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Crusader Chronicles
Diane Pokorny Wilson '95
Interview by Maura Fredey '94
A conversation with Diane Pokorny Wilson ’95, owner of StrollerFit: Exercise with Your Baby. She is married to Jim Wilson ’93 and is the mother of Celia, 3, and Regan, 1.
What is StrollerFit?
StrollerFit is a unique exercise experience for parents and children. In an interactive class, we use strollers, resistance training and body weight to build strength, aerobic endurance and flexibility. The children are entertained by singing, visual stimulation and fun activities. My approach emphasizes the importance of your own health, friendships and your family to overall wellness.
How did you get involved in the company?
After I had Celia, I would go to the gym. I started running with her, but I really missed the social interaction and the muscle conditioning aspects that you can get from other types of exercise. So I thought a lot about starting my own fitness company. Then a friend heard about StrollerFit and told me about it. I decided to buy the franchise because you have some support from a company that is established.
What has been the biggest challenge since you’ve been with StrollerFit?
I have definitely struggled with learning how to balance running a business with raising a family. I put in about fifteen hours a week right now, and that is what I am willing to do. At the same time, I just love my time at home with my kids, and it has surprised me how much I love it. I feel extremely lucky that I have the opportunity to do both in this way.
Did your Holy Cross education pave the way for you to pursue this avenue?
Absolutely. Even in the most basic ways, such as giving me the confidence to know that I have the skills and intelligence to handle managing a business.
Did your Holy Cross experience shape the way you do your job today?
Yes. Actually, I struggled a lot with having a for-profit business. All my experience is with non-profits, and my graduate degree is in non-profit management. [Diane received her MBA from Brandeis University in 2002.] That is why I am passionate about bringing a charity aspect to my StrollerFit franchise. It is very important to me to have a “for others” part of the business.
What’s your favorite Holy Cross memory?
It has to be the friendships and the support I have received from my Holy Cross friends, and of course, Jim, who has been so incredibly supportive. Jim and I even vacation with our Holy Cross friends and all our kids. Last summer at the Mount Washington Hotel in New Hampshire, there were 19 adults and 16 kids!
Do you have a message you’d like to share with other HC alumni/ae?
I think it is so important in life to find work you love. I feel so lucky because I absolutely love what I do.