WHERE EXERCISE, CAREER PATH, AND YOUTH MEET

By Robert Balajadia

Hard work is the usually the recipe for success and not many young people display that more than 19-year-old Joneen Terlaje, who has big dreams and is working hard now to achieve them.

The now National volleyball player, full-time student, and Synergy Studios exercise instructor plans to make fitness more than just a lifestyle, but a career as well.

“One day, I plan on having my very own fitness business at a very young age. I believe in everyone to prosper into a healthier way of life and I believe everyone can reach their dreams,” said Terlaje.

With a healthy dose of exercise, Joneen Terlaje said she is in the greatest shape of her life. (photo courtesy of Joneen Terlaje’s Facebook.)

The list of exercise Terlaje partakes in daily stem from her history of a high school athlete where she played every sport she could. She played volleyball, softball, wrestling, tackle rugby and soccer for the ND Royals.

Terlaje’s dream is not just wishful thinking as she has already started building a foundation for her planned success in a pursuit to major in business/entrepreneurship. She is taking six college courses, where the average is five or less, while still managing to fit in a healthy dose of exercise.

“I workout at least five times a week and I am in the greatest shape of my life. Graduating from ND has prepared me for my future endeavors by helping me stay committed to a busy lifestyle. I learned to juggle sports and academics,” explained Terlaje on the early come up.

Terlaje faces the normal challenges like any college student, always being “on the go” and feeling the need to eat something quick, which is almost always fast food. She admitted that it is hard to be a college student and develop a constant workout schedule, but Terlaje did give advice to those in such a bind.

“If college students would attain healthier eating habits, they wouldn’t have to work out as much,” she added.

Watching her play volleyball speaks volumes on her athletic ability alone, in being that she is one of the teams hardest hitters, if not the hardest, of Guam’s best female volleyballers.

There aren’t many things Terlaje can’t do thanks to her commitment to exercise. (photo courtesy of Terlaje’s Facebook.)

The certified “Tread and Shred” Instructor at Synergy Studios displays her passion for fitness each and every class she teaches.

“The feeling of observing people workout and attain a healthier lifestyle is impeccable. I believe in myself to help people become healthier, stronger, and live longer!”

It also drives her, “I love the feeling after a great workout; a healthier lifestyle is a happier lifestyle.” she added.

Her busy schedule depletes her personal time, but she never forgets the people who are closest to her.

“I wouldn’t be able to succeed without the people who matter most to me, my family! Throughout my life, time management is a huge factor. Balancing your life responsibly can eventually lead you to success.”

Terlaje proves it’s never too early to start planning for a successful future. Exercise may just be an outlet for some and a routine for others, but exercise and fitness are proving to be everything and more for the likes of one ambitious young adult.

Don’t bother trying to tell her she’s too young or too unexperienced, she obviously doesn’t have time for that.

“Take care of your body, it’s the only place you live in!” – Joneen Terlaje

Terlaje takes a pic near the court during the 2013 East Asian Games. (photo courtesy of Joneen Terlaje’s Facebook.)

Terlaje is now most likely known as “The Fit Girl.” (photo courtesy of Joneen Terlaje’s Facebook.)