January 2022 – Shauneen Lau
Our January Contender of the Month is Shauneen Lau. Shauneen is a wonderful example of not backing away from a challenge and her work ethic proves so. Check out our Q&A with her below.
Q: What level of experience did you have with fitness and boxing before joining Contenders, and what would you rate your skill level at now compared to when you began?
A: During the pandemic I did some home workouts. I have tried the gym maybe a couple times before but it wasn’t for me. Before the pandemic, I did party a lot so that honestly was my main source of “fitness”. Since joining Contenders is the most physically fit l’ve been since high school. As for skill level, still a beginner.
Q: Why did you decide to start boxing?
A: My partner Eric found out about Contenders and read great things; he thought it’d be fun to try it out together. After the 1 week trial I was stubbornly committed to giving it a chance and haven’t regretted it since.
Q: What about Contenders stood out to you?
A: Doing classes together with a good group of people and supportive coaches made for a welcoming experience.
Q: What are both your short term and long term fitness goals, and how has Contenders helped you in achieving them?
A: I need to work on balance and endurance. I hope to be confident enough and eventually start the advanced boxing classes.
Q: What helps you stay yourself motivated in your fitness journey?
A: The desire for good self care and also the feeling of accomplishment after completing a challenging workout. I’m already motivated when it comes to optimizing my health with food but have always been missing the fitness aspect.
Q: What challenges do you face in boxing? How do you work through them?
A: So many. My lower back pain and weak core. It’s also awkward punching on my own without instruction. Also I’m terrified of being hit in the face. Aside from these.. I just try to not to take it too seriously and enjoy the process.
Q: At Contenders, what is your favorite class to take? Why?
A: I’ve done mainly fundamentals classes and enjoy the focus on technique. Each of the coaches have slightly different styles so it’s interesting to see what they do differently from one another. I also don’t mind switching up with bootcamp classes if it works with my schedule.
Q: How has staying active helped in other areas of your life?
A: The physical and mental health benefits have translated into my work and personal life for sure. Improved mood and quality of sleep, better stress management and more energy at work.
Q: If you could give a piece of advice to someone thinking about starting boxing, what would you say?
A: Try it!! Totally surprised myself giving combat sport a shot. Punching is such a great stress reliever. Even after a long week, pushing myself to attend class has never done me wrong.
Q: How has your outlook of boxing changed over time?
A: Didn’t expect to enjoy the sport. Have recommended it to everyone I’ve spoken to about it.
Q: …And lastly tell us something people would be surprised to learn about you?
A: I can’t drive.
