Meet Raquel Perry | Yoga and Fitness Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Raquel Perry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raquel, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Having been in the fitness world for forty years, I have seen a lot of trends and fads, come and go. I believe the one thing that has kept me relevant and still teaching packed classes, at age sixty, is my authenticity. I have always leaned into my true self while teaching, and not tried to be someone, or something, I’m not. I have been told that my authenticity, as well as my vulnerability, have been key in keeping students coming back to class. What you see, is what you get, with me, and that might be tears of joy, sadness or just plain silliness.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I currently teach yoga, heated Strength and Yogalates classes. I have been in the fitness industry for forty years, so I have taught so many modalities, from High Impact Aerobics, (using vinyl records,) Step Aerobics, Spin Class, and fitness classes, and now primarily yoga based classes. I really fell in love with the world of fitness, and have met so many incredible people along the way. I think my students appreciate all of the time, and effort I put into curating their experience, from weekly playlists, and movements, to closing thoughts, and quotes.

I definitely felt challenged during Covid, as gyms and studios were closed. I realized just how much my daily interactions with my students meant to me. I wasn’t one who was happy for the break, I missed those connections with my students, and although I did a lot of live-streaming for the studio, it just wasn’t the same. I was very happy once we were able to be back to teaching in person.

I love inspiring people, and it lights me up when someone tells me how impactful my classes are, and that they are a large part of their fitness, and wellness journeys. Watching students blossom and grow is such an incredible thing to watch!

Last year, I was invited to be a guest on my friend, and coach, Brad Davidson’s podcast. We had such a blast discussing the fitness world, the good, the bad, and the ugly, and what fitness and wellness looks like as someone who is middle aged, and beyond, (which is very different than someone in their 30’s.) The response was very positive, so I became his cohost, and we changed the name to “Your Ultimate Comeback.” It has turned into a weekly podcast where we discuss everything from fitness, and recovery strategies, to mind/body connections, longevity and more. We are often joined by guests sharing their own personal journeys and comebacks, from addiction, chronic pain, or devastating loss. It is truly something I look forward to recording each week, and love the feedback we get from those who want to “Live better, longer.” (Our slogan.) Our podcast can be found on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hands down, my favorite spot to eat breakfast or lunch, is Fermentation Farm in Costa Mesa. Their house made broths, grass-fed brisket sandwich on their long-fermented sourdough baguette, is one of my favorites, It’s also where I grab their garlic kraut, pasture raised eggs, and many other delicious snacks. Next, I’d have to say Fill Up Buttercup, in the same center, is a must visit. I love their refillable, non-toxic cleaning products, and items for body, like soaps, body oil, and sunscreen. If I am looking for a quick bite or smoothie, Seajuiced in Corona del Mar is the spot. Shopping fix? Rococo women’s boutique, and The Red Balloon Two. I also love to hit the local Farmer’s Market, whenever I can. For dinner, Harper Barbecue is one of my favorite spot’s. If I’m looking for some pampering, a facial by Janet, of Code of Harmony, is the best! Her non-toxic skin care products are all I’ve used for years, and have been, since she was making them in her kitchen!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I must give a shout out to my husband, Matt, who has always been my biggest fan and most staunch supporter. My two children, Kellen and Quinn, have also been very supportive of what I do, by taking my classes from time to time, or even sending me ideas for my playlists.

While I have taught at too many studios, and gyms to name, I must mention my current studio, RA Yoga Studios. They have the most incredible owners, and students! There is such a sense of closeness and belonging, that I haven’t experienced to this degree, elsewhere. People are truly happy to be there, and love to show up. The owners, Bobby Kittleman, and Jenny Vande Hei- Secor, allow for all teachers to use their authentic voice, and style, and don’t insist on the same experience from each teacher. I believe that to be one of many things that makes RA Yoga Studios stand apart, and to be so special.

Website: https://www.yourultimatecomebackpodcast.com

Instagram: @thefitnessstalker, @yourultimatecomeback

Youtube: The Brad Davidson Show aka Your Ultimate Comeback Podcast

Image Credits
Photo credit: Michelle Ford and COCO Gallery