Member Spotlight: Bethany Imondi

Name: Bethany Imondi

Occupation: Development Associate, American Association of University Women

Which Balance location do you belong to? Thomas Circle

How long have you been a member? 2013

How often do you come to the gym? 4 to 5 times a week

Why did you decide to join Balance? What do you like most about the gym?

After I graduated from Georgetown, I moved to Logan Circle and began looking for a gym that was close to home and work.The Balance Gym at Thomas Circle was conveniently located near both places, so after a month using the gym from a Living Social deal, I renewed my membership for the long haul. From the friendly staff to the engaging instructors, I always start my workouts feeling energetic and welcomed and finish knowing that I worked hard in good company. Even after a long day, it always feels great to walk in the door and have someone greet me by name and remind me why I showed up to work out.

What are your favorite classes to take at Balance?

By far, my favorite class is BODYPUMP. It can be intimidating for women to lift weights, so this class is perfect for someone like me who wants to strength training and get strong. I love the upbeat music and the perfectly choreographed strength moves that go along with it. After more than a year regularly taking the class, I feel even better about being able to pump weights as heavy as the instructors’, and even sometimes more than the men in the class. I also used to teach spin classes while at Georgetown, so I love taking the Spin classes at Balance. I often leave the classes sweaty and inspired by new choreography and playlists.

Do you have any gym must-haves (gear, music, post-workout snacks, etc.)

As a runner, I’ve become pretty loyal to my foam roller. Often after a tough workout, you’ll find me rolling on the fourth floor turf to massage and loosen up my legs.

How do you fit working out into your busy schedule?

When I’m at the gym, I prefer to take classes over solo workouts. It’s more motivating to me to know I have a class at certain time, so I schedule it on my calendar like I would any other commitment.

How has Balance Gym helped you achieve your goals?

Last summer I trained for my first marathon, and after multiple days of running, I looked forward to my off days with strength training at the gym. During my last half marathon training this past winter, Balance’s treadmills meant I could still get my running workouts in even on days of frigid temperatures.

#BalanceLife is: self-love and doing what makes you happy.

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