So the kids are back in school (finally), and now you can return to your fitness routine.
Oh, wait … You don’t have a routine? Or maybe you’re tired of your old one?
For those who do not know me, I’ve been a fitness instructor and trainer on the Main Line for almost 30 years. I’ve taught in almost every Main Line gym, and I’m certified by the American Council on Exercise, one of the most demanding and prestigious boards in the fitness industry. I’m the mother of four amazing young adults, the grandmother of four beautiful little grandkids, and the wife of a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Fifteen years ago, I opened the area’s first group cardio-and-strength studio. I pride myself in teaching unique and creative group fitness classes—always changing the moves, never repeating the same class twice.
But enough about me—let’s get back to you. There will be a lot more to come in this monthly blog, but here are a few fitness rules to live by to get you started.
1. Talk to friends who work out regularly. Finding a good fitness class is like finding a good hairstylist. Word-of-mouth is the way to go.
2. Try formats that combine cardio, strength and flexibility, rather than just one modality—like kickboxing, barre, etc.
3. Choose the instructor first and the class second. It’s not uncommon around here to float from one great instructor to another, rather than sticking to one facility. A phenomenal instructor can make the most tedious class super-fun.
4. Exercising six days a week is the new recommendation by the American Heart Association. So get your workout in before you get distracted by all the other stuff that always chews up your day.
5. Mix things up. The quickest way to fall off the fitness wagon is to do the same thing every day—that is, unless you absolutely love the class and you cannot get enough of it.
Next month, I’ll tell you how to avoid weight gain during the holidays.
