Kicking butt, with Marlon!
We are always looking for ways to expand our already incredible team and evolve our schedule, so when one of our members, Jamie Miles, approached us about her husband, Marlon, and his amazing kickboxing classes, we were all in! Since starting with us, not only has he brought his own following with him, but he's quickly gained the loyalty of our members. Marlon's classes are so much fun, you forget about the incredible workout you're getting! Join him for Cardio Kickboxing and get to know him by reading his written interview below.
Q: How did you get into the fitness world?
A: Over 20 years ago I was working hard on stair step machines at a chain fitness center to drop excess weight, but grew bored. Peeking over at the group fitness class through the window while stair-stepping, I was intrigued by the music and group format. It looked fun! It was a little intimidating at first, but I just kept at it and ended up in great shape. I tried quite a few different formats but because of my martial arts background, the Kickboxing Cardio was my wheelhouse.
Q: Describe the moment you realized you were meant to become a fitness instructor.
A: An instructor noticed my transformation and how well I took to the kickboxing format class. Having a martial arts background so I thought, ‘why not give it a go?’ After the first class I led, the feedback was great, and I was hooked.
Q: What do you feel is your purpose as a fitness instructor?
A: Delivering fun with adrenaline and mental focus—fitness will follow.
Q: Why is movement an important part of your life?
A: I absolutely love to relax. But relaxing never feels better than after a fantastic workout. To share that workout experience with others, in a synchronized group class format that emulates fighting, and simultaneously with music is the killer combination that lights me up.
Q: What are some of your daily rituals?
A: I run with my dog two (2) miles daily. Also, during the pandemic I picked up using kettle bells and have become quite good at it. They’re now my favorite tool for fitness.
Q: Who/what inspires/motivates you?
A: Pioneers who dare to transform the world like Elon Musk, and who champion peaceful social change like the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about working at Evolution Yoga?
A: I taught group fitness at a major chain for 20 years. It’s really nice to be part of a boutique fitness club, it’s much more personalized.
Q: When you’re not teaching classes at Evolution Yoga, what are you doing?
A: I am a manager for a team of advisors with Merrill Lynch Bank of America. I also enjoy being front man for cover bands — I’m looking to get going again now that Covid is fading.
Q: Describe the most recent time you felt really fulfilled as a fitness instructor.
A: At the end of my class a few weeks ago, I spoke to a woman who used to take my classes seven (7) years ago. When she found out I was now an instructor at Evolution Yoga she was thrilled to restart her fitness journey with us.
Finish these sentences:
Those closest to me would describe me as… well balanced and approachable.
I'm currently listening to… a lot of podcasts. Love to learn different things about technology and sciences, philosophy, and political events.
