Testimonial by Jamie Allison
“Exercise is a big part of who I am. I started running competitively at age 7 and then picked up swimming and triathlons later in life thanks to my active parents. Like them, exercise has become an integral part of who I am. I feel most alive and free watching the moon set and the sun rise on early morning runs with my friends. I love the new energy buzz I have when I’m finished, and I love waking my girls up for school with sweaty kisses and snuggles.
I started Moms In Motion after listening to many of my girlfriends talk about their struggles as they transitioned into motherhood. They missed having time to workout, socialize, and pursue personal interests. Their identity was in question and it was unsettling. They loved their babies and yet they longed for the things that made them tick. My stay at home mom friends felt isolated while my friends who worked outside of the home felt they came home to a “second job.” They were exhausted and sounded resentful. I remember thinking, if my go-getter friends were having a difficult time with this transition, what was the rest of the world going through?
I decided there had to be an organization where moms could go to rejuvenate through fitness, friendship and philanthropic activities, without the baby. There were plenty of organizations designed for mom and baby, but nothing just for mom. So because I was a teacher and had my summer months open, I challenged these friends of mine to commit to a sprint triathlon training program. We met every Saturday morning to swim, bike and/or run and afterward we would grab some coffee to get that social fix. I integrated girls nights out as well because they needed this probably even more than the fitness piece. Women are wired differently, and studies show how our social/emotional connections boost our overall wellness. To deepen the experience, we adopted a local women’s shelter and painted the walls, donated clothes and playground equipment. That summer all 14 women completed the triathlon.
Moms In Motion grew to 80 and then to 200 women the following year. Our concept has spread across the nation organically and via word of mouth. Studies show that when mom is healthy and happy, her actions and influence transcend her, touching her children, family, friends, colleagues and community.
14 years later, Moms In Motion has become the #1 health & fitness community both online and on the ground for women around the world. We work to connect and empower moms through social, fitness and philanthropic opportunities. Moms In Motion has spread throughout the nation and expanded into running, trail running, walking, hiking, cycling, yoga, skiing, surfing and core strength training sports. We provide two different programs for moms.
New Mamas is for postpartum women with children age 1-2. This program provides venues such as walking, light running, flat hiking, core, Pilates and Yoga. Postpartum discussion topics are woven into each practice. Our traditional program, Fit Moms, is for mom only. Fit Moms is event focused, meaning we train for 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, triathlons, hiking and cycling events. Training for events adds a lot of excitement, adventure and accountability.
We also have a new MIM Experience App designed specifically for moms. Our App includes training plans, video-taped core sequences, health & wellness content all of which syncs sensors and workouts to the team website. Watching moms embrace our Moms In Motion concept validates a mom’s need to rejuvenate through fitness, friendship and outreach opportunities. I know I am a better mother, wife and professional when I take the time to take care of myself first. Everyone wins!
Giving back to those who give the most is the heart of the organization. We understand that moms are the primary influence in today’s family. Our job is to provide an outlet (and a Plan to follow) where she can take care of herself and role model a healthy, active, energetic lifestyle. Our kids need this now more than ever before.”
If you are interested in starting a Moms In Motion group, joining a local group, or learning more go to Moms in Motion on Facebook.