Program Spotlights

  • Program Spotlights

    Frosty Adventures: Participants Share Tales of Ice-Camping in Northern Minnesota

    Exploring the Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota

    The 2024 Annual Expedition finished earlier this month, taking place in the Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota. Over 7 days the brave team explored the icy wilderness while learning winter survival skills.

    Lessons Learned 

    Spending a week living outdoors in the cold takes skills! A participant shares, “I learned the importance of monitoring and regulating your microclimate in cold weather. I learned so many incredible things I am still in disbelief that this opportunity was given to me. I am so excited to continue to learn about the outdoors and how to make shelters and gather wood for campfires.”

    Nature has a lot more to offer than just practical lessons. Immersing ourselves in the great outdoors can teach us valuable skills and have a significant impact on our emotions.

    One participant elaborates, “I learned so much about nature! Trees, how to survive in the winter and cold outdoors! I learned the importance of having confidence in yourself, what you set out to do and sticking to that through flexibility and willingness to change based on new perspectives and learned experiences. I learned a lot about myself in tandem with others and what the great power you get from being a part of a team.”

    Another team member expresses the resilience they found in community and positive thinking, “…the feeling that I can do hard things. I can always look back when facing something difficult and know that if I got through that I can get through anything. I also learned that I need people in my life to get through any difficult times … because someone has a flaw I don’t need to push them away. I also learned not to complain about everything I don’t like to focus on the positive and keep it pushing. One of the best things I took from it was I’m not alone in having gone through something traumatic, and sharing it with others actually helps me more than I know.”

    Cherished Moments

    Looking back on the time spent in Northern Minnesota, team members reflected on some of their favorite moments. A particular highlight for the group was spending time with the sled dogs, “Howling with the dogs! The first night out on the ice, seeing the clear glassy ice and the expansive night sky above was incredible and an image that will live in my mind for the rest of my life,” shared one participant.

    One adventurer shares the magic of stepping onto the frozen lake for the first time. They express, “Stepping out onto the frozen lake for the first time and hearing the ice form and crack, waking up in the middle of the night while sleeping on the frozen lake and listening to the ice, it sounded like whales under us.”

    Other highlights included cutting trees, spending time with the team, and being disconnected from cell phones.

    Challenges on the Ice

    The expedition was not without its hard moments! The snow, ice, and cold bring an emotional element to an already physical demand. Tough conditions can make it difficult to keep a positive attitude – everyone tried their best! The energy and time it took to cook, clean, build fires, and camp in the snow was tolling. Participants worked to pace themselves and their energy.

    Participants agreed that the trip was difficult and wished they had trained harder for the adventure, “I had no idea what I was getting into but it was way harder than I thought it was going to be.” Similarly, another team member expressed, “I don’t believe I ever thought of all the hard work that went into an expedition, so the first two days took some getting use to.”

    Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough snow to dog sled or cross-country ski as originally planned, “Although we did not get to go dog-sledding and cross-country skiing, the time in Minnesota, with a team, in a new and challenging environment absolutely met my expectations.. exceeded them, really.” Another participant shares, “I still would like to go dog sledding and cross-country skiing but I also was so glad I went on this expedition. I will never forget this New Year!”

    Advice for Future Expedition Teams

    Are you interested in joining the Annual Expedition in the future? Here’s what the 2023 team would tell someone wanting to go on this grand adventure:

    • Go! Try out for it, work hard and invest in yourself because adventures like this only come around once in a lifetime and you’re worth that type of experience!
    • It is a lot harder than you imagine but you will not regret it.
    • Continue to nourish your body and continue working out on a daily basis. We only have one body and we have to take care of it for our lifetime. This trip reminded me when we take small breaks from self-care it has a huge impact.

