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SEE WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT The Underground - Strength & Conditioning for Women

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

SEE WHY The Underground IS THE BEST RATEd GYM IN Stillwater...

Empowering Women Through Strength Training

The Underground's small group personal training will change the way you reach your fitness goals…and your results will speak for themselves.

Rated 5 out of 5

“I started at The Underground in early 2025, and I can’t even begin to describe how much this gym has changed my life. I’ve always thought of myself as an active person, but I’ve struggled with chronic back issues for years. I’ve been to specialists, PTs, chiropractors, even had steroid shots and traveled out of state for stem cell injections, but nothing truly helped.

I knew I needed to strengthen the area around my back, but every attempt in the past felt so slow and frustrating. Then I took a practice class with Kacie at The Underground, and I was hooked immediately. Her programming, energy, and approach were exactly what I had been searching for.

In class recently I found myself pushing a weight across the floor on my hands and knees, and the realization hit me: a few months ago, I never would have been able to do that. I can sit on the floor with my kids and get up without tears (which sounds easy, but was very difficult previously). I don’t collapse to the floor in pain anymore. I have more energy, I feel stronger in my body, and I look forward to every workout.

On top of that, the community of women here is amazing, supportive, encouraging, and fun. The environment Kacie has created is truly special. I trust her and her process and programming completely, and I’m so grateful for the way she’s helped me reclaim not just my mobility, but my confidence and quality of life.

Thank you, Kacie and The Underground, for helping me feel stronger, more capable, and able to enjoy my kids and my daily life again.”

Megan Tansom

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Rated 5 out of 5

“I can’t say enough great things about The Underground! After years away from the gym, I was nervous about getting back into a routine, but Kacie made the transition seamless. She is absolutely fantastic—her workouts are challenging yet doable, and she keeps me motivated every step of the way. I love that she sends weekly texts with advice and encouragement to help me stay on track.

The atmosphere at the gym is just as amazing. The women here are supportive, respectful, and uplifting—it’s truly a community where everyone wants to see each other succeed. Best of all, I’m seeing real results! If you’re looking for a gym that combines expert training, motivation, and a positive environment, this is the place to be! 💪🔥”

Meagan Garofalo

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Emily Cardwell

Feedback from The Underground - Strength & Conditioning for Women Family

Rated 5 out of 5

“I started the year off feeling a bit blue, out of shape and in no routine. I also am not a morning person but that has ALL changed. I decided to join The Underground after multiple conversations with Coach Kacie who was so receptive and accommodating! I joined the 5:45am class 3x a week and rarely miss a session. I have gained back self confidence, established a routine to prioritize myself and my health, learned how to properly lift, watch myself get stronger and gained an appreciation for starting my day at the gym.

But that is second to the community of women this gym has built. They are women I consider friends, they are an incredible support system, we have fun, we get strong, we challenge one another and it’s been more than I could have asked for or expected. I also never write reviews but this was very deserving of one! It’s been a life changer!”

Britney Beaulieu

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Rated 5 out of 5

“I am thrilled to have found a gym focused on women’s strength training conveniently located downtown Stillwater. Kacie is incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated to her client’s success. She provides personalized attention and offers a super supportive and fun environment. Highly recommend!”

Kelly Lehmicke

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Rated 5 out of 5

“Love being part of The Underground Community … Coach Kacie and the other ladies have been so welcoming and friendly. Highly recommend Kacie and this location as a place to get strong!”

Jodie Monson

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Rated 5 out of 5

“I am thrilled to have found a gym focused on women’s strength training conveniently located downtown Stillwater. Kacie is incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated to her client’s success. She provides personalized attention and offers a super supportive and fun environment. Highly recommend!”

Kelly Lehmicke

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Rated 5 out of 5

“The Underground has been an AMAZING experience for me! With a very busy day to day schedule, I’ve found flexibility to go get my workout done and be home before I need to get my family out the door. The location is convenient, the gym is spotless (with amazing decor and lighting) and Coach Kacie is phenomenal. Not only are the workouts challenging, but the sense of community is unmatched. I’ve finally found a place where I feel motivated, supported, and excited to come back to every time. Highly recommend checking it out if you’re looking for a positive, welcoming atmosphere to help you reach your fitness goals! 💪”

Ashley O'Neill

Feedback from The Underground Women's Strength Family

Are You Ready To Level Up?

Getting Started Is Easy!

STEP 1

SCHEDULE YOUR FIRST VISIT

Talk with a coach about your goals and meet our trainers, tour the gym, and learn more about our programs.

STEP 2

START YOUR TRAINING

We will start you strong by taking you through the fundamentals of training and sound habits, putting you on the road to success!

STEP 3

HAVE FUN REACHING NEW LEVELS

Book classes easily on our app, improve your fitness, and enjoy the workouts with awesome people and reach your goals in no time!

