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| (Not pictured: Oria Jacobs) |
Each Stroller Strides, Fit4Baby and Body Back instructor is a mother, sister, daughter and friend who joined this group as a member, then grew to love our programs so much that they trained to teach them.
ANGELA BRIDGFORD
FRANCHISE CO-OWNER, CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES, BODY BACK INSTRUCTOR and L.E.A.N. COUNSELOR
Angela Bridgford is a Southern California native. As a child, she was surrounded by health and fitness as her father had a passion for body-building and eating well. During her time at Vanguard University of Southern California, where she received her Bachelor’s degree, Bridgford found her own love for fitness through running. Studying psychology also sparked an interest in her to know more about the anatomy and physiology of the human body. It inspired Bridgford to get healthy and find exercise she loved.
After having her first child in 2006, Bridgford was ready to awaken that same passion and love for fitness and health while being a stay-at-home mom. She found Stroller Strides, a local franchise specializing in fitness and motherhood. Bridgford was approached by the owner and instructor to pursue professional training within Stroller Strides. In 2007, she became a SS certified instructor and went on to become a L.E.A.N. (Learn Eating Awareness & Nutrition) Counselor in 2008 helping moms adopt a healthy lifestyle for themselves and their families.
"Being a mother can be very lonely even when you have tons of support. Get yourself involved in a group where you can connect with other moms and babies. More importantly, treat yourself well on a regular basis by exercising and eating well. A happy and healthy mom makes a good wife and mommy!”
Bridgford resides in Yorba Linda with her husband, Mike, and her two daughters Ellie and Lillie.
LAUREN MURTY
FRANCHISE CO-OWNER, CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES and FIT4BABY INSTRUCTOR
Where did you grow up?
I grew up locally in Fullerton, CA.
What is your fitness background?
In high school I was on the cheer and dance team.
How long have you been married / how did you meet your spouse?
We've been married for 4 years! We met in an English class my first year of college!
Who are the members of your family?
My husband, Josh, my son, Logan, and myself, plus our two dogs!
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I attended CSUF and received my B.A. in Communications. I later returned for my English credential to become a high school English teacher.
How did you learn about Stroller Strides?
My best friend, Angela, is an instructor and she gave me the "kool-aid" ;)
When did you join Stroller Strides as a member?
I started attending class regularly in May 2010 when I was 7 months pregnant. :)
When did you become an instructor and what motivated you to become an instructor?
I became an instructor in July. I was motivated to become an instructor because Stroller Strides has helped me become fit and healthy, and it's important for me to raise my family with those same values.
What do you hope to provide for our members?
I hope to provide challenging work-outs in a positive environment so that both mom and baby can benefit from the experience.
How has Stroller Strides affected your life?
Stroller Strides has completely changed my outlook on being healthy and fit. Fitness is such a huge part of my life now, and I am forever grateful to Stroller Strides for bringing that out in me!
What do you consider the biggest benefit of Stroller Strides?
There are so many benefits; I don't know that I can choose just one! The fact that you get to participate in a challenging workout with your kids present, while simultaneously providing a healthy role model to your kids and building relationships with moms and kiddos is just amazing to me!
What are your current fitness goals?
My current fitness goals are to complete a half-marathon by the end of this year, continue to tone my body and build muscle, and to maintain a healthy diet.
JESSICA MERRELL
CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES and FIT4BABY INSTRUCTOR
Jessica Merrell grew up in Downey. As a swimmer and member of the dance team in High School, Merrell has always had a passion for living an active lifestyle. She went to Cypress College where she continued to pursue her interest in dance and went on to earn a BA in Liberal Studies from National University.
When Merrell was pregnant, she searched the internet for a workout program during her pregnancy and came across Stroller Strides. She joined in February of 2003, when her daughter was just 8 weeks old. In March of 2009 Merrell became an instructor. She had such a positive experience with Stroller Strides as a member, she couldn’t wait to help other moms meet their fitness goals. Merrell also prides her role as a support system for the daily lives of the other moms.
“We (Merrell and daughters) have made so many great friends and I am such a better mom because of the wonderful ladies in our group” says Merrell on how Stroller Strides has positively affected her life. “These last two years I have learned so much about being a mom and being a good wife too, just by talking to these women every week. I am definitely a better person because of Stroller Strides, emotionally and physically.”
