Transformation at its Finest!

When we last connected with founding member, Trinidad Pena, he gave us some great information.  Born and raised in Santa Clara, CA, Trinidad is a staple in the neighborhood.  He’s coming up on his 4th anniversary as a married man (lucky husband, Francisco better have a nice gift for him!)

He loves to cook and over the years he’s become a (horrible) baker (or so he says!). In the last year he has found a passion for meditation which is something he practices daily.  Although not a big TV watcher, he does enjoy documentaries about history, culture… and will pepper in “Shas of Sunset” every now and then for guilty reality pleasure!
 
But we also know that Trinidad, like many others, struggled in the past 18 months.  He discovered things about himself as it became a time for introspection and reimagination for many.

“I took a manifestation challenge. Asking myself, what do you desire? And I thought about it for a while, I really thought it through. The truth is, the thought of barre kept coming through my head. I kept a journal and reviewed it often. 98% of it was all about becoming an instructor – manifesting that desire.” Trinidad shared.
 
“There was a significant focus on the mind, body, spirit connection and I was ready to go for it.”
 
For Trinidad, dealing with the stresses of COVID was as simple as two core thoughts: Stay healthy and stay sane.

“Mental health has always been important to me. Like most people I was a victim of high anxiety and depression, but COVID amplified it. So, I moved forward with the thought of becoming a barre instructor, but I was quiet about it and figured I would share it when I was ready.” Trinidad notes that owner, founder, Lisa Alberino helped in the decision making as well as the process of transforming from student to teacher. “Lisa was a huge influence in this and the equipe she has carefully assembled was incredibly supportive. As a student I was unconsciously being taught to be a teacher at labarre the entire time.”
 
Trinidad has seen his fair share of classes as he began with the studio over 4 years ago completing hundreds and hundreds of classes.
 
“A big influence was a purpose to serve and be in studio with people since the underground – seeing their hard work and seeing them becoming healthier inspired me.”
 
How was Trinidad going to use this inspiration and switch places from pupil to instructor?  Easy.  He was going to use his creativity.
 
“Personally, and professionally one of my goals this year was to be more creative. The opportunity to do so and to lead while doing it was right there.” He continues. “I had to get out of the cycle of ‘Is this good enough?’ I needed to boost that confidence and as I always say ‘Chest is proud, dig a little deeper!’

That pride has led Trinidad to the front of the class in one of the most difficult times this country has ever seen.  Going front and center not only in studio but also virtually means taking your game to the next level.  In his class you expect to get great instruction because of one key ingredient: The willingness from the members to embrace the situation as well. “We are going to work big time, but we are going to have fun!  I go into the studio and get people inspired.  New members allow me to see their progress in only a few class sessions and that fuels me!”
 
Trinidad’s methods are simple, effective, and embraced. He ‘goes with the flow’ and works alongside of those lucky enough to come to his classes.  And what occurs during class?
“Let’s see what happens – we may not be perfect.  But I know we will surely be having fun!”
After speaking with Trinidad, he closes the interview with a great thought. “For me, yesterday a member said, ‘I love coming to your class – there’s just something about your energy… it just turns a tough day around.’ That warms my heart because that’s inspires me and allows me to serve with purpose to my La Barre community. That’s why I chose to do this!”
 
Won’t you try and feel that energy from Trinidad?  Sign up for one of his amazing classes, HERE!