The biggest benefit of my job as owner of Stroller Strides is that Aly, my 21-month-old baby girl, can come to work with me. Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies, helping them make strides in fitness, motherhood, and life. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body-toning exercises using the stroller.
While I'm leading cardio for a 15-plus class of new moms, Aly and the other babies are entertained by activities and songs I weave in — even though I'm a horrible singer! I love my job because I'm able to use my exercise science degree while creating a safe place for new moms to feel good about themselves. Seeing women change how they view their bodies, building friendships, and forming community — that's what makes all the hard work worth it. I'm at peace with what I'm doing because I'm helping people learn how to take care of themselves.
—Joanna Gilchrist '04
See more in the Autumn 2012 Response Magazine "At Work" gallery.
