06/04/2026
Meet SLAM Boss Elise Halbert
I met Elise early in the summer of 2024. She came to SLAM with impressively heavy weights, her two boys in tow and a round pregnant belly. I asked her after class, “Do you know what you’re having?” She got a pained look and told me that she and her husband had found out at her 20 week appointment that her son, Oliver, had a condition that meant he would not live longer than a few hours after being born. My heart flooded with grief and love for this person I had just met. I remember thinking “How is she still standing?”
I watched that summer as Elise lovingly carried her baby, exercised, cared for her two other children and (most incredibly) put on happy faces for other pregnant women who were awaiting the arrivals of their own babies. I was in awe of her to say the least.
Later that summer, Oliver was born. Elise held him for two precious hours before he passed peacefully in her arms. After that unimaginable loss, I watched as the SLAM community surrounded Elise and her family with love and support. It was then that I saw what this group really is. It is certainly an exercise group, but much, much more than that, it is a community of women who show up for one another— not only in the celebratory moments but in the heartbreaking ones.
Inspired by Oliver’s memory, Elise found the courage to step into the role of SLAM boss in the summer of 2025. It has not always been easy. There were days when Elise had to step away to wipe away tears and then get back to coaching. She has done an amazing job helping each member of SLAM to find her fitness rhythm and caring for each one with an understanding that comes from experience.
Now, in the summer of 2026 we get to celebrate with Elise! Her fourth child was born (a girl!!!) last week and the ladies of SLAM could NOT be more excited. Elise coached SLAM all 9 months of pregnancy. She taught class the day before she gave birth. We are all so inspired by her hard work, her overcoming spirit and (most importantly) the very heavy weights she seems to sling around effortlessly.
You’re our hero Elise! Congratulations!
Love, Sarah-Gail Chen (the other SLAM Boss)
