Coffee Talk #230: Build a Fitness Community

It’s SPRING INTO ACTION time at FWA and I want to help you get moving this season.

Today’s topic: Building a Fit Community

I’ve been a fitness professional for 12 years. In that time, I’ve taught classes at a variety of facilities and locations and to a wide group of individuals. One thing keeps it all together: connections.

My best classes are those with a group of people who are comfortable around each other, because of trust or a shared connection. In this past year, we’ve really created so many of those communities, because of a shared desire to have a connection to someone or something outside ourselves.

This time of year gets me thinking about fun group fitness. I love connecting people to local venues, local food, and to each other. I get so excited thinking about all of the connections formed because of fitness. We have these sweet little groups at each location and even new people joining all the time. It takes a village to create a loving environment and I feel like we’re in a sweet spot right now.

There’s literally never been a better time to jump into a group class. I love being able to offer classes in a variety of locations, even virtual, because it allows us an opportunity to create more and deeper connections.

1. Try something new. Try a fitness class! Do a quick search on facebook for a local running group. Think about the goal – do you want a class? A run or walking group? A hiking group? There might already be a group to join. Do a quick local search. If there isn’t something, try to start one! I also try to be the new person in a class, too, to remind myself what it’s like to be the newbie. I’ve witnessed awesome, inviting groups, and some not so inviting groups. Each time, I’m learning ways to build a better environment for you. We’re in a sweet spot right now and there’s never been a better time to try a fitness class!

2. Come early to chat with fellow participants in a class. It’s easy to run to the back row and cross your arms and try to blend with the walls. Don’t! Say hi to others. I know in the classes that I teach, you will be welcomed by the other participants. You might not have a choice to fade into the background! Ask tips for the class or what to expect from the other participants. My favorite go-to question “Is this somebody’s spot?!” It’s funny and cute and a great way to break the ice.

3. Chat with the instructor. HI! We love to chat. Don’t be afraid to approach the instructor. We don’t always bite. I love getting to know new people!

4. Be you – go all out. Don’t worry about how you look – and realize that some of the people in the class might have been coming for awhile, so they might know the moves. But guess what? You will know the moves in just a few classes, too. They were new at one point, too! If you’re really feeling a song or routine, GO ALL OUT. Don’t be afraid to be extra.

5. Come back. This is key for creating a fitness community! You gotta show up but you also have to come back. When you return, you’ll start to get the groove of the music and the moves, you’ll start to learn people’s faces and names. And look – don’t be afraid to be like “hey what’s your name again?” or even ask the instructor someone’s name.

In addition to fun group fitness classes, I also offer several fit community building services.

I’ve been leading fitness classes since 2009 and keep adding services. Here’s what I offer and a few NEW items:

1. Park group fitness classes I offer classes at Wilmer Park and special occasion classes at Queenstown Community Park. More parks to be added soon!

2. Fitness Events at a variety of locations. I love combining fitness with local farms and other venues. A few fun locations: Red Acres, Lockbriar, Godfrey’s, Inn at Mitchell House, Wildly Native, Councell Farms, and NEW locations to be added soon!

3. Small group classes – like bachelorette parties, corporate groups, birthday parties, sports teams, family sessions, teachers, and more. I come to your location and lead a private group class. I love this offering because the group gets so much closer! I’ve done everything from yoga to Zumba to sculpt to barre, and more. The sky is the limit!

4. Virtual Fitness. Everything from small groups to individual video sessions, and more. I love having this offering and look forward to our monthly challenge groups.

5. Personal Training. This is NEW in 2021 and only offered to a few individuals at a time—I want to make sure to give you time and individualized attention.I’m opening up 5 slots at the end of this month – set up a 1:1 consultation with me if you’re interested in working together on your goals. I can help with creating a goal, making plans, creating a specialized fitness plan, and connecting you to other needed services. It just takes that first step! Link in bio to schedule a 15 min discovery call.

6. NEW! We’re putting together a 5k run team – the FWA Fitstars. Need motivation to get moving? Join the FWA Fitstars! Our first team event is the Blueberry Boogie 5k – run or walk at Godfrey’s Farm. I’m so excited to dig back into running and to work with you! I’ve created a FREE group on facebook for anyone who needs the motivation and discipline to train for this event. More events to follow!