Stroller Strides Hawaii, Leeward Oahu

Valentine's Day Class

2012-02-14T19:59:00.007-10:00

Amber, Lisa, Tamika, Jessica, Trish, Sallie, Heather, Hayley, Sharon
Marna, Kathy, Rayna, Sara

We had a blast today rocking Rayna's "Little Red Dress" workout!

And what would a Valentine's Day party be without pink "champagne" and a
post workout potluck?

Our best dressed mom award went to Sallie.
She won a gift card to Starbucks!

Trish and Rayna

Marna and Mack

Amber and Ella

Tamika, Carter, Sharon and Ava

Jessica and Peyton

Kathy and Alexander

Hayley, Ellie and Rylan

Sara and Liz

Kristin, Gavin, Riley, Iliahi and Ethan decorating Valentine's hearts

Ella and Peyton

R.I.P.P.E.D MNO

2012-02-08T13:59:00.005-10:00

Sallie, Rayna, Margene, Trish, Marna, Lauren, Brittney, Stacey, Tarah

Always fun to get our sweat on and share some laughs at the same time... even if most of those laughs were because I can't seem to get it together when it comes to choreographed aerobics routines!

So great to have so many fit moms in the same room having fun together! I think the highlight of the evening was when the instructor of the R.I.P.P.E.D class complemented everyone on their form.

Sallie, Rayna, Margene, Trish, Marna, Lauren, Brittney, Stacey, Tarah

Valentine's Day Class Next Week

2012-02-07T14:16:00.003-10:00

Valentine's Day class next Tuesday at CORP.
Class begins at 8:45 am.

Come join Rayna for her "Little Red Dress" Workout.

You are encouraged to come to class in a red or pink dress. Prize for
"best dressed" will be awarded after class.

We will be having a post-class potluck. Please bring a "bite-sized" dish or dessert to share.

There will also be a Valentine's Day craft for the kiddos.

See you at class!

Member Monday

2012-02-06T07:00:00.000-10:00

I knew I needed to do something when I noticed that my couch started to sag! Hi, I am Jamie and I attend the CORP Saturday class with my 3 month old daughter Emily Nicole. I moved to Hawaii in June of 2010 and work on Camp Smith as a Logistical Plans and Operations Officer for Special Operations Command Pacific. Emily spends her days working on rolling over, drooling, and taking naps. During our free time Emily and I like to take walks, go shopping, and watch House marathons on TV. When there is time, usually after bedtime, I work on my Masters of Public Administration. I joined Stroller Strides to jump start my physical fitness, meet other mothers and children but most of all to give my poor sagging couch a break.

Meet Michelle

2012-02-03T16:47:00.002-10:00

Michelle
Honoulu Franchisee, Hickam

Hello, my name is Michelle and I am the franchise owner for Stroller Strides Honolulu (going on three years) and now the partner/owner for Joint Base Pearl Harbor – Hickam. I live on Ford Island with my wonderful husband of 18 years and our two beautiful children, Tuscany (5) and Roman (1.5). We are so fortunate to live in Hawaii and we enjoy every minute of it!
One of my friends introduced me to SS when Tuscany was 8 months old and we lived in Chesapeake, VA. After attending my first class, I was hooked. SS has really affected my life in so many wonderful ways. I have made some amazing friends while keeping my mind and body in shape. My kids love it too!
I knew when we moved to Hawaii I had to continue going to SS. I started attending classes at CORP. While waiting to move onto Ford Island we lived in Waikiki and started attending classes at Kapiolani Park (just three blocks away). I was afforded the opportunity to purchase SS of Honolulu and couldn’t pass it up! It has a million dollar view, beautiful beaches and people watching for days!
My hope is that everyone can get something out of SS that will help them better their lives and that of their family. I am truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful SS Ohana and I can’t wait to see you in class.

In Stride,
Michelle Schimke

Meet Our Newest Instructor

2012-01-31T16:37:00.002-10:00

Rachel
Hickam

Hi! My name is Rachel McHale and I teach Stroller Strides at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam. You will see me there with my youngest child, Sam, who will be 2 this spring. Sam and I love going to Stroller Strides together!
My Stroller Strides journey, however, began a long time before Sam joined our family. My oldest son, Patrick, and I began attending classes in Monterey, CA over 9 years ago. I was already a certified fitness instructor and was soon teaching classes. In 2003 my family moved to Virginia Beach and I couldn't imagine my life as a mom without Stroller Strides. The amazing friendships my son and I had made with Stroller Striders had made such an impact on our lives. The only problem was, Stroller Strides was still located only in California. If I wanted to have Stroller Strides in Virginia, I would have to start it myself. I owned the Virginia Beach franchise for 6 years before moving to Hawaii in 2009.
When we arrived in Hawaii, my husband and I made the decision to homeschool our older children, Patrick, 10, and Megan, 7, and so fitting in Stroller Strides has been difficult.
Now that they attend a science class on Thursday mornings, I have been able to introduce fitness and fun, the Stroller Strides way, to my youngest child and I LOVE it!! Sam and I go to The Thursday class at CORP each week and it is such an important part of our routine. But classes have still not been close enough to home for me to try teaching on a regular basis. I just felt I would give up too much school time with my older children.
When I found out that Stroller Strides was finally going to be offered on Hickam, I was beyond excited! The only thing I love more than participating in Stroller Strides classes is actually teaching them. I love to share my passion for health and fitness with other moms. And I am so thankful for the chance to do just that.

One Week til our R.I.P.P.E.D MNO!!

2012-01-31T07:00:00.000-10:00

Are you ready to sweat? One week until our fitness inspired MNO! Join us for our R.I.P.P.E.D class!

When: Tuesday, February 7th
Where: Moanalua Terrace Community Center
Time: Class starts at 6:30. Please arrive by 6:15 in order to pay for your class and so we can begin on time.
What to bring: Water, a 3-5 pound pair of weights, a towel, a friend, YOUR ENERGY!!
Cost: $10 per person due at the class

PLEASE RSVP ASAP! Email Trish at trish@strollerstrides.net or reply to your evite.

See you there!!

Member Monday

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hi! I'm Sarah and I am new to Stroller Strides. I plan to attend the Kapolei classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday but like the option of the other locations. My husband and I moved to Hawaii three and a half years ago and we've loved every minute of it. My husband is in the Coast Guard and we are unfortunately due to move this summer. We will really miss Hawaii but are looking forward to our next adventure.

When we moved to Hawaii, my husband and I both became a lot more active. I was always a jogger but since moving here I've done a triathlon, a half marathon and worked with a trainer. I guess being in a swimsuit year-round will get you motivated! Then I got pregnant with my son, William, I ran until about 20 weeks and then gradually gave up working out almost completely. Now, I am determined to get back in shape.
When I had my son three months ago, I also became a stay-at-home-mom. I love that Stroller Strides gives me a place to be at least a few days a week. Being able to stay home is wonderful but having a schedule with Stroller Strides is nice. I also really enjoy all of the friendly ladies, adorable kids and awesome workouts!

HICKAM

2012-01-25T08:26:00.002-10:00

Finally!

The moment some of you may have been anxiously awaiting!

I am proud to announce, that beginning February 1, 2012, we will now be offering classes at Hickam (Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam).

Class will be held Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am - 10:15am.

We will meet at Officer Field Park, located at 3rd Street and Worthington Avenue (off of Vickers Avenue).

The first class will be taught by Michelle (Stroller Strides Honolulu Franchisee). You will also see Rayna, Stacey and Rachel instructing there on a regular basis.

See you at Hickam!

R.I.P.P.E.D MNO In February

2012-01-23T17:10:00.004-10:00

Are you ready to get R.I.P.P.E.D? Come on out to this fitness inspired MNO! We will have our own personal R.I.P.P.E.D instructor for an hour of what they refer to as "The One Stop Body Shock".

Never heard of it? Check it out HERE.

Class will be on Tuesday, February 7th at 6:30pm at Moanalua Terrace Community Center.

The class is $10 per person. Bring water, bring a friend, and bring your energy! Please also bring your own pair of 3-5 pound weights. (I have a few extras if needed).

Please RSVP either by evite or by email, no later that Feb 1. We need a minimum number of people to make it work.

See you there!

Member Monday

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hi there! My name is Susan. I'm an Army wife and a mom to five active boys ages 3-15. We were stationed at Schofield Barracks back in the summer of 2008 and so therefore I attend class on post here. We lived in Makakilo for two years and have since moved on post at Schofield and love it. I was a former SS member over a year ago, and then took some time off to heal from an injury. I am healthy now and am looking forward to regaining physical endurance through SS. I ran my first half marathon last year and would like to someday maybe try a full marathon.

Member Monday!

2012-01-16T07:00:00.003-10:00

Cyndi attends class primarily at CORP.

Living out of a hotel on Tripler for the next month! My husband is in med school at USUHS (in Bethesda, MD) and is here for a 6 week rotation at the hospital.

I love spending time with my family, running, and doing anything active outside. My drug of choice is exercise! My youngest is 5 months and while I've reached my goal weight, I'm focused on getting my shape and strength back. I've been a Les Mills Cycle and Body Pump instructor for 4 years and I'm looking forward to teaching again when we get home in March. Stroller Strides has been and continues to be a huge help in getting me back into teaching shape!!

Indigo Moms Night Out

2012-01-12T10:38:00.009-10:00

Rayna, Veronica, Trish, Sallie, Amy, Joni, Meg, Margene,
Melissa, Marna, Heather, Maria, Sheryl and Tarah

We had a fantastic night out last night at Indigo. We had the entire lanai to ourselves. We enjoyed great food, wonderful conversation and celebrated Joni's "retirement" as franchisee of Stroller Strides Leeward Oahu. We presented Joni with a $300 gift card to Lululemon, as a thank you for all of her hard work and dedication over the past two-and-a-half years.

Marna and Melissa

Veronica, Amy, Joni and Sallie

Meg, Joni, Maria and Heather

Rayna, Margene, Joni, Trish and Sheryl

Member Monday

2012-01-09T07:00:00.001-10:00

Helllooo my name is Salamasina Merry Kawaauhau but my family and people at home (American Samoa) know me by Merry, the only people that call me Sala are people that I met after I left home. Of course since I met everyone at SS through Jen, Merry's what I'm going by there too...it certainly does get confusing at times...lol

Anyways I'll be attending SS in Kapolei on Mon, Wed and Fri since I'm off Mon, Tues and Wed and I work nights on Thurs and Fri.

We live in Makakilo and we moved to Hawaii in 2008 when my husband and I separated from the Air Force. My husband's local and Hawaii puts me closer to my family so Hawaii was a given for us when it came to moving and settling down. My husband is from Waianae and he works at Airgas Gaspro in Campbell.

I have a 5 year old daughter and a 1 year old son. I love to spend time with my family. I love to hang out with my kids, it's really interesting watching their personalities develop. I also love to lay around and do absolutely nothing. I'm an Air Traffic Controller and a mommy to 2 super active kids so I take advantage of any time I have to do absolutely nothing and I love any time I have to not have to think ;) I love lazying around so I go to work, come home, make sure everything's squared away with the kids just so I could sit around and do nothing.

I love SS because class is right down the street and I can go right after I drop off my daughter to school. My son is so not a home body so I know he loves anything that gets him out of the house. I'm hoping to lose as much weight as I can because I would love to have another baby not to mention SS kicks my butt, but I feel so much better throughout the day. I feel so accomplished after a session of a SS. I also love food and beer so that doesn't help my mission :(

Buuut just after less than a month of sessions I'm more and more motivated to keep on keeping on because I can fit in my jeans that I wasn't able to after I gave birth=) I wish I weighed myself before starting SS because I know I lost weight and inches but I just don't know how much:(

Anyways I love SS in Kapolei and I love how there's different instructors and I intend to continue going so long as my laziness doesn't overthrow my motivation to stay active!

Luna Moms Club is Back!

2012-01-03T19:00:00.004-10:00

Starting tomorrow at both Kapolei and Schofield, Luna Moms Club is back!

Amber B will be the new playgroup captain at Kapolei and Heather F will be the new captain at Schofield.

Here are the schedules for both locations...

Kapolei:
Jan 4 Cereal Necklaces
Jan 11 Butterfly Bounty
Jan 18 Boo boo Bunnies
Jan 25 Oatmeal Clay

Schofield:
Jan 4 Cereal Bracelets
Jan 11 Bubble & Dance Party
Jan 18 Pudding Painting
Jan 25 Moon Dough

Member Monday

2012-01-02T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha! I'm Sharon and I'm a new member of the Stroller Strides ohana. I primarily attend classes at CORP with Ava, my five month old daughter, as we live in Pearl City but we also enjoy joining everyone in Kapolei.

Hawaii has been home for over six years now. Back in 2003, Aaron, my then boyfriend and now husband, and I came to Oahu for vacation. Hawaii was halfway between Colorado, where I was attending law school, and South Korea, where he was stationed with the U.S. Army. During that trip, Aaron asked me if I'd like to live in Hawaii someday and the rest is history.

