Lawrin Walker

My name is Lawrin Walker, from Colora, MD.  I am 55 years old and have just recently gotten back into the Group Exercise/Fitness arena.  I have been involved in the fitness classes at my local studio, Sundance Fitness & Dance Studio for the past three years.  I got back into group fitness three years ago when I found myself about 50 pounds overweight.  I started at the Studio with Zumba and loved it.  I became a regular participant in almost every group exercise class offered at the studio.  In November 2011, I was introduced to the R.I.P.P.E.D. fitness program.  R.I.P.P.E.D., is a high intensity workout that incorporates all aspects fitness into a one hour class.  The program consists five, 6-10 minute sections on Resistance (biceps, triceps, shoulders), Intervals (high cardio), Power (legs, back, chest, glutes), Plyometrics (agility, coordination, explosiveness) and Endurance (martial arts/kickboxing).  The 'D' is the Diet and Nutrition piece which is available on the website, and emphasizes the importance of Blood Sugar Stabilization and Clean Eating.

I liked the R.I.P.P.E.D. program so much that I decided to get certified to hopefully someday teach the program.  I received my R.I.P.P.E.D. certification on November 10, 2012.  One of the requirements to teach the R.I.P.P.E.D. program is to not only be certified in the program but to also be certified by a nationally recognized fitness association.  So on February 9, 2013, I completed my AFAA Primary Group Exercise certification.

After being out of the Group Exercise arena for many years, I returned to teaching in late 2013.  I primarily teach R.I.P.P.E.D., but also step in as a substitute instructor for our Cardio Power class.  Cardio Power is a class that was developed by one of the other instructors at the studio where I teach.  The class is a throwback to old school aerobics with routines that consist of grapevines, v-steps, jumping jacks and high knees, all choreographed to popular music of today.

By day I am an Information Technology Specialist.  I plan to retire in about 2 years, at which time I hope to continue my group exercise career and start teaching more classes.