Welcome to Urban Jungle!
Welcome to Urban Jungle!
I’m thrilled to share my experience as part of Urban Jungle Self Defense’s “Fight2BFit” project, which celebrates the incredible achievements of our community members. My transformation through Urban Jungle has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life, and I hope my story inspires others to embark on their own paths toward better health and well-being.
My journey began when my son, Sebastian, started training at Urban Jungle. While waiting during his classes, I decided to make better use of my time and joined Michelle’s cardio kickboxing class.
“Since we don’t live nearby, I would spend my time waiting,” I explain. “When Sebastian started attending an advanced class, it didn’t make sense to drive back and forth. I was already exploring the Heights trail, so joining Michelle’s class felt like the perfect way to stay active.”
My first class was a mix of excitement and challenge. I remember it vividly: “The energy was fantastic! I used to hear the music from downstairs while students rushed in. My class was upstairs, so I never saw what was happening below. On my first day, I claimed a spot in the back right corner and just jumped in.”
I’ll be honest—starting was tough. I wasn’t in shape, and Michelle’s class was intense, even for seasoned participants. At my heaviest, I weighed 244 pounds, but I refused to give up. Over the course of three years, with regular classes and dietary changes, I lost nearly 100 pounds, hitting a low of 148 pounds at one point. Now, I hover around 155, and I couldn’t be prouder of this achievement.
Beyond the physical transformation, my confidence soared. Kicks I once dreaded became my strength, and every session brought me a sense of accomplishment. The camaraderie with others in the class was incredibly motivating, and I even got to share this experience with my family. Friday night kickboxing sessions with my husband and son became a cherished routine.
Urban Jungle’s supportive community made all the difference. The friendships I formed and the accountability I felt from my family kept me going, even on the toughest days. Tony and Michelle welcomed me like family, and I’m forever grateful for the bond we’ve built. This journey taught me that with effort and support, I could achieve results far more fulfilling than shortcuts like surgery or medication. It changed my perspective on fitness, making exercise an essential and enjoyable part of my life.
My journey at Urban Jungle also inspired a personal milestone—starting my own business, Skin & Body Work by Amanda Barrera. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed esthetician and massage therapist, I decided to take a leap of faith after my father’s illness reminded me of the importance of family.
“I needed to be more available to my family,” I share. “When the opportunity presented itself, I trusted the signs from the universe, turned in my notice, and started my business. It was the best—and hardest—decision I’ve ever made.”
You can find me on Instagram at @skinandbodybyab and can book her services at:
