Today we’d like to introduce you to Christy Hayes.
Hi Christy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
First and foremost, I need to start off by saying this: Yellow Bird Fitness would be nothing without the love and support of the people around me and an amazing God who is always there for us. (It’s typically why, when talking about Yellow Bird Fitness, I tend to say “we” or “our” … because YBF would not exist without those people).
I have done many things in my life, from firefighter to military police officer. I even taught pre-k for a bit. But fitness instructor? Nah, no way, not me. (Just ask my high school cheer coach… 8 counts were NOT my thing). I had never taken a fitness class in person before, let alone lead one, but here I am. And I love every minute of it.
What started off as a few friends exercising in my living room to REFIT REVOLUTION YouTube videos (a Body positive dance fitness workout) quickly led to me being convinced to become an instructor. After that, everyone wanted to come over to try “this new workout”. So many people, that we had to move somewhere bigger and ended up borrowing our church gym (Bayshore Baptist Church La Porte) to have enough space for all the people that wanted to participate.
After I began leading classes, things picked up quickly. One class became two and then three… I called my classes REFIT w/CC. As classes grew so did my passion for fitness and people. So, I went back to school, received more certifications and set bigger goals. Eventually, REFIT w/CC grew into Yellow Bird Fitness. And we are still growing!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Yes, there have been downfalls and roadblocks and worlds turned upside down. In 2020 everything was taken from me. The classes, the people, the space… All of it came to a screeching halt. It was devastating. But what else could I do but pull up my “bootstraps” and push forward. I formulated a plan and as soon as the world was willing, I jumped in headfirst. You see, I believe that people need to work out, but more so people need people. People need to be encouraged. People need to be loved. People need to know that they are not alone. And that is what’s so special about this community. We are here for it all! The mess ups, the get back-ups, the mental meltdowns, brokenness and triumphs too! I’ve never in my life seen people in all walks of life, of all ages, shapes, sizes, and abilities come together and empower one another like the Yellow Bird Fitness crew.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Yellow Bird Fitness (YBF) is more than a fitness studio, we are a community. We believe fitness is for everybody and every BODY. Which simply put means we believe that fitness should be inclusive! No matter your age, shape, size or ability… there is a place for you here! It’s why all of our classes cater to… anyone! Whether you’re a beginner or a total fitness buff you will get a great workout and have FUN doing it. (A lot of fun if we have anything to say about it. It’s best when your workout doesn’t feel like work at all).
The YBF coaches offer several unique, fun and effective group fitness formats.
• REFIT – This cardio-focused class combines powerful moves with positive music for a challenging, effective and FUN workout.
• REV+FLOW – A high intensity, low impact format that focuses on strength, balance, and flexibility. Repetitive movements and empowering rhythms are paired to work your entire body.
• Yoga – Use a chair or challenge your balance with this unique yoga blend.
• Small Group Training (SGT) – A quick “circuits meet boot camp” style workout that shifts between cardio and strength training so you can achieve the unique benefits of both and get on with your day.
And virtual workouts too!
We have also been known to attend 5k’s, hike, brunch, volunteer or take our kids to the park together.
At YBF workouts are not just for your body. From the inspiring music choices to the words spoken after each class, our coaches work make you feel great inside and out.
Coaches close each class with a few minutes of “heart work”. It could be powerful music, spoken word or a group activity that inspires and encourages participants before they go. We want people to feel good, have the time of their lives and carry that feeling with them when they leave.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Just keep going. There will be struggles. Learn the lesson and move forward. Struggles make you stronger.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yellowbirdfitness.godaddysites.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yellowbirdtx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yellowbirdtx
Image Credits
Toni Lyn Photography
Christy Hayes
REFIT REVOLUTION
