Embrace Fitness: Insights from Student Instructors at GW’s Lerner Health and Wellness Center
Fitness isn’t just about burning calories and building muscle; it’s also about fostering a sense of community and personal growth. At the George Washington University (GW) Lerner Health and Wellness Center, a group of student instructors are reshaping how peers approach physical well-being through diverse workouts that emphasize mindfulness, connection, and personal development. Here’s a closer look at some of these inspiring instructors and their unique approaches to fitness.
Caroline Connell: The Power of Yoga
Sophomore Caroline Connell sets the tone for her power yoga classes by immersing her students in the practice’s philosophy. Every week, she not only demonstrates poses but also offers modifications, ensuring that everyone can participate at their own comfort level. Her classes, akin to those at boutique studios like CorePower Yoga, are both structured and inviting, allowing students to explore yoga’s mental and physical benefits.
Connell’s journey into yoga began in high school after recovering from a gymnastics injury. Initially finding yoga mundane, she soon discovered its profound influence on her mental health. This transformative experience led her to teach, blending strength and mindfulness in each session. Beginning each class with breath-focused exercises, she encourages her students to shed expectations and embrace personal modifications.
“Release any expectations for yourself or your practice,” Connell often reminds her students. This supportive mantra fosters a welcoming atmosphere, allowing them to explore their physical limits while prioritizing mental well-being.
Alexandra Folleco: Dancing Through Fitness
Another vibrant instructor at Lerner, Alexandra Folleco, leads a weekly dance fitness class. With a lifelong background in dance, she brings a wealth of energy and excitement to her sessions. Certified in Zumba and drawing inspiration from her childhood experiences, Folleco aims to retain the joy of dance while incorporating cardio and strength training in her workouts.
She skillfully curates playlists that energize her classes, carefully selecting songs that match the rhythm of the exercises. By alternating between high-energy tracks and more relaxed tunes, Folleco keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging, ensuring participants stay motivated throughout their workout.
“Every song has a purpose, whether it’s to build up energy or to focus on specific movements,” Folleco explains, emphasizing the importance of choice in creating a dynamic fitness environment.
Lyla Souccar: Empowering Through Strength
Sophomore and exercise science major Lyla Souccar leads barbell strength classes at Lerner, focusing on weightlifting techniques and form. Having previously taught similar classes back home in New York, Souccar returned to the gym setting eager to share her experience with fellow students.
Souccar acknowledges that weightlifting can feel intimidating for newcomers. Therefore, she aims to demystify the process, offering guidance that extends beyond exercise, helping attendees navigate the complexities of fitness and nutrition. During her classes, she divides the week between leg and upper body training, allowing students to customize their workouts.
“This isn’t just about lifting weights; it’s about building a supportive community and helping each other grow,” Souccar shares. Her emphasis on connection has resulted in friendships that foster an encouraging environment, where participants can improve their form and even discuss dietary habits.
Conclusion: Your Fitness Journey Awaits
The energetic sessions at GW’s Lerner Health and Wellness Center illustrate how fitness can transcend mere physicality, evolving into a holistic experience that nurtures community and self-discovery. Whether through yoga, dance, or weightlifting, student instructors like Caroline, Alexandra, and Lyla demonstrate the power of movement combined with mindfulness. So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just beginning your fitness journey, remember: the most important part is to start where you are, modify as needed, and embrace the process of growth. Get moving and discover your own path to wellness!
