Member Spotlight: Emily V.
What drew you to SPENGA?
Initially, I was drawn to SPENGA because of the proximity it was to my home. I had never done a SPENGA class at another location and was nervous I wasn’t going to get the same intensity out of the workout that I do from running. But I needed a place to go and I wanted to support this local spot (and Carrie) so I gave it a try. Wow was I ever wrong. The intensity was just as good if not better for what I was looking for in a workout.
Can you describe a specific moment at SPENGA that stays with you?
I've had a few moments that have stayed with me since the opening of SPENGA. It took me a few sessions to get used to the bike but once I did and was able to sweat and get that tingling sensation all over my body (like I do with running) where you know change is happening….thats when I knew I was hooked!
Another one was when my daughter had a small group of girls at the studio for a birthday celebration. Seeing these girls work through Carrie’s kids routine of strength, cardio and yoga made me so proud. They were laughing, trying new things, encouraging each other and working together. They were beaming as Carrie told them how strong they were. It was so uplifting. As a child, I was called fat and that sticks with a person. It took me a while to feel good in my own skin even as an adult. It wasn’t until I had a daughter and then she was called fat at a young age that I realized how much our society values this certain image and it starts at a young age. I continually talk to my daughter about this. It’s not about how we look on the outside, it’s about how we feel on the inside. We have to feel good about ourselves to be happy. She participates in the SPENGA kids sessions and she has said she feels strong, brave, and confident when she walks out of the studio! I love that SPENGA has not only helped me, but my kids as well! They BOTH love the kids sessions!
What surprised you about SPENGA?
What surprised me most was that even though I go into the studio alone, there’s such a sense of togetherness. It’s hard to explain. No one is directly cheering one another on, per say, but there is an overall energy in the cycling room and you can feel the support of those around you. There is not competition with one another, it’s within yourself. But you have the support you need to push yourself because of the community that SPENGA has created.
How has SPENGA impacted your life outside of the studio?
I feel that SPENGA has significantly impacted my life. It helps me to feel grounded and centered. I am able to work through my stresses. I am a Physical Therapist and I am constantly telling my patients that I can want “it” for them, but they have to want it for themselves. The mental part of recovery is so important. I love to go into a studio and be motivated with the same philosophy of the you vs you mentality for my daily life. You can usually find me in the early morning classes as it’s become part of my routine. I am slightly addicted. They say making your bed each morning sets you up for success. I can’t say I make my bed every morning, but I feel that getting to my SPENGA session sets me up for the day!
