Sunday, December 12, 2010

Gracias

When my boss asked me if I'd like to go to Bogota, Columbia to train new Instructors in Barre, TRX, and Pilates Pro I was immediately excited and then immediately apprehensive. Going to South America has always been on my bucket list but the apprehension came when I saw the US government issued travel warnings for Columbia and questioned my safety to a country I had never been to nor did I speak the language. I mean "Hola" can only get you so far!

I have never been more wrong in my life. Not only did I fall in love with Bogota, I made new friends, connected with people even with a language barrier, and had what I believe is the most amazing experience and opportunity of my fitness career so far. It was nothing like what I thought it would be. As my boyfriend said "that's why you travel".

I spent a week training 14 Instructors along with 2 other women from Pilates Pro Works (www.pilatesproworks.com). It was an amazing experience that I am eternally grateful for. I've been in the Fitness Industry for over 10 years and this trip and training is the accumulation of everything, up to this point, that I have worked so hard for. Every day was new, new lessons, new patience, new friends.

Our host, the owner of the new Pilates Pro Works in Bogota was caring, considerate, and professional. He introduced us to his family and friends. He always made sure we were having a great time. He was what made the trip an experience I will never forget.

Thank you Oscar, Taylor, Angelica, Andres and all the newly trained instructors. You reminded me why I love what I do.