Where do I begin?
Most of my experience with NP has been during the global wave of Covid. Celebrating events and holidays within fitness communities, especially amidst the pandemic, often meant finding creative ways to stay connected and spread joy. For us in Vancouver, along with the plethora of fitness groups that abound, it involved virtual holiday-themed workouts, where participants dressed up festively, shared holiday wishes, and did workouts together over video calls. It was so important, but so much could be felt missing. Physical presence does so much and we miss it.
I joined NP-Van in December 2019 and had a few months of the larger group experience before the Pandemic swept the globe in March 2020. In these times, maintaining a sense of togetherness became incredibly important. Many groups organized virtual gatherings after workouts to chat and share stories, and sometimes even had online holiday parties or gift exchanges to keep that feeling of camaraderie strong.
Personally, for many members, these events offered a sense of normalcy and connection during a time when physical distancing and restrictions made traditional gatherings challenging. Being part NP often meant staying active and finding support and friendship, which was especially valuable during the holidays when loneliness could be more pronounced.
Four years later, I’ve come to step up as co-lead and have gained so much from the wonderful community around me, the co-leaders (#bless-Rich-Mel-Vern) who have cheered me on, and the life experiences I’ve gained through these wonderful-go-hard-idiot-friendships.
I’m logging as if you didn’t know about what happened a few years ago – but maybe someone will read this 10 – 20 years later and stumble across the happenings of NP Vancouver’s past.
I would want them to know that we are a dedicated group of wonderful, amazing human beings who show up at stupid o clock to be our best selves when we don’t want to get out of bed. Show up shivering in the cold rain in the wet winters. We stand by and love our peers when we’re down on our luck and need a shoulder to cry on.
I’m thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this community, and here are some of the best moments I get for free every Wednesday morning.
