Powerlady Instructor Sets Example for Fitness and Fun

When Christina Custer walks into work at Powerlady Fitness in Toco Hill, her two daughters are often right behind her. A fitness instructor at Powerlady for 15 years, Christina loves her work and her daughters, ages seven and ten, have almost grown up here.

While Mom teaches a class, they are content to do homework or play games in the childcare room. They feel at home at Powerlady and they know how important it is to their mom.

“When I teach on a weekend day, the day just gets better and better from there,” said Christina. “I’m able to give my full attention to my girls after I teach a great class. After teaching, we walk around the shopping center, visit the pet store, walk through the hardware and have simple Mommy and girls time.”

Perhaps more important is the example for both work and life that Christina is setting for her girls.

“I don’t complain about either going to work or spending time doing my own workout, she said. “They know that I enjoy teaching, helping other women set goals, overcome a weakness, reach their potential or just be as fit as they can be. The girls also know that when I’m working out, it’s my time to take care of myself and cope with any personal stress. Then, I’m ready to focus on them.”

Fitness is a family affair. Christina does yoga with the girls and together they practice her class routines and help pick out the music she will use. Dad/husband Dave is an AT hiker and a former high school wrestling coach. He bikes with the girls and the family sometimes hikes Stone Mountain together.

“We go camping at least once a season and the girls absolutely love it,” said Christina. “The hikes are hard but rewarding and they love cooking outside. Sleeping outdoors is not my favorite part, but when we all snuggle up in the tent, they know I do it because I love them.”

“Back at Powerlady, they see a diverse population of strong women and they know we are part of a community there,” said Christina. “I think we empower each other in my classes. We want the best for each other. That spirit is part of the strong community of women here at Powerlady. The girls see teamwork in action through my fitness job.”

“Fitness is a priority for me and in the life of our family,” she continued. “It’s become an absolutely necessary part of who I am and that’s true of my husband, too. Our girls know and appreciate that. They have learned to value exercising, working hard and then relaxing together afterwards!”