The First Correction

“Can I help you with your form?” Adriana’s voice was calm and low by her ear. Claire looked up, pinned by that steady gaze. “You’re pulling with your arms and lower back,” Adriana said with clinical precision.

Adriana stepped closer. “Mind if I…?” Claire shook her head, unable to speak. Adriana positioned herself behind Claire’s left shoulder. The professional distance collapsed. Then she touched her.

One firm, warm hand settled on Claire’s lower back. “This is where you’re breaking. Keep this entire section rigid, like a plank.” The touch was functional, impersonal. But for Claire, it was electric. A current shot up her spine. Her skin tingled where Adriana’s palm rested.

Adriana’s other hand guided Claire’s arm, fingers wrapping lightly around her wrist. “Your arms are just hooks. They only hold the bell.” Claire’s mind went blank. All she could feel was the solid heat on her back, the guiding pressure on her arm.

“Try it again,” Adriana said, hand still on her back. “Hinge at the hips. When you feel the stretch, pop your hips forward. Hard.”

Claire let the bell swing back, then drove her hips forward. The kettlebell sailed upward in a clean arc, floating weightless before descending.

“There,” Adriana’s voice was soft with approval. “You feel the difference?” Claire nodded, breathless. The phantom heat lingered. “Much better,” Adriana said with a small smile before moving on.