Conversations with the Inspiring Jen Callahan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Callahan.

Jen, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Aerial Yoga is my passion project. I have a regular day job but spend my free time at Atherial. It all started when I decided on a whim to try an aerial yoga class. I had doubts about being strong enough to do the practice, based on a class I took years ago but decided to try anyway. Google led me to Atherial. I did better in the class than I thought I would, and because of that and the supportive community there, I kept going back. I began a work exchange program with the studio which progressed into a marketing manager role. I eventually decided it could be fun to take Atherial’s teacher training and now, I teach classes at Atherial every week.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I had low self-confidence when I started. I had completed my yoga teacher training years before I started working at the studio but I didn’t tell anyone. I wanted to learn the practice without having the pressure of being expected to teach. As I continued to practice aerial yoga, my strength grew and I was surprised to find my self-confidence did too. I decided it was time to step out of my shell and I signed up for the aerial teacher training program. I’ve experienced lots of nervous teaching moments since then but each challenge is an opportunity to grow. I recently had the amazing opportunity to teach over 100 yogis at Yoga Rocks the Park! My advice is to always try new things and see where each path takes you. Don’t believe the negative thoughts that will try to creep into your mind. You are strong enough. You are good enough. Taking that first step out of my comfort zone has led to so many magical moments and I know it will be the same way for you.

What should we know about Atherial Fitness? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I’m known as being a person who gets things done. I’ve always been interested in knowing how things work so that I could make it happen. Several years ago, I taught myself basic website design and launched my own blog. My blog has gone through a few iterations since then but I was able to use the skills I gained to help re-design Atherial’s website and create a yoga blog for the studio. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback on it already which makes me happy. Atherial is all about providing a place where everyone is welcome. We want to show the community that aerial yoga is accessible and that it can impact your confidence and physical strength in a major way. I’m so grateful that I can further this mission through teaching and through the website.

Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
I have been blessed to have so many incredible women come into my life since I started at Atherial. The woman who has inspired me the most and encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone is Reba Malandra, Atherial’s owner. She has helped me grow in so many ways and I’m so grateful to have her in my life.

I also admire Tricia Olson, founder of FitLo Denver, for her entrepreneurial skills and her kindness. She knows what she wants and does what it takes to make it happen – and always with a smile.

Pricing:

• New client month unlimited $59.99
• 5 class punch pack $95

Contact Info:

• Website: Atherialfitness.com
• Email: jen@atherialfitness.com
• Instagram: @jendoesaerial

Image Credit:
Image in eagle pose: Pixie Perfect Productions, Image with blue capris and white background: Jenna Nicole Photo

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