The Peloton platform has become more than just a source for at-home fitness; it has evolved into a community that fosters self-discovery and personal growth. The "Year of Yes" series, a collaboration between Peloton and Shonda Rhimes, offered Members an opportunity to explore their potential through a series of classes led by instructors Robin Arzón, Tunde Oyeneyin, Jess Sims, Adrian Williams, and Chelsea Jackson Roberts. This eight-week program delved into themes designed to guide participants on a journey of self-improvement, both in fitness and in life.
Embracing the Power Within
The series began with a focus on "the Power of You." Robin Arzón's initial ride resonated deeply with many, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing oneself to better support others. As Member Heather B. noted, taking time for oneself can feel selfish, but it ultimately leads to improved mental clarity, patience, and overall well-being.
Another powerful message from Robin Arzón's class was captured by Member Michele D., who wrote the quote "I’m not shrinking myself for someone else’s comfort" on her bathroom mirror. This quote served as a reminder to resist the societal pressure on women to diminish themselves to accommodate others.
Self-Care as a Form of Resistance
The "Year of Yes" series also highlighted self-care as a crucial act of resistance and activism. In a world filled with challenges, dedicating time to mental and physical well-being becomes essential. Member Bre P. found solace in Robin Arzón's rides, which reminded her to prioritize self-care amidst personal and global struggles.
Taking Ownership of Your Life
Jess Sims encouraged Members to view themselves as the "CEO of your life." This concept resonated with Michele D., prompting her to reflect on her values and motivations. The series provided a framework for self-reflection, empowering individuals to take control of their lives and make intentional choices.
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Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Tunde Oyeneyin's ride on January 4 shared a personal story of loss and resilience, deeply affecting listeners. Bre P., who has dealt with a spinal injury since age 15, found inspiration in Tunde's story of persevering through immense challenges. Hearing about others' struggles offered a sense of perspective and motivation to overcome personal obstacles.
The Power of Saying No
Week 5 brought a shift in perspective, focusing on the importance of saying no. Chelsea Jackson Roberts’ Year of Yes meditation helped Members recognize the value of rest and setting boundaries. Bre P. realized that saying no to overexertion allowed her to say yes to future workouts and daily life.
Cultivating Gratitude
The theme of gratitude was explored in Week 6, encouraging Members to appreciate the things they have. Shavon S. reflected on the importance of gratitude for basic necessities and the support of her community. Meanwhile, Michele D. embraced the challenge by expressing gratitude for waking up each day.
Protecting Inner Peace
As the series neared its conclusion, the focus shifted to protecting one's peace. Shavon S. applied the lessons learned to set boundaries and avoid unnecessary drama and toxicity. Jess Sims' advice on setting boundaries resonated with Shavon, leading her to communicate her needs to her family.
Embracing the Unknown
The series concluded with a look toward the future, encouraging Members to embrace the unknown. Michele D. reflected on the lessons learned from the "Year of Yes" series and the book, recognizing the importance of letting go of fear. Unlocking the unknown involves allowing oneself to live authentically and face challenges head-on.
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Motivational Mantras from Peloton Instructors
Beyond the "Year of Yes" series, Peloton instructors shared motivational sayings to inspire Members:
- Jess Sims: "You don’t have to, you get to." This emphasizes the privilege of being able to exercise. Sims also says, “Being ready isn’t a feeling, it’s a decision.”
- Tunde Oyeneyin: "Your mind is your strongest muscle." This highlights the importance of mental strength in achieving goals.
- Alex Toussaint: "Less excuses, more adjustments." This encourages individuals to find solutions instead of making excuses.
- Denis Morton: "If you can’t get out of it, get into it." This promotes finding joy in challenges. He also says, “I make suggestions, you make decisions,"
- Adrian Williams: "Never give up because great things take time." This encourages perseverance.
- Matt Wilpers: "Train smart. Train hard. Have fun!" This emphasizes the importance of consistency, technique, and enjoyment in training and reminds us that training is absolutely a privilege.
