bposhphoto@me.com In college, my freshman year was the time I realized that my mom was not there to tell me I couldn’t eat raw cookie dough for dinner and cold pizza for breakfast. I had no workout routine. Instead of the “freshman 15”, I gained like the Freshman 40.. I got to a point where I only wore sweatpants because I couldn’t bare to go up in a size in jeans and they felt too restricting. I finally got fed up being stuck in that body. I started just walking the track at night.. a couple laps at a time. Sometimes I alternated running and walking. Soon, I started feeling the same endorphins you have from eating, also come from exercising. When I was 40 weeks pregnant with my first child I still didn’t weigh what I did that time in college. And after each baby, I knew how important it was to me to feel free. To feel like I could do anything I wanted – run, play with my kids, serve, travel, etc. I am surrounded by people who are house stricken, or that moving causes them pain and I am beyond thankful to have a healthy body and during each workout I do, I say a prayer thanking God for that. You learn endurance, patience, self-control, that pain is temporary and being able to move is a gift.
I love trying new workouts and equipment. I’ve compiled a list of suggestions depending on what your goals are.
- To lose weight- you need something to burn those calories.. I suggest FlyWheel Sports or a Peloton/ Peloton subscription. Indoor cycling provides a high energy, high calorie burn for every fitness level. The more out of shape you are, the more calories you burn per minute. Complimented with a low carb lifestyle, you can see changes pretty quickly. First Class Free.
- Want your body to be more narrow? I have seen amazing results with Barre3. They have online classes, 2 south charlotte studios, and free childcare included in their membership. If you are a mom of preschoolers or younger, this is a no-excuse type place. I have never loved my legs/ hips/ butt more than just a few months at barre3. Membership is $129/m and your first week is FREE.
- Already at your goal weight but want to be more toned or have a thinner face? Try Hot Yoga at Y2. Their music is amazing and you will sweat more than ever. Instant water weightloss is a bonus, but this class is NOT easy. You will strengthen your legs, core, and arms in this 1hr- 1hr+ class. They offer promotions regularly so you don’t have to pay full price. 3 weeks Unlimited for $39.
- Want killer abs? I am obsessed with Core704. They have 2 locations making it convenient to find a class that fits my schedule. The vibe is loud music, neon lights and the best deep core workout you’ve ever had. Get lean and toned without bulking. No calluses, no tire rolling, no ropes.. just an amazing machine with the perfect amount of resistance and encouragement from awesome couches. 50 min class. They offer 1 week unlimited for FREE.
- Not a work out.. but I have seen some amazing changes from meeting with a dietician. She gave me some vitamins and supplements and offered some diet advice to feel better, have more energy, and to relieve constipation.. I’ve seen decreased inflammation in the lower belly pooch, I used to feel miserable after just 1 glass of wine and now I have no symptoms, and a decreased appetite. Totally check her out if you want to see what’s holding you back from your goals.
