We have an amazing, dedicated and talented team of instructors and playgroup captains here at FIT4MOM Montgomery County, and I thought it would be nice if we could get to know a little more about each one of them. I'm excited to continue our spotlight this month with....Claire Barry!
Chances are, you've had at least one conversation with Claire, no matter which classes or activities you attend! It may not have been in person, but she's probably reached out to you at least once! And we may even have something in common: Claire was one of the very first moms I met in FIT4MOM too! When I started attending Stroller Strides in January of 2012, Claire and Sylvia would attend classes on Mondays and Fridays in White Flint Mall as well. While it seems like only yesterday, quite a lot has changed since then - our roles within FIT4MOM, there are 3 more girls between the two of us, and of course we haven't aged at all. ;) Claire is an incredible (+ super creative) instructor as many of you know, but what you may not know is that she's also my go-to gal behind the scenes. She reaches out and checks in with many of you on a regular basis, and she is also beyond patient with me - listening to my {crazy} ideas, helping brainstorm solutions, and keeping me on track! I can't explain just how thankful I am for everything that Claire brings to #FIT4MOMMOCO - it certainly wouldn't be what it is today without her! Thank you, Claire! xo, Heather
Now....read on to learn more about this incredible mama, and then go register for one of her classes on Pike13!
1. Who are the members of your family?
My husband of almost 10 years, Matt Barry and my girls, Sylvia (7 in March) and Hazel (4 in April).
2. Where can people find you? What is your role with FIT4MOMMOCO?
I currently teach Stroller Strides at Wheaton on Mondays and Pike & Rose on Wednesdays. I also come to Strides with Hazel when I can and try to attend Wheaton Body Back once a week.
You can also find me emailing ALL OF YOU! My role as the Client Resource Manager means that I am connecting with new moms to help them get involved with FIT4MOM and helping existing members with anything I can :)
3. Tell us your FIT4MOM story!
Baby Sylvia and I started attending Stroller Strides in 2011 when I wanted to get in shape to be in my sister's wedding! I have learned so much since then- including the importance of choosing a bridesmaid dress you can nurse in...awkward. I fell in love with the whole thing and about a year later went to training and started teaching Stroller Strides. It will be 6 years this Spring! Over this past year I have gotten more involved in the management side and have been in the Client Resource Manager position since June. I am thrilled to continue my FIT4MOM story as long as I possibly can (without having more babies!).
4. What is your favorite thing to teach our moms?
I like teaching moms lower body exercises because they are awesome for including lots of singing, clapping, tickling, etc. which keeps the kiddos happy!
5. What is the BEST thing about being an instructor?
It's such a rush! I feel so good after teaching a class! To see moms enjoying themselves, sweating, working hard, feeling accomplished, and connecting with each other puts a smile on my face every single time.
6. What is your WHY? Why do you keep doing what you do?
I know for a lot it's their kiddos. I have to be honest that both my kids have pretty much always complained on the way to (and often during!) Stroller Strides. I love that they are seeing strong moms focusing on their health but my why... is really me. My well-being and self-esteem. I need something that is outside my stay-at-home mom responsibilities where I feel valuable in a different way, to people besides my family, and where I can grow and learn. Knowing that moms are getting so much out of attending classes and being part of this Village, and that I play a part in that, is such a reward.
7. What is a fun fact that many may not know about you?
Fact: I love old people. May not sound "fun" but when I was a social worker, before kids, I ran a couple support groups in retirement communities and some of these older folks were hilarious. The grumpier, the better ;)
8. Anything else you'd like Our Village to know?
Just that I am so happy to know each of you and grateful for how my life is enriched by being a part of this community. Oh and also...please connect me with all of your mommy friends so I can get them signed up for a free trial class! Everyone should get to experience the magic of FIT4MOM!!