From Not Prioritizing Fitness to Consistency and Community: Emma C’s SHINE Story
- Jess Takimoto
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
“I was always the kid picked last in gym class. Now I’m stronger, more consistent, and actually excited to work out." - Emma
Watch the full story: https://youtu.be/BH-K9C06oRE
Summary
Introduction
When Emma C (she/they) moved to Toronto with no local network, they were craving two things: community and a routine that actually fit her life. They had always been active in their own way (biking, swimming, walking), but “fitness” never felt like their identity — or a space where they fully belonged.
Then, they found SHINE FIT on Instagram. Now?
💙 Emma trains 3–4x/week (and actually looks forward to it)
💙 They went from “one or two burpees” to jumping every rep
💙 They built real friendships
💙 They chose to stay in Toronto because they found their community
What Was Emma C's Relationship With Fitness Before SHINE?
Emma didn’t grow up “sporty.” Team sports weren’t their thing, and mirrors in ballet sometimes amplified comparison. In high school and university, exercise felt like a chore squeezed between cello, student council, and late-night studying.
COVID changed the script:
They made biking her “quarantine project,” adding a little distance each day until they rode a marathon with friends.
In Montréal’s winter, they became a morning lap swimmer, loving the calm and structure.
Still, once school returned to normal, consistent workouts were hit-or-miss. They moved their body a lot (walking everywhere), but weren’t scheduling in consistent exercise.
❌ Exercise = obligation, not identity
❌ Consistency came and went with life seasons
The Turning Point: Finding SHINE
Ten days after landing in Toronto, an Instagram post from SHINE FIT stood out. It looked approachable and real — smiles, movement, no “bikini countdown” or pressure-y vibes.
“It felt like a place I could belong — not overly ‘bougie’ or cliquey. Just people having fun and moving.”
They booked a class, but almost canceled after a tough day. However, the cancellation policy made them show up, and within minutes, the room felt welcoming. Names were exchanged. The energy felt different.
💙 No judgment
💙 No need to “keep up” to belong
💙 Actual fun
From One Burpee to Burpee Queen and Community Anchor
Emma started strategically with Dance Strength and Dance Cardio classes to build capacity, and then, layering in HIIT to challenge themself.
Since joining SHINE, the transformation is as social as it is physical:
💪 Capacity: From struggling through a couple of burpees to jumping every rep
📈 Consistency: 3–4 classes per week, anchored by routine
👯♀️ Community: Joining Team SHINE, post-class gelatos, real friendships
🧭 Belonging: The reason she chose to stay in Toronto
“I was always picked last in gym class. Now, I’m doing every burpee. That still blows my mind.”
Her Confidence Transformation?
Emma no longer wonders if they “fit” in fitness spaces. SHINE made showing up feel natural and social.
🎉 They celebrate progress (capacity > perfection)
💙 They show up even on busy weeks
👟 They identify as someone who moves for joy and connection
Michelle's Advice for Anyone Afraid to Start?
Pro tips from Emma:
Pick two class times and protect them.
Start with formats you enjoy; layer challenge later.
Linger five minutes post-class and say yes to gelato invites.
“Be a regular. Commit to 6–8 weeks at the same class times. Consistency builds comfort, friendships, and results. You don’t have to feel ‘ready.' You just have to start and keep showing up.”
Conclusion: Emma's SHINE Story Continues
Emma came for the workouts and stayed for the community, and that’s what changed everything.
You don’t have to be “into fitness” to fall in love with it. Show up, find your people, and let the room work its magic.
TAKE ACTION
Feeling inspired by Emma C's story? Listen to the full episode of SHINE Stories on Spotify or Apple now! If you’re ready to start your own journey and experience the power of community, book a free intro session today and let’s chat about how SHINE can help you transform your relationship with fitness.
Ready to start your transformation? Click here to book your free intro session today!
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