Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Ward.
So, Amy, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up as a classical ballerina – for over 20 years. So, my love of music and moving to it began at an early age. In 2006 I decided to compete in fitness. It was a two-minute routine to music, with a theme. I was scared, I wanted to give up at times, and I didn’t think that I could compete with others. But I’m so thankful for this time. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and I soon began to realize what our bodies are capable of when we open our minds to the possibility of completing something that was thought to be impossible. I am a true believer that if we don’t face our fears, if we don’t push ourselves (body and mind), embrace change and the un-comfortableness, we cannot grow, evolve as humans, and becoming better versions of ourselves.
In 2015 I took a POUND® class…and my life changed. I felt alive, on fire, my soul ignited, and felt truly connected. Growing up as a classically trained dancer, you were very technical, and during POUND® class, I was able to unleash and felt like a complete BADA$$ Rockstar. My passion for our team, what we do, who we are, and what we stand for, has brought me to a place where I can continue to support, guide, strengthen, unite, and ignite the POUND® Pro family. In 2017, I had the honor to join the POUND® ICON team. I strive to lead by example, with kindness, humility, grace, and always elevate others.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think as humans we always have hiccups. There are some moments of self-doubt or even comparison, and sometimes those fears set in. I just try and remember how unique we are, there is only one me, and continue to make positive intentions to listen to my fears or doubt, tackle them, learn, and grow from them. The more I practice each day to be grateful, that it’s ok to have an off day, to be humble and rely on the support of my family, friends, and teammates when needed, then those struggles lessen, and that voice of self-worth, confidence, and strength grows. I have a choice every day to own my happiness, decisions I make, and the path I take.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about POUND® – Rockout. Workout – what should we know?
About my company: POUND® is the world’s first cardio jam session, inspired by the infectious, energizing and sweat-dripping fun of playing the drums. Using Ripstix®, lightly weighted drumsticks engineered specifically for exercising, POUND® transforms drumming into an incredibly effective way of working out. Anyone can do POUND®. Designed for all fitness levels, POUND® provides the perfect atmosphere for letting loose, getting energized, toning up, and rockin’ out! The workout is easily modifiable, and the alternative vibe and welcoming philosophy appeals to men and women of all ages and abilities.
Adding the core-engaging element of drumming to dynamic, full-body movements increases caloric burn, improves precision and thoroughly targets all the large and supporting muscle groups in the body. Rhythm, timing, coordination, speed, agility, endurance, and musicality drastically improve. Numerous studies have proven the powerful brain boosting, stress-relieving effects of drumming. The rhythm of drumming permeates the entire brain to improve focus, increase higher-level thinking and decision-making skills, boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, decrease chronic pain, anxiety, and fatigue.
What do I specialize in/known for? I am a POUND® ICON, Master POUND® Pro, leading classes and guiding future POUND® Pros. What I really get to do is witness the power of positive human connection and the internal benefits to POUND®. The changes emotionally, cognitively, and socially as our participants (or I should say POUND® Posse) and Pros gain confidence in making noise, connecting, and releasing from pounding with the Ripstix®. As humans, where can we go and unleash aggression, tension, energy in a positive way? POUND® provides a place where any BODY can come and be LOUD, aggressive, silly, playful, powerful, and strong with a community that supports them. The world we live in today, our society, we need this more than ever.
What sets us apart? We are more than a workout. The workout, the calories being burnt, the strength gained, the transformations in bodies, is secondary, a plus, a side effect. The magic of POUND® are those internal benefits. If we run any community building challenges, there are never any before/after photos, we want to know how our posse’s thinking has changed, how they FEEL, and how they have become a more positive influencer.
What am I most proud of? I am so proud of this company, and I should say family. It all starts from the top. Our fearless and inspiring leader, CEO, and co-founder of POUND®, Kirsten Potenza, believed in creating an environment where movement has a purpose, where any human is welcome, where students are the stars, and where community is paramount. We aspire to change minds before bodies and use beat and alternative movement to launch people to new heights of self-worth, happiness and human connection. AKA, release their INNER ROCKSTARS. We are a band of fitness rebels, coming together not by being the same but by being different, by being ourselves. We believe in granting the permission to rock and creating environments that elicit confidence, enhance unity, and ultimately, inspire others to inspire others. And for this, I am beyond PROUD of and truly grateful for.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think first and foremost, being genuine. To lead by example, with kindness, humility, grace, and always elevate others. And when I teach or lead a training, to give it my all, my energy, heart, and passion.
Pricing:
- Any person can search for classes in their area, and subsequent pricing, by going to https://poundfit.com/find-a-class/
- Also, if someone was interested in becoming a POUND® Pro, they can go to https://poundfit.com/instructor-training/ and pricing for that will be listed. Bonus – they can use code: ICONWARD to save $20 on any training!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.poundfit.com
- Email: info@poundfit.com or amy.nigrelli@yahoo.com
- Social Media: @poundfit and @amywardfit
Image Credit:
POUND® – Rockout. Workout.
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