We’re making our way to the states as we continue our celebrations of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month (US)! There we’ll find Madison (she/her) who has been leading in Baltimore for nearly six months and is making an impact on bringing the high fives and the good vibes every week to her community.
- Who are some of the women in the world of running/sport that you look up to?
Alison Desir, Erin Azar, and all the amazing women runners in my community!!
- When did you first #JustShowUp to NP? How did you come across NP? What is it that you were looking for in a fitness group? How did NP provide that? What was an “extra” that NP has that you found value in?
Came across NP in 2018 when I first moved to Baltimore. My now-best-friend and then-stranger wanted to become friends with me and she knew she could appeal to me through fitness so she invited me to an NP workout and I’ve been hooked ever since! I was looking for motivation, inclusivity, and a place to be my silly-self and NP provided all that and so much more. NP has helped me love myself by providing an accepting community and I will be forever grateful. The people of NP are why I continue to #justshowup
- What apprehensions did you have as you considered coming for the first time? What was your first impression? Why did you keep showing up?
Wasn’t a big runner at the time! I love to challenge myself and it was great to have a place that offered the space to push hard or to give myself the rest I needed!
- What does it mean to you to be a woman Co-leader? What does it mean to your community? What does it mean to our global community?
I don’t often consider myself a leader – it isn’t until I think of the Co-leads that came before me and the inspiration they provided to me that I realize/hope that I am doing that for at least one other person. I am honored to represent NP for my community and to show other women that not only are they welcome in the fitness space but they are appreciated and valuable.
- How does being a woman influence your leadership? What was it like to be a woman in your community before you stepped into leadership?
I believe that being a woman motivates me to be hyper-aware of women that show up to workouts that may be timid or nervous or in need of extra high-fives and encouragement. I understand that it can be scary entering an unknown space and I love to be the person to make them feel welcome and empowered through movement.
- Did you have any apprehensions to lead this group? Did you experience imposter syndrome when you were asked to lead?
YES YES YES resounding yes. I still have imposter syndrome now lol but it’s the small tokens of appreciation from members that let me know that I’m doing all right. It’s the happiness and joy I have when I’m leaving a workout that affirms that I’m in the right place.
- How do you celebrate International Women’s Day? How can others celebrate you or celebrate with you this day? How can we celebrate you all year long?
I love to get in some extra movement because it makes me feel empowered. I also love to invite friends to move with me, whether it’s a group run or a HIIT session in the park. I also call my mother because she’s the reason I am the woman I am.