- Chelsea Jackson Roberts: "Drink as you pour." This encourages self-care to avoid burnout.
- Sam Yo: “I am a disciple of a better me.” This is a reminder to take responsibility for personal growth and evolution.
- Kendall Toole: "They can knock you down, but never let them knock you out." This encourages resilience in the face of setbacks.
Dr. Chelsea Jackson Roberts: A Beacon of Inspiration
Dr. Chelsea Jackson Roberts is an internationally celebrated yoga teacher, educational researcher, and the founder of Yoga, Literature, and Art Camp for Teen Girls at Spelman College Museum of Fine Art. She believes that wellness is uniquely defined by an individual who feels aligned within their body, mind, and actions in the world. For her, practicing wellness involves being mindful of what brings peace.
Her Journey into Yoga
Chelsea Jackson Roberts initially approached yoga as a physical practice to reconnect with her body after gaining weight and experiencing health challenges during college. She began teaching herself yoga using a book by Rodney Yee while living in New Mexico for a college internship. She was inspired by yoga's focus on the body and its relaxing qualities. She wanted to feel free and unrestricted by shortness of breath and painful joints in her early 20s and saw yoga as an accessible way to move her body.
Building Bridges Through Yoga
By definition, yoga means to unite, join, or yoke. Dr. Jackson Roberts believes it is a framework for connecting humans from different cultures and backgrounds. She observes the ways in which race, politics, inequity, and other factors separate people. To move beyond these barriers, she emphasizes the importance of learning from one another.
In 2014, she co-founded Red Clay Yoga with her husband, Shane Roberts, to create spaces for community conversations while integrating yoga. The tools she has learned through her yoga practice are invaluable and can be practiced in simple ways. She suggests taking a deep breath and closing your eyes before having a difficult conversation.
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Advice for Beginners
Yoga is a growing practice and industry with various approaches taken by teachers and studios. Dr. Jackson Roberts advises beginners to look for yoga teachers who specialize in beginners and restorative yoga. She emphasizes the importance of staying present, leaving watches and cell phones outside of the yoga room, and journaling about the experience after each class.
Finding Her Path
After earning her Ph.D. in educational studies from Emory University, Chelsea Jackson Roberts confessed to her husband that she wanted to pursue yoga rather than seek a tenure-track position. Inspired by Yoga, Literature, & Art Camp for Teen Girls at Spelman College she'd founded while finishing her dissertation, Jackson Roberts said she "knew that it was an impactful way to reach youth, their families, and communities." She had some trepidation about this decision but her leap of faith led to the founding of Red Clay Yoga and her role at Peloton. She receives letters from members who are inspired by her presence and representation.
The Impact of Peloton Instructors
Peloton instructors come from diverse backgrounds and have inspiring stories of how they found their way to the platform.
- Tunde Oyeneyin: A former beauty guru who experienced a premonition that she would be cycling for the rest of her life. She misses nothing about her old life and feels that she can give people confidence in a mass and grand way at Peloton.
- Olivia Amato: A former Wall Street vet who left a secure job in finance to pursue her passion for fitness. She has no regrets about the choices she's made and wouldn't trade where she is now for anything else.
- Adrian Williams: An aspiring pediatric nurse who was encouraged by a friend to pursue fitness. He launched with Peloton during quarantine and the Black Lives Matter movement and wanted to be a source for healing for members.
- Jess Sims: A former teacher who realized her favorite moments were when she was teaching kids about health, wellness, and movement. She applied her skills from education to her role as an instructor.
- Matty Maggiacomo: A former on-air broadcaster who turned to fitness after realizing he was doing more "harm" than "good" in his news reporting job.
- Hannah Frankson: A former runner and competitive triple jumper who transitioned to spreading her love for fitness and exercise after retiring from professional athletics.
- Aditi Shah: A finance grad who was encouraged by her mother to explore a life as an instructor. She pursued modeling and acting before realizing her passion for yoga and meditation.