October 2025 Athlete of the Month

Ashwin & Shilpa

A Couple That Lifts Together, Grows Together – Building Strength, Confidence, and Community!

LEarn about Ashwin & Shilpa's Journey at BSC

Congratulations to our October 2025 Athlete of the Month, Ashwin & Shilpa!

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Where were you in your fitness journey before BSC and where are you now?

ASHWIN: Before joining BSC, I was doing the bare minimum—a couple of pushups here and there. I knew I should be doing more to stay healthy, especially to build my core and lower body strength, but I never took action. I feel much more confident and in control of my health now that I'm at BSC.


SHILPA: Before joining BSC, I was experiencing frequent back and lower leg pain. Since starting my fitness journey here, those aches have significantly lessened. I now feel stronger and have more energy after each workout session, and I’ve noticed improvements in both my physical and mental strength.

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What were your goals when you started, and have you achieved any of them?

ASHWIN: Honestly, I didn't have any specific goals. I only attended the free intro class as a parting gift for a friend who was a huge BSC fan and was leaving Portland. The value of the program, led by the incredible BSC instructors, was so convincing that I decided to stay. My goals now are simple: to feel and look fit, and to enjoy junk food and beer without the guilt. I'm proud to say that I've achieved all of them.


SHILPA: My goal when I started was to strengthen my knees and back, and I’ve seen significant improvement over time. I still remember my first day—feeling amazed by the dedication of others at the gym. Looking back, I’m happy with the progress I’ve made since day one.

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What about BSC makes you keep coming back?

ASHWIN: The value of the instructor-led program and the incredible results—I feel fit, I look fit, and I don't feel guilty about enjoying my favorite foods and 'beer curls'.


SHILPA: What keeps me coming back to BSC is the support from my husband, Ashwin, who is my accountability partner and motivates me to consistently attend weekly sessions. I also love the variety in daily workouts—there’s always something new to focus on. The coaches are incredibly encouraging and supportive, which makes each session enjoyable and rewarding.

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When/what was your "ah ha!" moment?

ASHWIN: I've had a few moments that have really cemented my progress. The first was when I subconsciously started using proper techniques to lift heavy things around my house. Another was when my friends and coworkers started noticing and complimenting how fit I looked. And finally, when my smart watch kept decreasing my "fitness age"—that was a huge motivator.


SHILPA: My “aha!” moment came when I realized I could lift heavy objects safely and effectively using the proper technique I learned at BSC. Before joining the program, I wouldn’t have even attempted to lift anything heavy, but now I face these challenges with confidence and skill. 

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Does anyone at the gym (member or trainer) inspire you and why?

ASHWIN: The Build and Burn instructors are a huge inspiration. Even though they follow a common program, each one has a unique coaching technique that keeps every class fresh and engaging. It's also an honor to train alongside amazing members like Jens Deppe, Gagandeep Choudhary, and Chris Smith, who consistently push my limits. I'm truly inspired by the dedication and fitness of Kimberly Grasberger.


SHILPA: Everyone at the gym, both members and trainers, is incredibly inspiring. Their dedication to showing up and pushing themselves every day—even in extreme heat over 100 degrees—is truly motivating. The coaches are always engaging and supportive, ready to help whenever you need them. I'm truly inspired by the dedication and fitness of Tara Spiker Anderson.

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