Hi, I’m Lauren McKinnon!  I am a proud Air Force wife to my husband and best friend, Brandon.  And I’m a proud mama to my two beautiful, and sometimes crazy boys, Jackson and Beckett.

I am a former elementary school teacher turned fitness instructor and now SLAM boss!  My love affair with Stroller Strong Moms began in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.  We knew we would only be stationed there for one year, so I decided not to peruse teaching and instead stay home with my boys.  But since I didn’t want to literally stay home all day, I thought I better find a really good way to spend my time.

A few weeks after arriving, as I sat watching my kiddos jump and flip in gymnastics class, I happened to overhear some mamas talking about SLAM.  I knew instantly that this was something I needed in my life.  It was as if the heavens opened up, and the angels came swooping down with their harps, singing that one glorious note, “ahhhhh”.

The very next day, I went to my first SLAM class.  Now, coming into a brand-new setting where I knew no one, and seeing lots of incredibly intimidating women was extremely scary.  I honestly had to sit in my car for a few moments and give myself a little pep talk.  But the minute I walked up to the group, I was greeted with open arms and smiling faces.  And after one of the most challenging and yet fun workouts I had had in a very long time, I knew I was hooked.  Goodbye were the days spent quarantined in that tiny room at the back of the gym where you’re banished if you have kids tagging along.  Goodbye were the days of P90X alone in my living room.  And goodbye were those runs that were always solo.

SLAM quickly became my daily routine.  Each of those days filled with tough new workouts and blossoming new friendships for both me and my boys.  And as our very short year drew to a close, I knew that I couldn’t just leave it behind.  I had gained so much confidence and strength through Stroller Strong Moms, and I wanted to be able to give that experience to other mamas.  So, I began studying to become a fitness and yoga instructor.  After a few months, I received my ACE group fitness certification, and my RYT 200 yoga certification.  I began teaching SLAM classes, and fell even more in love with this amazing community.

Now, this new SLAM boss is thrilled to grow a whole new tribe of strong, empowered, confident women who support and cheer each other on through fitness goals and motherhood right here in Minot, North Dakota!

We are looking forward to watching SLAM Minot grow! Follow Stroller Strong Moms Minot on Facebook and Instagram! Check out all the details about classes and events coming soon to Minot on the webpage!