I’ve been a member of SPENGA since November 2022, when a friend invited me to try SPENGA. I immediately fell in love with SPENGA and the balanced workout it provided. I quickly saw that SPENGA is more than just a place to work out; it’s a community. The staff and crew members always push each other to reach our goals. I was asked if I’d like to audition to become an instructor in July. I laughed at the idea! I am more of a sit-in-the-back-row type of girl, but I recently decided to step outside my comfort zone and live life to the fullest. So I said yes! October 2023 is my first month working at SPENGA.

Favorite part of working a Spenga

My favorite part of working at SPENGA is the fantastic, supportive community! From the crew members to the staff, everyone rallies around each other to reach our goals!

Favorite format

Boxing is my favorite format! I love having the time to spend on movements and ensuring each member uses the proper form.

What made you get involved in Fitness or instructing?

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think that I would be a fitness instructor and personal trainer. At the age of 48, I was overweight and had a bum right knee that kept me from living the life I wanted to live. After a short time in physical therapy, I decided to find a personal trainer and develop the strength I need for a healthy body. As I gained muscle, I also wanted to know the whys and hows of movement to reach specific goals. I decided to study to become a certified personal trainer. I dove deep into nutrition and learned about macros and the powerful combination of food and movement to transform my health. One certification led to the next, a corrective exercise specialist and certified nutrition coach. At 51, I now work as a personal trainer and instructor at SPENGA. I am passionate about leading a healthy lifestyle around proper nutrition and movement. I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned and inspire others to do the same.

Where can I be found?

I have a husband, Dave, and two kids (young adults), Alex and Emily. We love a good family game night when the kids are home from college! Catan and Ticket to Ride are a few of our favorites. Outside of SPENGA, I can be found on a local bike trail, spending time with friends and family, or cooking a balanced, healthy meal. My lifestyle is daily exercise, so a day without movement is rare for me! Please don’t tell me I have to sit still because it’s just not going to happen!

After workout snack

After I work out, I refuel with a protein shake and a piece of fresh fruit.

My guilty pleasures

Chocolate! Leading a healthy lifestyle isn’t about restricting your favorite foods. It’s about finding balance and enjoying the sweet things in life. So, with that being said, I guess chocolate truly is not a guilty pleasure; it's just part of my healthy lifestyle.

Songs that get me hyped

I can work out to any type of music! I prefer a driving beat and great lyrics to push me further.

I joined spenga in June 2024. I fell in love with Spenga after my first session. I became a Spenga instructor in October 2024.

My favorite part of working at SPENGA?

My favorite part about working at SPENGA is the people. Everyone is so kind and so welcoming, it feels like I have a second family. I love the positivity and energy i receive for staff and members!

Favorite format?

My favorite format is shadow boxing. It is a great way to meet new people and engage with other members, as you have to be in sync with your partner across from you. Shadow boxing motivates you to push through the work out and get it done!

What made you get involved in fitness or instructing?

Growing up in sports my whole life has really had a big influence on why I am so passionate about fitness. I am a former BIG 10 collegiate athlete and believe that fitness is truly important.

Where can I be found?

I can be found in the gym haha I love working out, I mainly do a lot of heavy lifting in the gym. I spend most of my time with my family at home with my 2 beautiful baby girls(Mahoagny & Malani) and amazing fiancé.

After a workout snack?

After a workout, I love drinking gatorade. I usually like to eat something quick and on the go after I workout. Anything with rice or fries sounds appetizing after a workout.

My guilty pleasures?

I love eating steak and drinking Shirley temples. If I had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of my life, it would be steak and loaded mashed with a Shirley temple. My fiancé and I also love to play board games, like Monopoly, Yahtzee, Uno and Spades. I love a good board/card game.

Songs that get me hyped?

I love music with nice beats to ride to. I like to play hip hop and pop songs. You may even catch me jamming out to my music because it’s so good lol.