Aaron is now a captain with the Hawaii Army National Guard and has one of the best views of the island from his office in Diamond Head crater. I am now a full-time mommy to Ava, after spending the past four and a half years as an attorney for the City and County of Honolulu. It was a tough decision not to go back to work because the people I worked with were fabulous, but I'm really happy that I'll be able to experience all of Ava's firsts. Our four-year-old English Mastiff, Gracie, is also really happy that I spend more time at home with her! Plus, it gives me a chance to pursue my passion of making jewelry.

I joined Stroller Strides because I miss my old pants! I'm not in shape by any means (being a desk slug will do that to you!) but everyone has been very supportive and encouraging. I enjoy the variety of workouts at Stroller Strides, chatting with the other moms, and seeing Ava interact with all the other little ones.

Hope to see you at CORP or Kapolei soon!

Aloha and Mahalo

2011-12-31T09:08:00.002-10:00

It's time! Trish is taking over the reigns for Leeward on Sunday. This is my final "official" day as a Stroller Strides franchisee.

There's not much I haven't already said. Thankfully I don't have to say good-bye all at once since I'll still be at CORP this Thursday to teach, and for the next few months.

I asked Trish to schedule me for Mondays at Kapolei since it works better with my Body Back schedule, so you'll also be seeing me there.

I think it would have been very lonely for me in Hawaii if I hadn't had Stroller Strides. I vividly remember my first class with Buffy. I was so excited to have found this instant group of women, all exercising and doing something for themselves. I was never interested in being a martyred mommy. And the workout was so hard! Let's be honest. A lot of us think that Stroller Strides might just be a lot of "strolling," with an occasional bicep curl. Yeah, this committed gym rat got her bootie kicked bigtime!

Stroller Strides is only as good as the people we teach. THANK YOU for being the committed, focused, friendly women that I have had the privilege to teach and know these past two-and-a-half years -- so many of you are off the island now, but I still think about you and remember all those classes together.

Mahalo:=)

The Babies Keep Coming

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-10:00

They already look like Jackson!
Congratulations to Margene on the arrival of her twins last month.

"Here are the twins on the day Sawyer came home. They were born Nov 18, 3:48 and 3:51 pm. Sawyer Everett was 4 lbs 14 oz 18.5 inches. He spent 10 days in the NICU for breathing issues but is doing fine now. He had stopped growing they estimate three weeks before delivery so his lungs were a little immature.

Sadie Ella is the youngest she was 5 lbs 1 oz 18.25 inches. She came home with me three days after delivery. She has been doing great.

I had high blood pressure at the end again and gained like 10 lbs in 48 hours so they took them at 35.3 weeks. My blood pressure took about two weeks to return to normal and is good now. I did much better this pregnancy than last time in recovery. We are all sleep deprived but that is to be expected having to feed babies every three hours and sometimes they get off schedule from each other.

Jackson is loving being a big brother. I am blessed my parents are here to help us until the second week in January. I am ready to start losing the baby weight and start working out again just to see the outdoors, just waiting for the OK from the Doc..."

Congratulations Ashley!

2011-12-28T13:39:00.004-10:00

Introducing ....

Adalynn Marie Astorga
November 21, 2011
7lbs 12oz.

Looks like Mommy has two babies to take care of now:=)

Holiday Dinner

2011-12-27T02:28:00.002-10:00

Joni, Nadine, Erika, Bobbie, Heather, Rayna, Sara, Amy, Maria

We had a great night out at the Hau Tree Lanai last Monday. The restaurant was so quiet and we had a perfect beach view. I think we even got to see some skinny dippers, an unexpected nature show for sure.

A big thanks to Heather for organizing our evening out. It was a mellow night at the restaurant, perfect for the final week before Christmas. And thank you, as always, to Maria for being our resident photographer!

Member Monday

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-10:00

Happy Holidays! My name is Keara and I have been a Stroller Strides member for a little over a month. I attend classes at Schofield, but I’m hoping to start classes at CORP as well after the first of the year.

My husband, Greg, 9 year-old stepson, Caleb, and 8 month old son, Owen, moved to Hawaii at the beginning of October. My husband is a SSG in the ARMY and this is our second duty station as a family. I am originally from Kentucky and have a Masters degree in Social Work. Eventually, I want to go back to work, but I am enjoying every minute of being a stay-at-home-mom!

I have always struggled with my weight. When I graduated high school I was at my heaviest, 320 lbs, and at my smallest, 140 lbs, when I met my husband. Needless to say, I have spent the past four years focusing on my education, career and family that I put myself on the “backburner.”

While pregnant, the pounds seemed to “pack on” despite my best effort to keep them off. After Owen arrived, I focused all my time and energy into being the best mom I could be that the baby weight just seemed to stay around and my self-confidence continued to diminish. Being able to still wear maternity clothes six months after giving birth, I had all but given up hope at being able to lose the weight. That’s when I was introduced to Stroller Strides, and my life has changed for the better since!

I look forward to each and every class! I can feel myself getting stronger (and hopefully smaller) and it feels wonderful! All of the ladies at Schofield are AMAZING and motivate me to push myself further than I ever thought possible. Be it a smile or a “way to go” they always make me feel like I can do just one more burpee, hold my plank five seconds longer, or sprint to the next pole without passing out.

While I would love to fit back into my size 8 non-stretch jeans, I have come to realize that the most important thing is for me to be healthy for my children and my husband—regardless of my pant size or weight. Being happy, healthy and stronger than the day before is what I strive for at each class. I know with time, effort and the awesome support I get from SS mommas, I will eventually reach my goals, and maybe even fit into my “skinny” jeans again.

I look forward to meeting new SS mommas in the New Year, and making 2012 the best year ever!

Get Fit Challenge 2011

2011-12-22T23:07:00.003-10:00

Congratulations to all of our contestants! Sixteen women entered this year's Get Fit Challenge. It was a 10-week contest with points earned for class attendance, earning class MVP, improvement in the Fitness Assessments, and losing body fat.

We held our "Grand Finale" last week at CORP. The women had their "after" body fat tested and competed in the Fitness Assessments (plank, pushups, step-ups). The points were then added to all the points they earned for attending class and being MVP. I'm happy to report that it took success in every aspect of the contest in order to win -- so it was anyone's game, if you had the commitment to stick with it!

Liz, Mika, Jessica, Melanie, Amber, Katie, Marna, Melissa
The contestants who made it ALL the way to the end!
(not shown: Emily R)

Our Grand Prize, a $250 gift card to Ala Moana shopping center,
was awarded to ...

Amber Brannon!

In addition to losing body fat and improving in the Fitness Assessments, Amber attended 54 classes during the contest (out of a possible 57). Wow!

A close second was awarded to Jessica Scott. She wins a $100 gift certificate to Lululemon. Jessica was also an attendance stalwart with 47 classes attended during the GFC.

Third place went to Melissa Fitzgerald. She also won top honors for the step-up and push-up assessments. She wins free membership to Stroller Strides in January.

Fourth place to Melanie Kushi, also a Fitness Assessment winner as she held the plank for 6 minutes and 45 seconds! She wins an SS or Body Back tank.

And fifth place to Katie Coulter. She also wins an SS/BB tank.

Congratulations to everyone who competed and made it to the end! Ten weeks was a bit on the long side, and we held the contest during the holidays to boot. I'm so proud of how everyone lost body fat and got stronger. It's nice to see hard numbers and know that you have made a difference in your own health and physical fitness!

2011-12-22T19:29:00.001-10:00

Holiday Schedule

Friday, December 23
Class at CORP only (Tarah)

Monday, December 26
Class at CORP only (Lauren)

Friday, December 30
Class at CORP only (Stacey)

We will return to our regular schedule on Monday, January 2.

Member Monday

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-10:00

My name is Sherri and I am a new member attending the Schofield Barracks SS classes on Watts field.

I am 27 years old and I am originally from Wisconsin. My family made the big move to Hawaii because my husband's orders sent us to the Schofield Barracks so he can work at headquarters as a JAG officer.

I am attending Stroller Strides classes because I recently had a baby girl and I have gained about 30 pounds from the pregnancy that I cannot get rid of. I want to stay healthy for my family, and look good in my clothes again.

My husband and I are also throwing a wedding party for ourselves because we got married in the court house. This is taking place next summer. So I am striving with my stroller to shed the extra weight. I am approximately 159 lbs and I want to get back to my pre-baby weight which is 130.

I also want to say that everyone has been really encouraging. I have not excersied in years and it shows during my workouts. I am huffing and puffing during the warm ups, but everyone is really helpful and they push me just enough but not too far. Thanks everyone so much. I feel better already.

Honolulu Marathon 2011

2011-12-18T18:57:00.004-10:00

Maria, Rayna, and Sara

Congratulations to our 2011 Honolulu Marathon Finishers!

This was Rayna's third marathon and the first one she finished under 4 hours. This was Sara and Maria's first marathon.

From Maria: "I think that for all of us, the hard part was not finishing the race -- it was getting to the start line. We are all grateful to our husbands and children for their support during our months of training. We could not have done it without them.

This is a quote from the book Run Like A Mother:

In order to become a runner, you have to make a choice. And that choice is you: you over family, you over work, you over PTA, and book club and being the parent volunteer to the science museum. You have to decide you deserve to take enough time in a week -- 2 or so hours, at least- where running and consequently you, is the priority. You have to find ways to overcome inertia, minimize exhaustion and overlook overscheduling so you can simply say, "Now it's time for me to enforce my own time out." After you make that mental leap, you then have to realize that the initial complaints your body feels as you sputter into a rhythm are minor compared to the benefits you'll reap after your run."

2011-12-14T22:08:00.002-10:00

Final Saturday Class of 2011!

2011-12-13T12:10:00.001-10:00

Rayna will be instructing at CORP this Saturday.

This will be our final Saturday class of the year.

See you at 8:30!

Member Monday

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha! My name is Rachel and I have been attending class with my 1-1/2 year old son Sam since early August. We are only able to attend on Thursdays, so you will see us at CORP.

Sam and I LOVE Stroller Strides! Every Thursday, right after we drop off my older children at their science class, Sam starts shouting, "Babies! Babies!" and "Weee! Weee!" knowing that we are on our way to see the Stroller Strides babies and play at the playground.

My family moved to Hawaii from Virginia Beach in the summer of 2009 thanks to my husband Kevin's job in the Navy. We were excited to be coming back to Hawaii, but it was hard to say goodbye to my Stroller Strides family in VA. I had owned the franchise there for 6 years and it was such a huge part of our lives.

My husband and I made the decision to homeschool our older children, Patrick, who will be 10 next week, and Megan, 7, and so fitting in Stroller Strides has been difficult. Now that they attend a science class on Thursday mornings, I have been able to introduce fitness and fun, the Stroller Strides way, to my youngest child and I LOVE it!!

My first and most important goal with exercise is simply to honor and care for the amazing gifts of life and a healthy body. I believe a healthy, active lifestyle is a must and that requires a healthy diet and some sort of physical activity every day. If you have seen me at class, though, you know I take it beyond that, I really enjoy pushing my body to its limits and seeing what I am capable of.

One of my favorite things about Stroller Strides is that it accommodates me, and any other mom, no matter what her goals are. I can remember attending class in the first few months after having a baby when my only goal was to make it out the door, talk to a few adults, and move my body enough to know that it still worked. I was just trying to save my sanity. And then, as each of my babies became older, I sought to regain a healthy lifestyle and I focused a little more on the exercise aspect of Stroller Strides, not just the social. And, for me, each time I got back to the point where I felt I was healthy, I then wondered just what I could do if I pushed a little more.

I am enjoying getting to know a new Stroller Strides ohana and I hope to see you at class soon!

Holiday MNO Date Change!

2011-12-05T19:17:00.000-10:00

Christmas Dinner at Hau Tree Lanai
now to be held on
Monday, Dec. 19
6:30 PM

This is the Mom's Night Out event of the year
that you don't want to miss!

Call up the sitter, dig out that special cocktail dress,
and get ready for an exquisite dinner on the beach.

Please let Heather or Joni know if you plan on attending,
or simply reply to your (updated!) Evite.

Member Monday

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha ladies, I'm Teresa and I attend Stroller Strides at CORP and Kapolei (and hopefully Hickam in the near future).

We are winding down our 3 year Hawaiian adventure and leave the island in March 2012.

I met my Air Force husband when we were both 1st Lieutenants serving at Osan AB in South Korea. We left Korea for Germany before we headed back to the States where I separated following the birth of Lauren in 2007.

We moved to Oahu in 2009 and settled in beautiful Ko Olina... with a 20 month old and 6 months pregnant. Now we are leaving in March with a 4 year old, a 2 year old and.... 6 months pregnant.