     

  • Program Spotlights

    Connection, Vulnerability, & Power: A 5 Day Journey of Discovery

    Connection, Vulnerability, & Power: A 5 Day Journey of Discovery

    Nestled between the serene national parks of Canada, a group of Recovery Beyond women embarked on a trip hoping to foster empowerment within themselves on the first-ever Recovery Beyond Women’s Empowerment Retreat.

    The goal? Embracing vulnerability, connection, and the power within.

    Hitting the Road

    With a two-day road trip from Western Washington to our retreat destination in Canada, what might have seemed like a long drive turned into an opportunity for real connections.

    We shared meals, gazed at awe-inspiring views, and bonded over our shared appreciation for nature’s beauty. As we ventured further from the familiar surroundings of Seattle, the landscape transformed, and so did our camaraderie. We reveled in the beauty that recovery allows us to experience.

    The Power of Togetherness

    The road trip experience set the stage for what lay ahead. Our interactions during the journey set a tone of unity and self-discovery.

    We came from diverse backgrounds, some seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, and others new to the wilderness. However, these differences brought us closer together.

    The trip wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was a crash course in practical outdoor skills. We learned to split wood, start a fire, and, importantly, the consequences of forgetting to close the grill or leaving a sweatshirt hanging outside.

    Living in the great outdoors unveiled the simultaneous beauty of simplicity and complexity.

    Lessons We Learned

    Margo Talbot and Megan Wright led powerful workshops for the group.

    Margo helped us carry the sense of power and connection we had fostered in the retreat into our everyday lives. Together, we worked to create practices and tools for pathways moving forward.

    Megan led a workshop on the labyrinth. We reviewed its history and symbolism and it became a sanctuary for personal revelations and growth. Here, we delved into issues related to our relationships with our mothers and family of origin. We learned how to rewrite the stories we told ourselves and take control of our destinies. Our journey inside the labyrinth was a pathway to discovering the powerful individuals we are inside.

    Yoga for the Soul

    Our retreat was a delightful mix of activities, including invigorating yoga sessions. Guided by a skilled yoga instructor, we embraced learning poses and trying something new.

    What began as a hesitant embrace of yoga quickly turned into a profound appreciation for the practice, leaving us feeling empowered and revitalized.

    Healing with Nature

    Water played a recurring role throughout our journey, symbolizing healing and transformation.

    The weather was wet and the rain offered a challenge to living outdoors. Hot springs offered solace and rejuvenation, while our forest experiences were nothing short of enchanting.

    Guided forest bathing encouraged us to reconnect with nature, and for many, it felt like their inner child was awakened. As we engaged with the forest floor, the trees, and the fallen leaves, we rekindled our connection with the natural world.

    Reflections and Transformations

    As our adventure came to a close, we realized just how much we needed this break from the constant buzz of technology and city life.

    We returned home with a newfound appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures, a deeper bond with each other, and a strong sense of our own capabilities.

    The Women’s Empowerment Retreat wasn’t just a travel experience; it was a lesson in the power of connection, vulnerability, and personal growth. It reminds us that the most profound transformations often happen when we step out of our comfort zone, bond with others, and immerse ourselves in the healing embrace of the natural world.

    This retreat is a beautiful example of how recovery allows us to go deeper into ourselves and appreciate the world within and around us.

  • Program Spotlights

    Climbing Mountains with Scott

    “And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” – John Muir

    Have you ever met Scott Brown? You would know it if you did.

    Scott’s outgoing and infectious personality fills up a room. You’ll hear his jokes and wild tales on the hiking trail, even if you’re at the back of the group. He’s the President of the Recovery Beyond Peer Advisory Board and has been hiking with the organization since January 2018.

    By his second year with Recovery Beyond, he was helping with every Seattle Union Gospel Mission and Tacoma Rescue Mission hike. By his estimates, he’s completed over 50 hikes with the program. Scott’s favorite thing about his volunteer work during this period was that “…it was a place to belong. Somewhere I felt comfortable and was able to share the adventures with others!”

