Why did you start taking Spinning® classes?

The owner of a club I worked at purchased Spinner® bikes in 1996 and told me I had to take the training. I initially “hated” Spinning® because we had to sit on the bikes for so long! After giving birth to six babies, I thought I would have rather delivered another baby than have to sit on that saddle again…obviously I got over that!

What inspired you to become a Certified Spinning® Instructor and then a Master Instructor?

Because we were the first in my area to offer Spinning, I had no one else to go to for information so I plugged into Mad Dogg Athletics. I followed the program to the “T” and am grateful that I did. When there was a call for presenters in 1997 I applied and was accepted. A year later the invitation for “Master” status was offered and I was able to move my knowledge to a whole new level. I feel fortunate to have been in one of the first groups and to be trained by Johnny himself for both camps!

What do you love about teaching Spinning® classes?

My fitness career began with training in LA at Jane Fonda’s studios with Gilda Marx and Richard Simmons, so I was a product of the '80s fitness craze. I went through the leg warmer, unitard phase, the “thong” fad, funk/hip hop and then the “step” days. When Spinning came along I was so grateful to provide a new perspective to my students. I loved using all types of music, the mindfulness, the purpose, the depth, the focus and the responses I received from my students. I loved that we could train as a group but ride as individuals. I personally devoured heart rate training, physiology and the concept of “training trainable systems.”

What makes Spinning® such a great workout?

Helping others learn what they need from a ride! I enjoy the freedom for riders to “individualize” their workout in a group class…that doesn’t happen in most programming. I also love that the environment allows for reflection, relaxation and awareness. Personally I am the most creative when I'm on the bike, I problem solve on the bike, I overcome challenges on the bike…the bike is my “zen.”

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a Certified Spinning® Instructor?

I believe knowledge is power and that “we can’t give away something we don’t have.” When we learn to apply this to ourselves, we develop skills and tools to share with others, which raises our skills and values. This cycle of experience makes the mentoring process so important for new fitness professionals.

What other health and fitness certifications do you hold?

I am a Power Specialist for the SPINPower® program and have certifications in Health Coach/Lifestyle & Weight Management and Fitness from ACE, Fitness Trainer and Group Fitness from AFAA, Pre/Post Natal Specialist from Deseret Southwest Fitness, Heart Zone Systems from Saul Blau and Physical Mind for Pilates Mat. I am also certified with USA Cycling and am certified in RNT Reactive Neuromuscular Assessment, Flexibility Technician and Bio-mechanics/Advanced Bio-mechanics from Reebok.