Community

MY Sports Club Story: Shayna + Terri Renae

Feb 13, 2025

February is Black History Month, and at NYSC we are celebrating by amplifying the voices of our Black members and team members. Throughout February, we will be highlighting various stories and talking about how Black History Month can be honored and celebrated through fitness.

Meet, Shayna and Terri Renae -- not just co-NYSC group fitness instructors but also sisters! Shayna and Terri Renae are sisters in fitness and in life, and hold each other accountable to reach their best selves. While fitness has been part of their story for most of their life, it wasn't until they were adults that they both encouraged one another to pursue teaching and making careers out of fitness. Read more about Shayna + Terri Renae's fitness story and how they are honoring Black History Month.

Please tell us a little about your fitness journey.
Shayna: I’ve always been active. In school, gym was my favorite class. Even though we only had it once a week, I looked forward to every activity they introduced. I also loved lunchtime during the warmer months because it meant recess outside, where my classmates and I would play freeze tag. I can still remember chasing the fastest kid in school, Gordon — nicknamed “Flash” because he was just that dang fast! No matter how hard I tried, I never caught him. Nonetheless, I loved the strength and endurance, determination, and the adrenaline rush that came with chasing Gordon and others around the schoolyard. There’s something about feeling your heartbeat race and the clarity that fills your lungs.

In high school, I played tennis, and in college I became a regular at the gym. Staying active was never just a phase. It remained a constant in my life well beyond my school years. I still remember the first time my big sis, Terri Renae, introduced me to kickboxing with Ms. Carol, an incredible and unforgettable hardcore trainer in Brooklyn. And WOW, she pushed us beyond our limits, which inspired me to keep going with the sport and try other activities. Kickboxing became more than just a workout; it was a full-body conditioning challenge that transformed me. After leaving a decade-long career in retail management, I made one of the best decisions of my life – I became a kickboxing instructor. The transition was seamless and fulfilling, keeping me in top shape while allowing me to guide others in transforming their own lives. 

Terri Renae: Fitness has always been a part of my life. As a child, I trained in ballet, jazz, African dance, and tap before briefly exploring gymnastics and later kickboxing in my early 20s. Though I was in and out of the gym in my 30s, it wasn’t until my 40s that I truly committed to my fitness journey. I became intentional about my health, incorporating regular workouts, mindful nutrition, and deeper self-care.

Yoga was a turning point for me. Through my 200-hour and 300-hour yoga certifications, I realized that while I felt and looked fine, I wasn’t prioritizing my health the way I should have. Over the past five years, I’ve identified my why, which led to becoming more focused, and taking action toward complete wellness. Presently, I am enjoying my fitness journey along the way, consistently trying new things and stepping into my stretch zone.

What motivates you to stay active and committed to your fitness journey?
S: My gym community keeps me motivated and committed to my fitness journey. While I’ve always had a natural desire to move, there’s nothing quite like working out alongside a group of like-minded individuals, pushing through challenges, and sharing the energy of a good sweat. Even on my toughest days, I look forward to showing up, moving, and growing with such a dedicated and inspiring group.

TR: Several factors drive my commitment to fitness:

1. Managing Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): I have a connective tissue disorder that causes excessive joint movement, which can lead to complications. While there is no cure, resistance training significantly improves my condition.
2. Aging Strong and Gracefully: As I navigate my 40s, I want to remain disease-free and independent, maintaining strength, mobility, balance, and coordination.
3. Energy & Stress Relief: Staying active and focusing on nutrition helps boost my mood and metabolism. Whether it’s lifting weights, practicing yoga, or dancing, movement keeps me vibrant and balanced.

You are sisters. Are you also workout buddies?
S: Terri and I have been workout buddies for as long as I can remember! It’s always such a pleasure and joy when we can participate in each other’s classes. She’s an excellent and inspiring yoga instructor, and I personally love torturing her during one of my curated strength and conditioning sessions! 

TR: Yes! Shay is my drill sergeant, oh, I mean workout buddy. It is basically like having my own personal trainer with a side of comedy. We work out together all the time, and Shay usually has a whole workout routine planned out — no surprise there. It’s always a blast, though! There are spontaneous dance breaks, non-stop laughter, and plenty of shenanigans to make sure we survive the mountain climbers and burpees. 

What does Black History Month mean to you?
S: Black History Month, to me, is a time of great reflection, celebration, and honor. It’s about acknowledging the resilience, brilliance, and contributions of Black people past, present, and future. It’s a reminder that our history is rich, our culture is powerful, and our impact is fly and undeniable. More than just a month, it’s a continuation of the legacy we carry every day — through our work, our creativity, our voices, and our existence. It’s about taking up space, uplifting one another, and making sure our stories are told boldly with truth and pride!

