Bess OgdenMaster Trainer What are your thoughts on the philosophy of stoicism? As a young woman, I was deeply influenced by reading Marcus Aurelius’ *Meditations*. Recently, I’ve been enjoying a series of inspiring books by Ryan Holiday that breathe new life into these ancient teachings. In essence, Stoics believe that we should focus on what we can control, accept what we cannot, and maintain inner peace regardless of external circumstances. They emphasize resilience, discipline, and the pursuit of virtue, offering a blueprint for living a life of purpose and integrity. Last week, before teaching my WARRIOR Rhythm class, I had a conversation with one of my longtime students about stoicism. We discussed the remarkable example of Lou Gehrig, the legendary Yankees player from the early 1900s. Known as the "Iron Horse," Gehrig never missed a game, never shirked a practice, and lived a life of moderation and discipline. Even as his body succumbed to what is now known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, he recognized when it was time to step away, always placing his team above his own desires. As my student and I walked into the studio to begin class, he summed it up perfectly: “Stoicism is why you and I are here, showing up every week for class, keeping our bodies tuned so we can play.” Every WARRIOR Rhythm lesson has a theme. During this particular class, we were focused on Lesson 11, themed around “being humble.” Ellen De Werd captures this essence beautifully: “The theme for today is Humility, leaning into accepting and acknowledging our own weaknesses. And ironically, finding strength in that.” Isn’t it funny how life can throw us curveballs? That night after class, I began to feel quite ill. By the next morning, I had a raging fever and felt absolutely terrible. The fever broke a couple of days later, but I was still not in any shape to teach my WARRIOR Strength class that night. For the first time ever, I had to call in sick. So much for the stoic persona I was so proud of. This experience has given me a new appreciation for the balance between personal pride, stoicism, and ultimately, the humility to accept our occasional human frailty. What a rollercoaster life is! The universe has a way of humbling us when we get too entrenched in our egos. It reminds us to stay in the moment and be ready to let go of our treasured beliefs about how things *should* be. Stoicism offers a powerful framework for structuring our lives, but we must remember that sometimes, we are better served by extending grace—both to others and to ourselves. 
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Coming this fall... WARRIOR Rhythm ROOTS Embrace stability and a powerful sense of grounding with WARRIOR Rhythm ROOTS™, an evolution of our signature program. Combining yoga-inspired sequences, resistance training, and cardio, this class enhances balance, flexibility, and strength with the support of a chair. Experience the perfect blend of rhythmic yoga flows, mindful movements, and invigorating, low impact exercises tailored for active agers and adaptive athletes. Root yourself in an unforgettable practice that nurtures your body and soul. I am thrilled to announce my partnership with the 2024 IDEA Emerging Trailblazer of the Year, Ruben Pereyra! Ru Per is the Senior Fitness Director at WESLEY Senior Homes in Des Moines. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and is a certified ACE personal trainer, Parkinson’s Fitness Specialist, Senior Fitness Specialist, WA Certified Coach, and speaker specializing in senior populations. For the past 16 years, Ruben has been a prominent figure in the fitness industry, promoting the importance of movement and its positive impact on people’s lives. Ruben is also an entrepreneur, offering fitness services for people of all ages, which include personal training, group exercise classes, brain cognitive function training, and fitness direction for renowned corporations. Ruben is the Format Expert for WARRIOR Rhythm ROOTS, launching in November 2024. The name of this program “ROOTS” is inspired by tree roots that provide nourishment, stability and life to its branches and limbs . And the verb “root” which means to establish deeply. We also root for ourselves and one another by celebrating successes and wins. ROOTS follows the formatting and formulas of Warrior Rhythm by mirroring its yoga, strength, and cardio themes with low impact. This class can be done with or without shoes. And with the full or partial support of a chair. More information about how YOU can get involved coming in September!   |
ElleNEllen de Werd is a renowned fitness industry leader with over 25 years of experience in group fitness. A 2024 and 2025 IDEA Group Fitness Instructor of the Year Award nominee, she is the visionary creator behind the WARRIOR formats—dynamic, license-free programs now taught in 14 countries. Through her company, Ellen empowers group fitness professionals with smart, fun, and original content designed to inspire and elevate their classes. She is also the host of the Confessions of a GroupX Instructor podcast, a Legacy Lululemon Ambassador, and an active instructor based in Eugene, Oregon. Archives
November 2025
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My WARRIOR journey began with a deep admiration & respect of Ellen de Werd’s mastery of exercise physiology. Combine that with her encouraging playful vibe and full body workouts choreographed to great music. The WARRIOR crew (instructors & participants) have kept me engaged with their supportive and friendly group dynamics whereby I leave each workout feeling tired yet stronger, and grateful. - Rhoda J. WARRIOR classes have covered every aspect of fitness for me. My flexibility, strength and aerobic capacity have all been enhanced by these beautifully designed programs, greatly improving my day to day quality of life. -Michael C. Ellen is innovative, inspiring and always forward thinking. For six years now WARRIOR classes have provided me with an outlet to reduce my stress, build my strength and make great friends. - Thea L. |
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