Becoming a 99 Walks coach is a dream Coach Martine never knew she wanted to come true, until it did in the Spring of 2021. Since her new role, she has taken the step to embrace the 99 Walks community not only with her joyful spirit, but also with the understanding that each and every journey is unique, special, and a path to be celebrated. And you’re certain to see that in everything she does.
Starting her fitness journey in college, Coach Martine was exposed to many different types of athletic clubs. Playing tennis for a semester as recreation helped her discover how much she enjoyed being part of a team and challenging herself physically. She continued that journey after college at local gyms participating in many fitness classes, but she’s always loved walking.
“Years ago, when I became a new mom, I believed operating on survival mode was a requirement, and because of that belief, I suffered in silence for way too long. It wasn’t until I started going on walks with my two tiny children that I started to feel like myself again,” reflects Coach Martine. “Day by day, step by step, walking challenged me physically and mentally. Physically because I was finally moving my body again—pushing a double stroller around isn't easy! Mentally because I had the opportunity to focus on myself.”
It was on those solo walks when Coach Martine found the time to dream again; to set personal goals that did not necessarily have to do with being a mom or wife. Just Martine. “It felt wonderful,” said Coach Martine. “Walking helped me feel alive again.”
Walking is one thing that she doesn’t compromise on to this day. “My mind and body need alone time and movement. Without the two, I cannot be the best person I know I can be,” Coach Martine said. “Thankfully, my husband knows that now, too, so whenever he notices that I haven't exercised, he encourages me to go for a solo walk.”
Now armed with a certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Coach Martine finds herself adding to her Pack Support Squad role in 99 Walks the role of Coach. “Last year when I joined 99 Walks, I was in awe of the inspiration and support of our Pack Members,” she says. “Even though I get to connect with our Pack through the support team, becoming a coach allows me to help motivate our members on a deeper level. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to show up for them in that way.”
In an effort to truly craft her classes to best serve 99 Walks pack members, Coach Martine spends a lot of time in the Teams section of the app and within the 99 Walks Facebook group. She takes the time to read, learn and connect with the community to understand the needs and challenges members are facing. “Our pack sisters are some of the strongest and most dedicated women around! I know they don't back down from a challenge and will always show up ready to have a good time,” Coach Martine said. “When preparing for a class, I think of my fellow pack sister who needs that extra motivation, the sister who sometimes feels overwhelmed and the sister who is crushing her goals one step at a time. I can’t let them down so I bring the fun and challenge to each of my classes!”
One thing that is always top of mind for Coach Martine is that each walking journey is personal. She sends out the reminder that these are your miles, and the amount of time you spend walking and how fast you walk will look different from you fellow pack sister, which is what makes this journey so incredible. By relishing your different journey, she said you might be surprised how many people you will motivate along the way!
But her advice doesn’t stop there. Coach Martine understands that most everyone struggles. Sometimes it’s hard to feel motivated and your mindset can slip. Her solution? Be kind to yourself, take it slow and believe better days are ahead. “Setting small goals and celebrating each win matters! Being able to move forward during your season of struggle is a huge accomplishment, so it's okay to celebrate your wins no matter how small it is,” advises Coach Martine.
And Coach Martine stands by that advice, setting her own personal aspirations as a coach. “My goal is to always inspire our pack members to be their best by challenging their mind and body, one small step at a time,” she said.
99 Walks has a lot of core values. 99 to be exact, and Coach Martine is currently connecting to Core Value #39: Do what you can to make your life easier. She explains, “I wear many hats in my everyday life, so I try to simplify tasks as much as I can so I can enjoy what matters most. For example, I absolutely don't cook during the weekends! I love that I get that break from cooking, it gives our palate a break, and we get to visit a fun local restaurant.”
You’ll find more inspiration and motivation from Coach Martine in the new 15-minute “I Dare You” walking class, which is added to the Classes section of your 99 Walks app every Saturday. In this class, you’ll grow stronger in body and mind as Coach Martine challenges you to think about your goals and put your words and thoughts into action.
And when you take her class, remember that Coach Martine is walking right beside you. “I love being able to walk with my pack sisters!” said Coach Martine. “In every class, I envision taking a fun walk with a pack sister, motivating each other step by step. I love that I get to help establish this wonderful sense of community, no matter the time or place.”
Many women struggle with the motivation to get healthy, but it doesn't have to be hard. Join thousands of women who are crushing their goals with 99 Walks, a fun and motivational walking challenge for women. Set your goal, walk your miles and earn an inspirational bracelet.
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Take your first step towards health and happiness, all through the simple act of walking. Start today with two weeks free.