WellcommDC [02.24.25]

WellcommDC: The Best of the DMV's Wellness Community

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Wellcomm DC
February 24, 2025

WellcommDC is the email newsletter bringing you the best of the DMV’s wellness community. Get On The List and get WellcommDC sent directly to your inbox. Have a friend who would love WellcommDC? Then please forward our email or tag them on one of our IG posts. Email [email protected] or slide into our DMs with your tips.

[HIGH FIVE] We gave a High Five to Kate Hastings (@katee_hastings), a Barry’s instructor and co-founder of the After Hours Run Club.

WellcommDC: Where do you work…out?

Kate Hastings: I mostly work out at Barry’s, where I take classes and also coach. You can catch me bright and early with Kevin DiMichele (@kziilla), Jasmine Bowden (@jasminebowdenfitness), Nazinga Thomas (@carnelian.zing_), and Johnny Masarik (@callmeyiannis). I’m also a regular at [solidcore], where I take classes with Ishika Khemani (@ishkhemani), Abigail Wedding (@abigailwedding) and Ally Mundy (@ally_mundy). On Wednesdays, I lead a weekly running club called The After Hours Run Club with William Filiault (@_williamfiliault). The focus there is less on speed and more on making new connections—we jog at a relaxed 10-11 minute mile pace and have a blast doing it!

WDC: What does wellness mean to you?

KH: Wellness has been an integral part of my life since I was eight years old. Growing up, I found wellness in training sessions—whether swimming, running, or later competing in triathlons on the U.S. circuit in high school. These moments of movement gave me a sense of balance and clarity. In college, I transitioned to rowing, which further deepened my connection to fitness and personal growth.

Over time, I’ve come to realize that wellness is more than just physical activity. Now, it’s about carving out solo time to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with myself. Wellness, for me, isn’t just found in the sweat of a workout—it’s also in the stillness of journaling or moments of quiet reflection. It’s a holistic approach, balancing movement and mindfulness, and finding peace within the ebb and flow of life.

WDC: What are your wellness goals over the next twelve months?

KH: Over the past fifteen years, I have trained pretty intensely—from the age of eight through 23. My childhood and high school years were focused on consistent training, with only about two weeks off each August. After finishing college, I felt the need to shift gears and focus on enjoying movement without the pressure of tracking miles or hitting specific performance metrics. Over the next twelve months, my goal is to embrace a more balanced approach to wellness—one that allows me to explore different ways of moving my body without the stress of competition or numbers. I’m also prioritizing strengthening my body and addressing lingering issues from my years in competitive sports. In summary, it’s about rethinking wellness and focusing on long-term health and joy in movement.

WDC: Who are some people who inspire you, motivate you, or keep you accountable when it comes to your wellness?

WDC: What advice would you share with someone looking to change their wellness routine?

KH: My advice is to take advantage of new client specials or introductory offers at different places. It’s a great way to try out a variety of classes or activities without making a long-term commitment, and it helps you figure out what you truly enjoy. I also think bringing a buddy along can make trying something new more fun and less intimidating. Whether it’s a fitness class, a yoga session, or something completely different, having someone with you can make the experience more enjoyable and motivate you to keep going.

Know someone in the DMV who deserves a High Five? Click here to submit your nomination so we can consider them for a future WellcommDC High Five profile!

[MOVEMENT] Movement Fest DC is bringing the energy to The Square DC on Saturday, March 1st, from 11 am - 4 pm. Expect a full day of movement, music, and connection featuring some of the best instructors and wellness leaders in the DMV. Secure your spot now and get ready to flow, sweat, and celebrate community! [HT Caren Plummer (@care_plummer)]

[RUNNERS] Strengthen, stretch, and recover with Yoga for Runners at Alo Georgetown on Sunday, March 2nd, at 8:15 am led by the great Christine Ho (christine.who). From Christine, "Alo Yoga's monthly Yoga for Runners is back on March 2 at 8:15am. This will be an all-level yoga class focused on mobility and injury prevention. All are welcome, whether you are a runner or not!" Reserve your spot and get ready to flow with the running community. [Stretch Stronger]

[PARTNER] Bring your SO to class this February for free at barre3 DC 14th Street. Valentine’s Day may be over, but the love continues with a complimentary +1 for your significant other in any 6:45 pm class this month. Details here. Sign up yourself and they’ll be added to class. [Barre Together] 

[HIRING] CUT SEVEN is looking for new captains to lead the charge. Founded by Alex Perrin (@alex.perrin7) and Chris Perrin (@chrisperrin7), CUT SEVEN is a high intensity training community built on accountability and team based performance. If you are ready to inspire athletes this is your call to step up. Apply now to be part of the CUT SEVEN coaching team [Not Be Done Alone]

That’s this week’s edition of WellcommDC. Like what you read? Get On The List and get future editions sent directly to your inbox. Have a friend who needs to read WellcommDC? Forward our email to them. Drop us a line at [email protected] or slide in with tips. Until next time, take care of yourself, and take care of each other.

Go For It,

Your WellcommDC Team (@wellcommdc)

Transform Your Self. Transform Your Community. Transform Your World.