Merrell completed her first half marathon in 2010 and is looking forward to striving to her next goal, finishing her next half in under 2 hours and twenty minutes!
Merrell resides in Whittier with her husband Dan and two daughters Lauren and Brooke.
LISA ESTRADA
CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES and FIT4BABY INSTRUCTOR
Lisa Estrada is a Yorba Linda native who began playing soccer at six years old and played competitively until she graduated from high school. After high school Estrada played in recreation soccer leagues until finding out she was pregnant.
After graduating from Esperanza High School, Estrada attended Cal State Fullerton where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Adolescent Studies. Following the completion of her degree, she entered Cal State Fullerton’s teaching program and earned a multiple subject teaching credential.
Estrada heard about Stroller Strides from her cousin and joined when her son was 2 months old. She was looking for an outlet to stay active and lose weight, but never expected the friendships she and her son would make. Stroller Strides helped Estrada to start her second pregnancy weighing 13 pounds less than what she weighed at the start of her first pregnancy.
The minute she joined, she was interested in becoming an instructor. With a background in teaching and her love for the Stroller Strides program, Estrada was sure she could help members achieve their fitness goals. She completed the instructor training in 2011 and loves her role as an instructor, helping moms set, work towards and reach coals… whether they are in fitness or motherhood.
Estrada looks forward to maintaining an active lifestyle and tackling her first half marathon.
Estrada resides in Placentia with her husband Tom, son Ethan, daughter Ella and tabby cat named Bentley.
CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES and FIT4BABY INSTRUCTOR
What is your fitness background?
I have been active all my life. I was a gymnast when I was young & was involved in all sorts of sports throughout my school years.
How long have you been married / how did you meet your spouse?
I knew my husband in high school, but we did not date until a few years later. We have been happily married for 8 years.
Who are the members of your family?
Stan, Jen, Caden (5), Makenna (2), Blake (5mo) & our dog Toby, a German Shephard Mix.
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I went to Cal State Fullerton and got my degree in Kinesiology.
How did you learn about Stroller Strides?
Lisa Friedman introduced me. I thought she looked great and wanted to know her secret :)
When did you join Stroller Strides as a member?
I began Stroller Strides when Caden began preschool in Sept 2009.
When did you become an instructor and what motivated you to become an instructor?
I will take the training classes at the end of January and will begin teaching in March. I love Stroller Strides so much and wanted to challenge myself as an instructor.
What do you hope to provide for our members?
I hope to provide a challenging and fun workout for all.
How has Stroller Strides affected your life?
Stroller Strides has had such a huge impact in my life. I'm addicted. Its such an overall awesome workout.
What do you consider the biggest benefit of Stroller Strides?
Meeting such great Moms and great friends for my kids and being able to workout in the beautiful outdoors and having an outlet.
What are your current fitness goals?
To keep up with Stroller Strides and challenge myself each and every day.
CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES and FIT4BABY INSTRUCTOR
Where did you grow up?
Fullerton
What is your fitness background?
Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, former cardio kick-box instructor, current Stroller Strides member, Body Back participant
How long have you been married / how did you meet your spouse?
I met my husband on a blind date 12 years ago. We have been married for 7 years.
Who are the members of your family?
My husband’s name is Chris and we have a two-year-old son, Connor.
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
Cal State Fullerton: Child Development major
Cal State Fullerton: Teaching Credential
Cal State San Bernardino: Masters in Education
How did you learn about Stroller Strides?
My sister, Christine, used to teach Stroller Strides in Fullerton. After I had Connor, she suggested that I go take classes to get back in shape. My first class was the 4th of July themed class at Tri-city Park; I was hooked!
When did you join Stroller Strides as a member?
July, 2009
When did you become an instructor and what motivated you to become an instructor?
August, 2011. I have learned so much over the past 2 years, and I wanted to share it with others. I also wanted to become an instructor to honor the women who taught me. I love that each instructor has her own unique spin on the class and is able to motivate and meet the needs of all of the members.
What do you hope to provide for our members?
I hope to provide the same high quality fitness experience for all members. I want to inspire moms to find the positive in everything they do. I also want to show moms that they can do anything- they are a lot stronger than they think!
How has Stroller Strides affected your life?
Stroller Strides has had a positive impact on my life; I feel strong, confident, and energized. I love working out and spending time with my child. I also love that this organization is a great place to meet new friends and share stories about children and families.
What do you consider the biggest benefit of Stroller Strides?
