Sharon Cirunay
HIIT Instructor
Where did you grow up?
Pasadena, CA
It is Friday night - beer, wine, cocktail, or fresh-pressed juice?
Fresh-pressed juice
If you had one last meal, what would you eat?
Fleming’s bone-in rib eye, asparagus with garlic mashed potatoes OR chili - cheese fries! Lol
Do you have a favorite movie or actor/actress?
Gladiator
Actor: Tom Hanks, because he’s that good, Robert Downey Jr, because he’s funny and good, Denzel because he’s all of the above!
Actress: Meryl Streep and Angelina Jolie
You are stuck in LA traffic - what music are you playing to pass the time?
90’s hip/hop and R&B; something I can sing and dance to.
What first got you into fitness?
Long story long. I’ve played sports my whole life. I wasn’t the best player on the team, but I’m all-heart and a strong defender. I played volleyball, basketball, softball, track and was a cheerleader from junior high to college intramural sports. I starting working out with weights at 18. I read all the muscle fitness magazines and watched all the Arnold documentaries.
When I met my husband in college 25 years ago, we both had “lifting heavy things” in common. I had a career of 15 years in medical device and pharmaceutical sales.
I was laid off in 2010, and with 2 beautiful children, I continued to move my body in as many ways a possible to stay sane.
Like sports, I’ve done it all... CrossFit, spinning, yoga, Muy Thai, and JuJitsu. I began group fitness coaching 5 years ago. Now I’m doing something I’m passionate about.
I always get asked, “Sharon, what’s the best type of workouts?” I always respond, “the one that keeps you consistent and coming back for more!”
What is one of your favorite fitness moments so far in life?
When a woman (judge) cried to me and told me my 4 AM class saved her life after her divorce. She added that my energy and zest for life changed hers. I had no idea; we both cried.
What is your favorite and least favorite exercise?
Pull-ups and pull-ups.
What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?
“Recognition brings restoration.” Pastor Michael Todd - I’ll let you dissect that one.
What does the word "Sanctuary" mean to you?
Sanctuary is a place where you can be yourself, without judgment, without hate and full of uncertainty. It’s a place where you can look within, know you were created for something bigger, and leave with your mind/body restored and renewed!