This month we are highlighting Meg in our ‘Instructor Spotlight’ series. A positively kind soul off the bike, you may be surprised to see how Meg transforms into a certified badass when she hits the podium. An athlete all her life, she thrives by cultivating a sense of teamwork in each and every one of her classes. Catch ANY of her classes from February 25 – March 2 with a special $15 drop-in credit available directly on our website HERE.
You’re originally from the South! Tell us about how you landed in Boston.
That’s right! My lack of southern accent always throws people off when I tell them I’m from Memphis, TN. I love Boston – it’s such a unique city and there are always fun things to explore. My favorite way to get to know a new place is through FOOD – which was actually the driving factor in my move up here. I originally came to Boston for a culinary internship but haven’t looked back since! Southern food – and constant country music – are actually what I miss most about Tennessee.
Very cool! How did your career focus shift from food to fitness?
I have always loved competing in sports and being part of a team. I played multiple sports in high school and walked onto Clemson’s Women’s Rowing team when I got to college – I was so grateful for this opportunity! At the time I wanted to play sports for fun and less about competing as it felt like in high school. The camaraderie and energy you get from performing with your teammates are some of my best memories. Being a Division 1 athlete honestly felt like a full time job in addition to academics. When I began looking for a job after college, I really missed being in an athletic atmosphere. I started cycling as exercise in Boston and LOVED it. The energy and space that can be created in the room is like no other – it really reminded me of being part of a team. I began teaching because I wanted to create a space where people could be motivated, inspired, and just let go.
What is your favorite and least favorite part about being an instructor?
My favorite part is connecting and interacting with different kinds of people everyday. Community is everything and it’s been absolutely amazing to meet so many wonderful people in just a few months of teaching. My least favorite part has been coming to the realization that I can’t “go” all the time. It’s important to prioritize rest and recovery when you need it – or your body will take it for you.
Rest and recovery is so important – especially when you work out as often as you do. How do you like to practice self care?
I love to incorporate yoga classes into my weekly fitness routine. Sometimes if I can’t make it to a class I’ll throw on a movie and commit to stretching for the duration. It’s a great way to relax, especially after a long day of teaching.
Through all of the sports you have played, have you ever experienced any serious injuries?
Before high school I was very involved in gymnastics. Through this sport I hyperextended both of my knees, fractured my elbow, etc. During these moments, it was so hard to let your team go on without you. This was an important lesson for me to learn: control what you can control.
Who inspires you?
There’s honestly too many people to name here, but my parents have inspired me the most and I wouldn’t be where I am without their constant and unyielding love and support. I hope I can repay them in some way for everything they have done for me.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Have the courage to pursue your dreams and don’t give up until you get them.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
Drink water. #hydrate
When you’re not working – or working out – where would people find you?
Most likely at Georgetown Cupcakes lol! I have a serious sweet tooth. I also LOVE to drive. My friends and I always love spending time planning out and doing road trips in college and out of college. In college we would take trips to neighboring cities and states just to explore what is around us.
You mentioned you loved growing up to country music – how has your taste of music changed overall since moving up north?
Country music isn’t actually my favorite genre. I put on a country playlist to actually take my mind off of work and it reminds me of home. It is such a vibe – it brings instant happiness. In class I gravitate toward playing hip hop (both old and new), heavy remixes, and a sprinkle of EDM.
