It’s time to introduce another member of the FIT4MOM dream team - Karen! 🎉 Since taking her first FIT4MOM class back in 2018, Karen has become such an essential part of our village! From member, to village events coordinator, to general manager in June 2023, she's always gone above and beyond to support our crew.
Karen works hard behind the scenes doing all things Pike13, managing member milestones, helping new clients schedule their first class, and more! Recently certified to teach Strides 360, Karen's first class felt like she’s been teaching for years, and it’s no surprise—she’s taken over 800 classes with us!
Join Karen for a class (Thursday mornings at 9:45am), and see for yourself why we’re so lucky to have her!
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Who are you mom to?
I am mom to Claire (6), Maggie (4), and kitty mom to Bootsy (1).
What do you remember about your very first FIT4MOM class before being on the team?
My very first class was the Stroller Strides Grand Opening in New Lenox back in 2018. I was looking to get out of the house with my 5 month old and start exercising when I saw the free event on Facebook. I was nervous but so glad I went because it was EXACTLY what I needed! I instantly became a Lifer!
What’s one of your favorite FIT4MOM moments?
There are so many memorable moments with FIT4MOM but one of my favorites is Easter! Seeing the kids have so much fun at the egg hunt is the best and also seeing JoAnna as the Easter Bunny is pretty great too!!!
What’s a show, podcast, or book you’re obsessed with right now?
Always SNL, but I am currently watching, loving, and LOL-ing the show "Shrinking" and currently reading "The Women" by Kristin Hannah which is incredible.
You’re at your favorite coffee shop - what are you ordering?
My favorite coffee shop is Dunkin' and if it's hot out and I'm treating myself it's an iced cocoa mocha signature latte, but my usual order is original blend with 1 cream, 3 unsweetened hazelnut, and 1 french vanilla swirl.
What’s something most people don’t know about FIT4MOM that you wish they did?
Something I wish more people knew about FIT4MOM is that it is soooooooooooooo much more than exercising. You truly have the best community, village, support, non judgmental, lifelong friends who want to be the best version of themselves with you and root you on day after day! And they GET IT! If you're having a day, these gals have all been there too and there's a sense of solidarity.
How do you stay motivated on days when you're feeling unmotivated?
Just push myself to get to class because once you're there you feel better! Also, get a friend and hold each other accountable to attend the same class every week!
If you could only listen to one music genre for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This is the worst question because I love all music but I'm gonna have to go with Alternative!
Favorite way to unwind after a day of momming?
Comfy pj's, fuzzy blanket and either watch a favorite show, read a good book, or mindless scrolling- it all depends on the mood!
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger, pre-mom self, what would it be?
Help your friends who already have kids because they need it and you don't understand that yet.