Melissa Skoutas

Four years ago this month I joined 212. All my life dance had been my exercise. For some, exercise may seem like work, but because I was so passionate about dance, it never felt that way. However, once the dance stopped, I needed something to do, so I tried out a few gyms but only found myself going through the motions, not giving it my all, and above all else, not enjoying it. It felt like work to even find a good gym. I realized I needed classes; I grew up in a studio where an instructor told me what to do and it became clear to me that I needed that structure. My boyfriend at the time (now husband) was working out at Punch/212 and recommended I try it out. Initially, kettlebells were a challenge but before long I was hooked. It was like learning new choreography. Actually, learning how to snatch was harder than any choreography I'd ever experienced. Looking back at the past four years, a lot has happened in my personal life. I finished nursing school, got married and adopted an awesome dog. One thing that has stayed the same is my visits to 212. I might not go 6 days a week like when I first started, but I try to go as often as possible. I've made some great friends and never leave unhappy. Thanks to the 212 team for always challenging me and keeping me in shape!