Name: Vanessa Desiree
Nickname: Desiree
Birthday: November 5
Hometown: Queens, NY
What is your athletic background? Did you play sports growing up?
“I grew up playing basketball and joined my high school basketball and volleyball teams. In college, I swapped my sports gear for social dancing; traveling abroad for international dance events and competitions.”
When was your first workout with ASC and how did you first learn about ASC?
“My first workout was around March 2023. At the time, I was healing from an injury and was interested in an outdoor group exercise setting under the guide of an experienced coach who was not going to upsell me on dietary or wellness products. I found ASC through Eventbrite, met Pete and quickly realized that his expertise was credible. The location was convenient, the workouts were fun, but challenging, and the camaraderie was noticeable, welcoming and non-judgmental.”
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment and why?
“It was running and finishing a mother-daughter 5k with my 9-year-old. I’m most certainly not an avid runner and before attempting to run again, I had to overcome physical ailments. In hindsight, it was demonstrating to her that with a cheerful spirit and a determined mindset anything is possible. We did it and she has the medal to remember it.”
What is your favorite exercise?
“Agility workouts that involve quick steps and jump roping.”
What is your favorite workout song or musical artists?
“I’m receptive to all music genres. There is not one particular song or artist that moves me. I find myself singing along or snapping my fingers to whatever is on ASC’s playlist during the workouts.”
Who is your favorite athlete? Stephen Curry
Other than working out, how else do you spend your free time?
“I dance for fun and fitness 3x a week, I’m an avid gardener, and I’m my daughter’s #1 cheerleader at all of her sporting events and music recitals.”
What do you like best about ASC?
“The workouts are challenging and that the camaraderie amongst the members is palpable.”
What are the biggest benefits of being a member?
“The biggest benefit is the opportunity to do something good for my long-term health in a fun and welcoming setting. The pricing structure is reasonable, the group workout times are convenient, and most importantly Pete knows his stuff…no need to buy into fad dietary products. He keeps it real with real-life advice and examples.”
What advice would you offer to new or prospective members of ASC?
“Just do it! Progress will only come by taking the first step (or burpee!)”