April/May Member of the Month

Meet Erin 

I grew up training as a gymnast and competed until I graduated high school. When I got to college I thought I deserved to give myself a break for a while since I had spent so many years being pushed in the gym for gymnastics. I gained some weight but really I just felt lazy. That lasted a year. That summer, with my husband's influence, I picked up running (a little, like a mile and a half everyday) and it brought fitness back into my life. I didn't have to be in the gym for 4 hrs everyday to get fit, I just needed to do something everyday. From there I started running 1 half marathon every year and working out consistently, but working out by yourself can land you in a slump. 

My very intense husband was a great motivator but I couldn't exactly workout WITH my husband all the time. It wasn't until I was pregnant with Raygan that I heard about SSM and decided I would try it out once she was born. I started coming when Raygan was 5 weeks old. I came to of course get back in shape but also to work out and be pushed by other moms. I can honestly say I am in the best shape of my life because of stroller class. 

Some days I don't feel like coming, but I get out the door, and when I get to class I can't help but push myself once I'm there with everybody. It is that accountability and slightly competitive nature I have that make me push myself everyday. And I get to bring Raygan with me I want Raygan to recognize the importance of fitness in her dad and I's lives and for her to grow up not knowing anything different than fitness being a part of her daily routine. And my favorite question I get asked about SSM , " do you just meet up and walk with your babies?" Um no...Come try out a class!! Thank you moms for pushing me every day!

March Member of the Month

Meet Davida

Hi Ladies!
I have been a member of Stroller Strong Moms since the grand opening in Savannah; I am so thankful for this wonderful outlet! 

I am the oldest of five children, born and raised in beautiful Savannah, Ga! Although I wasn't particularly athletic growing up, I've always had a penchant for taking care of myself and being fit. My healthier lifestyle kickstarted after gaining the "freshman 15" during college at Georgia Southern University. Feeling uncomfortable with the added pounds, I decided to take steps to create a better me both physically and nutritionally. I shared my goals with my high school sweetheart, now husband Bryan. Many days after classes we would go jogging or work out together at the rec center. Bryan had always been physically active, playing soccer since 5, basketball and football. I figured if I could keep up with him, I'd be in good shape. After college and marriage, we continued to workout together, albeit challenging with our new careers, schedules and grad school. 

Fall of 2010 I was looking for more than my neighborhood walks, treadmill jogs and spin class workouts. I wanted to take my fitness to a different level! I also wanted to have more energy for my fast paced and demanding job! So, I signed up for a 5:45am 5k beginners running program. After weeks of training, I ran my 1st official 5k ; the running bug attacked me and there was no looking back! Two months later I ran my second 5k, signed up for both bootcamp and half marathon training. 

I was on a roll until I surprisingly but happily found out I was pregnant. Due to my doctors orders I could not continue to run, so training for the half marathon had to be postponed. December 28th 2011 Bryan and I welcomed our incredible son Jonah to our family. After settling into my new role, I finally felt ( physically) ready to get back to exercising. I tried getting in shape alone but it was hard and lonely. I knew a group setting would get me going, but, I needed something that fit my new lifestyle as a mom.

In the fall of 2012 my desire became a reality!!! I read on Southern Mamas that a moms workout group ( Stroller Strong Moms) was debuting in Savannah. I was sold when I read I could exercise with my son! So, I got my stroller, mat and baby ready for our first day of class. The grand opening was awesome, beautiful weather and friendly faces! My first few classes were very, very challenging. I was surprised that I could get full body workout with just a few pieces of equipment! I could barely keep up with the exercises without my knees buckling; I was out of shape more than I imagined. However, I was excited because SSM's was just what I needed, I had no excuses for getting in better shape.

Since attending class with SSM's, I have lost more than 25 pounds. I also started running 5k's again, and now I am stronger and faster! This past fall I was able to train and complete my 1st half marathon.
When I think I can't do another burpee, squat or push harder in a race, I think of my fellow SSM's who are probably tired too, but will push through until the end of the challenge. I feel so blessed to workout with a wonderful group of down to earth, encouraging and highly motivated women. Through SSM's both my son and I have made friends we look forward to seeing every week!
Thank you Alexa, Kelli, Cassie and Lindsay for the challenging and exciting workout classes. Alexa, I'm so glad you followed your heart and brought SSM to Savannah!

February Member of the Month

 Meet Tess 

December 2013 (40 Pounds Lost!) 

Growing up, I was active but I never really made fitness an important part of my life. I was always comfortable with myself and the way I looked. As an adult I went to the gym, took a spin class here or a yoga class there. I would never have called myself fit, but I was happy. 

