Member Spotlight: Cathy Dean
Echelon member Cathy Dean ("Healthy Cat") shares her fitness journey, emphasizing the importance of community, instructor engagement, and strength-focused goals over weight loss.
Leaderboard Name: Healthy Cat
Q&A with Cathy
Q: Who is your favorite instructor?
A: This isn’t a fair question! So many- Janet, Jama, Mark, John, Nicole, and Dani!
Q: How did you get started with Echelon?
A: During the COVID shutdown when I hadn’t been able to go to the YMCA for 6 months I needed something at home other than walking and YouTube videos. Researched different bikes and tried the Echelon bike at a local sporting goods store. The price was right and it felt good. So my husband and I bought it and never looked back. I had no idea there were classes and thought I’d just be riding along while watching TV.
Q: What is your favorite part about the Echelon Community?
A: The instructors, community of riders and the different challenges found in the FB groups. I’ve made so many friends and have become fitter both physically and mentally in the process!
Q: How has Echelon impacted your life?
A: Oh wow! I’m so many ways. I’ve lost weight which I’m the past would have been my biggest win. But there are so many other things that may be more important. I am much more mobile at 61 than I’ve been the past 40 years . I teach 1st grade and can now sit on the floor with my students for a long time. I can also get up off the floor without having to haul myself up with a chair. I think though that the biggest impact is my confidence and positive body image. The messages from instructors and it isn’t about the weight but more how we feel and how mobile and strong we are that matter! I’m a mischievous, happier person now than ever!
Q: What keeps you motivated?
A: Live rides and Echelon challenges. Seeing friends in the leaderboard and feeling good each day!
Q: What tips do you want to share with other members to achieve their fitness goals?
A: One day at a time! Teach out to others in the FB groups and find a group of people to support.
Q: What makes Echelon different than our competitors?
A: The community and instructor engagement with members. For example I knew I was doing dead lifts incorrectly and messages Jama and she got back to me in 24 hours with practical tips that made all the difference
Cathy’s Echelon journey transformed her from a pandemic home exerciser to a confident, mobile fitness enthusiast, highlighting the power of community support and a focus on strength over weight loss.