I've always been slender and "naturally" lazy. My idea of exercise was 30 minutes on the elliptical and a few crunches. I saw the SS ladies at Kapolei and the thought of jogging with a stroller up a busy street and jumping around like a crazy person in a park was so far outside of my comfort zone it's not even funny. I met Jenna (of course) at the pool. She had just had her 3rd baby and looked incredible and could sell Stroller Strides to a 300 pound man!

My husband left for a long TDY when Max was 3 weeks old. I actually got a sitter off of Craigslist and went to the gym. While on my famous elliptical, I thought... I just spent 20 bucks to be bored and pretend to workout inside and I live in Hawaii! I emailed Joni the next day and started Stroller Strides.

I fell instantly in love with Joni, Buffy Whiteman and Kim Merriman and realized I didn't hate exercise, I just wasn't a self motivator and needed group fitness and it really wasn't a big deal jumping around in public.

My favorite Buffy quote, "If there's not a baby attached to your boob, you need to be moving!" I met a lot of people who actually ran for fun and it's filled our time in Hawaii with a bunch of 5K, 10K and half marathons.

The entire family "deployed" to Las Vegas September 2010 for 6 months and I could not adjust to going to the YMCA or running in the desert. It was a horrible time, I gained about 8 pounds and still feel cheated out of my Hawaiian time. When we returned, we moved onto Hickam and I didn't rejoin Stroller Strides because of the drive and I really didn't want to deal with my then-sassy 3 year old in the stroller. We did find other fitness and got back into shape but I continued to follow SS on the internet and it made me sad to see the SS shirts at races. I looked into coming back when Lauren started preschool. We live on an island and it isn't as big of a deal as I thought to get to Kapolei or CORP and we're glad to be back.... but still have our fingers crossed for SS Hickam!

Stroller Strides fills a lot of gaps that you find living far from those you love especially when daddies are often gone. I encourage everyone to get a sitter and go to Mom's Night Out, skip nap time and head to the water park after class, go on active.com and sign up for a race with fellow stroller pushers. You'd be surprised how much you and the kids will enjoy running around and over Ford Island during the Bridge Run and you'll look forward to signing your 3 year old up for the Banana Man Chase. Let's face it, Fit Moms do Rock!

One Week till our Holiday MNO!

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-10:00

Christmas Dinner at Hau Tree Lanai
Thursday, Dec. 8
5:30 PM

This is the Mom's Night Out event of the year
that you don't want to miss!

Call up the sitter, dig out that special cocktail dress,
and get ready for an exquisite dinner on the beach.

Please let Heather or Joni know if you plan on attending,
or simply reply to your Evite.

Instructor Training

2011-11-29T07:00:00.000-10:00

Enhanced Instructor Training 2011
Tarah, Stacey, Trish, Joni, Rayna, Maria, Lauren, and Farel
missing Debbie since Lyla needed to get home!

We had our second annual Enhanced Instructor Training with Farel Hruksa on November 12 in Kapolei. It was a fantastic gathering of all the franchisees and instructors here in Hawaii! For those of you new to SS, Farel is the National Fitness Director for Stroller Strides.

Thank you to Michelle (Honolulu), Jill (Ewa Beach), Becky (Kailua), and Cailin & Tracy (Maui) for representing every franchisee on Hawaii at our training.

We also had instructors Becky (Honolulu), Kim (Ewa Beach), and the entire Leeward team, plus Rachel and Julie, past and present franchisees who jumped in for some "Fareliciousness."

SS Honolulu: Michelle, Farel, and Becky

SS Ewa Beach: Tarah, Kim, Farel, Lauren, and Jill

SS Kailua: Stacey, Farel, and Becky

Rachel, Farel, and Julie
past and present franchisees, Richmond VA and Conejo CA!

Your instructors are committed to their classes and to constantly improving the classes we teach to all of you -- so much so they that dedicated an entire Saturday to "Stroller Striding." What memories we'll have of each other from this day! I got to slap Jill's thighs, Rachel got a great view of my bum during the plank ball toss, and who could ever forget being chased by an 8-months-pregnant Becky during freeze tag? (All games or drills you may have been experiencing yourself over the past two weeks!)

The Hawaii franchisees (and franchisee-to-be) at Friday night dinner
with Farel -- Disney Aulani resort.

Member Monday

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hey girls! My name is Lindsey and I currently attend Stroller Strides at Schofield Barracks and I sometimes pop in at CORP.

I've lived in beautiful Hawaii for 2 and a half years. (I will always be a New Yorker at heart, though.) My husband John and I moved here back in 2009 because he was assigned Submarine duty at Pearl Harbor.

We got married only 2 months after moving here because we figured getting married on the beach at sunset was too amazing to pass up. We were blessed with the arrival of our little girl Evie on April 3rd this past year. I'm currently attending Ashford University online to obtain my Bachelor's Degree in Health and Wellness.

I decided to join Stroller Strides because trying to fit in workouts with my husband's schedule was not working. I was constantly down on myself after having Evie because my body was definitely nowhere near where it was before. Stroller Strides really appealed to me because I would be able to work out without having to lose out on time with Evie

Ever since I joined back in October I've felt so much better. My husband even told me that my positivity put him in a good mood. Being out in the sunshine with friends cheering you on is probably the best kind of workout I've ever done.

My goal is to get into better shape and set a good example for Evie. I want her to understand that working out should be a normal part of her life and that it's not hard. I also have to try to keep up with John who runs 9 miles at time, whew!

I'm so grateful to the Schofield and CORP ladies for being so welcoming and awesome. The trainers have also helped me to build greater self confidence when it comes to working out. I look forward to working out with everyone in the future!

Member Monday

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha Stroller Strides Mommies! My name is Sallie and I recently moved to Hawaii from Japan in July. I attend classes at CORP and Kapolei. I am originally from Missouri and am a true midwestern girl at heart.

I married my husband, Grant, who is in the Navy in 2006 and we have three awesome kiddos: Ben is five and is in Kindergarten at Pearl Harbor Kai, and twins Piper and Nate who are two. I have my master's degree in Child Life and met Grant while I was working at a children's hospital in San Diego. Since then we have moved from San Diego, to Hawaii, to Japan and now back to Hawaii!

Growing up I loved to be outside and be active but I was not a competitive person so sports were not my forte! As I have gotten older I have stayed active by hiking, jogging, chasing around three kids and trying to stay motivated with exercise videos. After I had my twins my body completely changed. My skin stretched a lot during my pregnancy and while we were in Japan I did not have a lot of motivation to stay active.

When we lived in Hawaii previously I was involved in Stroller Strides for about a year right after my five year old was born. I was in the best shape of my life! Once we came back here I knew I needed to get involved in SS again but I just wasn't motivated or confident. Finally one day I took the plunge and e-mailed Joni and decided to get back on the fitness wagon. I am so glad I did!!! I already feel so much better about myself and I can feel my confidence coming back. I love the feeling of being sore after a hard workout and thinking about how much I have accomplished at class.

Currently my biggest challenge is changing my eating habits. I find myself making poor food choices throughout the day just to get by. I am now trying to cook more and cook healthier which I haven't done since we left for Japan. Growing up my mom always had a homemade dinner on the table every night with fruits and vegetables and I want to model that. Unfortunately I inherited a sweet tooth from my dad that has only gotten stronger over the years! Right now I am trying to read up on eating cleaner and cooking lighter. So far I'm taking baby steps but I feel like I can make a positive change for myself and my family.

I am so excited to be involved with Stroller Strides again since it was such a positive experience for me in 2006. I have enjoyed getting to know many of the mommies at class and look forward to getting stronger and healthier!

Member Monday

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha SS mommies & babies! My name is Brittney. I’m originally from Georgia, but currently live in Pearl City Peninsula. I attend the CORP and Kapolei classes with my 8-month-old son, the love of my life, Paxton Brady.

I have my degree in Speech-Language Pathology and I am anxiously looking forward to starting the Master’s program in Educational Psychology at UH Manoa in January, while hopefully still managing to get in some good SS workouts.

My husband is a Nuclear Electrician in the Navy and we were lucky enough to land a three-year shore duty billet at Pearl Harbor. About this time last year (at six months pregnant might I add), my husband and I left Virginia Beach with our overly spoiled one-hundred lb. lap dog, Cooper and crossed the Pacific to begin our new life in paradise.

Growing up I was never really a healthy eater, although I managed to stay in shape by being very active in sports. When I was in high school I played soccer, fast-pitch softball, ran track, and participated in competition cheerleading. After college, beginning my career, getting married, and having my son, needless to say I had accumulated a few extra pounds and had gotten pretty out of shape.

Realizing that I couldn’t realistically survive and maintain a decent weight with my poor diet choices, I became what some would call a super major freak about healthy, holistic eating. After finding out I was pregnant, it became even more important to me to eat as healthy as possible for my little peanut. (If anyone is interested, I read The Skinny B*tch’s Guide to a Bun in the Oven and it really lays out all the down and dirty details of food in general.)

I am absolutely obsessed with trying new healthy foods, reading as many magazines and books as I can find on eating clean, and watching every documentary they have on Netflix over and over again.

My husband thinks I’m a nerd and isn’t quite 100% on board with this yet because he says I never buy “the good stuff” and is convinced I am going to turn Pax into a bubble child when it comes to food, but he is making progress. Of course I believe everything is okay in moderation, but we are what we eat!

After joining SS about two months ago I have accomplished so much more than I ever thought I could. Not only have I met lots of great people, but I can actually do a real push-up now.

I have also learned to love that feeling of being pushed past my comfort zone. It is so motivating to work out with such an awesome group of hardworking ladies, some pushing double and even triple the load I carry in my jogger!

1 Week till our Breaking Dawn MNO!

2011-11-11T07:00:00.000-10:00

Join us for Mom's Night Out to see Breaking Dawn, Part 1, on opening night.

Friday, November 18
Pearlridge West 16
(at Pearlridge Mall)
7 PM showing

You can buy your ticket now at Fandango -- search 96701.

No Saturday Class this Week

2011-11-10T07:00:00.000-10:00

No Saturday Class on November 12.

We will be having an island-wide Instructor Training with our national Fitness Director, Farel Hruska!

Saturday class will resume the following week and run during the holidays. Our final Saturday class of the year will be Saturday, December 17.

Body Back, Holiday Session

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-10:00

The 3rd session of Body Back ends on November 19. With the start of the holiday season, I will not be running a formal session of Body Back again until January.

I will, however, still be holding class! The holiday session is simply about staying active and so there will not be any Fitness Assessments or body fat testing.

Anyone is welcome to drop in during this BB session. Classes are 1 hour, for mom only. Drop-in classes will begin Tuesday, November 29 and run through Saturday, December 24.

Tuesday night class is held at Pearlside Boxing in Kapolei, 6:30 to 7:30 PM. Saturday morning class is held at Central Oahu Regional Park, 6:30 to 7:30 AM.

You can buy all 8 classes for a flat rate of $65, 4 classes for $40, or drop in for $15. Body Back is open to all women, Stroller Strides members or not. If you've been curious about BB, this a great time to try it out.

Save the Date!

2011-11-08T07:00:00.000-10:00

Member Monday

2011-11-07T07:00:00.001-10:00

Aloha, ladies! My name is Syadra, aka Sage. I am a local girl, born and raised on the leeward side of Oahu.

I am married to my loving husband Derek and we will be making 2 years married and 5 years together.

Together we have 3 beautiful keikis: our daughter Tiahti, 3; our son Anthony, 2; and our newest addition to our Ohana, our son Dayton, 7 months.

We recently moved to Hoakalei Ocean Pointe, Ewa Beach. Seeing everyone well into exercising around here, I thought to myself that I needed to get myself motivated with exercising, not just for myself, but for my kids as well.

Knowing that I had 3 kids and had let myself gain sum pounds, I decided to try and do some laps around Kapolei Park, where my mom has her meetings. I was approached by Jenna, who talked to me about Stroller Strides and that I should join. I told her I would, thought about it and decided to sign up. Friday the 2nd of Sept 2011.

I went to my 1st class where I met Joni. It was an intense work out that Friday that I didn't see coming, lol. But I made it through class, and I felt pretty good doing it. I told myself, if that's what they do, I'm afraid to join. I thought about it over the weekend. I suited up and became a member of SS Kapolei that following Monday.

Ever since then, I've been trying my best to push myself and to try and stay fit. I did my 1st 5k walk/run with Mara for Komen Race for the Cure. Felt awesome that I made it to the finish line and did it for a good cause. I feel that I've been doing a bit better with the exercises and doing a little bit more than I did when I 1st joined SS.

I want to thank Jenna for introducing me to Stroller Strides and to all the SS Kapolei moms/instructors for helping me get through our exercises in class. You all are awesome and I am glad I am a part of Stroller Strides Kapolei.

Aloha Ke Akua, Sage, Derek, Tiahti, Anthony, and Dayton

Breaking Dawn MNO

2011-11-04T09:51:00.004-10:00

Halloween Party

2011-11-01T16:16:00.009-10:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in last week's Halloween party! We had a giant circuit around the park taught by Rayna, Lauren, Maria, Tarah, and Trish. Our top finishers completed the circuit three times with a few minutes to spare! Congratulations to Heather who finished first, in under 39 minutes (while pushing a double, too).

