This inspiring leader in her field has been with The Clea Mae Movement for over four years. She is a community builder both in and outside of classes - people gravitate towards her for her impressive physical strength, her bright light, and her infectious sparkle. Here’s our interview together:
Q: What is your least fave/most fave exercise we do in class?
A: least: leg lifts to the side with the resistance band on -- standing, planking, in all the ways, there is no nice way to get this done. SLOW 4-count lunges on a slider / sliding disc with the band on....no explanation needed.
most: any of clea's signature dance moves
Q: How long have you been taking classes at The Clea Mae Movement and are there any things you think make it unique?
A: Oh wow, not sure how long it's been...around 4 years of getting my butt kicked by CM?
SO many things make CM classes special..Clea is brilliant at making me work extremely hard safely and efficiently by combining circuit, cardio, dance and pilates moves into a variety of killer classes that push and challenge me every. single. time. Clea's bright personality and energy motivates me to work hard, she's even tricked me into embracing cardio, which is quite the feat. most importantly, Clea keeps it real and fun. if you stick with her, you'll see the results.
Q: Can you share ways you’re staying inspired and healthy during lockdown?
A: These Covidien Times are a rollercoaster, pushing so many of us mentally and physically. Managing my energy and learning to practice self love is crucial in helping me stay sane so I can also support and show up for family, friends and co-workers.
I'm in the woods upstate so I've had opportunities to seek out some new ways to create space and clear my head being out of the city, especially during those extra tough days and weeks. Learning pottery at a little studio nearby --- doing something with my hands that does not involve screens really gets me out of my head.
For me, baking tasty sweet treats and ending a day of zoom and working with a cocktail and a living room dance party brings me a lot of joy right now. Trying to notice without judgement what I need to recharge - sometimes that's a walk in the woods or a workout and sometimes it's cake and cocktails.
Q: What work do you do, and what do you love about it? Are there some challenges about it you’d like to share?
A: I partner with women founders and growth stage companies to develop their brands and collaborate with agencies on brand strategy and innovation.
The challenges are endless running a business especially during a pandemic, but with those challenges comes growth, opportunity and fulfillment.
Q: Is there anything you’ve discovered as a “perk” or surprising bonus to working out virtually?
A: Since I'm working remotely, I can break for a class in between meetings and get right back to it after a quick sweat session. Working late and commuting made it really tricky to make it to classes during the week.
Broadening the community and working out with friends in other places -- seeing their faces and chatting briefly at the beginning and end of class is a treat during these times!
