Get to know Exton Yoga Head Instructor: Shannon Audet
1. When did you first become interested in Yoga and Kettlebell training?
My interest in yoga and kettlebells came shortly after I enrolled in the Muay Thai program. I felt great physically, but wanted to improve mentally. I took my first yoga class in 2007 at the Dragon Gym, and never felt better. In 2011 I was introduced to kettlebells which I had been hesitant about before. The results were so quick that I have continued with them in my current practice with yoga.
2. Why did you decide to enroll at the Dragon Gym.
I began training at there in 2007. There was a lull in my training there while I practiced yoga, but I found my way back.
3. How did you get involved with teaching/becoming an instructor?
I truly enjoy helping other people, and I saw how my yoga instruction helped me. The atmosphere of a yoga studio and class became addicting and I wanted to hit the ground running and be a part of a community driven by mental and physical fitness.
4. You’re both a certified Yoga and Kettlebell Instructor. How did you train for those achievements?
Both of my trainings demanded time and dedication, but both were more than worth it. I participated in the Power Yoga Works Teacher Training program in January of 2012. This training was six intense weekends of the vinyasa yoga sequencing, assisting and practicing. Aside from this, I had to practice yoga for 120 hours. Not all at once of course! To obtain my 200 hours for this certification, I had to put in the time and effort on and off my mat. I worked hard so I could finish in 5 months.
As for my kettlebell certification, I was lucky enough to be a part of the Killing It with Kettlebells program located at my home gym. This 3 day experience gave me so much insight into my technique, complexes, verbal cues and small/large group instruction. I was thrown into teaching on the spot! I found that the mastermind session also improved my yoga business at great lengths. I received feedback from people who truly know what they are doing, because they have done it themselves. This experience gave me more confidence as a kettlebell and yoga instructor.
5. Tell me a little bit more about your training regimen, including cross training
I am a yogi at heart! Aside from teaching yoga 6 days a week, during the school year (middle school teacher) I practice 3 times on the weekends. Last year I started running, more because I never thought I could! I like to strength train with bells 1-2 times a week. When the summer hits I could be in the yoga studio 5 days a week, with 1-3 bell sessions on top of that! I also eat a gluten free and dairy free diet which helps me have energy. To train smart, I have learned to eat smart.
6. What would your advice be for someone considering Yoga and/or Kettlebell training
What are you waiting for? These trainings are truly life changing and in such a great way. If you haven’t done it yet and you are thinking about it, find a program and register. That is always the first step. Why wouldn’t anyone want a job where you are helping people feel great?!
7. What about someone with ambitions of becoming a Yoga and/or Kettlebell instructor?
Stop thinking, and do it! It’s an investment to your life, and it’s worth every bit!
8. What kind of benefits have you received from your Yoga and Kettlebell training at Dragon Gym?
I have had the privilege of working with some awesome people. All of the students at the Dragon Gym have shown authentic vulnerability by walking in the door for an experience to change their lives. That is so rewarding to be a part of someone’s wish to better them.
The other benefit I have had is working with some of the best instructors in Chester County. I don’t say that just because I’m lucky enough to work there, but it’s true. Each instructor at the gym is highly qualified in their craft and works harder every day. It’s an honor working with such talented driven people.
9. What’s your next goal?
I want to obtain my RYT500 hour certification and begin my own teacher training program for other aspiring teachers.
10. What Fears and Reservations did you have about starting here?
Would I be good enough? I work amongst the best, so I wanted to live up to the expectation!
Shannon runs a Yoga Basics class every week. This class is a free trial for you to find out if this kind yoga is a good fit for you. Just email PowerYoga@dragongym.com to set up your first class!
Located in Dragon Gym Martial Arts & Fitness
267 S Whitford Rd
Exton, PA 19341
