Dawn has been taking Barre classes since November 2015, and now adds in our Barre Sculpt classes to her regular routine for an extra challenge. A member of my 500 Club, Dawn inspires us with her hard work and dedication to her health and wellness, even at 5:30 am! We are excited for you to learn more about her!
Q: Where are you from, and how long have you been in Gainesville?
A: I was born and raised in California but have lived in Gainesville now for 34 (gulp!) years.
Q: What’s your favorite AUXO tank?
A: It’s actually my sparkly AUXO 500 Class shirt! It reminds me of what I’ve accomplished and challenges me to reach my next goal of taking 750 classes!
Q: Tell us what you do when you’re not at AUXO?
A: I love to travel and plan trips! I look forward to the time when I can travel more! I also love the theater and music. My husband and I are also big foodies and he’s a great cook, so I love trying his creative efforts!
Q: Was your first Barre class what you expected?
A: No. I was afraid I would need to know ballet positions and moves so I was a little intimidated about coming, and I’m not very coordinated. My daughter always attends barre classes when she visits Gainesville and she encouraged me to go with her over the Thanksgiving weekend of 2015 – she told me I’d love it and I did! I’ve been attending regularly ever since! The basics are easy to learn, and the instructors assist you when introducing new exercises or positions so that you get the maximum benefit without fear of hurting yourself!
Q: Why did you decide to continue with AUXO Fitness after your free week by investing in an unlimited membership?
A: I had been trying to exercise on my own at home with a video program and that wasn’t working very well. At AUXO, I loved exercising to all the different music at each class and every instructor kept me wanting to come back! The 5:30 a.m. class fit my schedule perfectly and I began to feel better with regular exercise. Everyone is so friendly and supportive, and it just really has become the one thing I do for myself and I miss coming to AUXO if I’m not able to attend!
Q: What makes this workout different from other exercises you have experienced?
A: The wonderful instructors!!! They are all different, innovative, fun, and each one brings something different to every class. That’s why it never gets old. Even though we do a lot of the same types of moves there are always variations and new challenges. I love the new barre sculpt classes. Those are a fun new challenge for me!
Q: What is your favorite Barre move?
A: Probably planks and flat-back chair because they help with both physical and mental endurance. And weights… I love working with weights because I can see the results!
Q: What results have you noticed after taking classes at AUXO consistently?
A: Visible toning of the muscles in my arms, shoulders, legs and glutes, and improvement in my core, which is my weakness. I used to find myself slumped over my desk by the end of the day, but now my posture is much improved!
Q: Have you experienced any benefits from Barre that have affected you beyond the physical?
A: Yes. I have a very busy and stressful job with long hours and that hour of exercise first thing in the morning, helps me relieve some stress and mentally prepare for the day. Giving myself that time to work on myself and my health helps give me the energy to face whatever the day may bring!
Q: What keeps you motivated to continue coming to Barre?
A: Heather, Alicia, Deanna, Emma, Brinn, Erica and all the other wonderful instructors who make exercise and health both challenging and fun. And all the “regulars” who attend class, and the wonderful women at the front desk who greet you with a smile and call you by name. It’s a very warm and supportive place!
Q: Which of AUXO’s Core Values most resonates with you?
A: Each of AUXO’s core values are important to me – empowerment, authenticity, community involvement, personal transformation – they are exactly the reasons why I keep coming back. Sometimes I feel as if I have little control over my busy work life and that hour at AUXO helps center me and empowers me to become a stronger and more confident woman, both physically and mentally. So, I guess that’s a combination of empowerment and personal transformation!
Q: Is there anything you would like to share with potential new clients about your experience at AUXO Fitness?
A: Don’t think barre classes are just for younger women. Exercise and good health are important at all ages! I’m one of the oldest attendees and I love it – you will, too! There are several different types of classes offered – barre, barre-bata, barre sculpt, yoga, etc., and variations are always offered, tailored to your own fitness level and whether you have any injuries to be mindful of. Come find what fits you best. It can be intimidating to walk into a new place where you don’t know anyone, but you will quickly realize what a welcoming and supportive place AUXO is to obtain and maintain a healthier you. It truly is like a big family. Treat yourself!
Staff Standout: Lauren