The biggest benefit is the bonding time with my son and the opportunity to model the importance of being active. Another benefit is that new moms who join the group can feel comfortable since Stroller Strides is able to provide a variety of options for every fitness level.
What are your current fitness goals?
My current fitness goals include: continuing the progress made during Body Back, modeling a healthy lifestyle for my family, and designing challenging, yet enjoyable workouts for the Stroller Strides members.
CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES and FIT4BABY INSTRUCTOR
Oria Jacobs was born and raised in Southern California along with her identical twin sister, Rachel and younger bother, David. She grew up playing sports at all levels and enjoyed the great outdoors from mountain bike riding to camping with her dad's mountain bike club, The Rut Riders and San Bernardino Search and Rescue Team.
Jacobs graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara
with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis in Women, Culture
and Development. Jacobs has always had a passion to help women all while
learning from them. After graduating college she knew she wanted to
work with women and children on some level but was unsure as to what it
was. In the midst of various jobs, she started exploring other options
where she became a State Certified Crisis Counselor/Volunteer at a
non-profit that dealt with Sexual Assault victims/survivors. Months
later, Jacobs was hired as a Prevention Educator and absolutely fell in
love with her job. She spoke throughout communities in Orange County
(high schools, college campuses, juvenile hall, Girl Scouts, church
youth groups, shelters, etc) to create awareness about the stereotypes,
victim blaming, etc. and how it affects both men and women alike.
Assisting with and coordinating self-defense classes was also a
highlight. 'To actually see the progression with these girls/ladies
taking their life back by gaining the self-confidence and strength
once again was one of the biggest rewards for her.
Jacobs became a mom in August 2010 to a sweet little Angel. The
moment the doctor placed Ariana on her chest is when she decided to
become a stay-at-home mom.
Jacobs joined Stroller Strides of North Orange County in January
2011 after her girlfriends in San Diego were ranting and raving about
their local Stroller Strides. She had no idea what she was in for! She
instantly fell in love with being challenged by the exercises,
supportive women, having her daughter right there with her and the
playtime afterwards. It brought back the enjoyment for the great
outdoors along with becoming a strong mama.
Jacobs became an instructor in October 2012, and truly enjoys
creating workouts to challenge these mamas!! It is a great opportunity
to learn from them and about them and all the amazing things they do
just to be at class.
ALLISON CLEWETT
OWNER BODY BACK OF NORTH ORANGE COUNTY
CERTIFIED STROLLER STRIDES, FIT4BABY and BODY BACK INSTRUCTOR
Allison Clewett was born and raised in Southern California. A lifelong athlete, Clewett received her bachelor's degree from the California State University at Fullerton, and her masters in business administration from St. John's University in New York. While at Cal State Fullerton, Clewett (formerly Allison Anderson) captained the women's volleyball team. After graduation Clewett made exercise a significant part of her life taking part in volleyball and soccer leagues, yoga classes, weight training and running.
Sports and fitness also remained a part of her life through her work in the Global Sports Marketing department at Mikasa Sports, a leading sporting goods manufacturer based in Irvine, Calif. While at Mikasa Sports, Clewett led the publicity efforts for Mikasa's involvement in the Volleyball Festival, one of the largest amateur girls' volleyball events in the United States, and established the "On the Ball" newsletter distributed nationwide at select events. Clewett's contributions during her tenure at Mikasa also included website development concepts, promotional sales programs, and event management at Federation Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) sanctioned events, including the 1999 America's Cup in Florida.
Motherhood brought on a new fitness perspective for Clewett. Finding time, energy, and logistical support for her active lifestyle became a greater challenge. Joining Stroller Strides after the birth of her second baby alleviated the guilt and anxiety of a regular workout routine as a mommy, and provided instant friendships with like-minded women in her home town. Those friendships grew into lifelong bonds and the workouts continually challenged and motivated Clewett to be a healthy, fit role model for her children. Just a few short months after joining the Stroller Strides program in North Orange County, Clewett became a certified Stroller Strides Instructor specializing in pre- and post-natal exercise. A year later she purchased her local Stroller Strides franchise.
Clewett now teaches Body Back classes and develops special events and projects for the company from her home in Yorba Linda, California, where she resides with her husband, Brandon, and her three sons Camden, Wyatt, and Dean. Her extensive experience in athletics, media relations, and business administration gives her a hat trick in designing and growing creative programs for Body Back in North Orange County.
