When it came time to create her retreat, fitness instructor Ingrid Nelson decided not to hold back…
And why not? Her clientele — a group of hardcore, hard-working fitness gurus from Washington, DC — deserve nothing less. After all, they did declare her Washingtonian Magazine’s Best Personal Trainer earlier this year, so when she began creating her retreat, she chose an incredible venue, a uniquely personalized itinerary, complete with one-on-one sessions for everyone going, and all in one of the most beautiful places around, Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
On May 14, Ingrid will lead her retreat to the 5-Star Rosewood Mayakoba, awarded #1 Resort in Mexico 2013 by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Trip Advisor. We asked her about how she filled her trip to this incredible place.
Trip Tribe: How long have you been teaching yoga/fitness?
Ingrid Nelson: 7 years
What were the main reasons why you wanted to lead a retreat?
I wanted to give my clientele and opportunity to truly treat themselves to fitness and luxury.
What piece of advice would you offer to someone organizing a retreat for the first time?
I have learned that when the trip is more expensive, you should allow more time for participants to organize themselves and prepare for the trip. I also think time of year is crucial.
How did you get the word out about your retreat?
I’ve spread the word about Trip Tribe through social media, my website, personal training newsletters, and word of mouth.
Which marketing tactic seemed to work the best?
Creating anticipation of an upcoming announcement has been a great way for me to create buzz around my trip.
Who were the participants of your trip?
Friends, regular students, referrals from professional networks
What is your current favorite yoga pose/exercise?
Burpees
What is your current must have piece of yoga/fitness equipment or apparel?
Nike Flow Tank Top
What did you consider most important when deciding on a location for your retreat?
Travel time from the East Coast.
Ingrid Nelson, the founder of The ING Group believes that finding the right workout is like finding the right pair of jeans; it’s different for each person. She works with each client to find a routine that’s right for them and that can transform their body. Ingrid was named D.C.’s best personal trainer 2014 by Washingtonian Magazine, and is a PureRyde spin instructor, Equinox, Sweetgreen Fitness Ambassador, and one of Nike’s top personal ELITE trainers on the East Coast.
Originally published May 2015