Meet our April Mama of the Month, Mara Smith!

We're proud to introduce Mara as the newest member of our team, in the role of Member Manager! You can start to look out for emails from her as you approach class milestones or your FIT4MOM anniversary. She'll help us to celebrate you, Mama!

Tell us about your family!

My husband and I have been together since high school, celebrating 18 years as a couple and 9 years of marriage this year. We’re proud parents to our 6-year-old son, Oliver, our 13-month-old daughter, Aria, and our 2-year-old dog, Rose.

Where is your hometown?

I grew up in Cheswick, PA, a small town about 20 minutes northeast of Pittsburgh.

What is/was your current/previous career?

I have a background in education, holding a B.A. in English, a Secondary Education Certification, and a minor in Communication from Carlow University. Before becoming a mom, I taught middle and high school in various roles. Since then, I’ve explored different teaching opportunities, including online ESL instruction, preschool teaching, and being a stay-at-home mom. This school year, I am working as a Substitute Primary and Toddler Teacher and After Care Teacher at the Western Pennsylvania Montessori School in Hampton Township.

How did you find FIT4MOM?

When my son was little, I used to see FIT4MOM classes while at the playground in North Park. At the time, I was struggling with postpartum anxiety and depression, and joining a class felt out of reach. But when I had my daughter, I was in a completely different headspace and convinced a friend to try it with me. I’m so grateful I did!

How long have you been a member of FIT4MOM North Hills, and what has it done for you?

I've been attending classes at FIT4MOM North Hills since June 2024, just before my daughter turned four months old. This experience has completely transformed my perspective on strength and health in motherhood. As a former college athlete, coming to terms with how my body has changed over the past decade, and after two children, has been a challenge. FIT4MOM has given me the confidence to embrace where I am, focus on progress over perfection, and rebuild my fitness in a way that feels empowering.

What is your favorite class exercise?

I enjoy using resistance bands or engaging in exercises that strengthen my upper body and improve my posture.

What classes do you currently attend, and why do you love them?

My first FIT4MOM experience was Body Well in the summer of 2024. It helped me make self-care a priority in a way I hadn’t before. Lately, I have been taking Stroller Barre or Stroller Strides. I love Stroller Barre for the way it builds strength, balance, and flexibility, and Stroller Strides is perfect for getting a full-body workout while keeping my daughter entertained. When I need an extra cardio boost, I’ll throw in a Strides 360 class to mix things up!

What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?

As a second-time parent, I thought I’d have it all figured out this time around, and in some ways, I do, but I’ve also realized that what worked for my first doesn’t always work for my second. Their personalities, sleep habits, and the way they handle new experiences are totally their own, which keeps things interesting! It’s a great reminder that there’s no one “right” way to parent, and I love that I’m still learning and growing along with my kids.

What is your proudest mommy moment so far?

Watching my son step into his role as a big brother has been one of the sweetest experiences. He’s such a thoughtful little guy and takes his job very seriously! He’s always looking out for his little sister, making sure she has her favorite toy, holding her hand when she’s unsteady, and giving her the biggest hugs when she’s upset. He’s also her biggest cheerleader, celebrating every new thing she learns. He cares so much about her well-being, sometimes a little too much! We’ve even had to remind him to stop tattling on his grandparents!

What advice would you go back and tell yourself as a new mom?

Take a deep breath. Slow down and soak it all in; these moments are fleeting. Trust yourself; you know your baby better than anyone. Do what feels right for you and your family, and don’t stress over everyone’s opinions; take advice with a grain of salt. The tough moments will pass, the sleepless nights won’t last forever, and one day, you’ll look back and realize how quickly it all went by. This is just a season, a beautiful, challenging, and short one. You’ve got this!

Anything else you'd like to add?

I’m excited to join the FIT4MOM North Hills Team as Member Manager! This community has been such a positive part of my motherhood journey, and I look forward to supporting, connecting, celebrating, and growing with all of you!