    His experience with the outdoors goes back to his childhood when he grew up hiking in Montana. He explains, “Mom had me hiking in elementary school. In fact, I believe I was camping before I could walk.”

    Scott’s hiking eventually turned into mountaineering. He began mountain climbing and learning glacier travel training with Recovery Beyond in 2018.

    In 2023, Scott wants to bring climbing mountains back to Recovery Beyond. He’s working with volunteers, staff, the Board of Directors, and participants to reinvigorate the climbing track. “Recovery and mountaineering,” Scott describes, “…well first it is something to occupy time. The other is it gives you a chance to escape, wind down mentally, and focus on stuff other than life… [climbing mountains] takes me out of day-to-day thoughts and concerns. Plus the views are awesome!!”

    Scott shares that participants can expect to build on a community, create trust, and experience bonding over the adventure from the new climbing program. The team will get out, spend time on the trails, and enjoy nature together.

    When asked what mountaineering has taught him, he responds, “I’ve learned that I am not in charge. The mountain is.”

    We’ll share more information on the new climbing program throughout the year. The program will launch in 2024.

  • Program Spotlights
    Hands put together in group huddle

    Peers Supporting Peers

    Peers Supporting Peers

    Peers Supporting Peers is at the center of Recovery Beyond conversations and activities.

    You’ll find people at all levels in recovery who can meet you wherever you might be in your journey.

    Whether the event is boxing, rock climbing, or kayaking, you know you’ll have the support of peers cheering you on through physical activities and challenging life moments alike.

     

    Let’s Walk and Talk

    Tawnia photoTawnia, Recovery Beyond’s Peer Support Supervisor and a certified Peer Counselor, is creating a new event series specifically focused on discussing life skills and recovery. Topics include conflict resolution, using “I” statements, and building a support network.

    These new events, known as Chat Walks, will offer a place for organized, topical discussions as you stroll through various parks in King and Pierce counties.

    If you are unable to attend Chat Walks but are interested in conversing on these topics, we offer weekly Virtual Huddles. This virtual option will cover the same themes as Chat Walks but you can participate from the comfort of your home.

    You can find the bi-weekly Chat Walks starting in 2023 on our Community Calendar.

    Options for Support

    If you need extra support in recovery, light case management, or resources for services, you can schedule a meeting with Tawnia.

    She can help navigating larger systems, resources and referrals for housing and food assistance, guidance and support with self-advocacy, or assist in improving life skills such as communication. Contact Tawnia here to set up a one-on-one appointment.

    She describes a certified Peer Counselor as, “Someone who guides and supports you in your hardest time. Peer Counselors are there to remind you of your value, worth, and importance. It’s someone who has your best interest at heart. Their only role in your life is to see that you get your needs met in the way that’s best for you, knowing that you are the best expert in yourself.”

     

     

  • Program Spotlights
    people hiking on snow

    8 Tips for Handling the Holidays

    Holiday Stress? Here’s What To Do

    Did you know 80% of people report that the holiday season is somewhat or very stressful? 

    The holidays can be difficult, especially when you’re in recovery. 

    Holidays tend to amplify feelings of grief and loss and it can be hard to feel happy, celebratory, or grateful.

    Family gatherings, holiday parties, and less daylight can trigger anxiety, fatigue, irritability, feelings of loneliness, and abnormal sleeping habits.

    8 Tips for Beating Holiday Stress:

    1. Check in with your support system
    2. Move your body
    3. Give yourself something to look forward to after the holiday season
    4. Consider creating new traditions
    5. Expect a range of emotions – that’s okay!
    6. Acknowledge your thoughts and feelings
    7. Prioritize your recovery
    8. Stick to a routine

    We’re Here For You!

    Remember, loneliness is a state of mind, not a state of being. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself as the year comes to a close.

     We’re here for you if you need extra support. 

    Check out our Community Calendar, full of activities for moving your body and finding peer support.

