April AOTM-Dorea Ruggles
Dorea joined Solcana in November 2021, looking for a way to care for herself and connect with a new community after the pandemic. Before Solcana, long-distance running had been her go-to. She had run multiple marathons and countless half-marathons, but as life changed, so did her fitness needs. Distance training wasn’t practical anymore, and her body was calling for something more well-rounded.
“I just didn't have time for distance training anymore. My body was also needing more balanced, full-body training” she says. So, she took the leap and started lifting.
Since then, she’s shown up consistently, a couple of times a week, focusing on strength and seeing where the journey takes her. Some days bring big wins, and other times, it’s about small, steady progress. “Sometimes I surprise myself with huge gains, but usually, it’s just baby steps,” Dorea shares.
Coach Traci shares, "I love when I get to have Dorea in class. She has a quiet energy that I love. She is always open to feedback and a joy to be around."
Coach Cate mentions, "I love Dorea!! She is such a positive presence in class and always working to improve her movements and looking for feedback. She's so fun to coach because she's very open to cues, trying things out, and communicating how things feel. She also does a great job adapting classes to her needs if she's working around an injury. Dorea is such a joy to be around!!"
An Athlete on Her Own Terms
Dorea has learned that being an athlete isn’t about lifting the heaviest weights or looking a certain way—it’s about showing up. Dorea mentions, “I think one of the most valuable things Solcana gives me is a belief that showing up, doing fitness, and seeing myself as an athlete is legitimate even if I’m not skinny or running marathons or lifting huge weights.”
Solcana’s structured yet adaptable programming keeps her engaged. “My body keeps on asking for different things, and so far, everything it’s asked for has been available at Solcana.” The flexibility of the gym’s approach has allowed her to listen to her body and continue growing in ways that feel right for her.
Coach Garett H. shares, "Dorea is an athlete who works hard AND works smart. She’s always looking to improve and asks about technique to that end. She’s such a fun athlete to coach!"
Coach Neesh mentions, "DOREA!!! It is a joy to watch her work. She always puts her best foot forward in each workout. She is smart and calculated in her movements and she excels in her ability to learn complicated movements. It is a JOY to have her in class."
Coach Garett F. says, "I have so enjoyed seeing Dorea grow and change as an athlete at Solcana. No matter what is going on for her and what sorts of setbacks she has encountered, she keeps coming back and continues to maintain a really vibrant practice of exercise. I admire her quiet, determined energy. She has a fierceness and a patience that both serve her well. She is great to have in classes, but if she can't make classes she will often show up and do the workout of the day by herself. She works hard, takes feedback well and continues to make progress in ways that I find inspiring."
A Life of Patterns, Planning, and Capybaras
Dorea thrives on solving puzzles—whether that’s figuring out the best way to strengthen her body or engaging in her many hobbies. Gardening and home projects keep her busy in the warmer months, while knitting and baking take over in the fall. She and her husband, both engineers, love spending time outdoors with their two kids, often camping or hiking.
She does some of her best thinking on long walks with her dog, Dolly. And if she had to choose animals that best represent her? Dorea shares, “Bison and capybaras—both of which seem to have a lot in common with me—large, mostly calm and steady, low-key social, and aggressive when threatened.”
With a steady, intentional approach to fitness, Dorea has found her place at Solcana. We are so thankful that Dorea is a part of our community at Solcana! Thank you for choosing us as your place to grow strong, you’re the best!!
