Melissa Cotton from The Barre Code NOLA started out working at the front desk of her mother-in-law’s barre studio and fell in love with the barre classes. She quickly got her certification so that she could start instructing and the rest is history! Keep reading for her quirky love that would determine what her job would be if it weren’t this.

What is your WHY?
As a fitness instructor, every day is a chance to connect with other women who are on an individual journey but also seeking strength in community. Every class feels like an opportunity to lift someone and in turn feel myself be lifted.

How did you first get into fitness?
My mother-in-law asked for help in opening a barre studio and I started behind the desk. I quickly grew so enamored with the classes I couldn’t get certified quickly enough. I’ve always been active in dance and sports, but this gave me a daily outlet that connects me to the community in a way I didn’t even realize I was missing.

What’s the best health/wellness advice you’ve ever received that has actually helped?
Practice body trust. Take your body love to the next level and trust it to do what you want to do as well as to tell you when you’ve reached your physical limits.

What’s your favorite workout to do when you’re not teaching?
I love walking. I know it sounds boring, but walking in the woods or along a secluded path is such a good mind and body reset for me.

What’s the last song you listened to on Spotify (or iTunes, Pandora, etc.)?
OutKast’s “Roses” – I recently remembered how awesome that whole album is.

Best thing in your fridge right now?
A growler of melon Big Easy Bucha

Go-to pre or post-workout snack?
Natural Peanut butter with a spoon straight from the jar like an animal.

Go-to morning beverage(s)?
Cold brew coffee

Favorite splurge meal/dessert?
Donuts. Hands down.

If this wasn’t your job, what would be your job?
Is professional knitter a job? That’s what I would want to be. Or run a yarn store. Or be an alpaca farmer and make my own yarn. I like yarn.

Favorite way to unwind after a long day/week?
Beer + Book + Sleeping Kids + Quiet Backyard Patio