January AOTM-Raven Dewitt

From “Gym-Curious” to Solcana

Raven’s fitness journey began with a spark of curiosity and a dash of apprehension. “I mentioned to a friend that I was gym-curious but hesitant about a typical gym environment,” Raven recalls. That friend introduced them to Solcana, and after signing up for an Empower session, they’ve been attending ever since.

Initially, Raven was incredibly nervous to try something new. “I had zero experience with a barbell, and nearly every movement was brand new to me,” Raven admits. But the welcoming and supportive atmosphere at Solcana quickly made all the difference. “The coaches have been incredibly helpful and encouraging, and it’s been a joy to discover new ways to move my body. Not to mention, the coaches rule and my fellow athletes are so sweet and make classes a lot of fun.”

Coach Jeff shares, "Raven’s gotten so strong and smooth with it since starting at Solcana, and has such a good and calming presence in classes. She’s also a badass cyclist - I love following her bike packing and long-distance cycling adventures!"

Coach Cate mentions, "Raven is the best!!!! She's so fun to coach and take classes with! I'm always so excited to see her in the gym and she is such a badass!!!"

Celebrating Wins: From Push-Ups to Pull-Ups

Raven has come a long way since “having zero experience with a barbell.” Their recent accomplishments include a 215-pound deadlift and stringing together multiple push-ups. “I was hardly able to do one when I began this journey!” Raven shares.

As for the next big goal? “My 2025 goal is to get an unassisted pull-up,” Raven says with determination.

Pedaling Toward Strength: Cycling as Motivation

A lifelong love for cycling fuels Raven’s drive to get stronger. Since joining Solcana, the impact on their endurance and power has been undeniable. “I’ve seen significant improvements in my strength, which has positively impacted my cycling,” Raven explains.

Raven’s cycling adventures are nothing short of impressive. Raven is passionate about year-round bike commuting and endurance cycling, especially gravel rides, bikepacking, and winter ultras. In August, Raven completed the Day Across Minnesota—a grueling 242-mile gravel race completed in under 24 hours. And they’re not stopping there. This winter, Raven is tackling two ultra-distance winter races: the Tuscobia 160 and the Arrowhead 135.

“Training at Solcana is preparing me well for pedaling (and sometimes pushing) my fully loaded bike through the snow!” Raven says.

Coach Garrett H says, "I love having Raven in class! She’s enthusiastic, coachable, and so strong setting a great example for others in class. She’s also super consistent, funny, and has the cutest cat son I’ve ever seen!"

Coach Nikki shares, "Yay Raven!! Raven has the best smile and such fun vibes in class- and I totally enjoy coaching her. I also love following her amazing bike adventures on Instagram! In the gym I am always impressed with Raven’s consistency, dedication to beautiful form, and how she will run outdoors in ANY weather. I also love that I semi frequently see her at her day job and she is just as sweet and fun outside of the gym. <3"

Life Beyond the Gym: Books, Bikes, and Cats

When not at the gym or on their bike, Raven’s life is filled with simple joys. They balance their restaurant job with quiet moments spent reading (an impressive 34 books in 2024!), snuggling with their cat, and cooking for fun.

Raven also enjoys long walks and exploring their creative side through stained glass projects.

A Community That Moves You Forward

Reflecting on their journey, Raven is grateful for the supportive environment at Solcana that has made all the difference.

With races on the horizon and goals within reach, Raven’s Solcana story is just getting started. Here’s to more miles, more milestones, and more moments of joy on and off the bike! We are so  grateful to have such a wonderful member at Solcana!