Riser of the Month: Rachelle Kienlen

Since 2013, when RISE was just getting its start in the Sunshine Dance Space, Rachelle Kienlen began to attend classes. And ever since, Rachelle has been a dedicated early-morning RISER, attending 5am classes 3 to 6 days a week for the past 11 years. “The overall vibe and motivating energy, the best instructors, the early 5am crew of consistent strong peeps and the class variety keep me coming,” she says.

Rachelle has always known the importance of integrating fitness and wellness into her everyday life. Growing up swimming and running track and cross country helped her to carry these health-focus habits into her adult life. “I love moving my body and I’m motivated by knowing how much I accomplish before anyone is even awake,” she says. “There’s no better way to start the day.”

Rachelle, your consistency, strength and dedication inspire us all. Not to mention, your smile and positive energy light up the whole studio. We are so happy that you are our RISER of the Month.

Read on for more inspiration from Rachelle on how to meet your goals day in and day out.

What are your current fitness goals?

I am integrating heavier weight strength training to reduce muscle loss due to aging.

What specifically, other than format or schedule, do you like about Rise?

The overall positive environment, the RISE Challenges and fact that the instructors are always finding ways to incorporate new challenges (and get us sore!).

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

Interval training, kettle bell and boxing!

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

Sleep … but a consistent sleep schedule reduces my challenge getting up. My body naturally wakes at 4:30 most days.

What’s your best healthy living tip?

Take care of yourself so you can take care of those around you. Don’t make excuses, just do it!