More than anything, I loved seeing everyone's Halloween spirit. We had quite a few Mom-and-baby themes: Shanna and her family of superheroes; Emily as Peter Pan with Tinkerbell: Nadine and kids as Shaggy and Scooby Doo; and Melissa as a spider web, with Kaitlyn as the spider. There were a lot of creative moms and I wish I could remember the details for it all!

Shanna, a true superhero since she is
a regular at class with 2 under two!

The world's coolest baby, Cici,
rocking her Ace Ventura costume!

Melissa, winner of our "I Can't Believe She Worked Out in That!" award.

Instructor Photo

Stacey, Maria, Trish, Tarah, Joni, Rayna, and Lauren

Member Monday

2011-10-31T07:00:00.001-10:00

Hello, my name is Jessica and I attend classes with my 3-month-old daughter, Peyton Emery, at Schofield and CORP.

My husband Jesse and I arrived on the island last October, for our first and last (yay) duty station with the Army.

We are high school sweethearts, both born and raised in a small town in Northern California.

My husband is currently deployed for 12 months in Afghanistan, we have about 155 days left... but who's counting!

Growing up my family was never a very "healthy" family, we never had a gym membership, ate whatever we wanted, etc. My husband played sports in high school and college and he introduced me to a healthy lifestyle.

In Sonoma, I taught Spin class for 6 years, getting certified right after high school and continuing to teach through college. In the last few years I was introduced to the world of CrossFit by my brother-in-law, who is a die hard, and he owns a CrossFit gym and even competed in the games. I was never a die hard, but I loved the intensity of the workouts and the group feel I enjoyed from Spin.

I was introduced to SS through a friend of mine, who suggested it when I told her I was desperate for a good workout and some adult interaction.

I have to admit I thought umm, Stroller Strides, really?! I am so happy I tried it, not only is it a great workout, it has made such an improvement in my day-to-day life. I have met some amazing mommies and it gives me something to look forward to. For me, the intensity of the workouts and group feel are so satisfying, giving me something I thought I could never get again now that I am a mom.

I am dying to fit into those pre-baby jeans that fit so well before the 36 pounds of baby weight I put on.

I guess it's a good thing we live in Hawaii and it is too hot for jeans anyway!

Halloween Party Tomorrow!

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-10:00

Wear a costume! Get ready for Spooky Circuits!

Class will be held at CORP from 8:45 to 10 AM with
our Halloween party to follow!

Member Monday

2011-10-24T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha Ladies! My name is Jenny and I attend class at Schofield Barracks. I am an Army wife and SAHM to three kiddos.

I grew up in Texas and met my wonderful hubby in the Lone Star State while he was stationed at Fort Hood.

He quickly swept me off my feet and uprooted me. We are proud to say we have had a child at each stop: Texas, Georgia and Hawaii.

We live in SB and arrived on-island March 2010. My husband is currently deployed and I have realized I need time for me. I was a competitive swimmer a majority of my life and I am diving into working out on land and loving the challenge.

I have realized post three babies that it is important to stay fit to keep up. It is important to keep these joints moving!

My goals are to gain my strength and endurance back. Most importantly, I want to demonstrate a healthy lifestyle to my kids.

Introducing Lyla

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000-10:00

Debbie is an instructor at Schofield and currently on maternity leave with the recent arrival of her third baby. A few more weeks and you'll be seeing Debbie back at SS!

***

Lyla Grace was born at 10:35 pm on September 15th weighing 8lb 14 oz and 18 inches long. We were thankful that she, like her siblings, was a bit overdue so Joe could be home for her birth.

This was my third delivery but it was unlike the first two thanks to my current fitness level. During my last two pregnancies I was hesitant to exercise -- by the end of each pregnancy I was so out of shape and I was just unhappy. This time, through the education and support of the Stroller Strides community, I was able to continue exercising with the confidence that I was taking care of my baby and myself.

Many things were the same going into delivery, Joe was there, I was induced, Tripler again, but this time I was able to deliver Lyla naturally without an epidural and my recovery was drastically shorter.

I feel my fitness level throughout the pregnancy greatly benefited me in the delivery of Lyla. Every squat and lunge paid off as I labored in the halls of Tripler. I think being active also helped make this pregnancy so much more enjoyable. Running, racing and working out with the Stroller Stride moms helped me stay positive, confident and happy especially in the end when I did not know if Joe was going to be around for the birth.

I miss all you ladies and can't wait to start working out with you again!

1 Week till our Pumpkin Patch Visit!

2011-10-20T07:00:00.000-10:00

Lisa and Summer at last year's visit to Aloun Farms

Let's get into the Halloween and fall season spirit with an educational and fun visit to the pumpkin patch! The tour includes a hayride and each paying adult/child gets to pick out a pumpkin to take home!

Thursday, October 27 @ 11 AM
Aloun Farms
91-1440 Farrington Highway
Kapolei, HI 96707

Admission is $6.50 per person. Children 2 and under are free. There is a 20-person minimum for the tour (this includes children).

Please pay by check, payable to Aloun Farms, by the 24th. You can give your check to any instructor at class, but they all end up with Joni or Trish, so find us first if you can:=) Checks may be mailed to Joni at 92-1178 Olani St. #2 Kapolei HI 96707.

Some things to note: It is hot and dirty. Water and sunscreen are HIGHLY recommended, as are closed toed shoes for the kids.

1 Week till our Halloween Party!

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-10:00

Wednesday, October 26
Central Oahu Regional Park
No class at Kapolei or Schofield. Come to CORP!

Class, 8:45 to 10 AM
Party, 10 to 11 AM

Wear your costumes! Bragging rights to the winners of the following categories: Best Couple, Scariest, Funniest, and Most Creative.

Class will be a variety of fun stations taught by the instructor team. Get ready to keep moving throughout CORP and see what sort of spooky fun we have in store for you!

We'll have a variety of activities for the kids after class, including cupcake decorating, Halloween cards, and a fun twist on trick-or-treating.

Cheesecake Factory!

2011-10-18T11:31:00.012-10:00

Moms Night Out at the Cheesecake Factory!

Thank you to Tammy (BB) for being our hostess and helping all of us to have a wonderful night out. We were all miraculously there by 6:30 and we fit into our tables perfectly. A fantastic MNO!

Nikki, Julia, and Tammy -- Body Back All-Stars!
They've been with me from the beginning:=)

Tammy, Trish, and Stacey

Tarah, Ashley, and Nikki
Thanks to Tarah and Trish for making sure we took pictures!

Joni and Amy

Veronica, Amy's friend (sorry, I forgot your name!!),
Ashley, Tarah, and Mika

Let me just add here that this table (me included) ordered 16 slices of cheesecake! Maybe that's why it took 90 minutes for us to get our dessert:=) The only hiccup of the night! Of course we were taking ALL of that cheesecake home, right?

Sheryl and Veronica

Margene and Tarah -- SS old-timers!

Rayna, Heather, and Anna
(don't move, Anna!)

Maria, Melinda, and Sara

Member Monday

2011-10-17T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha Moms! I'm Meghan, or often go by Meg.

I grew up in Iowa, but after meeting my husband in Minnesota after college, we have ventured to several states thanks to the Coast Guard and Army.

I have been attending Stroller Strides class at Schofield, I'm the one with the growing belly! I have two daughters -- Leah, who is 3 1/2 years old, and Livia, who is 17 months old. They are super excited about the arrival of their baby brother due January 3rd.

We live on Schofield and have been on the island since June 2010. I've been a stay-at-home mom since last October, I figured it was the perfect time and place to do so! Though, we do not do a lot of staying at home! We definitely like to keep busy, do new things and meet new people.

With my husband deployed, I had to figure out a new workout routine, having no idea I would find myself pregnant again too! But still Stroller Strides has been a perfect fit and exceeded my expectations.

I love getting a great workout, not having to worry about childcare and meeting other moms too! I am so glad I'll have Stroller Strides to motivate and help me post-baby!!

I also look forward to getting to know everyone better! Mahalo!

Welcome Baby Ozzie!

2011-10-14T15:44:00.004-10:00

Aloha Stroller Strides Mommies!!!

I finally got around to sending out a "Birth Announcement" of our sweet Ozzie Kauahioniupono (the ocean breeze through the righteous coconut palms). He was born a week and a half late, 2" shorter and 1 lbs lighter than my first (Surfia, years old).

My dear Husband drove from Waianae to town in 15 minutes (normally a 40 min. drive). He figured this was the BEST excuse to speed! It helped that it was in the middle of the night too!

We again decided to do this birth drug free (same as Surfia), and it was amazing how much I could feel the baby moving down the birth canal. If any prego Mommies are debating if they can do it. Just think . . . "if I can handle a HARD SS workout . . . I can do anything for at the most 40 hours." You CAN do it!

Labor was almost exactly 4 hours and only pushed for about 8 minutes, I was literally yelling at the nurses to get a doctor in the room as I was pushing him out. He is just perfect and his big sister Surfia is completely in love with him.

This second baby really put my body through some major changes and MAJOR weight gain (60 lbs + the extra 10 lbs left over from Surfia!), so I am looking forward to attending classes, pushing my limits, and getting that "baby fat" off! Stroller Strides is the best - great friends and a great workout! Ozzie is 9 weeks old and so far I have lost 30 lbs since giving birth . . . oh wait does the actual baby (8 lbs 7 oz) still count as weight loss? =)

Many people ask why the name Ozzie . . . my Dear Husband's Mom's favorite name was Ozzie because she loved the show Ozzie and Harriet. She passed away about 17 years ago due to breast cancer, so in honor of her, we named him such. Plus we like the name . . . AND we found out that my Husband's Great Uncle wrote the theme song to Ozzie and Harriet! Some coincidence!

Looking forward to seeing our Mommy and Keiki friends at class!

Aloha,

Summer, Daniel, Surfia, and Baby Ozzie

Meet our OTHER Newest Instructor!

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000-10:00

Stacey is also coming on board to teach at SS and fingers crossed, she'll be instructing at Hickam soon!

Hi! My name is Stacey and I have lived here in beautiful Hawaii for 2 years. I am married to the love of my life, David, and we have a son Jack, who will be 3 at the end of October.

I was born and raised in Connecticut and lived in Virginia when I was in the U.S. Navy. I thank the Navy for pretty much everything that has happened to me since I joined.

I was a machinist mate stationed on the USS Enterprise. I have traveled to more places than I ever imagined I would in my life, including here is Hawaii where we are currently stationed.

I met my husband while stationed on the Enterprise and I became pregnant with our son Jack. Three months before we got to Hawaii I said good-bye to my active duty lifestyle and hello to being a stay-at-home mom and a full-time student and I wouldn’t change it for a thing.

All my life I have been very active. I started dancing when I was three and didn’t stop until I was 21. Dancing is the one thing that I have ALWAYS been pretty good at but there isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t think about dancing on stage. I also ran track in high school and played softball.

The day Jack was born, I almost passed out when I stepped on the scale. Oh my gosh I seriously thought I would never in my life break 200 pounds... but that’s what not working out while pregnant can do to you I guess. So when we moved here Jack was almost 1 and since we live in a place where it is summer all the time...I knew I needed my bikini body back.

Stroller Strides was exactly what I needed when we moved here. I have met some of the most amazing and inspiring women while I have been at SS. Also my son has made what he calls his “bestest friends” and it is all because of SS that has made me not so homesick, get out of my house, and made me a healthier woman.

I can also give credit to SS for my running capabilities these past 2 years. Since I started I have done three 5k’s, one 10k, and the Great Aloha Run... and I plan to keep running more! I have been a member for almost 2 years and now have a great opportunity to be a Stroller Strides Instructor. I can’t wait help women achieve their goals not just in fitness but in life as well.

Meet our Newest Instructor!

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-10:00

Tarah is the newest instructor at Leeward! She likes to travel so you'll be seeing her at Kapolei, Schofield, and as instructor for the Ewa Beach franchise. I asked her to instruct over a year ago, so it's great to finally nab her!

My name is Tarah and I joined Stroller Strides shortly after moving to Oahu a little over 18 months ago. I’ve been married to my college sweetheart, Geoffrey for 15 years and we have two kiddos, Aleksey (5) and Anastasia (2).

As a young person, I was not exposed to fitness or good nutrition. As a result, I have spent much of my adult life trying to figure out a formula that would work for me. Once I became a mom, it was evident to me more than ever that I must instill an active lifestyle and healthy eating habits to my children.

Prior to our move, my career in the radio industry had been a major priority and I became accustomed to juggling my career and family life. Being a stay-at-home mom wasn’t anything I had ever considered and to be honest, I felt ill-equipped to do it. I realized very quickly if I was going to maintain any level of sanity, I had better figure out a way to do a little something for myself each day.