    Find out more information about booking a one-on-one session with a Peer Counselor here.

  • Program Spotlights

    7 Days, 9 Participants, 1 Adventure: A Recap of the 2022 Annual Expedition

    Recovery Is An Adventure

    At Recovery Beyond, we believe in cultivating a spirit of adventure, wholeness, and health through consistent, no-cost, programming. This ranges from weekly bouldering sessions to monthly community gathering, to our larger, more unique events.

    The Audacious Annual Expedition is the largest event of the Recovery Beyond calendar year and gives Participants a substantial goal they can work towards.

    Our 2022 Audacious Annual Expedition took Participants on a kayaking trip around the San Juan Islands.

    Learning New Skills

    The Expedition Team carried their gear and set up camp each night while kayaking over 20 miles total on the Salish Sea. Cultivating soft skills, in addition to hard skills, became important as the group traveled together.

    Communication, collaboration, gear know-how, and long physical days were critical components of the trip.

    A Participant shares, “I learned how to perform a wet exit in a kayak, how to ‘put a kayak to bed’, how to properly pack gear and belongings in a kayak, and how to better communicate with others in a group setting.” These skills can be carried into other aspects of life – whether that be communication at work or feeling confident in adventuring solo. Another Participant elaborates, “I have a realistic view of what it takes to kayak camp now! The solo day can be reproduced by myself anytime, it was so beneficial.”

    Capturing the Spirit of Adventure

    A week of island hopping in the Pacific Northwest without cell phones provided space to be present and still, a Participant explains,  “The one takeaway for me is how important it is to have quiet time in a fast-paced and frantic world…”

    A break from the constant business of life, and ample time outdoors, fosters reflection. Contemplation, physicality, and connection to the self and others is important in holistic recovery.

    Another Participant conveys, “I can choose to be intentional about prioritizing in my life – family and self first, work second.” While the trip offered these sacred moments, there was plenty to do and plenty of laughs to be had!

    Favorite memories from the Expedition include seals following the kayaks and the infamous “raccoon incident”. An overarching theme, however, was that of gratitude.

    One Participant shares, “I am eternally grateful that I was able to find the strength and the courage within myself to get myself out out of my addiction (in October 2019) This was an a remarkable part of my recovery journey, going in this sea kayaking adventure and sharing it with [the team].” Another Participant echoed that statement, saying, “I am grateful for new experiences. I am grateful for my life. I am grateful for natural places.”

    Words of Wisdom

    The 2022 Audacious Annual Expedition was a space for connection, reflection, and community. We’ve received positive feedback from the team and are immensely thankful for the openness, bravery, and courage shown by all who attended.

    In the spirit of preparing for the 2023 Annual Expedition, we asked the 2022 Expedition team what they would say to someone interested in joining in 2023. Here are a few words of wisdom:

    •  – “It’s never too early to start packing or preparing, go in with an open mind and open heart. It’s ok to be nervous, it’s completely normal and human!”
    •  – “Breaking your routine and discomfort are a part of the experience – be open and learn.”
    •  – “Just let it happen how it is going to happen. Bring more snacks.”
    •  – “It’s worth it.”
  • Program Spotlights

    Passing The Torch

    Passing The Torch

    Today Recovery Beyond is announcing that its Founder and Chair, Mark Ursino, is passing the torch as Board Chair. Mark is confident in the current direction of the organization and will continue to be an enthusiastic supporter and donor. He states, “We have an exceptionally strong Board, we have a clear definition of our purpose and direction. Megan Fisher and Mark Adams have done an ​excellent job in defining how we develop our new programs, finding partners, and training volunteers…I see Recovery Beyond becoming the first widely successful model in the Northwest for post-treatment, long-term care for people dealing with substance use disorder.” This confidence, in addition to his extensive length of time on the Board, influenced his decision to step away.

