Until I found Hilliard, I was in a workout rut. I’ve always identified as a runner; it’s my meditation, my escape, and what gives me joy. But lately I had found I was running with less passion and drive, and was getting discouraged when my mile splits weren’t where I wanted them to be. I’ve run four half marathons, and am training for my first full, the Marine Corps Marathon in DC this October. My younger sister Meggie, an amazing runner in her own right, pushed me to sign up, so I found myself with the daunting task of training to run 26.2 miles.
After hearing about Hilliard, I found myself lurking on their website. Clary and Liz looked amazing, and I could honestly feel their positivity radiating through their words! After consulting with a few girlfriends who swore by HSM, and realizing I had nothing to lose, I dove in head first and signed up for the 10-pack new client special.
The second I walked into my first class, HSM Essentials, any doubt or intimidation I felt melted away. Liz introduced herself to me right away, and asked me all about myself, my current exercise routine, if I currently used weights. She made me feel so welcome, and class hadn’t even begun! Tara was my instructor that day, and she was energetic, encouraging, and pushed me to my edge! She also made a point to introduce herself to me. HSM is truly a sisterhood.
The most amazing thing though, is how my running has transformed. As any runner will tell you, your legs and arms all stem from your core; when you get tired on a run, your core is what helps you through. Strong abdominals mean increased stamina and speed, and more stabilization when you run. I started noticing small changes in my runs, ranging from more power when going up hills, to feeling more centered when my feet hit the pavement. The true testament, though, comes from my most recent run. I completed 3 miles in under thirty minutes, something in my 7 years of cross country I never accomplished! Not only that, but I shaved an entire minute off my mile time, and maintained that pace during my run. All of this in only 8 classes of HSM, taken in 4 weeks. To say I’m amazed is an understatement. I’m feeling my body transform in ways I didn’t think was possible, and my new-found respect for my body has trickled into all areas of my life. I cannot wait to continue my fitness journey with Hilliard, you all have truly changed my life!