Amanda Hinds, a 31-year-old woman, fell in love with indoor cycling but became bored with the music and class options available. After discovering a class that resonated with her, she decided she wanted to become a cycling instructor herself. However, the COVID-19 pandemic complicated her plans, causing her to gain weight and feel frustrated with her fitness level. Determined to make a change, she started riding her Peloton bike at home and eventually reconnected with her dream of teaching cycling classes.
Hinds faced self-doubt and insecurities when considering auditioning to be an instructor, especially since she hadn’t lost any weight. Despite being turned down multiple times, she persevered and found a gym willing to give her a chance. She struggled with imposter syndrome and lack of confidence initially but found support from her peers and gradually gained more belief in herself.
Taking it one step at a time, Hinds worked on improving her fitness and performance, which ultimately boosted her confidence and allowed her to be authentic in her teaching style. She realized she didn’t have to conform to any specific standards and could be herself while leading classes. By continuously learning, practicing, and honing her skills, she was able to transition to leading CycleBar classes near her home, feeling empowered as a plus-sized woman of color on the podium.
Through dedication and perseverance, Hinds lost 80 pounds, improved her fitness, and gained confidence in herself. She learned to push through the hard moments and focus on the progress she was making. By taking things song by song and class by class, she was able to overcome her initial fears and doubts, proving to herself that she was capable of achieving her goals. Her inspirational journey and transformation were shared on TikTok, garnering a viral response and inspiring others to pursue their own dreams and aspirations.
As she continued on her fitness journey, Hinds emphasized the importance of challenging oneself and removing self-imposed limitations. She encouraged others to push through the discomfort and embrace the challenges they face, knowing that growth and improvement come from stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. By acknowledging that challenges are a natural part of the process and that they won’t last forever, Hinds was able to redefine her approach to fitness and achieve her dream of becoming a cycling instructor.
Hinds’s story serves as a reminder that with determination, resilience, and self-belief, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. By staying focused on the end goal, breaking tasks down into manageable steps, and staying true to oneself, it is possible to create a path towards personal growth, success, and empowerment. Through her journey, Hinds has inspired others to embrace their uniqueness, challenge their limitations, and pursue their passions with courage and conviction.