    In 2011, Mark began what is now known as Recovery Beyond in partnership with Union Gospel Mission. Together, they turned the dream of summiting Mt. Rainier into a reality with the creation of the Climbing Out Of Homelessness program. This time period continues to hold a special place in Mark’s heart. He shares, “​All of my best memories from Recovery Beyond center around the climbing program that started it all. Working with the men and women of the program, teaching them the ways of the mountains, and seeing them grow and develop.” Recovery Beyond Paradigm was created as a nonprofit in 2016 to sustain and broaden the Climbing Out Of Homelessness program. In 2019 the nonprofit’s name was shortened to Recovery Beyond. Soon after, the organization began expanding its offerings from the original climbing track.

    Mark leaves us with this thought, “Recovery Beyond is by far the most meaningful and spiritually enriching work ​I have done in my life. It has been truly life altering. If I were fit to be a volunteer, I’d still be volunteering in the programs. I would encourage anyone ​who is at all inclined to share something of themselves with others to get involved. Helping people keep their lives on track is an experience you need to have.” To put his love of service and passion for the organization into perspective, he explains, “I was an expedition mountain climber. I was part of an expedition in Peru that was called to assist an ailing climber at 19,000′ on Huascaran Sur. We ended up saving his life. That touched me deeply. The only experience that I’ve had since that has touched me in the same way is volunteering with Recovery Beyond.

    Over the past 11 years, Mark has done profound work for those in recovery from substance use disorder and those who have experienced homelessness. He has left a positive impact on the volunteers, participants, and staff members who have been a part of this organization. We are grateful for his vision, indescribable generosity, and support. His legacy continues in the spirit of Recovery Beyond.

     

               

    Mark Perry New President of the Board

    We are proud to announce that Recovery Beyond Board member, Mark Perry, is now the President of the Board. Mark has been dedicated to Recovery Beyond since 2020 and has been instrumental in supporting the organization by acting as Interim Executive Director in 2021 and holding the position of Treasurer on the Board.

    Mark Perry has over 35 years of experience in sales, marketing, and general management that covers a broad range of roles in the Information Technology (IT) industry, most recently at Microsoft where he served an illustrious 25-year career. He enjoys being outside hiking, cycling, and fishing. He works closely with Washington Trails Association (WTA) on trail maintenance teams and is an advocate for increasing access to the outdoors.

    Mark has several philanthropic interests where he contributes his time, talents, and financial support. He contributes to Medical Teams International (MTI), Seattle Union Gospel Church, Acres of Diamonds, and Sophia Way. Mark has always had a strong interest in giving back, utilizing his career and personal experiences to help those in need and uplift local communities. He believes philanthropy is the love of mankind.

    Introducing the 2022 Board of Directors

    Mark Perry – President and Interim Treasurer

    Brad Halbach – Vice President

    Marcia Hansen – Secretary

    Britany Ferrell – Board Member

    Read more about our Board of Directors here.

     

  • Program Spotlights

    Say Hello To Our Activity Programs Coordinator, Elisa!

    Recovery Beyond is excited to welcome Elisa to the team as our Activity Programs Coordinator. Elisa will be our boots on the ground, interacting and managing Participants, Peer Leads, and activities. She says, “I am very excited at this new opportunity for my life. I originally got involved with recovery coaching because I am a trauma survivor. It took me a really long time to officially admit that. Once I was able to fully accept that I was a trauma survivor, it inspired me to help others that have also endured severe trauma. I found that engaging in nature and other activities helped me in my recovery tremendously so I began creating groups and activities for my clients as well. I am really excited to get back into it and join this amazing group of people.”

    Before joining Recovery Beyond, Elisa was a District Manager for 2 years for Healthcare Services Group specializing in Environmental Services and a Program Manager for DDA Residents in Pierce County. She worked with and supported many of the youth in Pierce County to work toward sobriety, graduating high school, finding housing, getting jobs, finding their own meaning of being in recovery, and learning how to change and correct the future they believed they were given. Elisa was also a youth advocate for youth being released from juvenile detention centers as well as a seat at the table for the Tacoma Gang Project.

