Faces of Fitness is a monthly feature highlighting our incredible Group Exercise instructors. This is a platform to discover their classes, teaching style, and their passion for inspiring others through fitness. We’re thrilled to introduce our outstanding instructors and the Y’s diverse group exercise offerings.

Meet Melissa Hirner

“We are one big happy family! We motivate & challenge each other every class!”

Melissa has been an instructor for almost 10 years. She currently teaches Step and BodyPump. She also leads Women on Weights (WOW), a group training class, and is a personal trainer.

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Get to Know Melissa

What was your initial motivation for becoming a fitness instructor?

I had never thought about being an instructor. I started attending classes and became addicted in no time. The instructors at the time, Melissa and Amanda, saw potential and encouraged me to take training. It took a while to convince me, but I eventually took the leap!

What's your favorite aspect of teaching fitness classes?

We are one big happy family! We help, motivate, and challenge each other in every class.

Describe your teaching style in one sentence.

Fun and challenging, but very rewarding and sweaty!

How do you measure the success of your fitness classes?

Everyone’s fitness levels are different. What’s challenging for you might not be challenging for your neighbor and vice-versa. Showing up and doing the best you can is success and is all I ask for!

How does teaching group-ex classes impact your own fitness journey?

It is my therapy! I could be having the worst day, but once I get there and see everyone working so hard, it makes my heart so happy. They don’t know it, but they motivate and inspire me to be a better version of myself!

What's some advice you would give to a new class participant?

Try not to be intimidated! Everyone in class started where you are, including the instructors. We remember how it feels to walk into class, not knowing what to expect. That’s why everyone is so welcoming and helpful. I promise, if you stick with it, it won’t take long to feel comfortable and you’ll be wondering why you didn’t start sooner!

Tell us about a highlight moment in your fitness instructor journey.

I love what I do! Not only teaching classes but training clients as well, from teenagers to 60+ years old. Watching them get stronger and gain confidence after each session is very rewarding. I love being able to be a part of someone’s fitness journey!

What's a fun fact about you?

I actually did not like Step class when I first took it and didn’t come back to class for months. Fellow instructor, Amanda convinced me to try it again. I stuck to the “rule” and gave it 5 more tries. From there, I was hooked and now it’s my absolute favorite! LET THAT SWEAT FLY!