More Than A Workout – Neira's Story of Grit

We often say our community is full of people who show up relentlessly. For themselves, for their goals, and for their community. One of our Mansfield clients, and soon-to-be instructor, Neira Pekmez, is one of those people. Neira is a mom, a full‑time professional, and now a Haymakers for Hope champion.  

When Neira committed to training for Haymakers for Hope, a charity boxing event that raises funds for cancer research, she knew her schedule would be intense. “I took HGF classes in the morning 3–4 times a week and then trained with boxing either right after or later in the day,” she shared. “As a single mom who also worked full time, my schedule had to be consistent every day, every week — so it was the same schedule for months.” Staying consistent with routine was about commitment and showing up, even when it was hard. 

“HGF classes made my core incredibly strong again after having my son almost three years ago,” she explained. “That strength was huge for stability and power when I was training for the match." After hearing about her training, and passion for Athletic Pilates™, Neira’s boxing trainer, Seila, took his first HGF class about a month into her training and immediately saw the importance. “He said it made complete sense why I had such a strong foundation taking HGF classes. Strength training separately from boxing is important for boxers — and Athletic Pilates™ is a great addition because of the time under tension, while keeping intensity lower.” 

With most of Neira’s boxing prep focused on cardio and drills, Higher Ground played a critical role in muscular balance and recovery. “Taking HGF [classes] on top of boxing made a huge difference in my muscles,” she said. “It supported strength without overloading my system.” 

We sat down to ask Neira a few more questions about her journey to the ring, here’s what she said: 

What made you decide to compete in Haymakers For Hope? 

I heard about the organization through a boxing gym and always had it on my bucket list to apply but when my mom was diagnosed with Glioblastoma (a terminal brain cancer) and passed in 2022, I felt like it was a sign to just do it. It was life changing, and I am proud I was able to participate in my mom's honor.   

What strengths did HGF help you build that showed up in the ring? 

HGF classes made my core incredibly strong again after having my son almost 3 years ago, which was a huge bonus for stability and strength when I was training for the boxing match.   

In what way did you shift your nutrition to accommodate your training? 

A LOT of protein and food! I have had issues with disordered eating for most of my life. I have done intuitive eating workshops, read all the books. Nothing changed the way I looked at nutrition and fueling my body until I started boxing training. It took almost a month with my trainer to understand how to fuel my body properly and it was the first time I was able to make a mind/body connection with food and movement. Once I realized what my body needed, training was easier and I got so much out of it.  

How did you find the discipline to box, take class at HGF, run your household, AND maintain a full-time job? 

I scheduled everything, to the minute. I would add showering blocks to my calendar haha. I would not have been able to do everything if I did not schedule my entire day down to the minute. It was grueling at times but I learned to place things of the utmost importance and forget the rest.   

Neira’s journey to the ring was so much fun for our Mansfield community to watch unfold and support her through. If you’re wondering how it ended…. SHE WON!!  

HGF is more than a workout. It’s showing up for yourself even when your plate is full. It’s a community ready to support you in reaching your goals. 

We’re so inspired by you, Neira, and so proud to be part of your story.