Sometimes, it’s not just about what exercise you’re doing, but how you feel while doing it. For one of our members, the journey to strength training with Studio ME wasn’t a straight path—it was one filled with both personal wins and physical setbacks, but ultimately, transformation.

She first walked through Studio ME’s doors two years before the pandemic. "At the time, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go with my exercise, but I immediately fell in love with my classes with coaches Siri and Liz." That initial draw? Trying something new. The thrill of a fresh routine. But more importantly, she felt challenged, in a good way. Like so many of us, she didn’t realize what her body was truly capable of until she stepped into an environment designed to push her—gently but firmly—beyond her limits.

Then the pandemic hit, but even that couldn’t stop her from staying connected to Studio ME. "Megan was incredibly accommodating and we were able to continue to exercise at home with equipment borrowed from the gym and under virtual guidance from the Studio ME team."

However, like many, she decided to try going solo. Exercising alone offered peace, flexibility, and freedom—but something was missing. "I did not realize I would quickly get stuck in the same routine and that I actually really love being a part of a team."

From Battling Anorexia and Smoking to Running and Beyond: A Journey of Resilience

This member’s fitness journey started long before Studio ME. "I have been running daily for close to 15 years, and mornings are my time to clear my thoughts and put my body in motion." For her, running wasn’t just exercise—it was therapy. It became a ritual, a way to process her day and release stress. But getting there wasn’t easy.

"I battled anorexia in the past and was a serious smoker, but I was lucky to be able to change my habits and replace them with much healthier addictions and obsessions." Running helped her turn her life around, replacing destructive habits with something healthier, both physically and mentally.

However, as time passed, her body started sending signals that it needed more. "As I am getting through my middle age, I find my body needing additional and different care." Despite all her efforts to stay active and healthy, life threw her another curveball. "I was diagnosed with osteoporosis and had a hip fracture in my thirties. Although my bones have been recovering greatly, I feel pain in my body, particularly in my back, as I am getting older and I continue to challenge it."

This is where many people face a crossroads—how do you continue doing what you love while giving your body the care it demands?

Strength Training: The Missing Piece

For her, the answer was strength training. Last year, she returned to Studio ME with two clear motivations. First, her husband had joined Studio ME and was loving his experience—thanks to her recommendation! Second, she had a goal: strengthening her back for Dragon Boat training with her best friend. "I wanted to join her in the open water rowing this summer, but I knew I needed to get stronger."

Since January, she’s been in a twice-weekly strength training class. "I’m LOVING IT!!! I am very competitive and get inspired by my classmates. My back is getting stronger, and I can stand and walk longer without feeling pain or discomfort."

Strength training provided exactly what her body had been asking for. It helped rebuild the muscle and bone strength she needed to support her back and alleviate the discomfort that running alone couldn’t address. With a history of injuries and osteoporosis, strength training is critical for building the resilience needed to protect against future setbacks.

It’s Not Just About the Workout—It’s About the People

What she didn’t expect was how Studio ME would become so much more than a gym. "Studio ME became my community. Every time I feel like not going, I come back saying that I had the best class ever." She isn’t just talking about the workouts (though they are tough, challenging, and exactly what she needs). It’s the people, the energy, and the camaraderie that keep her coming back.

"I love the friendly atmosphere—you walk in and people wave at you and say hi, the exercises are always challenging and interesting, the coaches are attentive and encouraging, and there are so many fun things going on during the month." Even her husband, who joined Studio ME after hearing about it from her, is part of the experience. "My husband and I love to ‘compare notes’ after class."

What’s even more telling? That rowing trip she had planned with her best friend? She didn’t go. Not because she didn’t want to, but because changing her Studio ME class schedule was just not an option. "The biggest reason I didn’t go rowing was that I would have had to change my class schedule with Studio ME. I love my classmates so much that it was just not an option."

Why Strength Training at Studio ME is the Secret to Long-Term Wellness

For anyone who’s battled injuries, osteoporosis, or simply the aches and pains of aging, strength training is the answer to long-term health and mobility. But more than that, it’s the community that makes the difference. The accountability, motivation, and friendships formed in each class keep you going, even on days when you feel like skipping.

At Studio ME, we aren’t just focused on helping you move better; we’re focused on helping you feel better, physically and mentally, so you can keep doing the things you love—whether it’s running, rowing, or just staying strong for everyday life.

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