    We asked Elisa to share a bit more about herself, read her answers below!

    Why are you interested in Recovery Beyond?

    I am interested in Recovery Beyond because I love the program and the company’s mission. I used to be a recovery coach for youth struggling with SUD about 3 years ago and I loved that job so much. After accepting a different job, I began to miss it so much. So I am very happy to back in this field, helping others and engaging in so many different activities.

    What are you looking forward to in this role?

    In this role, I am looking forward to helping others, coordinating events and activities, engaging in the super fun activities, building my education and skills with peer support, and working with my new wonderful teammates!

    What hobbies/outdoor activities do you enjoy?

    I love to Hike, Rock climb, and anything to do with Water. My biggest passion is Colorguard. Colorguard is where you spin rifles, flags, and sabers while incorporating dance. I performed for about 11 years and now I coach at BLHS. I have been coaching for 6 years now.

  • Program Spotlights

    Recovery Beyond Welcomes Peer Support Supervisor To The Team!

    Recovery Beyond is thrilled to welcome Tawnia Nelson as our Peer Support Supervisor. Tawnia Nelson has been a Certified Peer Counselor for over 7 years. She focused on the reduction of disproportionate costs and emphasized on improved health outcomes by increased community coordination and reducing major gaps in services. .  

    She joined We Care Daily Clinics in 2020 and began working on the daunting task of building a peer program in a Medicated Treatment Facility. Aligned with the experiential knowledge and education she began studying the census and the needs of the population. She focused her attention over each departments interworking’s and dynamics. Tawnia also felt the importance of recovering gaps of knowledge and maturity as a supportive approach to education. Through her lived experience she created a 52-unit curriculum with 9 fields of study. The classes quickly developed into a university style learning experience with unit completion and certification and curriculum graduation.  

    Over the course of her life, Tawnia learned that her spontaneity and creativity led her to some of the most exciting adventures from hiking, white water rafting, to program development. Which was clear when she found Recovery Beyond. She is excited to be apart of building a program that is forever going to change the future of recovery and create an environment of hope through action.

    We asked Tawnia to share a bit more about herself. Read more about her below!

    Why are you interested in Recovery Beyond?

    I am interested in the reality of recovery getting to the next level, creating a vision of community, togetherness, and compassion. Living and creating a new lifestyle with adventure and community.  

    What are you looking forward to in this role?

    I am looking forward to seeing the smiles that come from creating a sustainable lifestyle. I love that moment when you look into someone’s eyes, and you see their realization that there is life in recovery. That aha-moment of knowing although recovery is a choice, if given the right compass life can be its own unbelievable adventure.  

     What hobbies/outdoor activities do you enjoy?

    I love to take long drives into nature filled areas, wander down trails and find paths to explore, you can 

    find your best treasures and gemstones along the way. As a family we have found the most exciting adventures come when you have no plans or expectations. Our favorite getaway is Whidbey Island. We love to hike near Deception Pass early in the

     morning, spend our afternoon rock collecting along the beach and finding a group sized hammock to watch the leaves dance about the air. Of course, there’s always ice cream and more beaches to comb. We grab a bite to eat and find ourselves in a formidable game of monopoly as we are tucked away in the corner of some random market. We always cap our day playing at the arcade and going to the drive in.

    I also enjoy camping, hiking, and doing acro-yoga. Acro-yoga is both exhilarating and empowering. Though I admit my absolute favorite hobby is finding a basketball court in any place we discover and pretending to play basketball as my daughter tries her very best to let me score some points.

    Anything else you’d like to add! 

