Catching up on our Member Spotlight posts after missing a few months is no small task—but we’re back! Before summer began, we had our June and July spotlights planned, but then life got busy, and time flew by.
Now, we’re excited to highlight not one, but three incredible members! Each of them stands out in their own unique way, so be sure to check out their stories below.
Laura Powers is a true powerhouse in every class. She pushes herself to the limit, whether it’s crushing the cardio machines or challenging herself with heavier weights, all while motivating everyone around her to do the same. Her energy is contagious—it’s like having an extra coach in the room!
Off the gym floor Laura’s kindness and thoughtfulness shine just as brightly. She recently organized a beautiful group gift for Missy’s maternity leave, bringing the community together in such a heartfelt way that it brought tears to Missy’s eyes. And when it comes to fun, Laura is always leading the charge! She and Janet organized a Holiday Happy Hour to keep the fun going outside the gym.
Laura, you’re the epitome of what makes Ola Kai special. Thank you for your passion, positivity, and the warmth you bring to our gym family. We’re so lucky to have you!
What brought you to Ola Kai?
I love group fitness! Moving full time from Philadelphia to Brigantine during the height of COVID, I missed getting into the gym and sweating it out with a bunch of like minded people. When Ola Kai opened I knew I had to join. I also had the added motivation of post baby weight to burn. My husband birthday gifted me my first 10 classes and the rest is history!
What is your favorite thing about Brigantine?
The community. The way Brigantine comes together is an amazing thing to experience and witness.
How do you feel like the type of training you do at Ola Kai helps you in your personal life?
Mentally Ola Kai helps me reset from the daily work grind and physically I’m able to keep up with my 3 year-old’s energy :)
What physical benefits are you seeing (sleep, work, eating, mental, etc).
Sleeping hard, being more mindful of what I’m eating and physically stronger after every class.
What are some of the biggest benefits you have felt since you started at Ola Kai?
I’ve met some really great people in classes and have gained a group of really amazing friends who hold me accountable to show up. Because of them, the coaches, and the welcoming environment Ola Kai has created I’m feeling the strongest I’ve ever felt in my life!
What class(es) do you enjoy the most?
Circuit strength and conditioning - weights and cardio!
What’s one thing you’ve achieved since becoming a member?
Friendships
What is one fitness goal you have in the coming year?
Cardio is my least favorite - maybe getting more comfortable in that space? Or a 2 pack of abs :)
What are some of your favorite things to do on the island?
Jetty beach weekends with my family, hanging out with my homies and going to the Elks.
Janet McCann has been a dedicated member of Ola Kai since day one! Currently on an impressive 48-week streak, she consistently brings her best to every class. Quietly determined, Janet works as hard as anyone in the room, all while sharing her big smile and positive energy that uplifts everyone around her. She never backs down from a challenge, whether it's from a coach or a classmate—like picking up those 44lb kettlebells for the Farmers Carry last week! Janet’s strength and determination shine through as she gives 100% effort in every session. She sets a fantastic example for her peers, and we deeply appreciate everything she contributes to our gym community.
What brought you to Ola Kai?
I was really struggling to keep up my fitness routine during the pandemic, because I am more motivated in a group fitness setting rather than working out on my own. I was thrilled when OIa Kai opened! It is such an amazing space.
What is your favorite thing about Brigantine?
The beautiful beach and the community. I moved here four years ago and everyday I feel so lucky to live on this amazing island.
How do you feel like the type of training you do at Ola Kai helps you in your personal life?
I have such a sense of accomplishment after each workout. It has also given me confidence to try new things. I was a little intimidated to try some of the classes when I first started, but the staff and other members were so encouraging and supportive. Now I can't get enough!
What physical benefits are you seeing (sleep, work, eating, mental, etc).
I mentally feel great after each workout, and I find myself able to concentrate better at work
What are some of the biggest benefits you have felt since you started at Ola Kai?
Besides feeling better physically, one of the biggest benefits has been meeting new people and making new friends.
What class(es) do you enjoy the most?
They are all amazing , but I love the Strength and Conditioning classes. All of the instructors are amazing.
What’s one thing you’ve achieved since becoming a member?
I have definitely seen an improvement in how much weight I can lift today from one year ago. I love how we all encourage each other to try and go heavier!
What is one fitness goal you have in the coming year?
I am trying to improve my endurance with outdoor running, and would like to sign up for a race in 2025.
What are some of your favorite things to do on the island?
Spending time on the beach with friends, walking my dog Buddy, and participating in community events like the farmers market or watching the Eagles game on the beach!
Cathy Schmidt holds a special place in our hearts. Her boundless energy and positive presence light up every room she enters. She’s also one of our greatest recruiters, always spreading the word about Ola Kai! Starting a small business is no easy feat, especially with two little kids in tow, and Cathy has a knack for offering Jimmy and me just the encouragement we need at the perfect moment. In class, Cathy embraces every challenge and thrives on learning and improving in everything she does. I’ve even found someone who matches my dad’s competitive spirit! Cathy is truly a joy to have as part of our Ola Kai family.
What brought you to Ola Kai?
I walked by Ola Kai with friends in early Sept of '23. We stopped in- chatted with Jimmy for a few minutes. I said I will be back next week. I went back the following week and joined. I needed to be in Brigantine and needed an outlet for more physical activity.
How do you feel like the type of training you do at Ola Kai helps you in your personal life?
The training I do at Ola Kai helps me stay sane.
What physical benefits are you seeing (sleep, work, eating, mental, etc).
Since coming for over a year the physical benefits are: I am definitely stronger and more defined.
What’s one thing you’ve achieved since becoming a member?
I have incorporated different types of training & fitness activities into my everyday life. I was brand new to yoga and pleasantly surprised at how much I like it. It's good to try new things!
What class(es) do you enjoy the most?
I love the circuit burn classes and the pilates class.
What’s one thing you’ve achieved since becoming a member?
The best thing I have achieved since becoming a member at OK is having this incredible new community of exceptional women who are not only workout buddies but friends too. ( the men who go to Ola Kai are also great)
What is one fitness goal you have in the coming year?
My fitness goal is the same one I have had for over 50 years... to lose 5 lbs. haha
What are some of your favorite things to do on the island?
I love the off season in Brigantine. I love to walk the island, ride my bike, play tennis and of course, hit Ola Kai. Ola Kai is a very special place, you and Jimmy should be so proud and pleased at what you have brought to Brigantine.
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