Nikki has been a part of the Studio B Team for almost 7 months, teaching SOAR at Holland Plaza. Her classes are always fun and challenging thanks to her chill but encouraging teaching style and fantastic taste in music. Plus she has GREAT hair ; ). Learn more about Nikki below!
How did you get introduced to SOAR?
I had already been a member of the studio for about 6 months when Megan and Elissa unveiled SOAR. I was thrilled to try it out as I had been looking for a fun way to bring more low impact cardio into my fitness routine. I did one class and was hooked!
Why do you SOAR?
I SOAR because I love how fun and dynamic SOAR is; I never feel like I am forcing myself or dragging myself to a workout, unlike most other fitness regimes. I love that it is a low impact but high intensity cardio (my knees don’t love running or any other similar form of cardio), and that YOU are in charge of your intensity and challenges throughout class.
What keeps you motivated and inspired?
The music definitely keeps me motivated! I always look forward to what tracks are going to be played each time I go to class, and I put a lot of thought in to planning my music so that it is (hopefully) diverse, fun and exciting. I danced for 18 years so music is definitely the fuel I crave to keep me going. In terms of inspiration, I am always inspired by each and every participant who comes to class. Everyone is always ready to work and with smiles on their faces!
Favourite part of class?
My favourite part of class would have to be when you count down the last few counts in a sprint interval, where everyone pushes themselves just that extra little bit before the cruise. You can’t beat that energy in the room!
What is the best “side effect” you’ve noticed from SOARing?
Besides the endorphin high and great sweat you get from crushing a kick-ass workout, the best “side effect” would have to be how much easier it is to move and how relaxed and released your muscles are after, especially if you carry a lot of tension in your upper body like I do. It’s so refreshing to be able to pull your shoulders down and away from your ears and take a deep breath in and out.
What do you love about being a SOAR instructor?
I love the community of people that has evolved through SOAR and Studio B. Everyone is so friendly, welcoming and kind. Some days I come to teach and it doesn’t feel like the stereotypical teacher role, I just feel like I’m working out with my friends!
What other exercise(s) and/or fitness routines do you participate in?
Of course Barre and B-Fusion are staples in my routine! Yoga is at the top of my list too and in the summer I love to roller-blade and bike!
What is your occupation?
I’m a Registered Nurse, I work in Labour and Delivery at the Royal Alexandra Hospital.
What is your favourite guilty pleasure?
Chocolate and Netflix bingeing!
Do you have a favourite book?
A House in the Sky by Amanda Lindhout.
Favourite movie?
Mrs. Doubtfire.
Favourite place you’ve traveled to?
Australia! I lived there last year for 9 months in a smaller city called Cairns, in the province of Queensland. If I wasn’t so attached to my friend and family ties in Edmonton, I would never have left. The Tablelands are a must see as well as Magnetic Island off of Townsville.
Tell us something we don’t know about you.
Celine Dion is my most favourite thing ever. When I saw her in Vegas I bawled from start to finish. 2.5 hours.