I knew my top goal needed to be fitness and I wanted to accomplish it during the workday. After all, with 10 hours to fill each day, it shouldn’t be that tough to get some sort of workout in. Right? Thank God I was introduced to Stroller Strides! It was truly what I had been looking for.

My first several classes were so hard! How on earth could all these ladies do push-up after push-up on their toes and I can’t even crank out one? Despite my initial insecurities of being the slowest and the weakest, I reminded myself that if change is what I’m looking for, I have to be committed and stay the course.

I initially attended 3 classes per week but then bumped up to 5. For me it’s all about the routine. It’s what we do. If I give myself an option whether or not to go, I may choose the latter. So, I just don’t give myself the option. It’s fun to location hop! I love trying out all locations and instructors. It mixes things up and keeps it fresh!

During class I always try to push myself. I’m not a natural runner but I always run. If Anastasia is fussy, I’ll let her fuss (within reason). I am selfish with this hour. It’s my hour. The kids get the other 12 of my day. I need just this one.

Three months after beginning Stroller Strides, I really began seeing weight loss results. I’ve lost over 35 pounds and feel strong! I definitely have a new “pep in my step” and am excited for what the future brings!

I want my children to understand the importance of fitness and nutrition. I hope my example will set them up for success in their own lives.

I am thrilled to begin instructing. I hope my passion for Stroller Strides and fitness will be an encouragement and inspiration to you!

Mom's Night Out!

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000-10:00

Join us for MNO at The Cheesecake Factory in Waikiki!

Thursday, October 13
Meet at 6 PM
they will not seat our party until all of us have arrived

RSVP is required so please let me know by email or via Evite if you plan on attending.

It promises to be a fun evening, with all of us getting wild and crazy on cheesecake after dinner!

Member Monday

2011-10-10T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hey, ladies! I'm Sara, and I recently started attending class at CORP. We actually live in Bethesda, Maryland, but we are currently staying at the hotel at Tripler while my husband Eamon does a six-week OB/GYN rotation at the hospital there.

Eamon is a 3rd year med student at the Uniformed Services University, and rotation site selection is based on a lottery system. Clearly, we lucked out with six weeks in Hawaii!

Eamon and I met 8.5 years ago in a bar on Amelia Island just north of Jacksonville, FL, and we got married in 2006. In January 2009, we welcomed our first daughter Carrigan (now 2.5 years) in Pensacola, FL... and I "retired" from working as a pediatric speech-language pathologist to become a stay-at-home mom (though we rarely stay home!).Our second daughter Saoirse (now 9 months) was born in December 2010 in Bethesda.

In my "free time" (who am I kidding?!), I enjoy reading, running, swimming, and sewing. I am also slightly embarrassed to admit that my guilty pleasures include reality TV (specifically The Bachelor) and US Weekly.

When Carrigan was 6 weeks old, I started StrollerFit in Pensacola (sorry! no SS there!). Fitness has always been an important part of my life, but I knew I needed some accountability to get back on track post-pregnancy. The combination of exercise, meeting other moms, and just getting out of the house was a lifesaver for me. It really helped me figure out my new role as mommy... and helped me work through some of my postpartum/post-cesarean emotions. So, when we moved to Bethesda, joining Stroller Strides was a no-brainer. I knew it would give me an instant group of mommy friends who enjoy exercising... and an instant playgroup for Carrigan!

Then, one of my first classes back after Saoirse was born, the franchise owner said she was looking for new instructors. I couldn't contain my excitement! I called Eamon on my way home from class to share the news! I went to the two-day training and instructed my first solo class in April. When we found out we would be on Oahu for six weeks, I was psyched to find out I could still get my SS workouts while we were here!

My current fitness goals are pretty simple: to regain some of my core/ab strength and to rebuild my running base (I got off-track with a recent foot injury). Oh, and fitting into some of my pre-pregnancy clothes would be nice, too! Of course, pushing my double BOB up the hills at CORP is definitely helping! Thanks to all the moms at CORP who have been so welcoming! I am looking forward to the next couple of weeks of workouts with you all!

GFC 2011 Begins Tomorrow!

2011-10-09T07:00:00.000-10:00

Fitness assessments and body fat analysis will be held this week at class.

We will hold 3 Fitness Assessments at the beginning and end of the Get Fit Challenge.

Your goal is to improve in each category over the next 10 weeks. The top 7 finishers in October and December in each category will earn 1 extra point.

* 150 step-ups, for time
* front plank, for time
* push-ups (on your toes)

Fitness Assessments will be held on:

* Wednesday, October 12 at KAP
* Thursday, October 13 at CORP
* Friday, October 14 at SCH

For body fat analysis, the calipers are more accurate when you are not dehydrated from working out, so these must happen before class. I am available by appointment if you are willing to come to my home in Ko Olina. Assessments will also take place before class on:

* Wednesday, October 12 at KAP (starts at 8 AM)
* Friday, October 14 at SCH (starts at 8:15 AM)
* Saturday, October 15 at CORP (starts at 7:45 AM)

Participants will earn points through:

* Class Attendance (valid for SS, BB, and boxing class, not to exceed 6 points in a week)
* MVP of the Day (instructor will select 1 outstanding mom at each SS class, and 2 moms if there are 12+ at class)
* Improvement in the Fitness Assessment
* Improvement in Body Composition

Registration for the GFC ends on Saturday, October 15 and all assessments and measurements must be completed by then. The mom with the most points wins a $250 gift card to the Ala Moana mall!

Register Here Today

Special Announcement

2011-10-07T09:40:00.003-10:00

As most of you know, my time on Oahu is coming to a close since our family will be moving back to the mainland next spring.

Stroller Strides has been my baby for the past two-plus years. (Truly, I would probably have another real baby right now if not for SS!) It has given me something to nurture and fret over, literally kept me up at night (and then woken me up far too early!), and offered me so many opportunities for personal growth. I have been changed forever because of my time as a franchisee. I feel incredibly blessed to have had this time with Stroller Strides. It is the perfect job for a mom who loves fitness and also wants to be at home with her children.

I always felt that I had a successful start to my SS career because of the long transition that took place between me and the former owner, Sarah. With that in mind, while I knew I wouldn't be moving until the spring, the transition to new ownership needed to happen earlier.

Starting January 1, Trish Holzman will be the new owner of Stroller Strides Leeward Oahu. She embodies what Stroller Strides can do for a mom -- Trish has literally transformed before our eyes! While she has always enjoyed fitness, the demands of pregnancy and then motherhood left her with a body she didn't recognize. Stroller Strides was the answer, and she has dropped several dress sizes since joining the program last November.

Trish and I are excited to work together to make the transition between owners as smooth as possible. I will be staying on as an instructor until my move, so while my name will no longer be attached to all the emails you get, I'll still be around. I am very excited to see what Trish will bring to Leeward -- because no matter who owns it, I will always feel like SS Leeward is my baby:=)

Joni, July 2008-December 2010
Trish, January 2011-???

From Trish:

For the longest time, I've asked myself "what am I going to do when I grow up?".... Well, with a degree in history, the answer was always a big, fat question mark. I never really felt "inspired" to do any one thing in particular. Not until recently, that is...

When I first joined SS, just under a year ago, I couldn't even run a full lap around the park. I was still squeezing into my maternity clothes (almost a year after having a baby). I was a frazzled mom who needed a purpose. I needed a push. I needed to be inspired. At this point, I only wanted to fit into my skinny jeans. Little did I know that first day I showed up with my beat-up double jogger, and sweatpants, that it would all unfold into so much more. My plan was to just get in a work out.

My two-day-a-week routine became a three-day-a-week routine, which turned into a five-day-a-week routine. The first time I made it the entire way around the park running, I almost jumped for joy. In fact, I'm sure it was a burpee. I was pushed to the limit at every class. I met amazing women. I didn't have to leave my kids behind... I was fitting into my skinny jeans. I gained confidence. I shopped for work out clothes at Lululemon (once, a fantasy, now a reality!!!). I was challenged to go beyond my comfort zone and keep pushing the limits until I gained much more than "just a work out." This is when I knew that I wanted to become an instructor. I wanted to take all of those great feelings I was having about myself and my achievements and help other women do the same.

Now that I'm an instructor, I get to teach others what I have grown to love. I get to be a part of the very thing that has helped to change my life in more ways than are imaginable. The passion I have for SS runs SO deep. Now, once again, SS is going to change my life. It changes my life again, because it's given me a very clear answer to the question I've been asking myself for so long. After all the growth and change, and blood, sweat and tears (and cash deposits at Lululemon), I feel inspired. I feel my purpose has reached right out from under my BOB, wrapped its arms around my neck and presented itself to me in the form of a Stroller Strides franchise. Excellent, I can finally put the call in to my middle school guidance counselor... "I want to be a SS franchisee!!!!"

I am SO excited to have the opportunity to own the Leeward franchise of Stroller Strides. I get to continue to take what I have learned and what I have achieved and put it right back into Stroller Strides and help you AMAZING mommies reach your fitness goals. I also feel absolutely and EXTREMELY fortunate to be taking this over from someone who has poured her heart and soul into making Stroller Strides Leeward Oahu such an awesome, successful and truly top-notch franchise. I swear on Tabata that I am fully committed to giving 110% to this franchise every.single.day.

I feel so fortunate to have earned this opportunity. I can't wait to continue this journey with you all running along by my side, as the new owner of Stroller Strides Leeward Oahu.

Get Fit Challenge 2011!

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-10:00

The Get Fit Challenge is back and it's bigger and better than ever!

There is no better time to really focus on your health and fitness than during the holidays. Don't resolve to be better on January 1 after giving in to all those holiday indulgences. Start NOW!

The Get Fit Challenge will run for 10 weeks, from October 10 to December 16. Participation is optional and not part of your Stroller Strides membership.

Participants will earn points through:

Class Attendance (valid for SS, BB, and boxing class, not to exceed 6 points in a week)
MVP of the Day (instructor will select 1 outstanding mom at each SS class)
Improvement in the Fitness Assessment
Improvement in Body Composition

Improvement in your body composition will be assessed via body fat calipers. Calipers are more accurate than a measuring tape and you will learn your before-and-after body fat percentage. This is a change from last year's GFC and a big part of the expense of the contest since body fat analysis is so time-intensive.

We will hold 3 Fitness Assessments at the beginning and end of the Get Fit Challenge. Your goal is to improve in each category over the next 10 weeks. The top 7 finishers in October and December in each category will also earn 1 extra point.

150 step-ups, for time
front plank, for time
push-ups (on your toes)

Fitness Assessments will be held on:

Wednesday, October 12 at KAP
Thursday, October 13 at CORP
Friday, October 14 at SCH

For body fat analysis, the calipers are more accurate when you are not dehydrated from working out, so these must happen before class. I am available by appointment if you are willing to come to my home in Ko Olina. Assessments will also take place before class on:

Wednesday, October 12 at KAP (starts at 8 AM)
Friday, October 14 at SCH (starts at 8:15 AM)
Saturday, October 15 at CORP (starts at 7:45 AM)

Winning the GFC will take a combination of great attendance, hard work at class, fat loss through better nutrition, and improved speed and strength. My goal is to have the contest truly representative of what it takes to GET FIT and that anyone, with dedication, can win! It doesn't matter if you're 10 weeks postpartum or one of the fittest women in the group.

Grand prize is a $250 Gift Card to the Ala Moana shopping mall!

Second prize wins a $100 Gift Card to Lululemon. Third place receives free membership to Stroller Strides in the month of January, and 4th and 5th place win a free shirt from the SS Retail Store.

The GFC costs $15/month in October, November, and December. If you would like to pre-pay the entire amount in October, you will receive a $5 discount.

The GFC begins in 6 days, so Register HERE today!

Please email me with any questions. There are plenty of specifics that I haven't covered in this post, just to keep it simple. But if you have a question, I have an answer!

Member Monday

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hola ladies! I’m Veronica, one of the newest members to Stroller Strides, and I attend the Kapolei classes.

I live up the hill in Makakilo. Originally I’m from sunny Southern California. My husband is a JAG in the Army, and we’ve been assigned to this beautiful Island since January 2010. This October we are celebrating our 8th anniversary.

I have three kids, and Stroller Strides has been the toughest workout that I have found since having my youngest son last June.

I love to run, swim, cook, bargain shop, snorkel, hang out with friends, try new foods, go on dates with my husband, and just relax on the incredible beaches all over the island with my family.

My fitness goals are pretty simple: I just want to be healthy and keep up with my kids. I thought that Stroller Strides was going to be a walk in the park — literally! I have been pleasantly surprised (and exhausted) by the intensity of the workouts.

I have also really enjoyed all the nice people that attend the classes and look forward to getting to know everyone better. Who knows, this could be the first holiday season since high school that doesn’t make me fear my scale!

Boxing this Thursday!

2011-09-27T09:42:00.002-10:00

This Thursday will be our women-only class at Pearlside Boxing in Kapolei! Take advantage of this opportunity to box with your fellow SS/BB moms!

Class is offered every other Thursday (1st and 3rd) of the month. With 5 Thursdays in the month of September, this week is a bonus class.

