NAME
Emily Richard
AGE
21
HOMETOWN
Saint John
OCCUPATION
Marketing Professional and Spin Instructor
ACTIVITIES
What activities do you participate in to stay active?
I stay active through a mix of activities! I teach spin classes at Spin North Saint John, practice Taekwondo (I’ve been training since I was young and am working towards my second black belt), strength train at the gym, and am training for my first half marathon!
IMPACT
How does being active make you feel and why is it important to you?
Being active makes me feel strong, confident and capable. It helps me manage my stress, stay focused, and feel empowered in all areas of my life. As someone who juggles multiple roles and passions, fitness keeps me grounded and reminds me of my resilience. It’s one of the most important ways I take care of myself.
SCHEDULING
How do you implement being active into your busy schedule?
I schedule it the same way I would a meeting or work commitment, because to me, it’s just as important. I teach spin classes regularly, so that’s built into my week, and I plan my weight training and Taekwondo around my work and music commitments. Some days it’s a full workout, other days it’s a walk or stretching session. I believe in making movement flexible and sustainable.
BARRIERS
What barriers have you faced or are you currently facing when it comes to being active?
Time has always been my biggest barrier. I work a full-time 9-5 job, have part-time roles at a marketing agency and spin studio, and I’m a musician. With such a busy schedule, it can be hard to carve out time to move my body, but I’ve learned to see it as a non-negotiable part of my routine.
MOTIVATION
What motivates you to continue to be active?
What motivates me most is how it makes me feel, physically and mentally. I’ve seen how movement improves my mood, focus, and self-worth. I’m also motivated by the people around me. My spin community, my Taekwondo instructors, and my friends who are on their own wellness journeys. And on tough days, I remind myself that showing up, even imperfectly, is still progress.
ROLE MODEL
Do you have a role model and/or would you consider yourself to be a role model to others?
My Taekwondo and spin families are also huge role models for me. The discipline, support, and community they bring into my life constantly motivate me to show up as my best self. As a spin instructor, aspiring entrepreneur, and someone active in my community, I do consider myself a role model. I hope to show others, especially young women, that it’s possible to prioritize your health, follow your passions, and live a life that feels aligned and fulfilling!