MEET SYDNEY MESHER, A PROFESSIONAL DANCER AND STUDENT WHO’S BEEN FEARLESSLY HITTING THE TURF SINCE EARLY 2017. BORN WITHOUT HER LEFT HAND, SYDNEY HAS NOT ONLY GAINED CONFIDENCE AS AN ATHLETE HERE AT TONE HOUSE, BUT HAS ALSO MASTERED PUSH-UPS THROUGH HER INCREASED UPPER BODY STRENGTH. SYDNEY IS THE TRUE EMBODIMENT OF THE QUOTE ON THE LOCKER ROOM MIRRORS AT TONE HOUSE NOMAD, “YOU ARE MUCH STRONGER THAN YOU THINK YOU ARE”, AND HER FAVORITE QUOTE, “YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO”. THIS IS A MUST-READ “MEET THE TEAM” – TRULY INSPIRATIONAL.
PROFESSION:
Dancer represented by Clear Talent Group & a student at Pace University studying for a BFA in Commercial Dance.
FITNESS/ATHLETIC BACKGROUND:
I have been training in a range of dance styles from ballet to hip-hop since the age of 4. Growing up, I danced around a minimum of 25 hours a week. In high school, I started cross training with cardio and strength training as well as pilates. Now, I take dance classes, attend rehearsals, and cross train daily with Tone House, SLT, or my own gym session.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN COMING TO TONE HOUSE?
I first started coming to Tone House back in the beginning of 2017 when Coach Callie was coaching community classes.
HOW DID YOU FIRST HEAR ABOUT TONE HOUSE?
I first heard about Tone House when Coach Callie was in training to become a Head Coach. She invited a few of our fellow dancers and myself to one of her first classes. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I was hooked after that first class with her and Alonzo.
FAVORITE TONE HOUSE CLASS (CONDITIONING, UPPER BODY, ETC.)? WHY?:
LOWER BODY DAY – It always kicks my butt after the weekend, and I feel motivated for the week ahead.
FAVORITE TONE HOUSE “TOY” (EQUIPMENT) TO USE IN CLASS:
Either the ab dolly, the sled, or the ropes!
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE COACH WHO’S CLASS YOU ENJOY TAKING? WHY?
I think I am going to have to go with Alonzo. To explain my reasoning for this, I am going to share my story. I was born without my left hand – my left arm stops right after the base of my wrist. Over time, I have found ways to change or modify exercises to fit the needs of my body. That being said, there are some machines and equipment that I have steered away from because I could not get the right grip on them, or the way that I execute them has me favoring an arm (like rowing – I pull the weight with my right hand). There are times where I am apprehensive to try new workout classes or instructors because they will not provide modifications for my body. However, at Tone House, I have only ever received aid from all of the Coaches to find the right way for me to perform an exercise. With Alonzo though, he gets so excited and goes above and beyond to help me out. I remember this one day he pulled out the battling ropes and called me over. I had never used this piece of equipment and wasn’t sure if I would be able to, but he had come up with a plan to tighten the handle loop and to tape the rest of the gap shut to my wrist. I was a bit nervous when he brought out the tape, but it ended up working perfectly. I could not believe that he had taken the time to think of a way for me to participate. It was so considerate. Alonzo is always so helpful, kind, and inspiring, which is why he is my favorite Coach.
There are times where I am apprehensive to try new workout classes or instructors because they will not provide modifications for my body. However, at Tone House, I have only ever received aid from all of the coaches to find the right way for me to perform an exercise.
HOW HAS TONE HOUSE HELPED YOU ACHIEVE YOUR PERSONAL/CAREER GOALS?
The physical strength that I have gained from Tone House has propelled me forward in my capabilities with dance. I have more stamina, strength, and awareness of my body, which means that I can perform better in the studio and on stage. In the mental aspect, my perseverance has grown. I have also gained a sense of confidence with regards to being able to use my body and equipment in different ways than I have previously. The teachers constantly give me modified alternatives for exercises, but the workout doesn’t lack integrity because of it. In fact, it makes it better because I can go ten times harder and don’t have to think of how I need to do the exercise differently to help better suit my hand. I hold myself to a higher standard. I want to challenge myself on and off the Turf, because I know it is going to make me a better Athlete, performer, and individual.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TONE HOUSE THAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER GYMS/WORKOUTS?
The team comradery is insane. Tone House has cultivated an environment to ensure that you do not feel isolated. Everyone is there to not only push each other but to also support each other. It’s nice knowing you have your team with you. I have truly met some wonderful people on the Turf.
Tone House also distinguishes itself from other studios and workouts because of how invested the coaches are. They deeply care about the athletes and want to see them be successful in all aspects of their life.
SINCE BECOMING AN ATHLETE, HOW HAS TONE HOUSE CHANGED YOUR LIFE?
I am able to do a push up now!! This is debatably one of my biggest accomplishments in my life. I now have enough upper body strength that I can distribute my weight properly. This has carried over into other activities too – I have taken a second look at things that I have previously found challenging, and just attack them from a different vantage point.
I am able to do a push up now!! This is debatably one of my biggest accomplishments in my life.
Such a Great Story . I can definitely agree with Sydney’s statements. The Tonehouse has created an atmosphere no matter how New your are to a class , or how you may be doubting yourself in your head the coaches through their motivation propel you to another level . Thanks for Sharing your story Sydney. Truly inspirational.