Congratulations to Melissa Spence, our November Member of the Month! Melissa is an early morning warrior here at Loco and never fails to bring a positive attitude even at such an early time of day. She works extremely hard, cares deeply about her movement form, and never stops seeking progress week over week. We love seeing that enthusiasm and are grateful to have Melissa as part of our family. Make sure to throw some high fives and fist bumps her way when you see her next. Congratulations, Melissa!

Here’s more about Melissa:

1. How long have you been a member at Loco?

Since April 2021

2. What is your favorite thing about being a Loco athlete?

The members and coaches at Loco.  From the first day I walked in, I always felt like I belonged, never out of place. All the coaches and members encourage each other.  The community is unlike any other gym or group class studio I’ve attended.  

3. What group fitness offerings do you typically participate in at Loco? Do you have a favorite? Discuss.

I mostly participate in Crossfit (shoutout to the early morning crew) but have thrown more bootcamp classes into my rotation recently. Crossfit is my favorite.  I love the combination of strength training and conditioning and the constantly varied classes.  Funny enough, when I joined Loco, I was adamant that I did not want to do Crossfit and wanted nothing to do with it.  Obviously, that quickly changed.  

4. How would you describe the community at Loco?

The community is what sets Loco apart from other gyms. I’ve met some of my closest friends from Loco. It’s the reason I look forward to classes and will often rearrange my schedule to make it to class.  

5. What advice do you have for someone who is intimidated by group fitness?

I hear you; I’ve been there.  But at Loco, you have no reason to be intimidated.  The members are welcoming, and all the workouts can be scaled to your fitness level.  

6. Favorite music to sweat to?

Late 90’s/early 2000’s pop, specifically ‘N SYNC and Britney Spears all day, everyday (insert “Stronger” joke here).  Also love Lizzo, Kendrick Lamar, and really any loud rap/hip-hop.  Weird Al only if Bryan is coaching.  

7. Favorite movement/workout?

The Deadlift

8. Is there a member of the LocoFam that inspires and motivates you to be better? Feel free to give them a shoutout! 

My husband, Sam.  He crushes the Assault bike and rower. He is always supporting me and motivating me to reach for new goals.  Also, Anne Lawless is the O.G. badass and she constantly inspires me.  Coach Katie has really helped me to improve my form and build confidence and Jamo motivates me by complimenting my “beautiful efforts.” 🙂   

9. Favorite post-workout meal?

Protein smoothie with Earthfed Muscle protein powder, fruit, and Blender Bombs–recipe courtesy of Kayla, who is always willing to go halfsies with me on new Earthfed Muscle flavors.

10. What fitness-related goals do you have for 2022?

Continue to work on increasing my lower body strength and lose body fat while increasing muscle.  

11. Describe your athletic abilities in five words or less.

Lift heavy, avoid running.

12. Give us your background story – Try to be brief (you can talk about anything from education to career, to pets, to family, to hobbies, etc).

I grew up in Spartanburg, South Carolina.  I attended Wofford College (go Terriers!) and Charleston School of Law many, many years ago (I was in its third graduating class.).  After law school, I decided to make Charleston my home and have never looked back.  I’ve been practicing law for over 13 years and am a partner with the Charleston office of Butler Snow LLP.  I joined this office in 2021 to establish and lead its labor and employment law practice for the state of South Carolina. I represent employers ranging from small local businesses to national manufacturers and advise them concerning their policies and practices regarding discrimination, harassment, compensations, benefits, etc.  I also represent them in the event they are faced with a lawsuit.

I live in Park Circle with my husband, Sam, and our Boston terrier, Millie.  We live in the Olde Village area and are in the very long process of renovating (or planning to renovate) our 1940s home on Bethany Street.  In my free time, I enjoy reading, frequenting different breweries, bars and restaurants, live music, traveling, and complaining to Sam about the renovations, or lack of renovations, to our home.