We recently connected with Marlene Rookwood and have shared our conversation below.

Marlene, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea

I have always struggled with my weight and self perception. As a teen, joining the cheerleading team in high school was the first place I was able to make the connection between exercise, wellness and joy.

Throughout my journey into adulthood, I carried this lesson with me. I found fun ways to exercise as an avenue to ensure my physical health was addressed as well as my stress levels and overall mental wellness were taken care of.

Once I became a mother, everything changed. My schedule shifted, exhaustion took over and my body was just not the same. I struggled to find a way to balance my wellness. For a few years I taught Zumba at work, which I loved. Unfortunately, the pandemic placed a full stop and I was faced with finding a new platform.

This became the beginning of Rock with Rook! I began to draft a business plan that would target the working mother or woman that did not want to choose between the demands of life and wellness. As an educator I learned several mindfulness strategies that I know could benefit myself and women alike. I also knew that in person forums would not be possible at the time, thus zoom became a favorable platform.

In 2020, I launched Rock with Zoom Wellness on zoom. I blended mindful check-ins with weight training to challenge our bodies and build mental strength. My goal was to encourage women to make time for themselves and transform their mind and body. Not only for aesthetics but as a necessity in life.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Curator of Rock With Rook Wellness (online fitness and wellness). My focus is to lift up mothers and women such as myself that no longer want to choose between taking care of themselves and the demands of every day life. Physical, Mental and Emotional Wellness are necessities and must be accessible to all.

I offer online workout sessions in the morning and some evenings.

Additionally, I love to participate in detox challenges with my crew as an additional layer of clearing our bodies and minds.

I am most proud of the testimonies from my crew that have continued their journey and still share their progress.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I am currently in this place. During the pandemic, my platform was needed. With the reopening of gyms, that need has shifted.

I am currently leaning toward consulting, as aligned to my philosophy of overall wellness. My goal is to support women in identifying their needs and developing an action plan.

My goal is to continue on as an accountability partner and resource provider.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Rock with Rook leads by example. My following is based on my authenticity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: rockwithrookwellness

Image Credits

Marlene Rookwood