When she was in the Navy, Sara Bailey took boxing classes whenever she was not working. “I loved going out to this boxing gym,” Sara shares. “I worked out a lot on the ship and helped women with their fitness on the ship too.”
At 27 years old, Sara completed five years of service in the military. Shortly after the end of her service, she moved to Chattanooga to be closer to her grandma and have a new adventure away from her hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. It was then that she heard about 30-Minute Hit. “I drove to Indianapolis with my best friend, tried it out, and absolutely loved it,” she says. Sara decided to start a branch in Chattanooga, and it officially opened in 2023.
Sara is passionate about 30 Minute Hit and enjoys working out in the circuit whenever possible. “I love going up there and training alongside the ladies,” she says. “They get to see me breathing heavily along with them.” In addition to the community that 30 Minute Hit provides, Sara loves the benefits of the circuit. “It makes a person physically stronger, lose weight, and build muscle,” she explains. “It's a great stress reliever, builds confidence, and is great for cardiovascular health and blood pressure.” The circuit is great for any skill level and they meet women where they are in their fitness journey. Additionally, with modifications available for injuries or limitations, anyone can do the circuit—it even works wonderfully alongside physical therapy.
When she’s not enjoying 30 Minute Hit, Sara likes exploring the food and history of Chattanooga, spending time with her family, and being outdoors. “I like to spend my free time with my family and two young nephews. It helps keep me grounded and reminds me of what really matters at the end of the day,” she says. “I also love hiking, kayaking, and backpacking. Being outside helps me recharge mentally, and I love the water and mountains of Chattanooga.” This time recharging is especially important for Sara since she’s an introvert—something one would never know because of how loud she is in the gym.
As someone who gained confidence and community through boxing, Sara loves watching women flourish in their newfound community. “Lots of women come in shy and nervous, so I love seeing women build their confidence,” she says. Fostering this supportive community is important to Sara. “I try to lead with kindness and compassion,” she shares. “Kindness is the most powerful thing you can give. People may forget conversations, but they rarely forget how you made them feel.” The human connection found inside the gym is also outside it because Sara and her team are the ones on the other end of the line when women reach out via social media or text. “Women are also always welcome to just drop in, take a look around, and meet us first to get a feel for the gym,” Sara says.
Connect with Sara and learn more about the 30 Minute Hit community by visiting 30MinuteHit.com/Chattanooga, Facebook at 30 Minute Hit Chattanooga, Instagram @Chattanooga.Hit, or reaching out by calling (423) 654-9492 or emailing Chattanooga@30MinuteHit.com.