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start Your Journey today!

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GETTING STARTED IS EASY!

Simply fill out the form below and then schedule Your
FREE No sweat intro on the next page.

This intro will take place in a Google Meet call until the end of July!

Shortly after we will be in touch with you to confirm your No Sweat Intro. We are excited to meet you!

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Join the Girls Who Lift Summer Program!

Strong girls grow into unstoppable women.

This intro will take place in a Google Meet call until the end of July!

We’re now accepting applications for our Girls Who Lift (ages 12–17) summer training program — designed to build strength, confidence, and proper movement foundations in a supportive, small-group environment (max 8 athletes per class).

(give our form below a second to load, we love you for it!)

Hallie Coleson-Gilbert

Coach

I’ve loved coaching for as long as I can remember. There’s something really special about helping athletes realize how strong and capable they are—and watching that confidence carry over into the rest of their lives. That’s the part that keeps me coming back every day.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with athletes at every stage, from kids as young as 5 to adults in their 80s, and I truly believe there’s no “one type” of athlete. Whether you’re brand new or experienced, my goal is always the same: meet you where you’re at and help you feel proud of what your body can do.
My background includes playing and coaching lacrosse, Olympic weightlifting, and CrossFit. I’ve also dabbled in running and triathlons simply for the challenge of trying something new. I genuinely enjoy stepping outside my comfort zone—and I’m a big advocate for doing the same. There’s a lot of growth on the other side of “I’ve never done that before.”
Outside of coaching, you’ll usually find me reading, out on a walk with my dog, or picking up some kind of new craft.

Qualifications

• CrossFit Level 1 Trainer (CF-L1)
• CrossFit Kids Trainer

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Cherie Smischney

Coach

I’ve been involved with athletics from a young age, including track and field, gymnastics, and cheerleading. Being involved in sports gave me the opportunity to embrace discipline, set goals, and feel strong. Those experiences helped me develop a love for movement and set the foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle that I continue to pursue today.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and have held various roles throughout my career, all with a focus on helping others. People have always been at the center of my “why,” and I find true joy in helping others reach their goals.

In 2023, I was introduced to CrossFit and immediately fell in love with Olympic lifting and the confidence that comes from moving a barbell. That passion for weightlifting, combined with my desire to continue helping people, led me to pursue a career in personal training and coaching. I feel incredibly grateful to have turned the things I enjoy most into a meaningful and fulfilling career.

Outside of the gym, you’ll usually find me enjoying walks around Stillwater, searching for beautiful furniture and décor, or spending time with my husband, Zach, daughter, Akaylia, and our two cats, Artemis and Pumpkin.

Qualifications

B.A. in Psychology
NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
CrossFit Level 1 Coach
USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

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Stef Clasen

Coach

I’ve been immersed in the fitness world since the 1990s, starting with endurance sports and strength training. My lifelong passion for movement, education, and wellness has shaped my core belief: fitness should evolve with every stage of a woman’s life. I’ve also been involved in CrossFit since 2011, both as an athlete and as a coach, which has become one of the many ways I love challenging myself and others.

With a background in education, I love blending evidence-based science with real-world experience to help women better understand their bodies—especially through perimenopause and menopause. I’m deeply committed to promoting a longer health span, not just a longer lifespan, with a focus on strength, bone density, hormone balance, nutrition, sleep, and stress regulation.

My mission is to empower women to listen to their bodies, stay informed, and redefine wellness beyond aesthetics—focusing instead on strength, vitality, and confidence at every age.

Outside of the gym, I manage a lively multigenerational household with my parents, my recently retired husband, two daughters still at home, and two granddaughters. When I’m not coaching or lifting something heavy—whether it’s a barbell or a 2×4—you’ll usually find me tackling remodeling projects, traveling, or volunteering in Christian ministry.

I’m a dual German-American citizen and speak German fluently—something that comes in handy when I need to be extra persuasive, whether at home or in the gym.

Qualifications

ISSA Strength and Conditioning Coach
ISSA Certified Nutritionist
ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
Mental Health First Aid and QPR Suicide Prevention Training

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Brooke Ptasienski

Coach

Brooke is a dedicated health and fitness coach with over 8 years of experience helping athletes and clients improve performance, prevent injuries, and reach their full potential.
With her primary role working as an athletic trainer in professional hockey, Brooke specializes in injury prevention, movement analysis, athletic performance, and rehabilitation. In this role, she has worked with the general population, youth, high school, college, and professional athletes.
Brooke earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from the University of Sioux Falls, and a Masters degree in Athletic Training from Winona State University. She holds professional certifications including athletic trainer certified (ATC), corrective exercise specialist (CES), and CrossFit Level-1 Trainer (CF-L1), and remain committed to ongoing education in the field of performance training with plans to earn her Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification the summer of 2026.
Her coaching philosophy centers on individualized approaches, movement quality, injury prevention and assessment, athletic development, and evidence-based practice.
In addition to coaching, Brooke is passionate about volunteering in the community and her church, spending time with her family, being an avid outdoorswoman, competing in fitness competitions, and strives to make a positive impact both on and off the field.

