Member Spotlight: Jessica H.
1. What drew you to SPENGA?
Actually, my dad drew me to Spenga. My cousin Jade had encouraged us to try it, and he was the first to cave in. He raved about the classes and how friendly all the instructors were, and how it was an all around great total body workout. I was never a huge spin person, so I was hesitant to try it, but the 20 minute spin session was just enough for me to break a sweat without getting burnt out on it. After my first class I felt refreshed, challenged, and motivated to come back. Plus, the instructors keep you entertained with great music and some humor along the way.
2. Can you describe a specific moment at SPENGA that stays with you?
There's quite a few I could name, but I was blown away at how we as a community came together for our first annual Relay Ride this past November for the Team Karen Foundation. Our members and staff showed up (some with their families) busted their butts while riding for 30 minutes, donated a gracious amount of money for raffle items, and then all hiked over to Pollyanna for an after party where we all celebrated each other and the money we raised for women battling breast cancer. What other gym can you say has members that are willing to spend ten hours together to raise money for a great cause? As a member, it's hard to put into words what kind of feeling that gives you to take a step back and appreciate all of that. I'm grateful that as a member I get to be a part of moments like that.
3. What surprised you about SPENGA?
What surprised me most about Spenga is how connected everyone there is. The second you walk through the door, whether at 6 AM or 6 PM, the staff, instructors, and your fellow classmates are friendly and welcoming. I was never someone who was social at the gym, but it's completely the opposite now. The instructors will quickly know you by name and, unfortunately for you, will notice if you haven't been coming lately and ask where you've been (good luck coming up with an excuse that satisfies them). It's also the first gym I've been a member of where there's absolutely zero pressure to compete with the person next to you. Most of the time, we're all struggling to catch our breath in one way or another. Carrie has truly created an atmosphere that is second to none, and a community that encourages members to come back every time you leave, not only to stay healthy but because you have fun doing it. The energy inside there is immensely stronger than any other gym I've been to.
4. How has SPENGA impacted your life outside of the studio?
There's always the obvious answer that my health has improved, but it's so much more than that. I'm suddenly a morning workout person (nothing short of a miracle), which has dramatically changed how my day goes while I'm at work. I will notice how much less energy I have throughout the day if I don't get my morning workout in. But more importantly, I think mostly it's the people. I've made some friends along the way, some acquaintances that I catch up with for the five minutes before class starts, and some love-hate relationships with the instructors that whoop my butt yet are so kind while doing it (talkin' to you, Beth). I'm so grateful to be a part of this community and can't wait to see where it grows from here!