Then I had kids. Wow. I let my pregnancies do a number on my body. I gained more than the recommended amount of weight--by about 30 or 40 pounds! But I have my babies, and couldn't be happier about them. I just happened to let myself go in the process. 

In 2011 the Army moved my family to Columbus. My girl was 14 months old, and I heard about this group that was starting. Bring your stroller and your baby and workout at the park. Fantastic! I kid you not, I went to that park in September 2011. As usual though, I was late. I wussed out and didn't go to class. A few months later, I was pregnant and decided not to workout. 

September 2012

Oh how I kick myself for not going to class. 

After I had my boy, I finally made it back to that park. In 2013, I was so out of shape. Not myself. I was meeting new people who were all so supportive and polite, but I knew in my heart that I wasn't me. And I knew the only way I was going to change was to move my buns. Being unhealthy got me to my current state, and being healthy would get me back to myself. 

March 2013 

I tried so hard. And it payed off! Stroller Strong Moms is what got me going. The mix of running and strength training was exactly what I needed. I did a couch to 5K program on days I couldn't get to class and tried to cut out processed foods. I also made smarter choices. I doubt I'll ever be able to give up my coffee, but I can definitely do without the 400 calorie mochas and lattes!

SSM gives me motivation, encouragement, and just the right amount of accountability. I can go at my own pace, tend to my kiddos, and push myself beyond my comfort zone. Sure, the kids aren't always pleased about being strapped in as we pass the playground. And yes, I bribe them with fruit snacks. But when I see my girl doing step ups in our front yard or my boy doing his version of a side plank, I know I've made an important, lasting impression on them.

Today, I've gotten back to a better me. My kids are with me, learning, and are proud of me. My husband loves me however I am, but now he sees I am healthier and happier. His support and encouragement get me through each day. 

June 2013 (My first 5K!)

I still have goals for the future. Maybe even--dare I say it--a half marathon? All I know is, I have an amazing support group of ladies. Stroller Strong Moms is truly a blessing in my life. I always ask myself if I really want to do this. Can I get it done today? Change myself for the better? Well, the voice in my head tells me the answer is either, "Yes or Yes!"

December Member of the Month

Meet Holly 

I’m originally from Augusta, Georgia but I have called Savannah my home for the past 10 years. My husband and I met in college at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, GA. We still have fun going to all of the home football games every fall.  We have a little girl, Mary who is 4 years old. When I was pregnant with Mary I felt sick all the time in the first 2 trimesters. The only thing that would make me feel better was to take a nap. Aside from going to work I never exercised when I was pregnant. I was afraid I would hurt her in some way. I gained 30 pounds during my pregnancy and I assumed the pounds would disappear after having her. Boy was I wrong. I think it was the accumulation of crazy hormones, not sleeping well and turning 30 that the pounds did not melt away as I envisioned. I joined a gym but made excuses about it because the nursery was stinky. After that I tried workout videos in my house but I felt silly doing them by myself. A year later I joined another gym but I quit going because the trainers got on my nerves and when I didn’t know how to use the machines they made me feel really dumb.

More than anything I enjoyed being outside running but I would not stick with it. I scheduled a couple of 5K’s throughout the year in hopes that I would get motivated. It worked for a little while but I would try to “train” and run a couple of weeks before the 5k in hopes that I would magically run faster in the race.

Last January I ran a trail run where I worked and lived at the time. It was an all boys Boarding school located in Savannah. My husband and I were house parents there and took care of 8-12 teenage boys throughout the week. They had a fundraiser one weekend which was a 5K trail run and since the starting line was in my back yard I felt that was a sign I needed to run. I remember it being one of the worst runs ever. I could barely run half a mile without stopping. I could hardly catch my breath. I walked and ran as fast as I could and I told myself that would be my last “bad” run. I felt too young to feel that bad. At the finish line of 43 minutes I almost passed out. Earlier that week, when I was running at Forsyth Park I prayed that God would lead me to a workout partner that would encourage me and teach me the right way to work out, I knew I could no longer do it on my own.

I am so thankful that God answered that prayer because within the next couple of days I found an announcement on Facebook about Stroller Strong Moms. They met at Forsyth Park on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9:30. Perfect because Mary goes to school 2 blocks from there and school started at 9! I emailed Alexa and told her I did have a little one but the days she was in school but I would bring my empty stroller some of the days. She said great! No problem! (Little did I know her son was in Mary’s class!!)

