"My goal is not to be better than anyone else, but to be better than I used to be."

Meet Siobhan

(pronounced Shavon)

This is my Story

I did not grow up an athlete. I dabbled in tennis and running in high school but did not start my fitness journey until my college years.  I spent the good part of a decade running, running and running until I finally burnt out and stumbled into my first yoga class after moving from Richmond to Washington D.C. I instantly felt the calming effect of yoga.  It calmed my anxieties associated with a demanding career in international fundraising. My D.C. studio (Flow Yoga Center) provided an amazing sense of community and I was compelled to complete my 200 hour teaching training.  Yoga continued to be my source of inspiration, and started me on my journey towards self-awareness, patience and acceptance of myself both on and off the mat.  My yoga journey continued through a move to Los Angeles, then eventually back to my hometown of Richmond, VA and two pregnancies.

In late 2012, I experienced my first real injury—a torn hip labrum. I am very grateful for this setback because it has helped me become a more knowledgeable and insightful coach. In order to avoid surgery I began strength training.  Needless to say I was less than enthusiastic.  Yoga was the end all be all for me and I had no interest in lifting weights.  However, if I did not at least try this option I would be on crutches for 4-6 weeks post-op chasing a one year old! So with great reluctance, I sporadically started weight training and after several months my pain subsided.  By that point I was hooked as I noticed both my yoga practice became stronger and aesthetically I looked better.

By the time I had a regular training practice my marriage came to an end.  I had been studying under the StrongFirst system of strength through this time.  Their mantra is “Strength has a larger purpose.”   Never has a phrase become so ingrained in my thoughts, actions and spirit.  Moving forward as a single mother of two boys and starting a new career as a strength coach was indeed scary and challenging but it has brought me more satisfaction than I could have ever imagined.  I am so blessed to work with amazing clients each day sharing with them my passion for kettlebells, yoga, bodyweight training and nutrition.  And I would be honored to help you on your journey to a healthy lifestyle!

Certifications:

Precision Nutrition Level 1

StrongFirst Bodyweight Instructor

StrongFirst Level 1 Kettlebell Instructor

Certified Personal Trainer through the American Council on Exercise

Registered Yoga Teacher, Flow Yoga Center, Washington D.C.

Shiva Rea: Flow of Pregnancy, Pre/Postnatal Prana Vinyasa Flow Yoga

MA Yoga, Yoga of Pregnancy, a prenatal teacher training with Dr. Eden Fromberg and Mia Borgotta

Certified Relax and Renew Trainer® with Judith Hansen Lasater