Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby Walker.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Shelby. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always been somewhat of a creative explorer. An adventurist. A transformer. I love experimenting with different ways to communicate with people and I love to stay active! Like most adolescent girls, I battled with negative body image and insecurities growing up, the pressures to conform to societal beauty standards. The voice of my insecurities grew louder when I moved to Miami for swim fashion week, shortly after graduating college. I dabbled in modeling in my hometown, St. Petersburg, FL, and thought it would be a fun experience to have while I was young. When I got there, I was told how to wear my hair, what to eat, and how to work out by agents. I was constantly subjected to other people’s opinions of my body, when I already had to battle my own! I refused to be put in a box. This was a turning point for me.
I moved to Atlanta the following spring and wanted take charge of my life, specifically be in control of my body! I was stronger and I wanted to reflect that outwardly. I’ve always been active and found various workouts I enjoyed including dance, yoga, and roller blading. But then I found spinning, and I knew at first glance that I would be addicted! My first time taking spin, I rode in the back of the class and struggled to keep up! I was determined to get better. Every week, I gained more and more confidence, until I finally found myself in the front row! I rode so often and was encouraged by the progress I was seeing in my endurance and strength that I finally decided to get certified. I’ve been teaching spin for 3 years now, and it is the best part of my day, every single time I hop on that bike.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Teaching spin has given me the opportunity to face other challenges that have affected me daily. Despite boasting a Leo zodiac sign, the stars have yet to cure my social anxiety. I have always been an introvert in social situations due to suffered anxiety, which has held me back from countless unknown relationships and opportunities. While being on a stage in a room full of strangers has forced me to find and claim my confidence and use it to inspire others. It absolutely gives me an adrenaline rush!
Affirmations have helped me so much with overcoming my fears. There is a moment during each of my classes that I like to get everyone back in the saddle, shift their energy from their bodies to their minds, and get reconnected with their goals. I close my eyes and recite an affirmation that reminds them of how far they’ve come, and inspires them to finish with amazing energy. Little do they know, I often carve out that time and those words for me. Teaching has allowed me to feel free! I am now free from caring what people think of me, free from my fear of failing, and free to be playful. I am free to grow stronger, free to lead, and free to inspire. I am free to be me.
Whatever voice in your head that feeds you negativity, challenge it and don’t stand down. Recite in the mirror words that make you feel good. “I am strong. I am beautiful. I am free.” Do this everyday until you believe it. Then keep doing it some more. Also don’t take yourself too seriously! You will be surprised to find how others loosen up around you and root for you when you make mistakes chasing your dreams! Yes, fake it ’til you make it, but don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. This how you will truly find your purpose, your people, and your stride!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Vibe Ride – what should we know?
I am a dancer at heart. I love music, and when I hear it, I intrinsically move. It inspires me. I love dance, electronic, reggae, rhythm and blues, soul, and most of all, I love trap music. I truly owe Atlanta for introducing me to spin. I stumbled across a group spin class in a major gym chain on my way to the treadmill one evening, and through the doors, I could hear the edited version of Future’s, “Sh!t.” The beat dropped and the entire class broke into a sprint on their bikes, rapping along to Future’s lyrics. Where else in the world is this possible? It was love at first sight.
Music is a huge inspiration for the way I move through life, and that certainly applies to my workouts! I love curating playlists and matching the right song to every peak and valley of my ride. Paired with black lights, music videos, and high energy, the ride truly is an escape! I love providing a beats-based ride that inspires everyone to ride together. While some instructors encourage competition, I love creating a sense of community during my rides, down to the call and response! Everything we do, we do together! My riders jokingly groan if I start a song over when someone misses my cue, but find comfort in the fact no one gets left behind. I love coaching others to reaching their goals, and like most of mine in life, I didn’t achieve them alone.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
I have been inspired by a few women along my journey including Alex Elle for her words and reminders to love and make time for myself to then better care for and inspire others. I am inspired by Beyoncé’ to dance, feel confident, and recognize my strength and beauty. Most of all, I am inspired by my mother to always be a cheerleader to the people around me. She is such a bright light in my life.
Pricing:
- Vibe Ride Midtown: First Class $10
- Vibe Ride Grant Park: First Class $10
Contact Info:
- Website: http://theviberide.com/coaches/shelby-walker/
- Email: walkersa@eckerd.edu
- Instagram: bom.shel
Image Credit:
Shelby Gordon
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