My first week was so hard. I felt like I would pass out every time. That day we started the Get Fit Challenge and I could barely do 1 push up and could barely do a plank for 10 seconds. I felt so dumb. None of the girls laughed and they were all so encouraging. I remember the first 3 months I was sore everyday but so proud of my progress. My poor husband had to hear about SSM everyday because I was so excited. At the end of the get Fit Challenge I was awarded most improved. I owe it all to the inspirational ladies in the group.

 My friend Mandy (another SSM) signed up for a 5K in early February. That day it was cold and raining and she and her hubby came with their double stroller and I couldn’t believe how dedicated they were. I ran the entire way only stopping once to tie my shoe. I ran the 5K in a little over 29 minutes. I could not believe it. It was all because of SSM and the amazing trainers.  A month later was the Shamrock 5K Run. We all made green tutus and dressed in our best green. Even some of our husbands came out to support us. The Girls on the Run 5K was in May, such fun! Also in May was the Savannah Mile. We decided it would be fun for it to be a family affair. Jason rode his bike and Mary and I ran together. My sweet little girl’s legs ran the entire way! We finished in less than 17 minutes! Not bad for a 4 year old!

 Around July the girls started talking about the Savannah Rock and Roll Half Marathon. I encouraged them to do it but never even considered doing this. The more they chatted about it I thought more about it. Lindsay Von told me that there was no reason I shouldn’t do it. If I trained properly it was possible for me to do it. Davida also encouraged me and would even text me at 5:30AM on Saturdays to make sure I was awake to train! It was like a light bulb went off in my head, if these girls who inspired me every day could do it, I did not want to let them down! I continued coming to SSM and also joined another running group in September so I could get my long runs in. I am so thankful and proud to say that on November 7^th I ran my first HALF MARATHON!!! I will say it was one of the most difficult things I have ever done but also one of the most rewarding. To see my husband, my mom and my little girl at the finish line was so amazing. For the past 3 years I have run the Savannah Bridge Run in December. It is extremely difficult with a 5.5 incline but once you reach the top it is indescribable. I could barely breathe and made it to the finish line in 44 minutes. This year I really wanted to do better. During the Half Marathon I injured my foot so I wasn’t able to work out and come to SSM as much as I wanted to and tried resting it and running when I could. I prayed that I would do better and to my amazement I finished 14 minutes faster than last year.

I cannot tell you how thankful I am for Alexa. Her dedication to SSM is unbelievable. Kelli and Cassie have been awesome as well. I gained many new friends and I am the most fit I have been in years. I pray that other moms take the first step and resolve to be a better you.

Get Fit for 2014

It's that time of year again for another Get Fit Challenge! The following are the details about Get Fit for 2014!!!

Get Fit For 2014 is a 10 week program. In Savannah, it will start January 13^th and 14^th  and it will end on March 24th and 25th. In Columbus, it will start on February 3rd and 4th and will end on April 14th and 15th. 

It will include both a fitness assessment (during class time) and body composition assessment (before or after class) at the start and end of the program. The fitness assessment will include five different exercises that will be counted/timed.  The body composition assessment will use skinfold calipers on three locations on your body to distinguish percentage of body fat.

You will receive points in the following ways:

-Class attendance

-Improvement in fitness assessment

-Improvement in body composition assessment

-Whether you reached the fitness goal you set for yourself at the beginning

This year we will break up participants into two groups based on the initial assessment results. This will make it fair across the board and encourage everyone to compete against others who are at their same fitness level. Points will be tallied throughout the program and participants with the most points from each group at the end of the 10 weeks will receive gift card prizes!!

You will take a before/after picture at class at the start and end of the program so you can see how much the hard work payed off!

There is a $15 registration fee that will go up to $20 one week before the start of GFF2014. Payment can be made on the prices page of the SSM website. You have to be a member of SSM in order to participate in the GFF2013. But don’t worry, it’s easy to become a member! All you need to do is purchase a 1 month unlimited membership, 10 class pass, or 5 class pass. 

'Get Fit for 2014' will happen during regular class days and times. The fitness testing will take place on January 13^th and 14th and March 24th and 25^th during class time. The body composition testing will occur before or after class on those days. More detailed info on the body composition testing is to follow.

