Marina McLennan is the founder of Exercise Rhymes™, dedicated to helping adults and children have fun exercising together and encouraging lifelong fitness habits. As an active, health-conscious new mom with limited time to exercise alone, Marina created Exercise Rhymes as family playtime focused on fitness and fun.  Marina studied dance for 15 years, and taught dance to students of all ages for many years. Marina has practiced yoga for over 10 years, and loves to exercise with her family. Marina also has a business degree from the Ivey School of Business and many years of consulting experience.  Marina currently co-teaches the Fit to Learn Preschool and other children’s fitness classes at Lifetime Fitness in Scottsdale Arizona. Marina is also the children’s fitness specialist for the prodigybabytoys.com expert panel.

1. What businesses do you and/or your family run?

I founded Exercise Rhymes, LLC with the mission of helping adults and children engage in physical fitness together. I created fitness flash cards and also teach classes at Lifetime Fitness in Scottsdale Arizona.


2. What made you decide to work from home?

I was looking for a way to use my business skills as an entrepreneur so I could be home with our new daughter Isabel. She inspired me to create Exercise Rhymes as I searched for ways combine playtime with exercise to get back in shape.


3. What kind of support have you gotten from your community?

I have been blessed with the encouragement of fellow moms and friends in my playgroups and the community.


4. What sort of things does being self-employed allow you to do, for example, being involved in your child's life, school projects...etc?

I am lucky that I can involve my daughter in my business while doing Exercise Rhymes at home and during demonstrations. Working from home gives me the ability to spend time with my daughter during the day rather than have her in daycare.


5. How do you feel your children see you as an entrepreneur? What things are they learning by watching you work?

My daughter has learned to be a good helper and she enjoys playing teacher. She is also gaining physical strength and coordination from our Exercise Rhymes playtime.

 
6. How is being a self-employed parent difficult?  What sort of things (if any) would make your job easier?

Managing my schedule is the most difficult with many family and business roles and responsibilities. Hearing success stories and having additional support from others also who have built their businesses is always appreciated.


7. What would you most like for consumers to know about you and the business that you run?

Exercise Rhymes™ fitness flash cards provide a fun, fast & portable way for adults to exercise with young children almost anywhere. Exercise Rhymes make family fitness fun!


8. What are you most proud of as a parent?

I’m proud to be a positive role model for my child. I am proud she is a loving and kind person.


9. Do you have any advice for other parents who are running their own businesses or want to?
Stay true to your vision and unique genius.


10. What was your favorite childhood toy?

Tape player and microphone