Is exercise something you just cannot get excited about? Well, probably hard for you to believe, but at one time, I was no different. In 1979, at 23 years old, I suffered a back injury. I could not walk without help and was laid up for about 6 months. My doctor recommended that I join a gym to build up the muscles in my legs which had atrophied from lack of use. At each gym visit I would use the equipment recommended to build up my leg muscles. However, out of the corner of my eye I would notice a group of women “working out” to music. However, it was many months later before I got up the courage to skeptically sneak into the back row to see what this was all about. Gradually, I went from a totally uncoordinated back row class member, to a front row junky. It was not too long afterwards that I joined the ranks of those inspiring others who were initially timid and uncoordinated, that they could not only “just do it” but have lots of fun at the same time!
Teaching fitness “aerobic” classes before aerobic shoes were around, I found the Lord had given me a passion for fitness and helping other women lead healthier lives. Initially teaching in Memphis, Tennessee at a large fitness club, I moved to the small town of Monticello, Florida a few weeks before my first child was born and opened a fitness studio. I was also employed by North Florida Community College to teach aerobics, body conditioning, and weight training. Later my family moved to Tallahassee, Florida where I taught a variety of classes at the Plantation Club. As my desire grew to use Christian music in my classes, I started a fitness ministry through Women’s Aglow Fellowship at Forest Meadows called “Move In Praise.”
As the home schooling of my now three daughters became more intense, I gave up the teaching of fitness classes while I focused on their education needs until they went off to college.
Once again, the Lord began to stir in my heart the desire to use the gift and passion he had given to me to encourage women to lead healthier lives through lively, fun, and effective fitness classes.
Praise Boogie was founded to not only provide women with a fun and effective workout, but also to offer uplifting fellowship, edification through Christian music, praise to our Lord and Savior, and an avenue to share the love and gospel of Jesus Christ in a not-threatening environment. Our mission is to provide the tools, resources, and support for women to lead healthier lives, encourage and edify believers, evangelize the lost, and exalt the Savior.
The classes are totally fun and are choreographed to dynamic, fun, inspiring and lively Christian music.
If you have never participated in such a class, I promise that you will not only have a blast, but will also be uplifted, encouraged, and leave with a “new” song in your heart and a pep in your step!
Certifications, licenses, and specialties:
ACE
AFFA
Zumba®
Zumba Gold®
Pilates
Fuze Craze
Silver Sneakers FLEX instructor
If you have a heart to help other women through this ministry, please contact me to see how the Lord wants to use you. Or, if you would like to see these classes come to a location near you, please call me.