How I Fell In Love With Fitness
When it comes to working out, I’m all about versatility. I love switching it up between Pilates, HIIT, barre, dance, running, yoga, boxing, you name it. Yes, working out should be effective, but it should also be FUN. And for me, fun means finding various workouts that make me truly happy.
Growing up, I was very active in dancing, cheerleading, gymnastics, and kickboxing, and I LOVED them all. It was a bonus that the extracurricular activities I enjoyed had elements of physical exercise. I was happy during every minute of the process in classes and practices. But as I grew older, I started to lose the fun in fitness.
I first started working out in an actual gym when I was in college, and had my mind focused on the end result, rather than enjoying the actual activity. I thought I loved working out, but looking back, I was probably more addicted to the idea of being an ideal body type and pushing myself to the max. Of course, getting in shape is a fantastic benefit of working out, but I had become so obsessed that I worked out to the extreme. Perfectionism took over and nothing was ever enough - even when I was to the point of exhaustion. Over time, I lost sight of what I was trying to achieve (no matter how fit or toned I became from working out).
In my first years living in New York post college, I signed up for a hip hop dance class at Broadway Dance Center just to try something new. Just entering the BDC building made me feel totally alive as my parents used to take me there now and then when I was a kid. I felt like I was brought back to childhood, when physical exercise was carefree and FUN. During class, I had the biggest smile on my face and honestly never thought about the fact that I was “working out.” Instead, I was so focused on the routine that I barely realized how many calories I was burning.
I took a couple other classes that week, ate healthy and wholesome meals, and I didn’t gain a pound which was better than I was feeling when I worked out to the extreme. A light bulb went off - I could workout, lose weight, and have a blast all at the same time.
It’s as simple as finding what you love and doing more of it.
Here is a recent video from a pop dance class I took at Banana Skirt Productions (CLICK BELOW FOR VIDEO).
If you love to be a part of a sports team, take a chance and sign up for ZOG Sports. If you’re more of a runner, switch up your playlist and find different routes along the water (and take a break every now and then to sightsee). If you miss ballet or tap from your childhood years, sign up for an open-level class. There are so many opportunities right at your fingertips, especially in New York City, and it’s important to remember that you don’t have to feel like there’s one right way to workout.
Keeping an element of fun is also why I offer different varieties when it comes to Pilates training and complement the workouts with optional upbeat, pop music. Clients can switch it up with a signature Pilates routine, add in high-intensity interval training elements, and/or have a combination of amped up cardio with active cooldown/stretching.
Varying my workout routine is similar to how I feel about my fitness gear. Whenever I buy new sportswear or pair of sneakers, I feel excited to “break them in.” JUXU Sport athletic wear is one of my fave fitness brands because the clothes are comfortable, versatile, and look great. The best part is they fit all shapes and sizes. No matter where are you in your fitness journey, everyone deserves to look and feel his or her personal best.
As a thank you for your continued support on my fitness journey personally and professionally, I’ve partnered with JUXU Sport to give all of you 20% off all JUXU Sport gear. Use discount code 20OFFFORSUMMERMC to take advantage of this limited-time offer!
Thanks again for all your continued love and support!
Lots of love,
Melanie