It costs $30 for two classes/month, or you can drop in for $20/class.

The facility is in Kapolei near Costco. (Drive past Costco -- it will be on your left. Make the first left onto Laulauwili Street. You will pass the fire station and a storage facility. At the Boxing sign, make a righthand turn into the parking lot. Drive straight and you're there!)

Member Monday

2011-09-26T07:00:00.001-10:00

Aloha! My name is Kelsey and I live in Kapolei with my boyfriend, Mike, and 7-month-old daughter, Ella. This has been one hell of a year even a horoscope would be hard-pressed to predict.

If you spoke with me two years ago I’d tell you I would be a successful VP of Marketing at a prestigious firm in my humble abode on Park Ave in NYC by the end of 2012. Then reality hit, I was love stricken and life took off! We found out we were pregnant right before Mike was about to leave for a four-month “underway” on his new submarine USS North Carolina last July.

Ella was quite the little miracle as I had been in and out of the hospital due to the new diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease. With the new diagnosis came several CAT scans, medications and the daunting reality of a colonoscopy (might I add: no 23 year old should EVER have to go through that process). Needless to say, I flew here at eight months pregnant (elephant feet anyone?) in November 2010 and underwent numerous genetic testings, sonograms and doctor visits. Our little love came out perfect.

I am a stay-at-home mom, housekeeper, terrible cook and desperate to get back in shape. Having moved across the world to Hawaii with neither friends nor family I was quite anxious with all the ‘new’ I now had to embrace. Granted, rich relationships are a product of who you are, not where you are. I knew I’d make new friends wherever I went, I pushed my boundaries and here I am.

Stroller Strides is perfect for me. Fitness has always been important to me and I intend on demonstrating healthy living to my children (I plan for three more – Mike is aware and totally on board!). Throughout my school years I was a competitive swimmer, after school ended I put my life into the gym and would spend 3-4 hours a day there. Mike had also introduced me into the CrossFit world. At my peak fitness level I was training for a triathlon, which I ended up postponing after discovering our new bundle of love joining our family.

I continued Crossfit modified for pregnancy for a few months, but ultimately indulged and took full advantage of guilt-free eating. Fifty pounds later I decided I would eat myself to my grave if I continued this habit.

Once Ella was born I lost the pregnancy pounds (um, she was 7.4lbs, where’d the rest come from?!) in the coming months and now I am looking to get toned. I’d love to see my abs again and I may give my right arm for my jawline again.

Kelsey's goal: To get back her pre-baby body back!

Member Monday

2011-09-19T07:00:00.000-10:00

My name is Ashley, and recently I joined the Kapolei Stroller Strides classes. I live in Makakilo City.

My husband has been in the Army for 11 years and last year got orders to be stationed here in Hawaii. Our family has been here since January 2010. I love being an Army wife and supporting our troops!

I am a proud Mom of two amazing little boys, Hayden, age 7 and Carson, 20 months! I am also a hair stylist and have been doing hair for over five years now...I love my profession! Not only is it a job for me but it's also a hobby because I enjoy making people feel good about themselves!

Moving to Hawaii has been a great experience for my family. Not long after coming to Hawaii my husband was set to deploy to Afghanistan, so we decided that I take the opportunity to stay at home and concentrate on our children throughout his deployment. I have to say it was the best decision!

I am loving being involved in Hayden's taekwondo, Cub Scouts and the time I get everyday with my little Carson who I refer to as my monkey! The things that these boys do everyday make me laugh and smile constantly -- I am blessed to not be missing these moments! I am also blessed to have the support of my husband! Although I miss being in the salon, I still get the opportunity to practice hair, but do it from home where I can still be with my boys!

It wasn't until after I had Carson I was determined to make a change in my health and fitness! When I began my fitness program and started working towards a goal, I soon began to reach that goal! I was amazed at the awesome feeling it gave me to accomplish it! My goals for fitness are to keep my interest in working out, staying fit as well as have tone and keep my energy level up!

I like to do Body Insanity, P90X, and now Stroller Strides! I have enjoyed Stroller Strides! It's fun to get out and meet other girls who all share a common interest and have similar stories!

Boxing!

2011-09-16T19:42:00.008-10:00

Rosy, Nikki, Jenna, Tammy, Alyssa, Melanie, Trish,
and Joni (kneeling)

Oh my, Fit Moms Rock! (And Tammy, LOL.)

We always have a great time at our Perpetual MNO, Ladies Night at Pearlside Boxing. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month at 6 PM. There is a bonus class in September since there are 5 Thursdays in September, so come join us at our next class on September 29!

There is a photo of Jenna and I when we began boxing with Coach over two years ago. I had just started attending Stroller Strides and then a few of us began boxing on the side (whenever we could piece together childcare). Here we are in 2009. Our friends from SS, Robin and Jana, are on the left.

Check out what some dedicated Stroller Striding can do for a girl!

And thanks to Coach too:=) Boxing helps get you guns!

Recreating our picture in 2011!

Ladies Night at Pearlside Boxing!

2011-09-13T11:48:00.011-10:00

This Thursday will be our women-only class at Pearlside Boxing in Kapolei! Take advantage of this opportunity to box with your fellow SS/BB moms!

Class is offered every other Thursday (1st and 3rd) of the month. It costs $30 for two classes/month, or you can drop in for $20/class. The facility is in Kapolei near Costco. (Drive past Costco -- it will be on your left. Make the first left onto Laulauwili Street. You will pass the fire station and a storage facility. At the Boxing sign, make a righthand turn into the parking lot. Drive straight and you're there!)

Boxing is a fantastic addition to your workout routine. It will improve your conditioning, develop strength, and tap into your inner fighter!

I love boxing and I really want to introduce all of you to this fantastic cross-training opportunity. The only "downside" of boxing is that it can be a bit intimidating, which is why I asked Coach Jumawan to offer this ladies-only class.

Here's a video of Bryant Moniz, UH Quarterback, at the Kapolei gym. It's a great demonstration of what we do in class (minus most of the contact -- we don't spar each other!).

For any questions, call Robyn Jumawan at 348-9202.

Member Monday

2011-09-12T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hello, my name is Marna, I am 33 years old, I was born & raised in Rhode Island and moved to Connecticut when I was 18.

While living in CT, I met my husband, Scott. We've now been married for 12 years and we have 4 beautiful children.

Logan is 9, in the 4th grade. Wade is 7, in 2nd grade. Kaylee is 4 (will be 5 on the 28th), in Kindergarten. They attend Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary. And our little Mack, surprise of our life, will be 1 on the 13th.

We live in Catlin Park, Navy housing, near the airport. We have been in Hawaii since December 2008, and are about to enjoy some shore duty right here in Hawaii for another 3 years....so very exciting! Our nearly 14 years together have consisted of 10 years of sea duty...this Mama is ready for a rest!

I am a Registered Nurse, my background has been in Emergency, Interventional Radiology, Subacute rehabilitation & long term care. After graduating nursing school with my associate degree (nearly 9 months pregnant with Logan), I worked part time after having him until we moved here in 2008.

Once we arrived here, I started my Bachelor's degree program & finished last summer, about 3 weeks before I gave birth to our sweet Mackie. (Apparently, I have a theme!) I love Nursing, but my focus is my family. Recently I've been feeling drawn to the preschool near my house, my daughter attended there & I have been thinking of substitute teaching. I love kids & I think that I would enjoy it. Who knows?

My fitness background started early, growing up with two active parents, involved in softball, my days on the softball field truly began before I can recall. I began playing softball, basketball, soccer & eventually cheerleading. I played soccer & softball in high school until my junior year, but my love for cheerleading prevailed & I actually made the All-State team in RI in my senior year. After high school, my activity in sports was nonexistent, so I opted for intermittent stints at the gym.

With an extra 15-20 lbs on me since my early 20's, I have struggled to get this weight off all of my adult life. Luckily, I've remained active enough to just have the 15-20 lbs to worry about. I have had 4 successful, beautiful pregnancies & deliveries, for which I am grateful. Now that I am done with childbearing, I really want to try to shed the excess. My main goal is to be a positive role model for my children. I want them to see how to take care of their bodies. My second goal, if I may be vain for a minute, is to flatten my tummy. I'm not looking to be a super model by any means, but a slimmer version of me would be awesome! I have always struggled to follow through with at-home workouts. Stroller Strides is the perfect solution to my workout dilemma. I currently attend SS at CORP, but am planning on adding Kapolei to the mix, too. So far, I love it and feel like I can stick to it!

Since returning from vacation in early August I have been working on my nutrition (& my family's). I've read Tosca Reno's book The Eat Clean Diet, and have been inspired. I am cutting out the excess sugar & white flour. I am eating 6 small meals per day & I can say that my energy has already improved. I consider myself to be a total foodie, so 'Operation Eat Clean' as I'm calling it isn't always easy, but what can I say, I'm a work in progress!

When I'm not carting around kids, doing laundry, cleaning or helping with homework, I love to read, sew (simple stuff....curtains, placemats, etc.), swim, walking (especially with my whole family) & cooking (particularly baking).

Here's hoping for a strong finish to my year. Thank you all for making me feel so welcome to this awesome group! Aloha!

Schooner's

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-10:00

Left to right:
Melissa, Maria, Anna, Melinda,
Loretta, Mika, and Heather

Enjoying the wonderful view at Schooner's Restaurant for MNO!

Nikki's Transformation Story

2011-09-07T07:00:00.000-10:00

After moving to Hawaii in October of last year, we found ourselves for the first time in a great weather environment that was conducive to outdoor activity. As a family, we had spent the last eight years in central Texas where the main activity in the summer often consisted of searching for the nearest indoor climate with air conditioning and where the winter time was cold and windy. I decided in January 2011 that it was time for me to get off the couch and start working out again. My neighbor at the time introduced me to Stroller Strides. I started Stroller Strides at the end of January. Although I love Stroller Strides I wasn’t seeing the results I yet wanted to see. In April I decided that I would give Body Back a try in addition to Stroller Strides. I mean what did I have to lose?

Nikki at far right, Mom's Night Out, February 2011

What an eye opener the first couple weeks were. From the assessments, to the measurements, to the nutrition, I was a mess. I had the worst nutritional journal out of the group (I think), and my assessments and measurements weren’t anything to brag about. I had let myself get to 35% body fat. You may ask yourself how in the world I let myself get to 35% body fat. Well after two kids and 72 pounds of weight gain, working long hours as a paramedic, eating fast food all the time, and never making time to work out, my body was 35% fat (yuck)!

The first session of Body Back began to break me down and rebuilt a new better me. By the end of the first session I had lost 25 pounds, 5% body fat, several inches, and was eating so much cleaner and drinking water like crazy. I also improved in all my assessments and measurements. After seeing what a difference the exercising and nutritional changes did for me I was hooked.

May 2011, midway through BB #1

I decided to continue with Body Back and did the second session. Even though I missed half of session two due to vacation, I was still amazed that again I lost fat and gained muscle. I lost another 3% body fat, several inches and I am now 2 clothes sizes smaller. I have decided to continue my Body Back transformation and do session 3 and I have also added boxing to my mix of Stroller Strides, Body Back, Karate and running. I can’t wait to see what kind of results I get this time!

I have to take time to thank the people that have helped me out on my journey to a healthier, leaner, and more fit Nikki. First, I want to thank Liz Weyrauch for introducing me to Stroller Strides. Next, to the Schofield team: Debbie Patterson, Maria Thompson, Stephanie Cunningham, and Rayna Labine, for always motivating and encouraging me. Thank you to Joni for opening my eyes to a whole new world of fitness, nutrition, and the encouragement. Thanks to my fellow Body Backsters who always encourage each other and never let anyone give up. Lastly, thanks to my baby sitter and husband who watch the kids so that I can come and workout!

Nikki at last Saturday's BB preview class.

Just 6 months after Nikki's workout journey began with SS and BB!

Restaurant Club TOMORROW!

2011-09-06T08:41:00.004-10:00

Schooner's Restaurant
Wednesday, Sept. 7
6 PM

It's time for a kids-free night out with your Stroller Strides friends! We will be dining at Schooners, which is tucked away on a quiet marina on Pearl Harbor. The views are tranquil, the food is good, and the company will be great!

Please be sure to let Heather or Joni know if you plan on attending so that Heather can make a reservation.

Member Monday

2011-09-05T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hi! My name is Anna and I live on Helamano Military Reservation (just past the Dole Plantation in Wahiawa).

I was born and raised in Minnesota. I am very close with my family and would love to live there again someday.

I am married to Charlie who is in the Army. We moved to Hawaii with our two little dogs Parka(a Bichon) and Winnie (a Maltese) in December of 2008.

We sadly will be leaving in December of this year and moving to Ft. Jackson, South Carolina for five months and then off to Ft. Mead, Maryland for two months. After that we will be stationed somewhere else for two years, we are waiting to find out where. The Army life is an adventure and so far I have really enjoyed it!

