Rae Compton

Yoga Instructor

meet Rae

I grew up in Colorado Springs as a military kid, always searching for ways to connect to the outdoors and to move my body. Movement became my anchor early on. In high school, I ran track, played volleyball, and spent every chance I could hiking. Physical challenge felt natural and grounding—it was where I felt most like myself. Fast forward to present, I work in wildland fire as a Fire Planner, teach yoga, and spend time with my little family, Josh and Amélie.

Turning point

I took my first yoga class at sixteen and was shocked that downward-facing-dog was considered a resting pose.” Years later, after moving to Boulder, I discovered Forrest Yoga — and something clicked. The combination of breath, heat, long holds, and deep body awareness felt both challenging and healing.

Around the same time, I began CrossFit while preparing for wildland firefighting on a hotshot crew. Early-morning workouts, long days in the woods as a forester, and evening yoga became my rhythm. That season taught me that strength and softness aren’t opposites — they’re partners. Yoga and CrossFit became the yin and yang that shaped my resilience in my twenties, both physically and mentally.

motivation & passion

I’m passionate about helping athletes, wildland firefighters, and anyone navigating injury or recovery. My passion lies in helping people build strong, resilient bodies while also creating space for healing, awareness, and connection. I believe real strength includes breath, mobility, recovery, and the ability to listen inward. Whether in the gym or on the mat, my goal is to help people move well, feel capable, and cultivate balance that extends beyond their workouts — especially in seasons of rebuilding, like postpartum or post-injury.

degrees & certifications

  • Registered Yoga Teacher 200, Yoga Alliance

  • Forrest Yoga Foundational Teacher Training with Ana Forrest and José Calarco (Barcelona)

  • Bachelor of Science in Forestry from CSU

  • EMT-Basic

  • Wildland Firefighter (red carded): Helicopter Manager, ICT5, Heavy Equipment Boss, SITL

  • Upcoming certificate: Poppy Perinatal (Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga)

  • Yoga Tune Up Sponsor