She can be reached at clewoperation@gmail.com.
ALLYSON REEDS
RUNNING CLUB CAPTAIN
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Yorba Linda. I went to Travis Ranch Elementary, then on to Esperanza. Go Aztecs!
What is your fitness background?
I began competitively swimming in the 7th grade and received a full tuition scholarship to UNLV. I swam around 4 hours per day, with 1-2 hours of “dryland” practice. It was very challenging but taught me perseverance, determination, and competitive spirit.
How long have you been married / how did you meet your spouse?
My husband, Bryan, and I met in high school at Esperanza. Bryan set me up with a baseball friend of his, and then realized he should have set himself up! Over the years, we saw each other every now and then, finally to actually start dating 7 years after high school! We got married in Maui in February 2007.
Who are the members of your family?
Our son, Brody Jacob was born in the wee hours of July 5, 2009. Being the active person I am, Bryan and I went for a walk on the 4th of July at the beach, only to get locked out of the house. Our 5-mile walk turned into a 9-mile walk. Needless to day, my water broke shortly after! Walking really does work!
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I attended UNLV on swimming scholarship my first 2 years, however missed Southern California. So, I decided to become a Trojan and attended and swam for USC my final 2 years. It was the best decision I ever made.
How did you learn about Stroller Strides? I’ve known Ali for years since high school. I heard she was running a work-out group in Yorba Linda and wanted to be a part of it. Since I’m a teacher, the teacher enrollment plan is awesome!
When did you join Stroller Strides as a member?
I became a member last summer, 2010. It was a fantastic way to start the day with Brody! He really enjoyed being outside in the stroller and I really enjoyed the camaraderie of being with other ladies with similar goals.
When did you become an instructor/captain and what motivated you to become an instructor?
I’ve been coaching cross country for the last 3 years and truly love it! Running has become such a passion and I love encouraging others train and attain their goals. I started out running only 3 miles a workout, barely containing my breath. Now, I’ve run 2-full marathons, 3 half marathons and tons of 5Ks. Anyone can accomplish their goals when they have determination, dedication and passion.
What do you hope to provide for our members?
I hope to provide a strong running program for any ability level. We all have to begin somewhere. If you’re just starting out and want to give running a try for an extra cardio boost, or if you’re a seasoned runner looking for a PR in your next race, this is the place for you!
How has Stroller Strides affected your life?
Stroller Strides has taught me that we can accomplish more together. Being a runner and a swimmer, I truly missed the camaraderie of training with a group. Stroller Strides provides support, encouragement and a sense of togetherness.
What do you consider the biggest benefit of Stroller Strides?
It’s wonderful to workout with people and be with our kids at the same time! It’s easy to feel guilty when we step away for a workout. It’s awesome to do both!
What are your current fitness goals?
I just finished my second marathon, running 3:56. I would love to train for another before my second child…God willing! My ultimate goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon, which is 3 hours 40 minutes. I know I can do it with more training and speedwork!
ANNE STERNCHAK
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND ADVERTISING SALES
Anne Sternchak grew up in Yorba Linda. She has always been an active sports enthusiast, and played competitive softball through high school. While attending college, Sternchak became increasingly interested in working in professional sports. When she was a business student at Chapman University, Sternchak networked with various executives within the sports industry and interned with the Angels Baseball Team.
After receiving a Business degree with an emphasis in marketing and management from Chapman, Sternchak went to work for the Angels as the Community Relations Coordinator. While with the Angels, Sternchak gained a wealth of experience working in the fast paced environment of professional sports and a World Series ring! After five years with the team she decided to challenge herself and venture into a new industry. Sternchak accepted a position as the Communications Manager for Goodwill of Orange County and two years later became the Marketing Director for MemorialCare Health System.
In February of 2010 she and her husband Greg welcomed twin boys, Hudson and Marshall. Sternchak’s priorities shifted and the once business woman looking to climb the corporate ladder fell completely in love with being a mom… something she sees as the best and most important job in the world.
As a stay at home mom, Sternchak was missing the adult interaction and structure to her days. Looking to join a moms group, she found Stroller Strides of North Orange County. She loved the concept of exercising with the children and found the moms to have the same priorities she did—raising healthy active children and instilling that in their everyday life. Today, Sternchak continues to tell everyone that will listen about all the positive impacts Stroller Strides has made for her.
