The KijFit team consists of young, enthusiastic employees who regard sustainability as an integral part of health. Let us introduce ourselves to you here!
Kije Brinkhoff
Hi there! I’m Kije Brinkhoff. You can turn to me for physiotherapy, performance training, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), and mindfulness coaching. Currently, I’m also pursuing the ‘MSc Psychosomatic Physiotherapist’ program at the Hogeschool Utrecht.
I grew up in a very Dutch setting, specifically on a houseboat in Amsterdam, right under a windmill. When I was young, I had big dreams of becoming a professional soccer player, but my body didn’t always cooperate with that dream. So, I often visited a physiotherapist, which eventually inspired me to become one myself.
In my early years as a physiotherapist, I worked in various places, including SMC Fysiomed and Performance Guys, mostly with athletes. I learned a lot during this time, but something was missing in my career – a sense of purpose that I couldn’t quite define.
Then, a life-changing event happened – I was in a serious accident. This made me realize I wanted to take action and do something that truly mattered to me.
To broaden my perspective as a physiotherapist and as a person, I started diving into everything related to health. This meant not only reading more scientific literature but also challenging myself to live more sustainably. I began experimenting with a vegetarian diet and adopted a more eco-friendly lifestyle, like buying only second-hand clothes for a year and cutting down on plastic and water use. These changes weren’t just experiments; they became lasting lifestyle choices. I discovered that health is about more than just exercise, good eating, and sleep. It’s about taking care of yourself and being mindful of the environment.
My evolving outlook on life also led to professional growth. Instead of seeing people solely as physical beings, I started treating them as emotional beings influenced by their internal and external surroundings.
Now, at KijFit, we approach every treatment holistically, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects. We also believe in staying adaptable as healthcare evolves.
This open-minded approach to care is fulfilling because healthcare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many people feel heard and supported by us. Ultimately, through sustainable healthcare practices and community involvement, I hope KijFit can make a positive, long-term impact on society.
Jesse
I am Jesse, born and raised in Amsterdam and graduated in December 2020 from the Hogeschool van Amsterdam as a physiotherapist. Since June 2021 I have been happy to be part of team Kijfit!
In my spare time I like to play sports and play the guitar. Both hobbies require sustainable use of your body, otherwise it is unsustainable. I like to look and think along with you where you run into obstacles. This way we can look for a suitable approach together.
Sustainability of body, but also of mind is central to me in physiotherapy. By taking care of your body in this way, we can work on your personal goals in a realistic way, so that you can continue to do the things you love to do!
Dewy
Very nice to meet you! My name is Dewy, but my friends also call me ‘little fireball’. I have a master’s degree in Public Policy, but I also have a great passion for dancing and group fitness! Before the gyms closed en masse in 2020, I obtained my certificates for Les Mills BODYPUMP and BODYCOMBAT and I enjoyed teaching these classes several times a week. I enjoyed these hours so much more than the office hours I spent most of the week that I decided to start my own company, DEWYsports, in early 2021. Just then, Kijfit asked to help start group classes…as if it had to be!
What can you expect from my lessons? A good dose of energy, motivation, fun and SWEAT! You will become fitter, stronger and notice that your body can do so much more than you initially thought! Enthusiastic? Then sign up now!