AUGUST MEMBER OF THE MONTH

IN HER WORDS…

Before I had kids, I was pretty active and enjoyed playing variety of sports. Having kids made it harder to prioritize those types of activities. After my second child was born, I realized that I needed to rebuild muscle mass, bone density, and overall strength so that I could take care of kids, decrease my likelihood of injury, and generally improve my quality of life. I knew that simply joining a big box gym was not going to be enough. I needed the support, motivation, and community that Vitality offers through its small classes and dedicated coaches.

I’ve definitely noticed an increase in strength and muscle mass; so much so that I’ve been able to resume playing a sport that I love, roller derby. It’s a high contact and very physical sport, so I was hesitant to start playing again until I was confident that I had the strength and endurance to play safely. As an added bonus, my posture has improved!

I’ve been working with Kristin to improve my form and explosiveness in complex movements like cleans and jerks. I’ve been pleased with how I’ve improved so far and I’m looking forward to continuing to improve my mobility and refine my form in both complex movements and the more functional movements that we do in class.

I’m proud that I’ve now consistently attended classes for over a year and a half. I tend to go to the 6 AM class. Some mornings it can be hard to motivate myself to get out of bed but knowing that I will get to see the friends I’ve made in class makes it easier. In addition, if I miss a couple of days in a row, I usually hear from kristin to check in and offer encouragement. They treat each member of the gym like a person instead of a number. That intention and compassion fosters an environment that truly supports members in reaching their goals.

IN COACH KRISTIN’S WORDS…

Let me start by saying.. after a sudden injury directly followed by a long summer vacation, Lacy is technically the member of the month for July and August. A real VCF first but we are happy to give it to her!

Over the past year and a half, Lacy has been a big part of our ever growing morning class roster. I’m not sure she knows this but she has become a role model for her peers- not by performing the heaviest weight prescribed or running the fastest in the workout but by focusing on form first and foremost. Before each class, she asses how hard to push it by how she’s feeling that day then chooses her intensity. This intuitive training has done wonders for Lacy’s performance.

In fact, training and performance is what Lacy and I have been individually working on throughout the past year-taking time through each of our complex barbell movements and perfecting them. This one on one time with Lacy has built a strong bond between us and helps me, as her coach, provide her with the appropriate amount of guidance and feedback.

I think I speak for everyone when I say that her light-heartedness and consistency is nice to be around first thing in the morning. She is approachable, helpful, and always willing to crack a laugh at herself during the question of the day. Outside of the gym, she is a power-house in the world of roller derby. If you ever want to see an incredibly nice person turn into a ruthless blocker, go check her out in some local bouts around town.

Lacy is a genuine person that I always end of spending endless time chatting about anything and everything. She has been a pleasure to coach and get to know as a friend. I can’t wait to see her bounce back out of recovery and become stronger than ever!