NuGo Athlete of the Month: Allison Bollinger

Allison Bollinger, a senior dance major at the University at Buffalo, loves NuGo Slim. She has been dancing since the age of four. She is now 21 years old and is from Syracuse, New York. She started dancing just as something to do but quickly fell in love with it. There was a short time period where Allison wasn’t dancing after a move and every day, her 6 year old self would beg, “Mommy, I just want to dance.” Shortly after, she started taking classes as River Rhythms Dance Center, where she danced for the next 12 years.

Allison started dancing competitively at the age of 7. All throughout grade school she would go straight from school to the studio, not getting home until past 9:00pm. The weekends consisted of either extra rehearsal or competitions. As crazy as it was, she loved every second. Graduating high school in 2016, Allison knew she couldn’t stop dancing.

Her dance journey has been full of so many highs and lows but every moment has been so influential. Her greatest achievement thus far would be the time she’s spent here in college. In May, she will graduate with her BFA in dance. “These four years have taught me so much about not just dance, but about the dancer I am continually becoming,” she said.

Growing up as a competitive dancer, some of her accomplishments include winning various regional competitions, receiving a perfect score, and placing in the Top 5 at the World Dance Championship. Her current goal for after graduation is to create a career as a professional dancer. “It would be amazing to dance for a cruise line, being able to travel and do what I love. I’ve always pictured myself being part of a contemporary dance company, residing in my dream home-New York City,” she said.

Allison first tried NuGo about two years ago. On a break from dance she needed a quick and easy pick-me-up. She thought she would try something new, and she is so glad she did! It was the perfect pick and still is to this day! Allison’s favorite NuGo product is NuGo Slim Crunchy Peanut Butter.

"Peanut butter being one of my favorite foods, this bar is to die for, especially coated with dark chocolate! It’s the perfect way to satisfy my (major) sweet tooth, plus it’s a great feeling to eat something that doesn’t only taste great, but is great for the body too!"

As a dancer, she is constantly moving her body. That’s why it’s so important that she has the right fuel.

“NuGo bars are perfect for my busy schedule, having dance classes back to back. The bars have a great balance of the main macronutrients which is always something I look for. It’s the perfect snack to keep me going at my best” .

Outside of dance, Allison loves traveling and spending time with her family and friends. She tries to enjoy nature as much as she can in the warm months. She finds walks around the neighborhood each day a great way to calm her mind, where she listens to podcasts and audiobooks. Also, reading is one of her favorite ways to relax, especially a good suspense book.

“I’m always trying to learn new things. I’ve recently taken up modeling, signing with my first agency. Some of my favorite bookings have been a photoshoot with Udo Spreitzenbarth, the photographer of Tyra Banks’ America’s Next Top Model and a runway show for fashion designer Adam Lippes.”

This summer she started teaching group cycling classes and absolutely loves it! One day, as a passion project, she is eager to write a book, start her own podcast, or create a blog to share all that she’s learned! Follow her journey on Instagram.