I recently started attending classes at Schofield and CORP. I grew up heavily involved in sports, I played basketball for ten years and was a competitive dancer for five years.

When I graduated high school I unfortunately got out of shape and gained some weight. When Charlie deployed in 2009 I lost 25lbs and was fit again! Once Charlie was back from Afghanistan we took a little trip to Las Vegas and came home with a little surprise! Nine months later our beautiful daughter Cecilia "Cici" Lou was born. She has brought an enormous amount of joy to our lives.

Unfortunately I didn't work out much when I was pregnant and I gained 60lbs! Now I am working hard to get the weight off. I would like to be back in shape and a little lighter by December before we leave. Stroller Strides has been a blast so far. I have enjoyed meeting all the other moms and their little ones. I actually look forward to working out in the morning!

Labor Day

2011-09-02T23:27:00.000-10:00

Class will be held at Central Oahu Regional Park on Monday, September 5.

No class at Schofield or Kapolei!

We begin at 8:45 AM.

September Newsletter

2011-09-01T07:00:00.000-10:00

Click here to read the September Newsletter!

1 Week till Restaurant Club!

2011-08-31T07:00:00.000-10:00

Schooner's Restaurant
Wednesday, September 7
6 PM

It's time for a kids-free night out with your Stroller Strides friends! We will be dining at Schooners, which is tucked away on a quiet marina on Pearl Harbor. The views are tranquil, the food is good, and the company will be great! Please RSVP via Evite.

Saturday Class is back!

2011-08-30T07:00:00.000-10:00

Come join Trish for our first Saturday class of the fall!

Central Oahu Regional Park
Saturday, September 3
8:30 to 9:45 AM

This is a great opportunity to share SS with your hubby and give him a taste of some hill sprints, bench jumps, and push-ups!

Member Monday

2011-08-29T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hi, my name is Loretta and I attend class at Schofield Barracks. I live just down the street from SS.

The Army brought us to Hawaii in January 2010.

I like grocery shopping, playing with my kids, organizing life and eating yummy, healthy meals.

I enjoy being in shape and exercising with others. I played sports as a kid and worked-out on and off in my adult life. It's been more off than on since we started having kids 6 years ago.

But with SS, I love that I can bring them with me! My goal is to lose the baby weight, regain the endurance to run a couple of miles a couple days a week and do yoga once a week - overall have a healthy, strong body!

Member Monday

2011-08-22T07:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha! My name is Mika and I live in Pearl City. I just started attending classes at CORP, but hope to add Schofield...or Pearl Harbor/Hickam someday??...to my calendar soon.

My husband is a local boy (born and raised in Waianae) and is AGR in the Air National Guard so we have no risk of moving away. I've lived in Hawaii for 11 years now and absolutely love it. Previously, I lived in Tucson, Arizona where I graduated from the University of Arizona, but grew up in the farmlands of Illinois outside of Chicago.

I have 4 children in ages that range from 17 years to 15 months. My oldest, Patrick, is a senior in high school and lives with his father in Tucson. My 9 year old, Kainoa, and 8 year old, Kekulalani "Jasmine," attend Pearl City Highlands Elementary. And baby Kaipo, our "surprise" baby, is now 15 months old. He suffered a traumatic brain injury last year that left him visually impaired and with mild cerebral palsy so I have been a SAHM ever since.

I have always been "athletically challenged" and never a fan of exercise. The last time I was on any kind of exercise program was 12 years ago and it just consisted of me walking my dog every morning before work. But a couple months ago, I strained my back getting the baby out of the tub, and I decided I needed professional help to get into shape. I realized that he was only going to get bigger and I was only going to get older so I had better start soon. I would love to lose 40 lbs, but more importantly I want to get stronger and get the energy to chase him around once he learns to crawl and walk.

I'm hoping that Stroller Strides will help me do all that, as well as be a place for me to meet other moms.

Melinda's Transformation

2011-08-19T11:08:00.004-10:00

I plan on an occasional series where we recognize members who have transformed before our eyes at Stroller Strides. Here's Melinda's story!

Hi! My name is Melinda and I am married to the greatest husband and father, Pat. We've been married for nearly seven years and have two kids, Max and Olivia, that keep us busy!

I joined Stroller Strides January of this year, attending the Waterfront classes twice a week while my son was in preschool. Over summer vacation I moved over to CORP and Kapolei and upped my classes to four a week. Once I made that switch I really saw the weight come off. In addition to the working out that made a difference, it was also changing how I ate.

Working out with Stroller Strides has made me pay more attention to what I'm eating and how much! I've eliminated my "weakness" foods such as ice cream, beer, and pizza, only having those on special occasions. And this month I've decided to challenge myself even further by cutting sugar out of my diet.

OK, so I'm finding that the "no sugar" thing will be hard to do all the time, but I've seen a big difference in just a week or so of doing it and plan on keeping it up! I've also found new food combinations that I love and I'm feeling better about eating more healthfully.

Thanks to Stroller Strides I've lost over 20 pounds and a few dress sizes! I now go shopping for clothes and love my shopping experience because I fit into smaller sizes! I've always been overweight which made me have low self esteem and now I just couldn't be happier!!

Before, January 2011

After, July 2011

Restaurant Club

2011-08-16T15:30:00.004-10:00

Restaurant Club is baaaack!

After a brief hiatus when Liz moved away, Heather F. has taken the reins and she is going to get our social life back on track!

Restaurant Club will alternate with an active MNO every month.

Our hope is to appeal to as many of you as possible with a variety of activities, restaurants, and days and times each month.

Schooner's Restaurant
Wednesday, September 7
6 PM

From Heather:
"It's time for a kids-free night out with your Stroller Strides friends! We will be dining at Schooners, which is tucked away on a quiet marina on Pearl Harbor. The views are tranquil, the food is good, and the company will be great! Please say you'll join us!"

RSVP via Evite.

Member Monday

2011-08-15T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hi, my name is Katie and I attend the Schofield Barracks Stroller Strides because it is right down the street from where I live in the "woodies" on post.

My husband is in the Army and we were so excited to come to HI. We have now been here for a year and I still feel like everything is still so new.

I love to shop and travel. However, they can sometimes be very expensive habits, so I also quilt and do other crafty things with my hands. I love to get out and explore new places and see new things.

I need a little more motivation to work out than just wandering outside by myself. Stroller Strides is the absolute perfect group for me to do this. I have no idea why it took me a year to finally get over and join up. However, now that I have gotten into it, I am very glad that I finally did!

My primary exercise goal is to slim down enough to fit into the pile of summer clothes in my closet that I cannot quite fit into yet. I also have some tummy areas that need some toning for the ever-lasting bathing suit season!

Boxing MNO this Friday!

2011-08-09T16:05:00.002-10:00

There is still room to participate in this Friday's Mom's Night Out activity!

We will be having a private class at Pearlside Boxing in Kapolei.

Friday, August 12
7 to 8 PM
$15

If you have never boxed before, this is a perfect introduction. You will be learning the punches (jab, uppercut, hook) and sparring with Coach's contact mitts and the punching bags. This is the 3rd time we have gone and it's always a great time! I love how loud all the SS moms get! You can even box while pregnant since this is primarily an upper body workout. Just check out Amber's pics as she boxed at 6 or 7 months along:=)

If you would like to attend, simply email me at joni[at]strollerstrides.net

Thanks!
Joni

Body Back, Session 3!

2011-08-01T10:21:00.006-10:00

The free preview class for Body Back will be held on Saturday, September 3, 6:30 AM at CORP. Come see what Body Back is all about!

I will be demonstrating all 3 workout formats: Rounds, Circuits, and Traveling. It's a fun workout and open to all. Sign up here to reserve your space.

Body Back is held on Tuesday evenings at 6 PM and on Saturday mornings at 6:30 AM at Central Oahu Regional Park. It is a high-intensity, interval-based workout that focuses on developing strength and athleticism in a women-only environment.

Class is available to all -- you do not need to be a Stroller Strides member to participate, though many of us enjoy supplementing our regular workout at SS with a workout for mom only. We use a variety of equipment such as kettlebells, medicine balls, free weights, and I have a few new "toys" coming for Session 3. Stay tuned!

Rather than enroll for 1 or 2 days, I am moving to a punch card system. The next session will run from September 6 to November 19 -- or 11 weeks, for a total of 22 classes.

Punch cards will be available in the following increments:
8, 12, 15, and 20.

The card will expire at the end of the session, so you will want to look over the months of September, October and November and decide how many days work for you. You may want to attend weekly, biweekly, or even every other week.

8 classes -- $160 ($20/class)
12 classes -- $215 ($18/class)
15 classes -- $240 ($16/class)
20 classes -- $280 ($14/class)

(The "per-class" rate is a bit misleading since the price of Body Back also includes your fitness assessment, measurements, body fat analysis, and nutrition coaching.)

Those who purchase a 20-punch card will receive 2 free classes, so privileges to attend all 22 classes in the session. If you run out of classes during the session, you will have the option to purchase another card (3 packs will then be available at a cost of $60) or to pay the drop-in rate of $22.

Those of you involved in Stroller Strides will have the option (while enrolled in BB) to be a 1x/week member ($35), or 2x/week ($45). This acknowledges that some of you may not be able to take full advantage of your unlimited membership while also enrolled in Body Back.

I look forward to beginning Session 3 soon and I would love to see you at the preview class on September 3. Once again, you can pre-register here. Plus, refer a friend outside of SS to BB and receive half off your October dues!

Debbie's "Last" Class

2011-07-28T14:02:00.005-10:00

Maria, Bobbie, Nadine, Carrie, Debbie, Joni, Liz and Cathy

Before baby, that is!

Debbie will be taking off the months of August and September due to the upcoming arrival of baby #3. I know that she will be missed! But you may still see her as a class participant and she'll be back once her little girl has arrived and life settles down.

Member Monday

2011-07-25T07:00:00.000-10:00

My name is Melissa and I am an Army wife and stay-at-home mom to Colin who is 4 and Kaitlyn, 2.

My family and I have been on the island about 2 months and are just about settled. We moved from WA state and are really enjoing the Hawaiian sunshine.

My primary location is Schofield, yet I have been going to CORP quite a bit. It's been a long time since I've had any kind of relationship to exercise and I've missed it.

I joined Stroller Strides to get back into shape, meet other fabulous moms and start giving myself the attention that I deserve.

6 Class Days Left!

2011-07-21T11:48:00.002-10:00

Six class days remain in July and our second Attendance contest will then come to a close.

Remember, you earn 1 ticket for every 3 classes you attend. At this point, nearly everyone in the franchise is in the game for at least 1 chance at a $15 Aloha Salads gift card.

Five gift cards will be awarded.

Our high achievers so far are:

Heather F. (2 tickets)
Melinda (3)
Melissa (3)
Tarah (2)
Kathy (3)
Jenna (2)
Liz O. (2)
Trish (3)
final month she gets to participate!

Winners will be announced next Friday!

New Start Time for Schofield

2011-07-19T08:59:00.003-10:00

Beginning Monday, August 1, Schofield will begin at 8:45 AM.

This gives everyone a little more time in the morning, and it also simplifies the Stroller Strides schedule.

Starting in August, ALL classes now begin at 8:45 AM. Remember that we always end promptly at 10, so come at 8:45 for warm-up and your full workout!

Meet Our Newest Instructor!

2011-07-18T07:00:00.000-10:00

Trish is the newest instructor at Leeward! She will be training for the next 4 weeks and you will see her at Kapolei, CORP, and Schofield. Welcome aboard Trish!

Hi! My name is Trish and I am married to my awesome husband Jake. We have been married for four years and have two wonderful kiddos.

Our daughter, Riley is almost three and our son Gavin is 18 months.

I am originally from the East Coast, but have moved frequently throughout my life. I have lived everywhere from Texas to Europe. I have been in Hawaii for eight and a half years, and now consider this home, as it is the longest I have ever lived anywhere (plus, my husband has lived here his whole life and both of our children were born here, and we have NO plans of leaving anytime soon).

I was quite athletic in my high school days, playing every sport imaginable. I also lifted weights, hiked, swam and never really turned down the opportunity to be active.

After getting married, and putting on too much weight with two (pretty much) back-to-back pregnancies, my body was in horrible shape. I started running on my own, but the chaos of motherhood often got the best of me, and I couldn’t consistently make time for myself to exercise.

I tried getting back to the gym, I tried yoga, I tried it all. But the one thing that was hard was finding the time. I hated the thought of putting the kids in childcare so I could work out; but I was often too tired to go at the end of the day when my husband came home from work.

Then, I discovered Stroller Strides (in November 2010). The single best thing that has happened IN.MY.LIFE (besides, of course, my husband and my kids). Stroller Strides has helped me get rid of all those extra pounds I was carrying around. It solved my childcare issues. It has given me back a confidence that I thought was gone forever. I am in better shape NOW than I was when I got married. And as an added bonus, I have met some phenomenal mothers, and some very inspirational women, who I am honored to call friends.

