Miami University Recreation Blog

Assistant Director, Fitness – Oversight of group fitness programs and fitness special events, assisted with other fitness operations.

Group Fitness Instructor – Taught a variety of group fitness classes with specialties in Yoga, SilverSneakers Circuit & Yoga, and Spinning.

Health, wellness, and recreation are essential to maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life. Health is the physical, mental, and social well-being that allows us to function optimally. Wellness is the ability to making choices that promote a high quality of life, including proper nutrition, stress management, and leisure. Recreation plays a key role by providing opportunities for relaxation, enjoyment, and physical activity, which help reduce stress, enhance mental clarity, and strengthen social connections. All three are critical to my life because they provide overall well-being, resilience, and longevity. Prioritizing them helps me stay energized, focused, and able to engage meaningfully in both personal and professional pursuits. They also provide a foundation for lifelong learning, growth, and happiness.

I love all forms of exercise and enjoy trying new things! Every week I complete some combination of running, walking, CrossFit, strength training, yoga and stretching. I still teach yoga at some gyms in my new city. Activity is a part of my lifestyle. My husband and I both take any opportunity to be active, even on vacation! We love to be on the go.

The community fitness instructors, student fitness instructors, and group fitness participants have all played a significant role in shaping my values, interests, and overall personal and professional growth. Each group has contributed to my understanding of leadership, resilience, and the importance of fostering an inclusive and motivating wellness environment.

Community fitness instructors have served as mentors and colleagues, demonstrating professionalism, expertise, and the ability to adapt to diverse fitness levels and needs. Their dedication to lifelong learning and their passion for helping others achieve their health goals have inspired me to prioritize education and continuous growth in my own journey.

Student fitness instructors have shown me the power of leadership and the importance of creating engaging and supportive fitness experiences. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to step into leadership roles have reinforced my belief in the value of mentorship and the impact of empowering others to lead.

Group fitness participants have influenced me through their perseverance and commitment to self-improvement. Their stories, challenges, and achievements have deepened my understanding of the emotional and social benefits of fitness beyond physical health. I still share many of their stories in my lecturing at the college level. Seeing their growth has reinforced my passion for fostering a welcoming, encouraging fitness community.

My role as the Assistant Fitness Director and a Group Fitness Instructor at Miami Recreation shaped me into a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of exercise programming, team coordination, and member engagement. Through this experience, I honed my ability to design and implement effective fitness programs, motivate diverse populations, and foster a supportive environment that encourages individuals to reach their health and wellness goals. Additionally, managing group fitness operations strengthened my organizational skills, adaptability, and ability to collaborate with colleagues to enhance the overall fitness experience.

My advice to a first-year college student at Miami today would be to prioritize both physical and mental well-being as part of their college experience. Take advantage of the fitness and wellness resources on campus, including the amazing hiking trails. I often used those trails as a way to engage in social activities and enjoy exercise with my pup! Staying active can help manage stress, improve focus, and create a sense of community. Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Try new activities, meet new people, and find a balance between academics and self-care. College is a time of growth, and making your health a priority will only enhance your success in and out of the classroom.

I have so many wonderful memories it is difficult to choose. My happiest moments were teaching group fitness (especially with all of the fun SilverSneakers participants!) and learning through new certifications. Especially going through the RYT200 program!