April 2024 RISER of the Month: Kate Modrow

Seven years ago, shortly after having her second baby, Kate Modrow found RISE. “I had been a barre studio fanatic when living in the city and was searching for a good barre class in Glen Ellyn,” she says. “I started going to Katelyn’s barre class at the Rise Glen Ellyn studio and the rest is history!”

Today you’ll find Kate in barre classes and beyond. “No matter the class, I know that I will always leave RISE feeling stronger and better than when I walked in the doors,” says Kate. “It may be tempting to snooze that 5:15am alarm, but when I’m walking out at 7am, I feel clear-headed, awake and ready to tackle my day!” With three young children, Kate hopes to lead by example, teaching them the importance of taking care of yourself by prioritizing health and fitness. “A more active me is a happier me, and I want to be the best version of myself for my family,” she says.

Whatever RISE class Kate is conquering, she gives her all and leads with warmth and kindness. We’re so grateful she found us for barre and stayed for more! Congratulations, Kate, on being named RISER of the Month.

To learn more about Kate’s dedication to wellness, read on:

What are your short and long-term workout goals?

Short term, I’m strength and endurance training to help my tennis game! I’ve started playing competitive tennis again for the first time since high school and I’ve realized how important it is to be strengthening the right muscles to avoid injury and improve on the court. Long term, I workout regularly now to hopefully stay active for as long as possible in the future! 

What specifically do you like about Rise?

The RISE community! I love walking into the studio and seeing all the friendly and familiar faces. I’ve recruited a lot of friends to come to RISE with me over the past 7 years and it helps me get through the tough workouts, knowing my friends are lunging away next to me! 

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

Strength Intervals, barre and outdoor bootcamp are some of my favorites! But I love mixing it up and trying different instructors and class formats! It forces me to shut off my “mom-brain” for that hour and focus on the workout!

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

Biggest challenge in getting to class is finding the time. My husband likes to workout early in the morning too, so we have to plan ahead each week to make sure each of us gets in our workouts. On the days I can’t make a 6am class, I’ll do my best to squeeze in a class or a run during preschool hours. It’s a shuffle, but when you make it a priority, you can always find some time in the day!

What’s your athletic background?

I grew up very active and trying/playing every sport imaginable… soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, track/cross country, badminton and cheerleading. Tennis was my sport of choice and is still my favorite to this day! I’ve also always loved running, completing the Chicago Marathon in 2009, and now still mixing in runs with strength training to keep my endurance up!

What’s your best healthy living tip?

Find fun ways to be active throughout the day! Walking with friends, golfing with my husband, playing a friendly tennis match or biking to the park with the kids. Little bits of movement throughout the day, goes a long way for your mental and physical well-being!