In the summer of 2013, I was feeling lost. I had just graduated from college, which meant I was done with my basketball career- a sport that I loved and was part of my life for over 15 years. On the court I learned how to handle adversity, give myself grace, and accept and appreciate praise. It was where I felt most myself- understood by my teammates and counseled by my coaches. Basketball was my safe place.
There was a void. Then in the fall of that year, while studying for my Masters in Early Childhood Education and working at lululemon, I was introduced to Shred415. I was hooked instantly (thank you lululemon)! Over the next few years I went once or twice a week, filling in with long runs, yoga, and other classes. But in the summer of 2016 as my wedding approached, I decided to step it up and accept the “Shred for the Wed” challenge. Wedding planning is stressful, but Shred kept me sane. The deck and treadmill became my safe place and the Shred415 Community helped to keep my pre-wedding anxiety at bay.
Quickly after the wedding, I found out we were expecting our first child, Luca. I was beyond excited to hold my son in my arms but the changes of pregnancy scared me. Once again, Shred415 was there for me. I went to Shred 4 days/week while I was pregnant. Some days I ran, some days I walked, some days I lifted heavy, and some days I didn’t pick up a single weight. But every class and every instructor left me feeling in control. I learned so much throughout my pregnancy, but the main thing is that every body is different. Even though I religiously went to Shred415 throughout my pregnancy and ate well, I gained 60 pounds. That’s how my body grew and cared for a 8.0 pound beautiful baby boy.
10 months postpartum and I am shredding more than ever. I’ve lost every single pound – but it is so much more than that. Shred415 is still my safe place but now it is the only time that is truly my own. Most days of the week I attend a 5 AM class, I have a love/hate relationship with my 4:15 AM wake up call but it is 100% worth it when I walk into class and instantly feeling energized, safe, and understood.
Whereas basketball often felt routine, Shred415 and taking care of myself is a conscious choice I make every day. When I feel good about myself, I am a better wife, mother, daughter, teacher, and friend. Over the past 5 years, Shre415 has taught me that my body is resilient and if that I put in the work, I will see the results. Thank you so much to everyone that is a part of my Shred415 Community – I would not be me without you!
