V.I.P. Client Spotlight – Barbara Parke

This month’s spotlight is a VIP client who walks, talks and screams “Mind Over Matter”.  Barbara Parke came to Mind Over Matter Studio already “fit” a little over a year ago. Her running partner and very dear friend, Sonia, told her about the studio and she has been hooked ever since.  When I say Barb was already fit, I mean, she is a runner, but not just any runner, but a “marathon” runner, who loves cycling as well and any challenge that you can think of. She just spent her “big” birthday recently riding over 250 miles in the Alps which I think says quite a bit about the type of person Barb is. She is an athlete. She does things that most of us would never be able to do in our lifetime. But the one thing that sets her apart from most athletes, is that she is humble. She is in great shape, strong, and very motivated but when you add magic ingredient “being humble”, this is what sets her apart from other athletes and makes her stronger than any women I know. Another thing that I love about Barb is that she is always optimisitc, despite the challenges life brings, she always uses the mind over matter mantra to get passed any hurdle.  She takes every challenge with a smile. She is motivated and is always the first one to be at the studio, helping me put out the mats and straps, stretching her body and getting herself ready for whatever goals she has set for herself that day. If there is anything we can learn from barb, it is optimism. Don’t let any thing stand in your way, you can do it! Let’s see what she has to say about the studio and her past year with us;

 

When did you first start taking classes at Mind Over Matter Studio Classes?

Sonia told me about it a little over a year ago.

 

 What got you “hooked” to Mind Over Matter Studio’s Barre Method?

When Sonia first suggested I come, I had no clue why I would work with smaller weights because I had always been working with larger weights. It took me one class to realize I could use smaller weights and still really feel it and that’s what got me hooked. It was a challenge I couldn’t resist. It’s the hurt that feels so good.

 

How often do you take class?

I take class between 3 and 5 times a week, and I double up on some days when I’m not running.

 

Have you ever taken a barre class before?

 No, never.

 

You currently completed the Raise the Barre Fall Chllenge and I know you will be doing another challenge these next 30 days. What goals have you set for yourself in class?

 It’s not a number of class goals. It’s a goal of really strengthening my right knee. I know I can’t completely cure it but it’s systematic in my mind and that’s what matters to me is to strengthen.

 

I know you came into the class already fit, but how has barre made a difference?

I am much stronger than I was. What is amazing to me is every time I felt myself slouching over while riding the bike, I brought my shoulders back and it made my time better, it released tension, and I felt much better. The strength I have built and the knowledge I have gained made a big difference in my running and cycling.

If there is one thing you would tell a potential client, what would it be?

I was hooked after the first one. You give them so many options. It is difficult but that’s why I do it. It depends on what your goal is. If your goal is to get more fit and less injured then this is it. Every single class you do, there are so many options to work your muscles.

 

 

Thank you for stepping into our studio and making this your home away from the pavement!

All M.O.M.S Love,

Orlee