Farley Ezekiel, 36, approaches fitness with intention, discipline, and a deep appreciation for growth over perfection. A stay-at-home mom of two, licensed attorney, and committed volunteer, Farley’s days are filled with purpose. From serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate to supporting her church and community, her schedule is layered. Still, she has learned that caring for herself has to be a regular commitment, not an afterthought.
Though she had always been fit, Farley realized she needed to prioritize strength after a back injury following the birth of her second child. With the help of Grit Group Fitness, she has shifted her focus to intentional training, with a shared sentiment of honoring our bodies rather than punishing them. “I used to train based on what I wanted to look like,” Farley reflects. “Now I train to help my body feel its best and function well, because I want to be the mom, and eventually the grandmother, that can keep up, feel good, and stay well.”
In a typical week, Farley can be found in some of the many Grit class offerings, such as Body Pump strength workouts, a boot-camp-style class called Grind Group Training, or a yoga-fusion Body Balance class. She has recently joined a tennis team, and on the weekends, she gets her workouts in by chasing and playing with her kids, Ace and Teddy. However, like any mom, she’s learned that even the best routines are subject to disruption. “As soon as you get into a rhythm, life throws a curveball. I’ve learned to give myself grace and just come back, even when it’s hard.”
Her children may not always join her at the gym, but they witness the impact in everyday life. Whether it’s lifting heavy lumber for a backyard project or turning bedtime into a playful squat session, Farley’s strength is evident in how she can show up for her family.
Her advice to other moms is to focus on their own journey and avoid comparing themselves to anyone, including other moms. “Different seasons and stages of motherhood mean different fitness expectations and goals. If you’re in a different stage of motherhood than I am, start by finding something that you enjoy and slowly incorporate that into your life.”
By Zoe Harrison
Photo by Tindall Stephens
