MOVING BECAUSE I CAN.
“I couldn’t believe I was moving my body in a way that felt both effective and fun.”
Growing up as a competitive cheerleader, I always saw exercise as punishment. Every mistake meant more laps, burpees, or suicides—exercise was never fun; it was a consequence. It was something I had to do.
This toxic mindset followed me into high school, where I’d run extra miles after practices if they felt too easy. I felt compelled to burn at least as many calories as a small meal to justify my workouts. I pushed myself to the limit, believing exercise was meant to be grueling and unappealing. Even when my dad told me he loved his CrossFit workouts, I couldn’t believe it and accepted the belief that working out would never be enjoyable for me. That all changed when I discovered TrueForm.
I first discovered True Form on social media, where my high school friends were posting about it. The look of joy on their faces in their after-workout photos caught my attention. When I heard they’d opened a studio in Nashville, close to my apartment, I decided to reach out for a part-time job. I met Kenzie at E + Rose, where we had the most genuine conversation. She wanted to get to know me as a person. She educated me on her dream for TrueFrom and shared with me all the morals the community stands on. I left the interview thrilled— I loved all Kenzie stood for, I was honored she trusted that I could help, and I could not wait to join the community.
As I began working and immersing myself in the culture, I was still hesitant about trying the workouts. I was so sure I would find the class to be miserable. It took me a while to book my first class and give it a try.
I’ll always remember that first class—9:30 a.m. with Hannah. She was the sweetest, most welcoming instructor, and her class was intense in the best way possible. As soon as I walked out of the studio, I called my dad. I had to share my excitement with someone. He could feel my enthusiasm through the phone. I couldn’t believe I was moving my body in a way that felt both effective and fun.
Since that first class, I’ve taken nearly 50 more and have loved every single one. I even managed to drag my teenage brother to class.Who quickly gained respect for me and was humbled by the Lagree method.
Don’t get me wrong—there are days when I struggle to wake up for class, but I’ve never regretted going. True Form has shattered my old beliefs about exercise. I no longer focus on calorie burn, I appreciate my movement even if I don’t break a sweat, and most importantly, I move because I love myself, not to change myself.
I’m forever grateful to the trainers who’ve helped me gain strength and confidence on the Mega. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable, and I also appreciate the clients who contribute to the positive environment in the classes.
To anyone reading this: the next time you walk through the doors and take a seat on the Mega, take a moment to be proud. Be proud that you’re carving out 50 minutes for yourself in your busy schedule. Be proud of how far you’ve come and be proud of who you are and who you are becoming. Love your journey and remember you choose class because you can, not because you have to!
written by Olivia Michaud, @livvimichaud on IG (!)
