Riser of the Month August 2021
When Anna Romano moved back to the Glen Ellyn area about a year and a half ago, she was really nervous about finding a new workout studio/gym. However, the moment she walked into RISE, she knew it was the place. "Since day one I have felt so welcomed by this community and am continually challenged by the wide range of classes and workouts available," says Anna.
As a natural morning person, Anna loves starting her day at Rise, away from her phone and work and before her responsibilities start. "It really sets the tone for everything else," she says. "I need this time for both my mental and physical health."
While Anna makes sure she's moving her body in some way every day, she works on her goals of getting stronger in kettlebell and running faster tabatas, and we RISERs have all noticed. Congrats, Anna, on your dedication and getting closer to your goals every day.
Read on to see what else about RISE keeps Anna moving forward.
What specifically, other than format or schedule, do you like about Rise? I have a true love/hate relationship with the Rise Challenges. I love structure and adding in points, so a nice Excel sheet really speaks to me… but the no sugar is so hard! What Rise class gets you feeling the most mentally and physically amped? It’s impossible to choose just one Rise class because all of them and their instructors are so amazing! Outdoor Bootcamp with Carin always has me walking away feeling strong and accomplished. Sunday morning Boxing with Rachel and Cardio Strength/Boxing with Katelyn are really close seconds!
What’s your biggest challenge in getting to class?
Sometimes early morning work meetings can get in the way of what I want to take, but that’s what makes the Zoom recordings so great because I can make it work any time!
What’s your athletic background?
I would never consider myself athletic – I did cross country in high school but only because it was a no-cut sport and my parents made us do an activity year round. Thankfully, I fell in love with group fitness classes during grad school in 2013 and really haven’t looked back since! The energy you get from taking a class with others is what keeps me going and excited to workout.
What’s your best healthy living tip? I guess I would say that even if it’s hard, keep coming back because while it might not feel like it’s getting easier in the moment, your body gets stronger every day.