I have loved getting to know the owner of this month’s business spotlight. She is Leslie Russel, the owner & instructor of Columbus North FIT4MOM and Mama Bear to 2 young kiddos. As we talked I got to know that her ‘why’ behind her FIT4MOM business was only a small portion about providing easy workouts for Moms with kids in tow. Her ‘why’ is about the community and support it provides Moms with babies and young children who find it difficult to just get out of the house. FIT4MOM gives Moms a nice dopamine lift with a workout and being able to talk to other Moms that get it. The kids also get to socialize with other kids and learn healthy habits.

Read her interview below to learn more. Then visit both our Instagram pages for a chance to win a whole month of workout classes! The Giveaway ends this Thursday, October 6th.

 

 

Tell us about your business and how you got started.

I own FIT4MOM Columbus North. FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program, providing fitness classes and a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy, through postpartum and beyond, our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind, and spirit. I joined FIT4MOM as I was battling my way out of postpartum depression. I desperately needed to get out of the house and talk to other adults (that I didn’t live with). I immediately fell in love. I was drawn to functional fitness for moms. I quickly started attending A LOT. I became in the best shape I’ve ever been in and made amazing mom friends. Not only that I was able to watch my daughter create amazing friends as well at class and playdates. I was going to begin instructing when our previous owner announced she was moving. I officially took over FIT4MOM Columbus North May 2020.

What do you love about your job?

I love connecting moms with each other and local resources. I love that I can bring my kids with me and teach them healthy habits. I also love that I can go to classes without them, it’s all about balance! Oh and I also absolutely love pushing the babies around.

What is your number one tip for moms who want to get into a fitness routine?

Find what works for you! I’ve always been more interested in group fitness. Finding something where I could meet other moms and spend time with my littles is perfect for me. I get in a great workout, get a chance to talk with other moms who get it, and spend time with my kids.

What makes FIT4MOM unique?

I think what sets us apart is our unique community we build together. We get to workout outdoors (as long as possible), meet mom friends, have our little ones socialize after class, enjoy planned playgroups, connections to local resources, and lets not forget Moms Night Out which we do once a month!

What could a mom expect from her first FIT4MOM class?

You could expect to be welcomed into our village and to meet other local mamas. You would complete an hour-long workout. During a mommy and me class you would interact with your kid(s) and chat with other moms. You could hang out after class and let your littles socialize and/or join a playgroup. Your first class is always free!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?

I have heard so many good things (and of course bad) that this is hard. The thing I didn’t expect was how young the comparisons start. I always remind myself that years down the road no one will know or care if your baby was breast or bottle fed, when they potty-trained, learned to read etc but they will know who was raised to be kind.

 

 

To learn about their offered workouts, locations, and schedule click on the button below.