First, thank you Zest for being so supportive of the exciting news! I, Darcey Wion have been chosen as a finalist for Women’s Health Magazine Next Fitness Star. I started the application process in February and was officially selected as 1 of the top 5 in the country in March. This is definitely my longest kept secret.
So who am I and why should you vote for me? Keep reading.
Who am I?
I am 30 years old born and raised in Columbus, OH leaving only to go to the best college, Ohio University (Shout out to my BOBCATS). My husband Matt and I cannot deny our wanderlust and can often be found traveling and trying out as many fitness studios as we can fit in! My dog (Redd), donuts, margaritas (recipe below) and burpees are some of my favorite things. Now that you have read my Bumble profile, let me tell you a little bit more about my passion for the #fitlife.
What is my fitness background?
I was a swimmer in High School and these habits carried over into much of college. I have always been active as I look at working out as something I GET to do, not something I HAVE to do. When I stumbled upon this amazing movement called System of Strength I knew it was a fit. I have been a part of the SOS community for the last 5 years. The inimitable System and community we have created is unlike anything I have ever experienced and it has molded me into the well rounded trainer that I am today. You can find me there almost every day of the week, sometimes more than once a day. Behind the scenes I work on Check Yourself (SOS Nutritional Program) and the Digital Studio (online video subscription).
What is the deal with group fitness classes?
“I don’t do group fitness”. I have heard this so many times from family and friends and in my opinion; this is the missing piece to their current workout routine. To me, the energy from a group fitness atmosphere is unstoppable. Everyone in that room has a story and they are committed to bettering themselves. They leave the noise of their daily life at the door and get it done. When you walk into SOS you can lose yourself in a room full of badasses doing things they never thought was possible. We are in it together, and together we are stronger.
Why do I make fitness apart of my life every day?
In my early 20s I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and it forever changed my perspective on health and fitness. As I mentioned above, fitness has always been a part of my life and I am comfortable pushing myself beyond physical limits but being faced with this challenge was something I never saw coming. Cancer taught me that health is not a given, it’s a privilege. This journey ignited my passion in fitness and the opportunity you have to impact someone’s life. I was given back my health and I am going to make damn sure I take advantage of it.
Why did you apply to be The Next Fitness Star for Women’s Health?
This lifestyle has given me so much, and I’m very passionate about doing the same thing for other people all over the world. Having the opportunity to add this dimension into other people’s lives is a mission for me. Being the next Fitness Star would expose me to people who are looking to make the connection to health. This is a chance for me to be a system of strength for so many other people out there, and the thought of that lights me up inside.
Why should you vote for me?
My hope is that people will support me because I am living proof that you can overcome life’s impossible curve balls. I’ve looked fear in the eye, came out swinging, and I’m standing here stronger than ever before.
My Favorite Zest Juice:
Beets by Zest. I need all the liver cleansing assistance I can get.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! The issue is on stands now so go pick up a copy to read my story and all of the other contestants! You can vote through this link http://www.womenshealthmag.com/tags/next-fitness-star and watch a video of me talking more about why I chose to incorporate fitness into my life for the long haul. #whcastingcall #womenshealthmagazine
Margarita Recipe:
- 1.5 oz agave tequila (my favorite is Altos)
- .5 oz Gran Marnier
- 1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice (Giant Eagle sells fresh squeezed juice)
- 1 oz fresh squeeze orange juice (Giant Eagle sells fresh squeezed juice)
- Berries of choice (My favorite combo is strawberry jalapeño but it is also amazing with blackberries, pineapples, raspberries etc)
Muddle berries in cocktail shaker. Add Gran Marnier and continue to muddle. Add all other ingredients, shake vigorously with ice. Serve over ice and let some of the muddle berries top the cocktail.
Columbus native Darcey Wion on the far right
Darcey at our Grandview location