    Back to Rock Tumbling and Rock Hounding, I know it’s an unusual hobby, but it is so exciting. When I was early in my recovery I was often fidgeting, nervous, and shaken. I would go places and invite the most distasteful stares and stigma. I needed to find a way to harness all that energy into something that was a grounding point. One day I found a random rock laying around and I scooped it up into my pocket. I later found myself fiddling with this glorious rock and the fidgeting became isolated, it stopped the stares, and it gave me freedom from the stigma. I loved the feeling of being able to anchor all the energy I felt  into something. As I have grown through my experiences, I have found multiple layers of grounding, but this one has always been at the forefront of my heart.

  • Program Spotlights

    Lessons From Boxing: In Life And In The Ring

    by Jess

    “Come to boxing and you’re going to learn about yourself…”

    Boxing is often thought of as a fast-paced workout, but it can be more than just a way to work up a sweat.

    Mike, the owner of Cappy’s Boxing Gym in Seattle says that the sport creates a healthy environment for cultivating self-awareness. He states, “I started boxing and very early on learned that it’s a safe space for self-awareness and self-development… I love the physicality of boxing and linking that physicality to life.”

    Mike began boxing 18 years ago at Cappy’s and immediately fell in love with the sport. He then became a coach and eventually bought the gym. 

    Learning through Movement

    Boxing involves working in sometimes intense and elevated situations such as being close to others during punching drills like mitwork.

    When in close contact, emotions may become heightened and behavioral patterns can be revealed. This environment can illuminate fight, flight, or freeze responses.

    Learning how to handle situations where you are scared or uncomfortable is one of the most empowering things a person can do.

    It helps us recognize our patterns and reactions so that we can change them if needed in the future. This type of self-awareness also helps build confidence, making us feel better about ourselves and more confident when facing other difficulties in life.

    Responding in the Moment

    We all have challenges that we face, whether that be in the boxing ring against an opponent or within ourselves.

    In these scenarios, it can be helpful to identify automatic reactions.

    Mike explains, “When you’re typically in that heightened situation, you’re timid, you don’t like being there. A skilled opponent in boxing can pick that off easily because they can sense that. Do you stand with confidence and deal with the situation even when inside you’re going ‘oh my gosh get me out of here, this is not good’?”

    Whether you’re dealing with a physical situation or emotional one, being able to respond in the moment is a skill.

    Learning your patterns has power. If you can recognize your default response, you then have the ability to learn and change your reaction.

    You can explore ways to improve your responses and make choices in the next situation that serve you better.

    Mike elaborates, “In that heightened situation when shit hits the fan, then you learn, is that [automatic response] efficient? Does this work for you? What adjustments do you want to make to those defaults?” 

    What to Expect

    All levels are welcome at Cappy’s boxing. Mike says, “Most boxers, when they start, are super nervous. It’s a heightened situation just walking downstairs into the gym. That’s super common. I appreciate that authenticity.”

    Classes are group fitness based and follow a circuit training format. Boxers work on the fundamentals of boxing such as stance, cover, and punches.

    Boxers are paired up and moved through different stations that last 2-3 minutes – the typical length of a boxing round. Each station has a different focus and drill.

    Mike sets the scene, “You’ve got a coach telling you what you’re doing and what the drill is, then they’re letting you go and practice it. You might feel like you suck at it or like you’re a badass or somewhere in between.” 

     More Than a Workout

     The overall feel of the class is energetic and lively. Everyone is working to the best of their ability, some are exhausted and taking a break while others are pushing through the entire workout.

    Mike elaborates, “Everyone is doing it [boxing] at their own pace and we’re just guiding them along the way. The beginner level is basic body awareness and being able to understand, ‘Hey you’re gassing out. Let’s make some modifications. Let’s pace ourselves.’”

    Mike believes in boxing, not only as a form of fitness, but as a form of self-discovery, confidence building, and connection.

    Mike says, “We’re here to work out. We’re here to do what we can, at whatever level that is. We’re here to have a good time and interact with other people.”

    Boxing is offered twice a month on Monday evenings. Register for the next class here. 

     

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