1. Please share what you love about the HG community and what keeps you coming back for more?
I think I share this sentiment with most HG members, but we really are part of a uniquely awesome community. It took me awhile to be confident enough to try a new gym, but I felt like I fit in from my first HG class. All the instructors are so motivating in their own ways, and the members are so welcoming. I feel like we’re all in this together and it’s so inspiring to see everybody putting in the time and effort to achieve their personal fitness goals. Beyond that, the HG U-Jam community has become an important part of my life. There is something special about the positivity and unity that exudes from every person at every U-Jam class. This community is so uplifting -- plus, it’s the best workout I get each week!
2. Tell us what you enjoy about HG Cycle classes?
Cycle classes have always been the most challenging for me but discovering cycle-fusion classes at HG has been a total game-changer. I end up pushing myself harder on the bike and getting past the mental hurdles knowing that the strength training, stretch, or yoga flow is right around the corner! Not only do I feel like I’m getting a well-rounded workout (I sweat the most in any cycle class!), but I’ve achieved more personal goals on the bike than in any other type of class. I’m also competitive, so the leaderboard keeps me in check. I try to beat my numbers, and make sure I’m on par with the rest of the class and not slacking :)
3. How do you stay SO consistent taking an average of 16 classes each month? Do you plan your schedu
My key to staying consistent is that I make fitness a priority and schedule classes weeks in advance. I add my classes to my family’s calendar and only cancel if necessary. If I do have to cancel, I make it a point to sign up for something else right away.
Between my three kids, my husband, and my job, I’m pulled in every which direction every day, so scheduling time for myself is important for me to be my best for everyone else that depends on me. (I even block my work calendar, because if I don’t get a workout in most days, I find it harder to focus!)
4. Please share your experience taking our HOT yoga classes.
The hot yoga classes at HG are the best! The infrared heat has improved my flexibility and helped me stretch out old injuries that flare up after I take a lot of HIIT or cardio classes in a row. The hot yoga classes have also helped me focus and connect with myself in a deeper way to help me manage my stress and anxiety levels. I love how each HG yoga instructor has their own unique style, so there’s always a yoga class that will fit my mood for the week. My next yoga challenge will be to try more arm balances.
5. Do you have any specific fitness/wellness goals for the year ahead? What is most important to you
Over the next year, I’d like to maintain my consistency, try new classes, add in a few more yoga classes, and keep mixing up my routine. I like to challenge myself and set small, achievable goals -- I think it’s amazing to see what the human body can do and what we can physically achieve when we push past the mental hurdles. If you believe you can do something, you can!
When it comes to my personal health and well-being, my goal is simple: to control what I can by making healthy decisions. I lost my mom to cancer earlier this year, and if there’s one thing she instilled in me, it’s the importance of your overall health and taking care of your body. I may not be able to control my genetics, but I can control how I take care of my body through diet and exercise. I know that taking care of myself -- physically and mentally -- can have such a long term, positive impact, and I’m grateful to have the HG community helping to keep me healthy!