TR: While I celebrate Black history all year long, this month is a special time to unite and uplift Black voices, achievements, and contributions. We get to spotlight our Black s/heroes and uplift Black voices, Black art, and artists. There is so much to still learn about Black history and the month of February inspires me to seek more knowledge of Black inventors, activists, and businesses. I cannot forget one year, I honored Black History Month by dedicating my weekly personal yoga practice to the ancestors and leaders who paved the way for us. Each week I selected someone who impacted my life and told a bit about their story to honor them. I posted these sessions and received great feedback. 

How do you think fitness and wellness contribute to empowerment in the Black community?
S: Fitness and wellness are huge pillars of empowerment in the Black community because they give us the tools to take control of our health physically, mentally, and spiritually. As a fitness instructor and leader in the health space, I’ve seen firsthand how movement transforms people. Not just their bodies, but their confidence, discipline, and mindset. When we prioritize our well-being, we’re actively breaking cycles of stress, chronic illness, and burnout that disproportionately affect us.

For me, leading group classes and meditation practices isn’t just about working out. It’s about creating spaces where we can move, heal, and thrive together. There’s something powerful about sweating it out with a community that supports and pushes each other. It’s a reminder that our strength isn’t just in our muscles but in our resilience, our commitment to growth, and our ability to show up for ourselves. When we invest in our health, we’re investing in our future, and that, to me, is one of the most radical forms of empowerment.

TR: Fitness and wellness play a powerful role in empowering the Black community. Although disparities exist in healthcare access and nutrition, we still have the ability to make choices that positively impact our well-being. By taking ownership of our health through exercise, mindful eating, and seeking medical care when needed we reclaim our power. Mental health is just as crucial. If accessible, therapy and coaching can provide essential support. Small changes, like reducing sugary drinks, eating balanced meals, and staying active, make a lasting impact.

How has being part of the NYSC community impacted you?
S: There’s nothing quite like the NYSC community and the profound impact it’s had on my life. Beyond the workouts, the meaningful conversations and relationships I’ve built over the past two years have truly shaped my journey. Hearing the members share how my classes have contributed to their personal transformations makes my dream of helping others achieve their best selves feel like a reality. Classes are typically 45 minutes long, but an hour or two after class can easily fly by having dynamic and inspiring conversations around wellness and testimonies. 

TR: Being a part of the NYSC community has been incredibly impactful for me, both personally and professionally. What truly stands out are the members. Watching them show up week after week for my classes is deeply rewarding. Their dedication to their health and well-being inspires me, and knowing I play a small part in their fitness journey is something I hold close to my heart. I let them know this regularly.

Another bonus? Working in a fully equipped gym means I have everything I need to prioritize my own health too, whether it's squeezing in a quick workout after teaching or using the space to reset. And I cannot forget the amazing team of instructors and staff here. We’re always stepping in to support one another, whether it’s subbing classes or lending a hand when needed. It’s that sense of camaraderie that truly makes this community feel special.

Are there any challenges that fitness and being active have helped you overcome?
S: Plenty! Fitness and staying active is a natural stress reliever, allowing me to channel my energy into something more productive and beneficial for both my mental and physical well-being. It has supported me in navigating the struggles and tensions of the world around me and within. Most importantly, it has boosted my confidence. I’m truly grateful for the importance of maintaining overall physical health. I can’t imagine my life without it. 

TR: Yes, probably too many to list here but presently being active has helped me get better control over my diagnosis of Ehlers Danlos Hypermobility Syndrome. This syndrome causes achy joints due to overly flexible joints, and adding resistance training to my routine has changed my life. Even when I’ve looked my best I’ve never felt as strong as I do now.  I am also combating perimenopause by building bone density, building muscle, regulating cortisol levels, cutting fat, and improving joint strength by having a regular fitness lifestyle.  

How do you hold each other accountable in and out of the gym?
S: Terri Renae and I are always discussing our personal fitness journeys while also supporting each other in our broader professional goals. Not a week goes by without us talking about our fitness ambitions, what we’re working on for ourselves, or what’s coming up in our next class, including themes for the upcoming month. We love sharing stories about what we’re learning from our participants and brainstorming ways to improve as instructors.

TR: Shay and I are each other’s fitness and wellness accountability partners, both in and out of the gym. We regularly check in with each other, discussing our goals and progress. We push and support one another, offering advice when needed, and showing plenty of grace when things don’t go as planned. If we slip up, we’re right there to motivate one another to get back on track. Celebrating big or small victories is a constant. And of course, I’m always turning to Shay for fitness advice. Having my own personal coach in the form of my sister is a major bonus, and I’m lucky to have that extra support and expertise whenever I need it.

Is there anything else that you would like to add?
TR: This month, I encourage more Black individuals to step into a yoga class. Yoga is often misunderstood. It’s not a religion and it’s not just stretching. It’s movement, breath-work, and meditation. It can complement any fitness routine. Beyond physical benefits, yoga can reduce stress, anxiety, and blood pressure. It can help you work through all the chatter that is in your mind by balancing the mind, body, and spirit. I challenge you to walk into a NYSC, request a guest pass if you are not already a member, and try something new by signing up for a yoga class and experience the benefits firsthand!