Riser of the Month: Kristin HAYWARD

With a competitive athletic background, rowing crew in college and running for her mental health breaks, Kristin Hayward had always invested in her physical fitness and overall wellness. So, after having kids and feeling back pain, she knew she should work on her core strength. That’s when she started to look for more from her workouts.

As soon as Kristin found Rise, back when it was in its first location in Sunshine Dance Studio, she knew it was something special and that Rise would provide the workouts she was seeking. “When Katelyn’s classes and leadership were added, I was hooked,” says Kristin. “Through three locations, re-training a torn ACL and remote COVID classes, there was plenty of change and Rise meant even more to me through the challenges.”

Rise, along with sleep, steps, time outside and healthy food, play a key role in Kristin’s long-term wellness goals. She looks to stay healthy and strong in order keep doing the things she loves today and for the rest of her life.

Kristin, we love to be a part of your goals and are so happy to meet you every step of the way. Thank you for believing in Rise for all these years! Congrats on being named Riser of the Month!

What is your overall wellness mantra?

Days make lives, so find daily rituals that keep you moving and make you feel good about yourself when your head hits the pillow at night.

What Rise class gets you feeling the most mentally and physically amped?

Circuits! There’s something I love about both the change and the consistency of format.

What’s your biggest challenge in getting to class, and how do you combat that challenge? 

Balancing work/fitness/home life. But it’s always worth it and as my kids get older and have workout regimens of their own, we all help each other fit it into our day. They grew up seeing how happy it made me and have found that same satisfaction themselves, which I’m so proud of.

How do you integrate nutrition into your life each day?

Collagen in my coffee has been a game changer, and I’m following my son’s lead on getting more protein, so I feel fuller and more energetic longer.

What’s your best tip to find balance between nutrition, fitness and life’s fun?

Change is hard - a new routine, your body, your job, your family growing up. It’s also wonderful and beautiful. Balance is the same thing - grace on days that are hard, strength and energy when you have it. Do your best each day, wherever you find yourself, and you’ll have more good days than bad. And you’ll never regret taking care of yourself.