I joined KUMA in April 2022 when my good friend, Shannon, asked me if I would consider doing Foundations with her. I was close to turning 50 and hadn’t focused on fitness in a long time. It was hard, but the KUMA vibe and community kept me coming back. I got stronger and more confident after each class. Outside the studio, I spend time needle felting for my own small art business, experimenting with sourdough, brewing my own kombucha and spending time with my wonderful husband and kids.

In August 2022, I discovered KUMA, marking the end of my cycle of exercise frustration. At KUMA, I feel empowered, not defeated. This experience transformed my self-view and body image, inspiring me to support other women as a coaching and foundations assistant since 2023, and now training as a coach. Beyond KUMA, I analyze for a grocery retailer, cherish life with my high school sweetheart, and revel in being an Auntie and dog mom to Clifford, the Little Red Dog. My joys include travel, culinary adventures, musical theater, and ocean escapes.

I started my KUMA journey on my 50th birthday, searching for something new and exciting. I had been considering kickboxing for months, and when I put on my first set of gloves and heard the “SNAP” of the bag, I was immediately hooked. Outside the studio, I’m a happily married mother of three nearly grown-up boys and a General Manager of a big box retailer, having been with my current company for 23 years. I love traveling, hiking, kayaking, and staying active in any way I can.

Throughout high school, I was highly active with synchronized swimming and soccer, but struggled to find a new passion during college. That changed when I discovered KUMA in March 2021 and fell in love with the empowering community of strong women. KUMA provides a positive, safe exercise environment that emphasizes feeling good over looks. Outside of KUMA, I manage a recruiting company, which motivates me to unwind in class. I also enjoy swimming, surfing, and scuba diving, keeping my childhood dream of being a mermaid alive!

I struggled with maintaining a healthy relationship with fitness until joining KUMA in April 2021. Kickboxing pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me feel empowered, thanks to the supportive KUMA ladies. It’s the perfect therapy after a long day, always leaving me better than when I arrived. Outside KUMA, I’m a head manager at a camping resort in Old Orchard, enjoy spending time with my two cats, and love soaking up the sun while listening to true crime podcasts—even when home alone at night! I hope to inspire others as KUMA has inspired me.

It’s easy for a gym to say it’s a place like KUMA, but it’s much harder to actually be that place. KUMA is that place. After grad school and two big moves, I wanted to move my body in a way I’d enjoy—and I haven’t looked back since walking into KUMA in December 2023. The classes are a great workout, and the studio is inclusive and friendly. I’ve gotten stronger, made amazing friends, and found a new home away from home. Outside of KUMA, I’m a USM professor preparing future special educators, watching reality TV, or exploring new (to me!) spots around Maine.

Erin has been a member at KUMA since 2022 and joined the Coaching team in January 2025. She is excited to support members in finding joy, strength, and community through movement! Erin’s favorite moves in class are backfist and front kick superhero touches. In her space time, Erin loves to kayak, cook, and jump in the ocean year round!!

I joined KUMA in July 2023, looking to add activity without the pressure of traditional “exercise”. I found much more- a community of incredible women who support one another. As a coach, I’ll empower others to feel strong and confident. Outside of KUMA, I’m a urologic care nurse. My go-to self-care includes reading and spending time with my beautiful Great Dane, Milo. KUMA, has given me confidence to attend book conventions and music festivals-I never would have gone to before joining the KUMA community.

I joined KUMA in June 2021, seeking a whole-body fitness experience in a group setting. What I found was inspiration, a supportive community, and an uplifting environment that has exceeded my expectations. I am now grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward and inspire other women to feel powerful. When I’m not in my boxing gloves, I currently enjoy indulging in sarcasm with my family and friends during board game nights. I also love being a mom, crocheting, painting (and repainting) my house (well, maybe not), and working as a senior graphic designer in a corporate communications setting.

I joined KUMA in May 2023 as a way to get back into movement after a fibromyalgia diagnosis. I instantly loved the fun, energizing workouts—and quickly found myself drawn to the empowering, inclusive vibe. I’m passionate about KUMA’s mission and love being part of this community. Outside the studio, I work in education and politics, chase after my three boys, and enjoy reading, crocheting, playing violin, and exploring Maine’s outdoors with my family.

I stepped into KUMA in January 2022, seeking a fresh start and a challenge. The very first Foundations class captivated me, sparking a newfound confidence and empowerment. KUMA has become more than just a gym; it’s a source of inner strength. When not at the studio, I work at a credit union and pursue my passion for candlepin bowling. Between the kickboxing mats and the bowling lanes, I’ve found unique ways to grow, challenge myself, and thrive.