DIXON — It only took Stephanie Grace and Todd McMillion a month to realize their dream of running a fitness studio.
McMillion retired early from a career in information technology to dedicate most of his life to fitness, and Grace worked in sales and marketing before taking up part-time fitness class instruction. What began as a casual conversation between the two quickly developed into a serious, weekend-long discussion.
“Five days later, we were looking at a property downtown and signed a lease for the space that same day,” McMillion said.
The couple opened Grit & Grace Fitness at 113 E. First St., Suite 50 in Dixon on Aug. 30. Even though she had been teaching fitness classes before opening the studio, Grace admits she was hesitant at first.
“It was daunting and kept me up at night,” Grace says. “We’d never run a small business before, but Todd was 100% on board, so I just prayed and decided that if it was fate, it would happen. After that, everything fell into place and it was an amazing experience.”
Grit & Grace Fitness offers a variety of cardio and strength training classes, including “Bounce N’ Burn,” which uses miniature trampolines called rebounders to enhance your workout while minimizing impact on your joints.
“People joke that jumping isn’t exercise,” Grace says, “but it’s great for your lymphatic system, it’s less impact on your knees, it makes people around you happier, and it burns more calories than running alone.”
Grace and McMillion are passionate about running, especially ultramarathons, which can range from races as short as 31 miles to more grueling events such as the 135-mile Badwater Ultramarathon through Death Valley, California.
“I’ve been running my whole life,” McMillion said, “and ran my first ultramarathon in 2015. We’ve both completed multiple 50- and 100-mile races.”
Sit N’ Fit is a beginner-friendly class that’s accessible to those with mobility issues. Participants use light weights, bands and balls to build strength and burn calories while sitting.
“It’s a really great workout, although it’s often underrated,” Grace says. “It’s great for people of all ages and abilities, whether they’re just starting out or wanting to get back into fitness.”
Other classes include Cardio Crush, Barre Sculpt, Power Shred, Step It Up, Yoga, etc. Classes can be booked online through the StudioBookings application, where participants can see a schedule of available classes throughout the day.
“Here, your workout is already planned and waiting for you,” Grace said, “so just pop in, get in, get out and make your day. They’ll thank you.”
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