The GFF2014 assessment schedule for Columbus, GA is as follows: 

Lakebottom Park- Monday, February 3rd 9:30-10:30AM

Britt David Park- Tuesday, February 4th 9:30-10:30AM 

The GFF2014 assessment schedule for Savannah, GA is as follows:

Savannah (Forsyth Park)- Monday, January 13th 9:30-10:30AM 

Richmond Hill (JF Gregory Park)- Tuesday, January 14th 9:30-10:30AM

Pooler (Tom Triplett Park)- Thursday, January 16th 9:30-10:30AM 

You do not have to participate in the 'Get Fit For 2014' as a member of Stroller Strong Moms. It is your choice. Any questions, concerns, comments can be sent to info@strollerstrongmoms.com

The past two years of the Get Fit Challenge have been a GREAT success!! Moms lost noticeable amounts of body fat and improved tremendously in their fitness assessments. The results were extremely impressive!! The below photos show last year's top finishers in Columbus and Savannah. Moms lost as much as 15 pounds over the 10 weeks and many dropped body fat percentages by over 5% (which is SUPER impressive). 

2013 SSM Savannah Get Fit Challenge Winners 

2013 SSM Columbus Get Fit Challenge Winners

November Member of the Month

November Member of the Month... Bekah Miller!

My journey begins in Michigan; Corunna, Michigan to be exact.  I travelled a decent amount and went to college just south of Chicago at Olivet Nazarene University, but for the most part stayed in Corunna.  I have one brother who is five years younger than me.  He is good at everything…school, athletics, making friends, you name it.  I’ve always struggled with my weight and it never helped that I had a thin, fit brother who could run circles around me.

I followed my husband, Ben, to Columbus about 5 years ago.  When we met he was living in Charlotte, NC and I was living in Corunna.  He worked for a pharmaceutical company and was at a conference in Chicago.  My Aunt is a biochemist and was at the same conference, sitting right next to him.  She was forever trying to pawn me off on someone and he was the target that time.  Here we are…married 4 years, have 2 beautiful girls, Chloe and Piper (affectionately known as “The Pipe” because, well, she definitely has pipes), and a wonderful life in Columbus, Georgia.  Ben works for Synovus; he’s an IT Sourcing and Category Manager.  Basically, he negotiates IT contracts for Synovus.  This means we never pay full price for anything but we also have to read all the fine print on EVERYTHING….it’s a blessing and a curse really.  

Believe it or not. I’ve always liked to exercise but then would find reasons to quit.  My grandpa passed away the day after my 22 birthday and he was into bicycling.  My entire family is/was a cycling family and I have vivid memories of riding in a Burley with my snacks and baby doll, Emily.  After Grandpa passed away I got back into cycling as a way to feel close to him.  I lost 40 pounds and felt great!  I continued cycling until I moved to Columbus.  I’m not sure why I stopped…I guess I just did, again, and subsequently put all the weight back on.

I had a rough third trimester with Chloe and had to spend the last 3 months on bed rest because of high blood pressure.  I know that work caused most of this, but so did the extra weight.  In the end Chloe was an emergency C-Section with a very hard recovery, not only physically, but emotionally as well.   

I was introduced to Stroller Strong Moms in May of 2012 when Chloe was 6 months old.  I was so excited and nervous my first class.  Sara (Randolph) told me it was the hardest workout I was ever going to do and she was right.  I was very intimidated but went anyway and after the first class was hooked.  I couldn’t keep up, I looked ridiculous in my workout clothes, my C-Section incision ached, but OH MY WORD I had so much fun!  After a month of SSM we found out we were pregnant again.  I came to class religiously during my pregnancy…every day.  I felt so good through my whole pregnancy and continued to not be able to keep up and look ridiculous in my workout clothes.  But I was there!  With Piper being due April 12 I planned on March being my last month of SSM, but with KimKap working to shake that baby out it was a hard class with Brooke W. that pushed Piper to her limit.  I swear it was all the squats and my pregnant version of sprints that made her come March 29.  Yup…I was in class the day I gave birth, not on purpose though.  I had another emergency C-Section but this time had the easiest recovery imaginable.  I couldn’t wait to get out of bed and walk around the hospital and when we got home, I couldn’t wait to get outside and go for a walk.  We made a few appearances at SSM in April just to get out and get some air (no working out, yet) and finally gave in and started back the beginning of May.  My midwife was supportive even though I was only 4 weeks postpartum and I’ve been coming ever since.  

Admittedly, I haven’t lost the weight I’ve wanted to, or expected to really, but in the end, I don’t think that’s my goal.  My goal is to be the healthiest me I can be and show my daughters that women are supposed to be strong and healthy and that doesn’t always mean skinny with thighs that don’t touch.  I was so excited to run my first race EVER this month as part of a relay team in the Soldier’s Marathon.  Now I’m training to run a half marathon…who would have thought?  I know this is because of SSM and I never would have done anything like this without the support and encouragement from fellow mommies on the same journey.