Bring on the Energy! Powerhouse Classes at Baptist Milestone

By Alison Cardoza Photos by Matt Johnson

When you think of Baptist Milestone, most members of this club feel a sense of belonging and unity with each other. Group exercise classes are a substantial part of why many exercise enthusiasts join a gym. There is no doubt that Milestone offers amazing classes for Louisville. Josh and Dean are two of Milestone’s most beloved instructors that keep the energy high in their classes. They both have one common goal in mind- make a positive difference in the health of others. “Over the years, I’ve taught numerous students at various locations. However, one thing has remained consistent- my goal in each of my classes is to help build community,” says instructor Josh. “I strive to support networks for people to leverage as they work to achieve their fitness goals. It makes me so proud when I hear how many people have built friendships or other relationships because they came to one of my classes,” says Josh. A personal connection is felt when his students attend his classes and he makes an effort to get to know each and every one of them. “For some, it is trying to fit into a wedding dress, build a balance of strength and flexibility, or it is just part of their daily release from the stress of life.” Josh teaches cycling, Total Tone+Core, Yoga, Total Tone, and PiYo throughout the week at Milestone. “I’m making a difference in someone’s life through fitness. As mentioned earlier, it could be a short-term goal, a life-style change, or a mental release. It’s honestly the most rewarding job I’ve had in my life,” says Josh. 

Dean, our amazing cyclist Instructor at Baptist, has been teaching spin classes for over 27 years. He estimates that he has taught over 25,000 classes! “I enjoy riding bikes on the road,” says Dean. Some of the rides Dean has done are Natchez MS to Louisville over 7 days, 162 miles in 1 day ride across Indiana 6 times, and Mont Ventoux in France, which is considered one of the 10 hardest rides in France. Dean uses his outdoor cycling experiences and brings it indoors to Milestone. He uses positive motivation and humor to keep his participants engaged in class. “I’ve taken Spin classes with Dean for over six years, and in that time, I’ve come to realize that what makes him extraordinary isn’t just his athleticism or his programming—it’s his intuitive understanding of human motivation,” says member Lorna. “Dean has this rare ability to meet people exactly where they are, physically and mentally, and draw out a version of themselves they may not have even known was there. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve walked into class feeling exhausted or preoccupied, only to leave feeling completely recharged—body, mind, and spirit,” exclaims Lorna. 

There is no doubt that these instructors at Milestone bring out the best in their clients. Bring out the best in YOU and take a class at Milestone today! 

Alison Cardoza, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor. BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. Former UofL Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.