This month we are highlighting Jen in our ‘Instructor Spotlight’ series. An academic teacher turned full-time fitness instructor, Jen is a master at guiding people to reach their goals. Catch ANY of her classes from October 28 – November 3 with a special $15 drop-in credit available directly on our website HERE.
You worked in education for quite some time. Tell us about your time teaching and how you made the leap from academic teacher to fitness instructor.
I taught Early Childhood Education in different capacities for over 8 years. I love working with children – I love their energy, positive mindsets and willingness to learn and have fun! I always say that I am a 5 year old at heart which is why I went into that field. As much as I loved teaching, in the end, it wasn’t a fit for me. I have always loved fitness so I thought if I could bring the two together to teach fitness I would have my dream job, and I was right. While it was not easy to leave my safe job and start something new with no experience, it was beyond worth it. I grew as a person and a teacher and am now happier than ever with my career.
What is your favorite and least favorite part about being a full time fitness instructor?
My favorite part of being an instructor is inspiring people and helping them grow both physically and mentally. I like to think that B/SPOKE is much more than a workout. It is a place to connect with others, and be surrounded by a community of support. Finding time to work out on my own can be a struggle, but when I create a plan that I can stick to it becomes much easier. My favorite workout outside of B/SPOKE is boxing!
Teaching multiple classes per day, we know you go through a LOT of workout clothes. What are some of your favorite pieces / brands that you recommend?
This is an easy one! I live in Booty By Brabants: an amazing company founded and run locally here in Boston. I think I have 15 pairs of their pants and 4 sports bras. I also love lululemon align pants – they are so soft and comfortable! I also always throw on a B/SPOKE tee or fuzzy hoodie.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Do what makes me happy. By nature I am a people pleaser. I spend a lot of time focused on what is going to be best for people I love, which unfortunately means I often neglect myself. I have started to prioritize my self-care more because if I’m not happy, I will not be able to make anyone else happy.
What’s the one thing about you that surprises people?
I’ve always loved making art! In high school I took every art class that was offered: pottery, oil painting, drawing, watercolor, even TV and movie broadcasting. About 5 years ago I discovered nail art which has been a lot of fun for me to learn and practice.
When you’re not working – or working out – where would people find you?
The movies! I love going to the movies and regularly go by myself. Constantly being surrounded by people, I find it so relaxing to go to a movie alone. The theatre I frequent is dine-in with a waiter and big comfy recliners, making it the perfect treat at the end of a long week! I also spend a lot of time with my mom and dad. We love to shop and go out to eat. Spending time with family and with yourself really helps me recharge!
What is your favorite TV show to binge these days?
This is a hard one. Because the new Breaking Bad movie: El Camino, was just released on Netflix I rewatched the whole Breaking Bad series in preparation. I have MANY guilty pleasure shows including Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making The Team, and Impractical Jokers.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
I have a very set morning routine. When I wake up I hit snooze once, then I lay in bed and give myself 20 minutes to wake up. Everything is laid out the night before so I get dressed and ready which take 10 minutes, then grab an energy shot and my new favorite VYBES drink and hit the ground running. Fun fact: I don’t drink coffee!
Who inspires you and why?
My mom and dad inspire me. They’ve been through so much in life and never give up. No matter what I throw their way, no matter what decision I make, they support it as long as it makes me happy. They have sacrificed so much for me, and I only hope to repay them someday. I try to live my life as strong, supportive and selfless as they are.
