Note to reader: I’ve been teaching group fitness classes for over 14 years. In that time, I’ve grown as an instructor and would like to think I’ve grown as a person. The formats I’ve taught have changed, but one thing has not: my attitude toward my beloved students. 

Regardless of who your fitness coach is, I’m willing to bet they feel the same way. Read on for what we want you to know when you arrive at class:

Dear Fitness Students,

This week I welcome you back to class, or possibly welcome you for the first time.  I am giddy to see you.  I want to tell you a few things before we start:

• I am glad you are here.  I don’t care if you ran a marathon over the summer or did nothing but play with your kids in the pool.  You are in class because today you chose to be active, and I’m proud of you.
• All I ask is your best effort today.  This may look different than it did in May, for better or for worse.  That’s OK.  Your best effort today yields results tomorrow.
• If you’re a brand new student, I’m thrilled you’re here.  I don’t care what your fitness level is.  Whether you do push-ups on your knees or toes, I can help you reach your goals.  I’m honored you’re allowing me to be a part of your health journey.  I don’t care how corny that sounds, it’s the truth.  

• If you have an injury or issue, please tell me before class.  Almost every move we do can be altered.  And please don’t let your pride get in the way of modifying. If it’s not best for you, then it’s not worth doing.  
• Please understand that the Amy you see at the front of class is not the 24-hour a day Amy.  Don’t compare yourself to my energy and personality while teaching.  You pay good money for a positive experience, and I do my best to give it to you.  Last year I hit an emotional funk and wiped away tears while riding to class on my bike.  I’d like to think you were none the wiser.  I get tired and cranky, like you may.  (If you don’t, can you tell me your secret?)  I just don’t show it during the time you are with me. 

• If I see something that needs correcting and show you, it’s because I don’t want you to learn the wrong way and/or get injured.  Don’t take it personally.   
• My class is a judgement-free zone.  I don’t care what your butt, hips, gut, arms, or big toe looks like.  This is true even when we are doing mountain climbers and your shirt flops up and down, exposing the belly you may love or loathe.  All I see when this happens is your hard work.  When you are in my class you are a) active and b) probably moving more than most people at that point in time.  It’s like the saying goes, even the slowest runner is faster than the guy sitting on the couch.  Why would I judge you for trying to strengthen your body?
• Some of you are fitter than I am.  I try hard to challenge you.  Some of you are not as fit as you want to be.  Likewise, I try to push you beyond your level.  As long as you’re at the level of exertion that I’m cueing, you’re good.   Don’t worry about your neighbor.  This is your workout.  Own it.
• I’m not always as confident as I appear.  Sometimes I carefully choose my clothes based on how bloated I feel.  Other times I’m acutely aware of the stench coming from body parts my mother would die if I mentioned online.  Some days are just like that.
• Each class my goal is for you to leave feeling equal parts accomplished, energized and fatigued. If you’re consistently missing one part, please give me feedback so I can make this the best hour of your day.

Now that we are all on the same page, let’s start moving.  We will make today’s workout our best effort.  And then grab a piece of chocolate when we’re done. 

With love and grace,

amy