By Barbi Hamilton, Owner of FIT4MOM Sacramento
If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be leading a community of moms through fitness, motherhood, and friendship—I probably would’ve laughed. Or cried. Or both. Because like so many moms, my story started with chaos, change, and the kind of beautiful exhaustion no one can fully prepare you for.
This is my FIT4MOM story. And maybe, just maybe, it’s a little bit of yours too.
Before babies and burpees, I was a dancer. I grew up in the Bay Area with ballet in my bones—pointe shoes, leotards, and a love for movement that felt like home. But when an injury ended my dance career, I shifted to teaching toddlers and later coaching high schoolers. I’ve always loved helping others find joy in movement, even when my own path was evolving.
In 2014, I married my husband , and by the end of 2015, I was pregnant with our first daughter. In true “go big or go home” fashion, I quit my job, moved away from everything I knew, and gave birth to Maddi—all in the same month. Talk about transformation.
Suddenly I was a brand-new mom in a brand-new place, with no job, no local friends, and no clue what I was doing. I was in survival mode—doing my best, but feeling lost. I craved connection. I missed movement. I missed me.
Then, when Maddi was just over a year old, I found FIT4MOM..
I walked into my first Stroller Strides class at Arden Park and immediately felt it—that sense of belonging. It wasn’t just the endorphins (though those helped). It was the moms. The conversations. The shared glances of “oh, you’re tired too?” It was the first time in a long time I didn’t feel alone.
After that class, I called my mom and said, “I could see myself teaching something like this.” And I meant it.
In April 2018, I became an instructor. I was pregnant with my second daughter, Cadi, and teaching classes with a growing belly and a growing heart. I fell in love with encouraging other moms—helping them find their strength and community just like I had.
Every class, every conversation, every sweaty high-five reminded me: this is where I’m meant to be.
In 2020, I became the owner of FIT4MOM Sacramento—a full-circle moment that still gives me chills. I didn’t just inherit a business; I inherited a village. And I get to lead it with passion, purpose, and a deep understanding of what it feels like to be a mom who’s trying to hold it all together.
FIT4MOM has been a lifeline—for me and for so many women who’ve walked into class with a stroller and a heavy heart. It’s not just about fitness (though we’ll absolutely make you sweat!). It’s about:
Sisterhood – because we’re not meant to do this alone
Support – through newborn fog, toddler chaos, and beyond
Strength – physical, emotional, and everything in between
Space – to show up exactly as you are
This community has given me more than I ever expected: purpose, friendships, confidence, and a front-row seat to the incredible strength of moms.
Maybe you’re a new mom. Maybe you’re new to town. Maybe you’re just trying to find you again.
I’ve been there. I see you. And I want you to know—you don’t have to do this alone.
FIT4MOM changed my life, and I believe it can change yours too. Show up messy. Show up tired. Just show up. We’ll meet you where you are—with open arms, a solid workout, and a community that gets it.
You belong here, Mama.
