Lisa Mona, Spinning® Master Instructor | Kansas, USA
Posted by Spinning® on Apr 18th 2018
Why did you start taking Spinning® classes?
I started taking classes because I taught several other formats prior and simply wanted to know what the rage was around the Spinning ® program. At the same time, I was hired as the group fitness coordinator at a new club where a Spinning Studio was being designed.
What inspired you to become a Certified Spinning® Instructor and then a Master Instructor?
I thought it would be a good idea to become Spinning certified so that I could have the skill set to hire and evaluate my fitness staff but it quickly became apparent how the Spinning program can change lives. I was inspired to become a Master Instructor because of this change. Out of all the fitness formats I instruct, the Spinning program is the only one that is so simplistic yet such a “life” teacher encompassing mind, body, and spirit. Spinning impacts people for a lifetime, from all fitness levels and throughout all age ranges, that’s incredible!
What do you love about teaching Spinning® classes?
I love the simplicity of the program, everyone can do the class, no fumbling with the steps or feeling awkward or out of place. The individuality of the program is about always obtaining the intensity that is right for you; you are in control of the journey you take. But I also love the camaraderie, cheering each other on, the energy of the group but the solitude that is available when you need it.
What are your top three favorite songs to play during your Spinning® classes and why?
That’s tough because for me, favorite songs are like rivers, constantly flowing to the next favorite.
- Eye of the Tiger (instrumental, DJ Quicksilver) I grew up in the Rocky movie era and this song is simply inspirational.
- Amazing by One EskimO because I first heard this song when my mom was dying from pancreatic cancer, which was a very emotional time for me. Though the meaning of the lyrics are unclear as to whether he is referring to marriage or crossing over to the other side, it just has feel good lyrics that start quietly and build.
- Windadaya Tribal Rmx (Spinning CD 25) love those funky beats, just makes you want to move!
What makes Spinning® such a great workout?
The intensity you need is always at your finger tips whether that be low, high or somewhere in between.
Share a memory from your experience as a teacher/coach/presenter that embodies the value of being a Certified Spinning® Instructor or Spinning® Master Instructor?
I have watched participants who can barely walk participate in an entire Spinning ride and leave empowered to take on the world and others who have had experienced horrible outdoor riding accidents who have used the Spinning program to rehabilitate back to health and outdoor riding again.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a Certified Spinning® Instructor?
Do it! You will impact more people than you know!
What’s one of your favorite motivational quotes?
"If you think you can or can’t, you’re right." Henry Ford"Strength doesn’t come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t." Rikki Rogers
Do you have a hero in the Spinning® community, someone who deserves recognition for their leadership?
All of our MIs are phenomenal!
Is there anything about you that would surprise people?
I’m a twin( to a brother named Lance)! I married into my unique name, my parents were not humorous!Lisa joined the Spinning Master Instructor team in 2007 and currently teaches at Element Fitness in Lenexa, Kansas as well as leading other trainings in the US. Lisa is also a certified AFAA Group Exercise Instructor, ACE Group Fitness Instructor, Registered Dietitian and BodyFlow, BodyPump and BodyStep instructor.