Member Spotlight: India Bailey - A Mindful Fitness Coach Who’s Forging Her Own Path

Convene makes spaces and experiences that draw people together to bring out their best. But we’d be nowhere without the remarkable individuals from our vibrant community. In this series, we shine a spotlight on the members and companies who inspire those around them with their extraordinary work.

Member: India Bailey

Company: Self-employed

Location: 22 Bishopsgate, London

India Bailey is a multi-talented fitness instructor who specializes in lifting up those around her and building strong communities. She was born in Vancouver, raised in Mexico, and soon after graduating from McGill University in Montreal, relocated to London to pursue a career in fitness.

We spoke with India about getting her start as a spin instructor, her predictions for the future of the fitness industry, and the power of leaning into the unknown.

Tell us about yourself and your role.

I am Canadian-born, Mexican-bred, and currently living in London. My passion has always been creating experiences for people – it started when I was young, and I played every sport under the sun. After going to McGill University for four years, I decided to move to London at 24, where I had the idea to become a spin instructor.

Currently, I teach at BXR [fitness center], I do a lot of freelance work in events and modeling, and recently became the Wellness Editor for Circle Zero Eight magazine that spotlights sport, style and culture. 

What have the past few years been like for you?

I’ve experienced a couple of challenges in my industry with certain individuals in power. There’s a lot of toxic energy within the fitness industry, so I kind of stepped away from it. It was very scary, but I knew that if I don’t have my word then I don’t have anything, and stepping away actually allowed me to open myself up to new, exciting opportunities and freelance work. 

My biggest wins have been buying a house, trusting my intuition, and allowing myself to lean into the unknown. In terms of setbacks, I always try to remember that they’re uncomfortable and frustrating in the moment, but ultimately, they tend to pivot you in the right direction.

What are your plans for 2023?

There’s this new company called Sanctum, founded in Amsterdam. They focus on mindful movement that connects the spirit and body; it’s mental and physical, and you’re able to access different parts of your chakras through it, which is amazing. They want me to be there to help with the expansion. 

What are your predictions for general fitness industry trends in 2023?

It’s a hard one, because I’m starting to see imagery on Instagram that makes me think we’re going back to the 90’s heroin chic look, which I can’t stand to see again. On the other hand, I feel like there’s going to be more people doing what Sanctum is doing, which is targeting mental well-being. Those that feel more comfortable working out at home will probably remain at home. But I’m starting to see more people coming back to gyms and enjoying that sense of community. 

Tell us about your journey and experience with Convene.

I teach classes in the same building, and I’ve recently moved to East London. I was already looking for a convenient shared workspace with the right energy and culture, so when someone from the team gave me a tour, I thought it was fantastic. I feel so lucky and privileged to be able to work here. 

What are your thoughts on the facilities?

I don’t have the option at home to have privacy and still remain professional. Obviously, during lockdown, having your home in the background of your calls became more normalized. Now, depending on how you want to carry yourself, I think having the opportunity to use these spaces is invaluable.

What are the benefits of working at Convene?

It forces me to stay focused. Once I’m in the right environment – where I see people working and staying focused – [it’s] really good for me because I have ADHD. If I’m at home, it’s so hard. I could do my laundry – I could do anything. Being here puts me in the right mindset to work. 

It also facilitates connection. If you’re listening in on somebody’s conversation, you can say: “Sorry for eavesdropping, but I have an idea for you.” Convene creates a nice space to let that happen and build relationships, which is very convenient. 

What do you like about being a member of Convene?

I love the free snacks, and that if I were ever to get a dog, that I could bring them to work. I also love the location, and the interior decor. The facilities are amazing. 

What is your favorite spot in the Convene space? 

The booths! I like being in my own little space; it really helps with my focus, having an insular kind of experience without being fully tucked away in one of the smaller rooms.

For more information on India Bailey’s workouts, upcoming events, and more, check her out on Instagram (@india_bailey).

Curious to know more about what it’s like to work at a Convene space? Head over to our WorkPlace solutions page. And please feel free to connect with us directly if you’re ready to join our Membership Community.

We’re here to help you be your best. Work extraordinary with Convene.