Before Joanne After Joanne
Personally, I've found myself pushing harder in SPIN when Joanne yells out, "Is that all you got?" Or I find myself inching further towards that Yoga pose or holding that core pose in Pilates while Joanne calmly says, "If you're doing this correctly you should be shaking right now!"
But how does Joanne get so much change out of us?
Yes, she is a great fitness instructor who is continually studying and training to improve her skills and knowledge.
Yes, she has a loud voice.
Yes, she calls you out.
Yes, she has fun teaching.
Yes, she has an infectious laughter.
Most of all, I think we give all we have to Joanne because we know that she truly cares for each individual and gives so much of herself to us. She goes out of her way to welcome every newcomer to the Center. She's a great encourager. She's passionate about helping people change physically, relationally, and spiritually.
Remember what I said about some changes we don't get to choose. Unfortunately, with the New Year, Joanne and her family will be leaving the Community Center to fulfill their dream of sailing around the world.
We are so thankful for everything Joanne's done for and given to the Center. Please join us in thanking, celebrating, and sending off Joanne in a great fashion. We will have the Joanne Verbeck Appreciation Brunch on January 7th in the Center lobby. Below are some additional testimonies of how Joanne has changed lives.
We will miss Joanne so much, but I can't help but smile at the thought of how many people around the world will be blessed (and shaking) when they get to experience Joanne's, "Is that all you got?"
See you at the Center,
Anthony Mejia, Center Director
Here are some additional testimonials about Joanne Verbeck
After 15 years of swimming and running, I had been wanting for a long time to try yoga. I knew that yoga was supposed to be good for your spirit, as well as your physical self, but I had no idea I would be challenged so greatly.
I remember meeting Joanne a few years earlier when we swam Master's together... she has a tremendous work ethic, and that shines through in her teaching. I learned to tap into my inner strength, and how to push my body in a different way.
I will never forget the many, "walk, step or jump back to plank" gentle orders Joanne would give - she is so good at pushing you to your limits!
Our class will miss you, Joanne - we are all blessed to have you as our teacher. Enjoy your journey with your family, and come back to teach us what you've learned. Namaste!
- Bert Reed
My favorite Joanne quotes are:
"If you're doing this correctly you should be shaking right now."
"This move should make you not want to do it anymore."
- Mira Gillet
I'll miss Joanne's personalized approach to her classes. Whether it was Pilates, Yoga, or Spinning, Joanne related to us in a warm and personal way while pushing us to new heights. The classes, were always tough, fair, and fun. Me and the other guys pictured on the card are in agreement about this based on our discussions while recuperating in the hot tub after class.
PS:
My sciatica problems went away after I started attending Joanne's classes.
Thanks for everything Joanne!
- Bob Yapp
"She really makes you work hard and every class is different. And while you are working hard, sheentertains you with stories about her family and personal experiences.
She's really dynamic!"
- Gini Thatcher
"She whipped my butt and arms (literally) for my wedding. And I liked it!"
- Allison Fujimoto
"Her Pilates and Yoga classes really strengthened my core. That's what I really needed for my Ironman races. My back use to be sore after the long bike rides and now my back is no longer sore.
She really keeps you in great shape!"
- Harriet Anderson, Reigning Ironman Champion
