Finding flow
UF medical students who work as fitness instructors take time to prioritize physical health
Jan. 7, 2025 — For many people, the new year brings a renewed sense of opportunity to set goals and work toward longtime achievements. About 17% of Americans have fitness-related resolutions on their minds heading into 2025.
Of course, medical students at the University of Florida College of Medicine are well aware of the physical and mental health benefits of hitting up the squat rack, lacing up your running shoes, or dancing like nobody’s watching. And while it can be challenging to balance a demanding courseload with volunteer opportunities, spending time with loved ones, and more, many students find exercise to be an important outlet to gain energy and be creative.
Hear from three who, in addition to their classes, extracurricular involvements, and clinical rotations, have a zeal for working as part-time fitness instructors:
Aleeza Kessler
M.D. Class of 2026
Teaching heated vinyasa yoga at Yoga Pod, Aleeza Kessler brings a unique blend of mindfulness and physical movement to her classes. She began practicing yoga during her undergraduate years to manage stress and continued through medical school.
After a personal leave of absence in 2023, following the loss of her mother to cancer, she completed a 200-hour teacher training program with the intention of deepening her practice. However, the experience inspired her to step into teaching.
Aleeza Kessler
As an instructor, she values creating a space where participants feel empowered to either fully engage in a challenging flow or simply rest on their mats. “I love uniting everyone in movement and providing a safe space to do as much or as little as they need in that moment,” she said.
Balancing medical school and fitness, she finds teaching yoga not just a job but a form of self-care. “Especially during third year, it’s hard to prioritize self-care, but teaching motivates me to stay active and connected to my health,” Kessler said. The Yoga Pod community, she said, offers a sense of belonging that extends beyond academic life.
She encourages anyone considering a fitness routine to explore different options. “There are so many ways to move your body, and so many communities waiting to embrace you,” she said. And if you step into one of her classes, expect an energizing playlist — her current favorite track, “Sunsleeper” by Barry Can’t Swim, is perfect for finding your flow.
Aliya Redd
M.D. Class of 2026
At Pure Barre Gainesville, Aliya Redd leads high-intensity, low-impact workouts. A former figure skater with 11 years of experience, she discovered Pure Barre during her first year of medical school in search of an exercise routine. The variability of the workouts and the inspiration of the instructors drew her in, eventually motivating her to step into the role herself.
For Redd, the best part of being an instructor is the sense of community. “My co-teachers are amazing and push me to be better, and our clients bring such positivity,” she said. Hearing feedback about her playlists or the impact of a class adds an extra layer of joy to her day.
“It’s incredible how a 50-minute workout can bring people together,” she said.
Aliya Redd
Balancing fitness and medical school takes careful planning, including early-morning workouts during rotations and a commitment to attending class five times a week. Still, Redd emphasized the importance of flexibility and self-compassion.
“I’ve learned to give myself grace when I can’t make it to a workout,” she said.
For her, movement is essential not just physically, but mentally.
“When I move my body, I feel so much better. It clears my head and gives me a chance to step away from medical school.”
She said the hardest part about finding a fitness routine is getting started.
“Find something you love, build a routine, and connect with others who can motivate you,” she said. “Most importantly, be kind to yourself — exercise should fill your cup, not feel like a punishment.”
Olivia Etienne
M.D. Class of 2025
At UF RecSports, Olivia Etienne brings high-energy vibes to hip hop fitness classes. A former competitive dancer with an all-women’s hip-hop team in Boston, she found her way back to dance in Gainesville through her mentor, Krystal Glasford, M.D. ’24, who also taught hip-hop fitness. Etienne earned her group fitness certification to continue the legacy after Glasford’s graduation.
For Etienne, the best part of teaching is the uplifting community her classes foster.
“We spend the whole class cheering each other on and smiling,” she said. “This class can brighten even my worst day because of the energy participants bring.”
Olivia Etienne, center, after teaching hip hop fitness
As a medical student, Etienne said, balancing priorities is key. By scheduling her fitness classes as “non-negotiable” workout times, she ensures she stays active while managing her busy academic schedule.
“On my most stressful days, dancing it out helps me get out of my head,” she said. “That positive reinforcement reminds me it’s a worthwhile investment.”
She views physical activity as essential for overall health and a tool for work-life balance. Group fitness, she said, adds the bonus of community: “It’s a chance to connect with others after a long day of studying in isolation.”
Her advice for starting a fitness routine? “Find what you enjoy and go from there. Fitness doesn’t have to mean the gym — try swimming, dancing, or something new with a friend. And always be safe when starting a new workout.”
Her current go-to track? “Na Na Na” by Lay Bankz — a crowd favorite in her classes.
