Motivating Mom of the Month-38.png

March 2023 MOM - Motivating Mom of the Month

We are so excited to announce our MOM (Motivating Mom of the Month) for March! Each month we will take a moment to honor one of our local mamas at FIT4MOM Montgomery + Frederick Counties. We want to highlight her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle and for her dedication to the program. This month we honor....Nora Zabst!

Nora‘s positive energy and smile will fill any class! During my first few years of teaching, Nora was a constant in the evening classes at the Lakelands. I always loved watching her work hard and challenge herself all while balancing life with a smile on her face. I wish I got to see Nora more these days, but I’m always thrilled to see a photo of her continuing to do her thing in classes. She has stayed consistent when it comes to taking care of herself through exercise and I hope she’s proud of all of her accomplishments! ~ Instructor Katie H.

Nora is one of the strongest women I know. She shows up consistently and puts in the work, giving each and every move her max effort. Her energy in class is contagious and she's an absolute inspiration! ~ Instructor Marie

--

We asked Nora a few questions so we can all get to know her better, and here is what she had to say:

Who are the members of your family?

My husband Mark, and 2 daughters Josie (almost 10!) and Lanie (6 ½). We also have a Shiba Inu, Leah and an aquatic turtle named Tiny Tim.

What is your hometown, and where do you live now?

I’m from a suburb of Chicago, Illinois that is very close to O’hare called Park Ridge. Currently I live in Gaithersburg in the Kentlands neighborhood.

What is/was your career?

I’m an elementary school teacher. I spent time as a classroom teacher and then moved into a reading specialist position when I had my oldest. Right now I mostly support Kindergarten and 1st grade in all things literacy.

What is the furthest place you've been from home?

Furthest is probably the UAE- specifically Abu Dhabi and Dubai. My brother in law and his family lived there for 10 years so we have been to visit. It’s a fascinating place!

What is your favorite thing to do as a family?

I love a slow weekend morning with nothing on the agenda. It’s so rare at this stage in my kids lives so when we come across a weekend morning with everyone home and no plans we typically plan out a breakfast everyone can help in preparing. After breakfast, we get out on a walk (close by or take a drive to hike somewhere). This is our happy place together.

Favorite thing to watch on TV?

Most recently I’ve enjoyed The White Lotus and Shrinking.

Your favorite song or artist?

I love the band Coldplay. Back in the day I followed them around the US and even traveled to see them at a festival in Portugal. My first Coldplay concert was in 2001 at a super small venue in Chicago….of which I only paid $2 for 2 tickets. Their song, “Yellow” was our wedding song.

List 3 of your favorite things or places.

Good coffee, beach vacations, Greece

Your proudest moment.

I’m super proud of my kids. My kids do so many things on a day to day basis that make me think I’m raising kind, respectful, and responsible humans and that is all I can ask for.

Any advice for other moms out there?

Take all the photos and videos you can. Time goes so quickly (and those little voices change so fast!). And then put down your phone and be in the moment :)

When was your first class with FIT4MOM, and what made you go?

I dropped in a few classes randomly when each of my daughters were babies but really found my way when I decided to join one of the Body Well sessions with Katie Henry in 2017. I was looking for the extra push I needed to commit to my health again after my kids were born. The community was supportive and the workouts provided the exact variation of exercises that kept me interested.

What is your favorite F4M MOCO + FREDERICK class?

Boost or Ignite- I’m a cardio junkie so these classes push me to do more than just cardio which is exactly what I need in my life! Bring on the strength and core work!

Favorite exercise?

You know how sometimes an instructor models an exercise and you think “there is no way I can do that”? But then you do. I love when that happens. That’s my favorite.

How has FIT4MOM changed your life?

FIT4MOM has taught me to focus on being dedicated to my health instead of being on the constant search for motivation. I’ve learned that motivation will come and go but the decision to be dedicated will keep me showing up for myself.

What is your favorite thing about F4M MOCO + FREDERICK?

F4M has fostered an environment that is welcoming and encouraging. I always leave feeling like I got in a solid workout and a solid “mom chat”. I also love that it is inclusive of all fitness levels- it meets you right where you are at when you show up for class.

March Extras:

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, what is your favorite green food?

I love a good salsa verde!

Beer fan? What’s your favorite?

Sure! I’ll take an Other Half Forever Ever Hazy IPA

As we think about moving back outside, what is your go-to activity after F4M classes?

I typically attend evening classes during the week and do really enjoy an evening solo Target run. Most often, my husband and I pick 1 night where he cooks a “date night dinner” while I am at class. So I come home to my kids in bed, a quiet house, and a good meal. He’s a darn good chef too.

Best movie of all time has to be.....?

Walk the Line or Wicker Park

--

Thank you so much, Nora for being such a valuable part of Our Village here at FIT4MOM Montgomery + Frederick Counties! We truly appreciate you & the positive energy you bring to class and Our Village!

Check back to see who our next MOM will be in April!