I want to start by saying I have never in my life been an athlete & have never played a sport. Exercise was always a very intimidating thing for me, but I wanted to find a way to start having a healthy relationship with it. In 2023, I saw a friend’s post about Shred 415. I asked him about it & the way he described it seemed like something I was willing to try. I signed up for my first class in April of 2023. At first I was so discouraged because I felt like I couldn’t keep up. So much so, I cried after the class! I almost didn’t go back but I decided to keep trying. Now, after almost 250 classes later, I am SO glad I didn’t quit.
One struggle I have with exercise is hyper-mobility in my joints. This requires me to modify a lot of exercises to make sure I keep my body safe. The instructors are so accommodating of this and always take time to help me learn proper form to strengthen my joints. I used to have to go to physical therapy for this, but Shred has helped me build up enough stability in my joints that I no longer require PT.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, a concern that I always have when meeting new people is whether or not I will be accepted. Never once have I felt unwelcome at Shred- in fact, I feel celebrated for exactly who I am every time I walk through the doors. The acceptance and support from staff, instructors, and fellow shredders has not only positively impacted my physical strength, but also my mental strength, my confidence, and my overall well-being. Shred has helped me to accept that who I am is not something to be ashamed of but rather something to celebrate.
Overall, Shred is one of the most welcoming, supportive, and motivating environments I have ever been a part of. I am forever grateful for taking the leap of faith in joining. If you asked me today, I would say I am now an athlete. And a proud one at that.
