My fitness journey started at a young age. I’ve been doing sports and exercise for as long as I can remember, and it always has been a very big part of my life. I’m originally from Monterrey, Mexico and recently moved here to Grand Rapids, Michigan. My father and all my family on that side were into sports…even my grandfather was a culturist in his youth, so you can say that all my life I’ve been involved in health and fitness. Because of this strong family influence, I began my studies in college and graduated with a public health and nutrition degree. I continue my training, earning certifications in the health and fitness industry…and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon!
When I was a kid, I used to be into everything sports related, trying to find the one thing that fit me 100%, or made me feel my best self. I tried everything…and I mean everything from dance / ballet, swim, softball, soccer, track, tennis, gymnastics, and even martial arts. Everything I tried I really enjoyed, but I’ve never felt like it was meant for me. That is, until I took my first indoor cycling class. I never actually stepped into a cycle studio until late 2018 when I was invited to try out as an instructor for a new studio. Since I’ve always been into exercise, I thought I had nothing to lose by trying out…I instantly got hooked. I loved everything about it – the music, the lights, the hard work! The feeling I got on the bike…it was my perfect match.
Since then I believed that someday I’d be an instructor. I started training, completing more certifications, going to a variety of classes…everything I needed to work my way to be an instructor! After all, I loved every minute of it…this was MY thing, MY sport, MY hobby.
I never coached before, so that was stepping out of my comfort zone for sure, but I loved it too! Sadly, a few months into it, Covid happened, and I had to stop because the studio closed…but I never stopped cycling. I bought a stationary bike and kept cycling at home, still practicing, learning and working on everything I needed to be ready for another opportunity. In less than 2 years I got another chance to be back in the studio. But this time it was my #1 bucket list studio, the one and only CYCLEBAR! Never in my wildest dreams would’ve thought of it. Mostly because those studios were only in the United States, but also because I recently moved to town, and never coached in English before. Everything was new to me, but again, I chose to step out of my comfort zone, auditioned, passed and the rest is history!
I look forward to doing this for many, many years to come…motivate and keep pushing myself, my riders, and everyone else who wants to join me on this crazy awesome health & fitness journey to be our best selves!
Thanks to Juanylu for taking time out of her busy schedule to share her inspiring story! If you’re in the west Michigan area…this is a great time to meet her and also check out CycleBar GR. See below for info about a special Grand Opening weekend event (3/24-27) at the newest indoor cycle studio in town!
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