Desirae Underwood

Fitness and travel have always been an important part of my life. I was a runner in high school and a rower in college. I loved team sports and the community it gave me. I spend my childhood camping and hiking around the Pacific Northwest, growing a loved for nature. After high school I took myself to Europe for a gap year which opened my mind to the world and created the desire to travel even more. However, a family came first and international travel took a back seat. I decided to homeschool my children when they were younger which allowed me to plan road trips with them across the country. We travelled mostly around the western areas of the United States, stopping at curious small towns to experience their unique flair. We toured historic places, learned about indigenous peoples and old volcanic geographies, educating as we travelled. 

With the demands of motherhood and homeschooling i put my physical health on the back burner. in 2016, after the birth of my fourth child, I found myself 100 pounds over weight. Intrigued by the rowing opportunity and HITT round robin style training, I signed up as a member of Orange Theory and was instantly back in the swing of things. I lost 60 pounds and decided to join the local Masters Women competitive rowing team in Austin. I spent three years rowing, earning a seat in boats competing in the top regattas in the country, San Diego Crew Classic and Head of the Charles in Boston.

While I was growing healthier and more confident, my marriage started failing and soon I found myself a single mother needing to build a career from the ground up. I was encouraged by a good friend to apply to Ro Fitness as a coach. Having no experience I was hesitant, but I loved rowing and was interested in bringing my love of rowing to others. 

I took to the job naturally and realized I had a gift to coach and motivate. Soon I decided to enroll with ACE to get my Personal Training Certificate and at the same time enrolled in U.S Rowing to obtain my rowing coach certification. These career choices have allowed me to fit work routine around my children by being able to set my own schedule. My rowing career blossomed when I started working at Austin Rowing Club and have found myself with the great opportunity of building the rowing program for St. Edwards University as well and coaching adult rowers at the club. 

Now that I have found stability in my career, my desire to travel has been coming back. I would love to be able to see the world again in a way that fits my schedule to allow me to support my children while helping me continue on my journey of self discovery.