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Check Out Claire Monda’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Claire Monda.

Claire, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Movement has always been a constant in my life. I’ve been a dancer for as long as I can remember and have spent over 20 years teaching dance-16 of those with Creative Movement Center, right here in the same plaza. After minoring in dance during college and earning a master’s degree in school counseling, I found myself blending my love of movement with my passion for helping others.
As I got married and became a mother to three amazing kids, I started teaching conditioning classes for dancers. That experience inspired me to pursue my personal training certification, and soon after, I began teaching group fitness and cycle classes at Lifetime Fitness in Beachwood.
I was instantly captivated by the energy and community of group fitness-the music, the shared sweat, and the way we all showed up for each other. Witnessing how movement could transform not just bodies, but confidence and connection, sparked a deeper calling. I wanted to create a space where community and movement merged, where people felt supported and celebrated for showing up as they are. That vision became the heart of Momentum.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but the challenges shaped the mission behind Momentum. After I had my third child, I found myself struggling with my weight, energy, and sense of self. I also felt an overwhelming loneliness during the day.
During Covid, I turned to nature and movement-I started hiking every morning with my kids, no matter the weather. When my older two returned to school, I began running with my youngest in the stroller. Running wasn’t something I’d ever embraced before, but I quickly found myself covering five to eleven miles a day. It was transformative. Running reminded me of my strength and resilience, and it reignited my confidence.
Teaching at Lifetime only solidified what I had discovered: that community and movement are essential for wellbeing. My classes became spaces for accountability, friendship, and shared growth-exactly what I wanted to create at Momentum.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Momentum, I currently lead most of our classes-cycling, strength, and Pilates fusion. My focus is on creating an environment that feels uplifting and energizing, even on the days when you’re not sure you’re up for it. The music, the energy, the camaraderie-they’re all pieces of a larger puzzle that keeps people coming back and feeling their best.
What sets Momentum apart is the community we’ve cultivated. It’s a space where people rediscover their own strength, find connection, and learn that they’re capable of so much more than they imagined. That’s what I’m most proud of.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My family is my greatest joy. My husband’s unwavering support and humor bring so much laughter and lightness to my life. My three kind, loving kids are my daily inspiration, pushing me to grow and be better in every way. This business is truly a family effort-my husband and older two have all taken classes here, and I love sharing that with them.
Teaching dance also continues to bring me so much happiness. My students and fellow teachers are a constant source of joy and inspiration.
Ultimately, Momentum is about more than just fitness-it’s about building a community where people feel empowered, supported, and seen. Watching that vision come to life every day is the most fulfilling part of this journey.

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