Member Spotlight: Patricia Poling
Patricia's story is a powerful reminder of the connection between movement and healing. A primary care physician from Southwest Florida, Patricia has faced more than her share of medical challenges, yet she continues to rise, rebuild, and inspire.
Her journey with Echelon began during a time when health and wellness felt more important than ever: the height of the pandemic. Recovering from major surgeries and caring for her own patients, Patricia turned to at-home fitness to take control of her physical and mental well-being.
Now, she’s not just back in motion—she’s thriving.
Leaderboard Name: Rxingselfcare
Q&A with Patricia
Q: Who is your favorite instructor?
A: Reed
Q: How did you get started with Echelon?
A: I had tracheal mass removed and then a hip replacement, and then the pandemic hit. This made me want to work out at home. So, I found Echelon.
Q: What is your favorite part about the Echelon Community?
A: The live classes and the motivation they provide.
Q: How has Echelon impacted your life?
A: In the fall of 2019, I was diagnosed with a tracheal mass that occluded 90 % of my airway. I had two surgeries and multiple injections to keep the airway open. Then the pandemic hit. I am a primary care doctor in South West Florida. My new area was under threat. I started with Echelon to do my workouts from home. In the summer of 2020, I underwent a hip replacement (my user name then was New Hip New Me). I was on my Echelon bike 1 month post op. I have been able to build up my strength and felt so much better. Unfortunately, my tracheal blockage returned and I underwent another tracheal surgery on October 10, 2023. I was able to get back on my Echelon bike on Friday 12th for a live class. My name is now Rxing Self Care. I have learned how to take care of myself through exercise, strengthening and stretching to overcome all the overwhelm of the last few years. Thank you.
Q: What keeps you motivated?
A: My health. Over the last few years I have had my own medical setbacks. More importantly, I take care of patients and I have a daily reminder of the importance of taking care of ourselves. I constantly say to my patients "A body in motion, stays in motion." There is nothing better than exercise to keep the body healthy.
Q: What tips do you want to share with other members to achieve their fitness goals?
A: As a physician, I am encouraging all my patients to exercise on a daily basis. There should be a blend of cardio, strength, stretching and yes even meditation. We are only given one life, one body. We are responsible for that body. Treat it with care and it will take you to great places.
Q: What makes Echelon different than our competitors?
A: I just love the live classes. Brandon Reed is my spirit animal. I am dancing on bike with him. Laughing with him. I love the motivation the live instructors give. But, if my schedule is super busy, I can choose from so many on demand classes. The Facebook community is an added bonus. I feel motivated and supported.
Patricia’s story is a powerful example of how consistency, resilience, and community can transform your health journey. Through life’s challenges, she embraced the Echelon lifestyle—proving that regular movement and support aren’t just good for the body, but essential for the mind. Her dedication continues to inspire those around her, reminding us all that with the right tools and a strong community, lasting change is within reach.
