.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love how Charleston is a diverse community with many different backgrounds
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself being a father and endeavoring in other business opportunities.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I make the best pancakes!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Spanish Wells, Bahamas
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
St. Patrick’s Day because of Spring!
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Hustle One Fitness
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My wife, because she’s why I opened my business.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Coffee and Peanut Butter
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, Beach, Lazy Sunday Mornings