Stroller Strides has been the beginning of what is now a whole new lifestyle. Fitness and nutrition are priorities to me now. It has pushed me to exceed goals I had previously set for myself. I am constantly renewing that desire to push harder, go deeper, and become stronger than I was yesterday.

This is ALL because of Stroller Strides. I have been so inspired by the results I have seen in myself and in others. I knew that I had to take what I have learned and what I have worked so hard for and put that effort right back into helping others achieve their fitness goals. I cannot wait to continue on this journey as a Stroller Strides instructor.

2 Year Anniversary Party

2011-07-15T17:26:00.011-10:00

Aren't we so lucky to live here in Hawaii? It was a lovely afternoon spent with the SS ohana at my neighborhood pool. Thank you to all the women of Stroller Strides who came to celebrate my ownership of SS at Leeward for the past two years. You are wonderful friends and I'm so glad to know all of you!

Our newest Stroller Stride kiddos needed to stay in the shade --
here are Jill and Amber in the "newborn" section with Briella and Ella.

Ashley, Tarah, Mara, and Usanee

Digging into our feast of Subway sandwiches and everyone's potluck contributions.

Having fun with Summer's underwater camera!

Anastasia loves the cupcakes! They were so good.
I ordered them from Sara's Sweets.

Veteran SS members. Sharara has been with SS for over 4 years!
Margene joined in the spring of 2009!

Oahu franchisees! Leeward, Ewa Beach, and Kailua.
Thanks for joining me, Jill and Usanee!

Some of us in the pool:=)

Thank you for a wonderful 2 years!

Group Clothing Order

2011-07-13T22:51:00.003-10:00

I need to order a few things from the Retail Store, so if you would like to save on shipping and pick up a tee, tank or hat, please let me know by this Friday, July 15.

I add $1 for shipping and I can charge your card on file.

Member Monday

2011-07-11T07:14:00.003-10:00

Welcome to one of our newest Kapolei "moms"! You'll see her pushing a double with Iliahi and Summer's daughter Surfia when Lisa is away. She's working really hard at class!

Hi, I'm Kara. I'm from Wisconsin and staying with my cousin Lisa for the summer. I like to play volleyball and read. I am working to get stronger, specifically my ankle, for my senior year of sports back home.

Honolulu Magazine

2011-07-08T21:13:00.002-10:00

The good folks at Honolulu Magazine came to class for a photo op a few weeks ago, and we are profiled in this month's issue!

Tarah and Stacey posed as models for the photographer, and Stacey borrowed Amber's Billy for the picture since Jack was home sick that day. We also have Summer's daughter Surfia in the pic, sitting next to Anastasia.

Thank you to HM for helping spread the word about Stroller Strides!

The article lists Leeward classes only, but Stroller Strides is island-wide! Classes are also held in Ewa Beach, Honolulu, and Kailua.

Anniversary Party in 1 Week!

2011-07-07T10:07:00.004-10:00

We're celebrating Leeward's 2-Year Anniversary with a pool party!

Thursday, July 14
Coconut Plantation Pool (Ko Olina)
11 AM to 2 PM

Sandwiches and birthday cake are on the menu. It's always fun in the sun at the CP pool!

Please RSVP via Evite or simply email me if you plan on attending.

July Attendance Contest

2011-07-06T21:29:00.002-10:00

To know me is to know my love for Aloha Salads. The manager and I are even on a first-name basis (hi, Geoffrey!).

So it was an easy decision to offer Aloha Salads gift cards as prizes in this month's Attendance Contest.

Five $15 gift cards will be up for grabs in a drawing to be held on the final Friday of July.

It's pretty simple. Earn a ticket for every 3 classes you attend. (Don't you love how I'm paying you to get the most out of your membership?) You'll feel better, get stronger, spend more time with friends in the great outdoors, and lose fat to boot!

Schofield Fourth of July 5K

2011-07-05T14:09:00.006-10:00

Maria, Debbie, Liz O., and Bobbie

Thanks to Maria and Debbie for the following report and pictures on the Schofield 5K!

SS mamas that ran the 5K were Maria, Bobbie (with the stroller & her 7-year-old daughter Hailey) , Debbie, Liz O (double stroller) and Catherine (double stroller with 3 kids!).

Liz W ran with her girls for the fun run but was injured so couldn't do the 5K.

Emma & Hartley ("HVW"), Emanuel, James & Emma, and Hannah & Jack 'ran' the 1-mile children's Fun Run.

Catherine with Hannah

Maria and Emanuel

Liz and HVW

Debbie and Emma

Results
Hailey placed 9/22 in 17 & under age category!

Catherine placed 6/33 in the 20-29 category and was the first stroller to cross the finish line. She ran a 7:47 mile WITH the stroller. Amazing.

Debbie finished seconds behind Maria (again, amazing) and they were 17/18th out of 42 in our age category. So she ran a 9:32 mile at 7 months pregnant!!

This is such a fun race because it is literally in our backyard and all our kids/husbands can attend. Bobbie, Liz O and Catherine's husbands are all deployed which is an even further testament to the strength of these women.

4th of July Party

2011-07-04T07:00:00.000-10:00

Tarah, Sheryl, Liz, and Anja

Happy 4th of July! Rayna and I celebrated the 4th last Friday with a giant Circuit workout at Kapolei. The challenge was to move through the circuits as fast as possible in 35 minutes.

Each mom was entered into a "division" according to your stroller and its occupants:=) We had 4 divisions: Single & Double Stroller, 11 months and younger; and Single & Double Stroller, 12 months and up.

The most popular division by far? Single stroller with a child 12 months and up -- 11 moms!

Our winners were Anja, Tarah, Liz O., and Sheryl. Each of them won a copy of Clean Eating magazine, one of my favorite beach reads!

After class we had American flags, watermelon, patriotic clappers, and some kites that the older kids valiantly tried to assemble. (The peril of ordering from Oriental Trading. Instructions are never guaranteed!) As always, it's just nice to get together and spend time with one another after a good workout.

Kathy, Trish, Melinda, Jenna, and Tarah

We also recognized the women who attended 11+ classes in June and were eligible for the Lululemon drawing. Congratulations to our high achievers! Alyssa, Sara, Melanie, Liz S., and Andrea also attended enough classes in June and earn kudos as well.

It all came down to luck and Sonya did the honors. After a suspenseful few moments rummaging through the bag filled with tickets, out came Tarah's name.

She wins a $100 Lululemon gift certificate -- and we know she will put her new duds to good use at class!

Thanks to all who came to class and who make planning these classes so much fun! We had 25 moms, 4 visiting friends, 4 big kids, and 1 husband there. Special "aloha" to Kathy, Komarey, Bobbie, Sierra, Aundrea, Liz, Alyssa, and Maria who made the journey to Kapolei from Schofield.

Photos courtesy of Maria.

Wear RED! and other 4th of July Info

2011-06-30T15:00:00.004-10:00

Friday July 1 is our combined class and 4th of July party. Please wear RED!

Class begins at 8:45 at Kapolei. (No class at Schofield.) We will have a warm-up and then look over the two Circuits that you will be moving through at class. Please be on time to see the Circuits explained:=)

The Circuits will be a variety of exercises that you will move through at your own pace. After completing each Circuit, you'll collect a 4th of July sticker. Your goal is to collect as many stickers as possible.

I'll have different "divisions" to award prizes to the top finishers, such as "Double Stroller" and "Newborn Baby Division." As we all know at SS, our kids' ages have a lot to do with our energy levels!

Class will be followed by watermelon, a 4th of July parade, and some fun toys and activities for the kids. We will also be announcing the winner of the June Attendance Contest!

The following women are qualified for the drawing:

Melinda, Andrea F., Trish, Melanie, Sara R.,
Alyssa, Tarah, Liz S., Kathy, and Jenna.

If your name is not on this list but you think that you qualify with 11+ classes in June, please let me know so that I can double-check the attendance records.

Rosy's Final Class

2011-06-28T11:04:00.004-10:00

Final "official" class that is! Unlike all of our other departing instructors this year, Rosy isn't moving to the mainland and she may even be at classes in the future (I hope so!).

But her girls are getting older and Rosy is a woman of many talents. Her education career is calling!

Rosy has been with Stroller Strides for over 4 years and has taught at 3 franchises. We were very lucky to have her arrive in Kapolei exactly when one of our main instructors, Sarah, had to leave suddenly for Canada.

That was over two years ago and Rosy has been saving my bacon ever since!

This does not feel at all like a farewell, but since Rosy won't be officially on the schedule anymore, it was only fitting to have leis at her final Kapolei class. I think we'll all agree that we'll miss Rosy's ability to actually sing during class and all those Pilates movements! Rosy has made her own mold and she leaves a big hole in the schedule. We'll miss you!

Member Monday

2011-06-27T07:00:00.000-10:00

Hi! My name is Sierra and I'm the mom of two boys: Dominic, who is almost 9 years old, and Levi, who just turned one.

My husband is stationed at Schofield Barracks and that is the primary location we will be attending (though my goal is to make it to CORP as well and get in 4-5 days per week once I get used to the humidity! ;)

We've technically been stationed in Hawaii for two years, but I was living in California for this last year while my husband was deployed.

While in Iraq, my husband drastically changed his exercise and eating habits and managed to lose almost 40lbs! He really inspired me to change my diet and exercise habits as well!

During leave we started working out together (in -10 degree Minnesota weather!) and I'm excited to continue working out with him back in Hawaii now that he's home.

In CA I attended a similar mother/baby exercise program and really enjoyed being able to get a great workout in without having to worry about trying to find a sitter for the baby. After I moved back here to Hawaii I decided to look into Stroller Strides so I could keep the momentum that I had built up in California!

Since my husband is doing PT everyday on his own without me and then coming home and working out with me in the evenings, I figured I needed to keep working out without him during the day as well.

We didn't care for Hawaii too much when we first moved here (we love roadtrips and cold weather so Hawaii was quite an adjustment!) but we are learning to love it the longer we are here! We enjoy snorkeling and taking the kids to the beach and I can't say I've ever lived in a more beautiful place! I look forward to exploring the island a little more in the year or so that we have left stationed here!

4th of July Class and Party

2011-06-24T16:13:00.002-10:00

Celebrate the 4th with a combined Stroller Strides class and party!

Friday, July 1
Kapolei Regional Park
8:45 - 10 (class)
11 - 12 (parade and party)
No class at Schofield -- please come to Kapolei!

Rayna and Joni will be instructing and we will have two giant circuits set up in the park. You will move through the circuits at your own pace. Plum Organic Puffs go to the top finishers!

We'll have watermelon and some fun 4th of July toys and games for the kids, to be finished off with a patriotic parade. Please wear red to class and dress the kids in red too -- it will make our parade that much more festive.

I will also be announcing the winner of the Lululemon gift card drawing at class. You have 4 more class days to qualify! Anyone who has attended 11 or more classes in the month of June will be entered to win.

Introducing Ella

2011-06-22T16:29:00.007-10:00

Billy is a big brother!

Amber welcomed Ella Marie earlier this month. Amber was at SS to the very end and I hate to say it, but she even did a couple of sprints at those final classes. Looks like staying active paid off!

Amber writes, "Oh my it was so much faster then Billy! Labor was 4 1/2 hours and I only pushed for about 10 minutes!!! Ella was born at 8:11 am on Sunday, June 5th weighing 7 lbs. 12 oz. and 20 inches long. She has changed a lot over the course of 2 weeks!"

Congratulations Amber!

Member Monday

2011-06-20T07:00:00.000-10:00

My name is Sabrina and I have two children. My son Aiden is 4 years old and full of energy. My daughter Adelyn is 2 years old & full of smiles.

We attend Stroller Strides at the Schofield Barracks location where we live.

My husband is in the Army and we requested Hawaii as his duty station when he re-enlisted. We've been here for 1 year and love it!

I love road trips, sight seeing, going to the beach, water parks, shopping... pretty much anything.

Some of my goals in attending Stroller Strides are to stay active, build muscle, and to lead by example to stay fit for my kids. I really like that I can bring them with me when I work out.

It's great encouragement for me and I feel like it will help them to understand why it's important to follow a healthy diet and stay active as they grow up.

Attendance Contest Update!

2011-06-16T09:13:00.005-10:00

How are you doing attendance-wise? Are you in the running for a shot at my $100 Lululemon Gift Card?!

The month is half over and I've been looking over the attendance records to see who is in the running. We still have 10 class days left in the month and 11 classes are required to enter, so nearly everyone still has a chance.

The following women are well on their way with at least 5 classes attended so far in the month of June:

Melanie, KAP
Trish, KAP
Jenna, CORP
Liz S-B, CORP
Lisa R., KAP
Kathy, SCH
Tarah, KAP
Ashley, KAP
Sonya, KAP
Heather, KAP

Lots of you are close with 4 classes attended, so keep it up! Remember that our rained-out Friday has changed the rules, so only 11 classes are required to enter. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by taking full advantage of your unlimited membership!