Peggy Nelson is the picture of transformation and one of Six Degrees’ most enthusiastic ambassadors. When I reached out to talk about her place in the studio’s community, she responded with an absolutely lovely message of gratitude and strength. It simply can’t be improved upon. Here, then, is Peggy’s story:

My daughter Courtney bought a Living Social or maybe a Groupon for us to try out the yoga classes at the studio. I immediately felt at home in Sofia’s yoga classes, getting an awesome workout and stretching routine, and I soon got hooked on Asana Stretch. What a way to end the day! I came in feeling like an out-of-shape, 55-year-old grandma in frumpy, sweaty workout gear. I left feeling acceptance. I loved the intimacy created by the physical touch of a beautiful, educated, nonjudgmental human using firm, loving hands to bring peace to my body. Isn’t that what everyone needs and wants?

I joined the studio the second my Groupon ended. Some say the membership is expensive, but I totally disagree. The teachers and other students give so much and I receive so much. If I went to a personal trainer, I’d pay far more for far less in the way of real knowledge and acceptance.

I have taken a lot of different classes at Six Degrees, but I’m totally addicted to Six Degrees Barre. I started doing the mountain climbers standing, and I’ve slowly progressed to doing them on the mat. Now I rarely need to modify—I can finish the whole set without stopping! My asthma used to be out of control, but I haven’t had to use Prednisone to control it since I started working out at Six Degrees. I’ve gone from a size 14 to a size 12 without dieting. My legs look so much tighter. I have so much gratitude for how the studio is truly in the business of helping people get in shape physically and mentally.

Another wonderful thing about the studio is the diversity of the community. The teachers are all great and each has their own spin on each workout, offers different modifications and types of instruction, and brings in their unique and always entertaining personality (and playlist!). The effort the employees and instructors give is unbelievable.

Finally, my whole family loves the studio, including my daughter and husband. It was fun to see how shocked they were at what a few months of working out at Six Degrees did to bring me strength, and they were impressed when they came to work out with me. I couldn’t help but show off the studio I adore!