Qualifications

ISSA Strength and Conditioning Coach
ISSA Certified Nutritionist
ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
Mental Health First Aid and QPR Suicide Prevention Training

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Brittany McCarty

Coach

Fitness is a personal journey, not a destination or a quick fix. Us women can get so caught up in short-term successes and in the way we look, when instead the focus should be on long-term success, creating sustainable change over time, and how we feel, and then as a result our bodies will reflect the positive changes as well.

In my own experience, I grew up leading a very active lifestyle. For over ten years I competed in triathlons and endurance running events, even completing a half-marathon in Scotland. Nutrition is also something that I have always valued and prioritized. However, when I was in my early 20s, I developed a hormone imbalance as well as some personal struggles with mental health. This caused some weight gain issues which I quickly overcame, through a commitment to customized, evidence-based nutrition and adopting a holistic approach to wellness.

Holistically, all areas of health are taken into account (physical, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, occupational, and cultural) rather than simply treating one’s symptoms to an illness. With this whole-person health in mind, one is able to be treated in a way that addresses their unique needs, and can learn how one area might influence another to encourage natural healing and restoration to the body, as well as longevity.

With my passion for health and fitness, my goals are to help people live more authentically and discover their true potential. More specifically, I have a genuine desire to help coach women of all ages to feel healthy, confident and empowered in their own bodies through the right exercise, as well as a tailored, holistic approach to health.

Through the AFPA, I am a certified Health and Wellness Coach/Holistic Nutritionist and am also a certified Personal Trainer through NASM. In addition, I  studied Health and Human Performance at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. To enhance my learning, I continue to be involved with various continuing education courses, conferences, and other valuable resources in order to stay up-to-date on new health research and creative thought.

When we make the conscious decision to invest in our health, we have the potential to make monumental gains both internally and externally.  It is my job to help others like you, and when you find what motivates you to keep on coming back, the results will last a lifetime.  

I look forward to working with you toward your health goals!

Qualifications

AFPA certified Health and Wellness Coach
AFPA certified Holistic Nutritionist
NASM certified Personal Trainer

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Kacie Graving

Founder/Head Coach

My mission is to help women discover their inner strength and experience the life-changing benefits of building a strong, healthy body through strength training.

With a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science, I’ve spent 20 years in the fitness industry, gaining experience in a variety of roles. I started my career as a sports performance coach, training youth and collegiate athletes to improve their speed, strength, and overall performance. For almost a decade, I specialized in helping athletes build the power and endurance they needed for their sports.

Outside of coaching, I have 15 years of experience in powerlifting, bodybuilding, triathlons, and endurance running, giving me a diverse background in fitness that I can share with my clients.
In my mid-30s, I began competing in physique sports. While I had success in bodybuilding, I also realized the intense focus on aesthetics and contest dieting led to an unhealthy relationship with food and body image. This experience motivated me to dive into evidence-based nutrition, which not only helped me heal but also allows me to design smarter, more balanced programming for my clients—drawing on my hybrid experience across strength, endurance, and physique-focused training.

In 2020, I launched my own training business, focused on empowering women through in-person and online coaching. I am committed to helping women build strength and improve their body image in a supportive and sustainable way.

As a mother of two busy pre-teens, I understand the challenges that moms face when it comes to balancing health, fitness, and family life. My coaching approach is all about finding realistic, personalized solutions that work for everyone. Above all, I want my clients to enjoy their time in the gym, have fun, and feel confident throughout their journey.

Whether your goal is to build strength, improve body composition, compete in an event, or focus on long-term health and wellness, I bring years of experience and dedication to helping you achieve your goals and celebrate your success.

Qualifications

Bachelor's in Kinesiology and Exercise Science
NCSF Certified Strength Coach
Barbell Rehab Method Certified
Australia Powerlifting Level 1 Coach
AFPA Prenatal and Postnatal Fitness Specialist
Functional Training for Adaptive Athletes Certified
CHI Performance Nutrition Coach Level 1

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ARE YOU LOOKING TO DROP-IN?

We Would Love To Meet You!
WARNING! Class Sizes Are Limited.

If you would like to reserve a spot… Simply fill out the form below letting us know what day you might come by & one of our amazing coaches will reach out to you to reserve your class.

OUR DROP-IN RATES

$25 Per Class

FIND US AT
107 Chestnut St E,
Stillwater, MN 55082

(651) 390-1721

OUR PRICING IS SIMPLE

We Want To Offer You The PERFECT Membership For YouR NEEDS.

Simply fill out the form below and one of our amazing coaches will send you our current membership information.