Today we’d like to introduce you to Makenzie Mowat.
Hi Makenzie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Austin, and my family is still located here. I grew up playing sports and felt like my identity was wrapped up in being an athlete, so when I went to college, I felt very out of sorts, navigating stress and anxiety. My mom suggested I find a movement-based activity, and I started taking cycling classes and immediately felt the difference in my body and mind. I discovered multiple modalities and fell in love with strength and Pilates. I was a student for two-ish years before deciding to teach fitness. I taught throughout college, then moved home and continued teaching full-time. I struggled as a full-time fitness professional, as it’s a very difficult industry to make a living in without supplementing with part-time jobs. It takes years and usually multiple studios to feel grounded and supported by benefits and income; if that even happens! But it’s changed my life, and I can’t imagine my life without the fitness world.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh man! There are so many challenges to being a teacher. As an individual, filling my cup pre- and post-class has always been a balancing act that feels nearly impossible at times. There’s often a mask presented as a defense mechanism when teaching and being vulnerable in front of people. And it’s something that we all do as teachers. I think learning to let go of my ego has been challenging at times, but as I mature and grow, it gets easier.
The fitness industry feels really different and weird right now. I’ve been teaching for 7 years, and I think social media has created a lot of idolized instructors who aren’t good for the health of the industry. A lot of ego projections and unkindness towards clients. studios. and other instructors. The beautiful thing about Austin’s fitness scene is that there is room for everyone to be successful. Supporting the community around you is really important! Group fitness is rooted in community, so treat yours with kindness.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in empowering women to feel strong and capable in their bodies. A lot of my clients come to my classes and events because they feel strong and capable of challenging movement. I want people to feel inspired by the community around them, and creating an environment that is accepting of everyone is really important to me, beyond the obvious ass-kicking I want them to experience!
I founded an LLC (Makie Moves) and an event series called Intrinsic Wellbeing to curate experiences focused on movement and connection. I call it Intrinsic Wellbeing because “Intrinsic” essentially means “to have on your own”. Wellness inherently exists within us, and our body and spirit crave the equilibrium of being well. I wanted people to know what they are capable of, in the moment, rather than feeling like wellness is an unachievable distant concept. It’s already within us!
I’ve had so many amazing opportunities recently, including pilates & yoga retreats, lululemon ambassadorship, leading teacher trainings, etc., and I think it’s proven that pursuing your passion, being kind to others, and working your ass off works. Don’t get me wrong, there has been a lot of time, money, and effort put into the journey of building my career, and I’m not even close to being done. But I’m so grateful for the opportunity to always be a student and be surrounded by the best leaders in this industry. I’d love to continue leading retreats, events, and teacher trainings, and work 1-on-1 with people to build strength and wellness from the inside out.
What matters most to you? Why?
My family and chosen family. I’m an ambitious human being, and I would have nothing without them. In my career or personal life, they have been with me every step of the way, rooting for me or helping me without question. I feel and know how lucky I am every day to have the people in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/makenziemowat
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makiemoves/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@makenziemowat
