Being a new mom can be isolating and mentally exhausting if you don't have the right support system. For moms with little kids and a need to exercise and socialize, Fit4Mom is a dream come true. Currently franchised in a handful of locations along the Wasatch Front, Fit4Mom provides fitness classes and an opportunity to network with other moms.
Nicole Bennion, owner of the Murray franchise, is passionate about health and wellness. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in health promotion and worked in corporate wellness for about six years in Iowa. After she had her daughter, she decided to be a stay-at-home mom, but eventually she missed the opportunity to help others.
"I heard about Fit4Mom and tried a few of their classes," she says. "They were awesome, and, before long, I started wanting my own franchise." Bennion launched her Murray business in December 2015 and, so far, has loved the experience of helping new moms socialize and improve their fitness levels.
Fit4Mom isn't just about losing weight or toning up—yes, you will get a great workout in, but there's so much more. "It's also about mom nights and giving mothers time to themselves to recharge," Bennion says. Fit4Mom offers activities for the entire family as well.
Classes include playgroups for kids with crafts and learning opportunities. "One class we will focus on colors, another we might learn about the weather," Bennion says.
Fit4Mom Murray currently offers a class called Stroller Strides at 9 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Fashion Place Mall (6191 S. State, Murray, FashionPlace.com). Participants meet up outside H&M. "When the weather warms up, we will switch to local parks," Bennion says.
The Stroller Strides class is a 60-minute, total body workout incorporating power walking, strength, toning, songs and activities lead by a certified fitness instructor. The routines are varied so attending class never gets tedious, and attendees can be assured of the workout's efficacy. Even better, each workout is tailored to different ability levels, so anyone can participate. And because each workout takes place in everyday locations, like the mall or gym, participants can learn the routines and practice at home. The South Valley franchise, with locations in Sandy, Daybreak, Herriman and Draper, also offers additional classes.
"The feeling of helping mothers is really the ultimate blessing," Bennion says. "I think that being part of other moms' lives and being able to help them feel better about themselves and providing them with an opportunity to hang out with other moms is a great service. Sometimes, as a mom, you feel so alone, so it's great to get together with other moms and get support from each other."
FIT4MOM MURRAY