Student Spotlight: Michelle Schmaltz
When did you start coming to Yen Yoga & Fitness?
The first time I came to Yen was when Liz T was teaching a Werq Dance Fitness class on the schedule. I wanted to support her as I was working out with her at Glen Arbors Sleeping Bear Bay Club along with Amanda Jackson and Stacy Jago. I loved that first class I took with Liz and when I moved to TC from Glen Arbor in the fall of 2017 I decided to join as a member, trying out new classes.
What was your reason for starting?
I have always been interested in fitness and enjoyed the classes with teachers I knew from Sleeping Bear and from there ventured out to other classes, including cycling which became one of my favorites.
What has been your biggest accomplishment since becoming a member at Yen Yoga & Fitness?
Biggest accomplishment is just being able to push myself physically whether its TRX, Arms Abs Assets, Cycling, or Barre Fusion now, and knowing that I can stick it out through the entire class, feeling stronger and energized with each time I come.
What is your favorite class?
Anyone who knows me knows my favorite class is spinning with Wes Sovis on Wednesday and Friday nights. I even have a favorite bike that I show up early to get! And sometimes after class, a few of us will get together for a drink – even though I don’t drink! The friendships from that class have really helped to motivate me to keep it as a constant in my schedule.
Do you have any funny Yen moments you’d like to share, or any “meditations from the mat” moments?
Yen is my happy place. Everyone from the front desk to the instructors are so special to me. There’s so much love, positive vibes and happy people I couldn’t ask for anything more. And I can always count on them for a laugh about losing my mat again, or labeling my water bottle with a new funny nickname. Too many good memories to chose from. Whatever mood I am in before walking into Yen, by the time I leave, I am feeling a million times better, no matter what.
What advice or words of encouragement would you like to pass along to people who haven’t been to Yen Yoga & Fitness?
Be uncomfortable getting comfortable! Definitely words to live by.