Ambrose is on his way to completing 300 barre and SOAR classes in just under a year! We love having him in our studio - he brings such a positive energy to Studio B and his smile is contagious! Learn more about this energetic RN who hails from Newfoundland, below.
How did you get introduced to Studio B?
One of my friends introduced me to Studio B after they heard about it at Fit Fest here in Edmonton.
Why do you barre so hard? What makes you want to SOAR?
I barre hard because of how I feel after every class. Pushing myself to make that mind-body connection feels amazing. It never ceases to amaze me how much our bodies can do when we make that connection. I SOAR because it is such a unique, fun, high-energy workout. It engages every muscle in your body when you hit that rebounder. There really isn’t any other workout like that!
How has barre and SOAR impacted you?
I’ve been going to barre and SOAR classes for about a year now and it’s definitely impacted my physical and mental health in positive ways. The strength, endurance, and flexibility I’ve gained has made a big difference in my work life as my job can be physically demanding. I’m a high-energy person and I’ve noticed that I have way more energy for day-to-day activities than I previously did as well.
What keeps you motivated and coming back to Studio B?
I usually go to class with a friend and that makes a huge difference in keeping me motivated to keep coming back. The instructors also make a big difference. They’re extremely motivating and knowledgeable about all of the exercises. They also make sure to have a killer playlist for every class; and you can be sure that no two classes will ever be the same.
Favourite part about SOAR?
My favourite part about SOAR would have to be just that, getting to SOAR! Bouncing on the rebounder and getting to the top of your jump where you have that split second of weightlessness is like nothing else!
Favourite barre exercise or series?
My favourite barre series would have to be the bend and snap. The bend helps with lower body/hip flexibility and the snap for upper body strength; a perfect combo!
Other than barre and SOAR, what other types of exercising or activities do you do?
I love snowboarding, skating, hiking, swimming, reading, and games (board & video); especially Super Mario!
What would you say to a dude who is thinking of trying barre or SOAR but might be intimidated or hesitant to?
If another guy was thinking of trying out barre or SOAR but was intimidated or hesitant, I’d tell them not to worry. The staff at Studio B were so friendly and welcoming when I started that any worry or hesitation I had didn’t last long. Other clients at the studio have also been friendly and encouraging. One common misconception about barre that I’ve heard from other guys is that you need to be really flexible for class. It’s not something that you need to start, but it is definitely something that you will develop over time by going to class.
Tell us something we don’t know about you.
I’m originally from Newfoundland and moved here about 7 years ago to be a travel nurse. Now I work as an RN at the Cross Cancer Institute.
Favourite way to treat yourself?
My favourite way to treat myself would have to be nuggies (McDonald’s chicken nuggets) with hot mustard dipping sauce!
Favourite movie and book of all time?
Movie: Wonder Woman; and favourite book (I can’t pick just one) would have to be the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series.
Favourite place to eat in Edmonton?
It’s a toss up between Co Co Di’s and Workshop Eatery; so good!
Favourite local spot?
Greenland Nursery. I have way too many plants at my place, and I would have to blame them haha.
What is your favourite quote?
“Everything happens for a reason.”