shoutouts

BeLocal publication gives shoutout to LFC!

It is always fun to guest post for other blogs and publications and we’ve done a lot of collaborating over the last five years. Check out some of our favorite features HERE!

This past month, we connected with Cathe Moog, the Managing Editor / Ad Coordinator for N2 Publishing here in Columbus. They put together publications for The Summit (Worthington Hills) and BeLocal. They wanted to feature various running paths in Central Ohio, specifically near the Worthington area. We’ve been running trails around Cbus for years so we were happy to assist and were recently featured in the 2019 edition of BeLocal for the Worthington/Clintonville areas! Check out our post below.

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Thanks for the shout out! Be sure to check out their publications and all the happenings in and around the Columbus area by visiting their site, belocalpub.com/central-ohio.

Tour of Columbus // RISE Fitness Community

Tour of Columbus – RISE Fitness Community, Upper Arlington, Ohio 

[by t gellenbeck]

We have toured a LOT of fitness places around Columbus. Some are “okay” and we are glad we made the visit to check it out. Some are so good we blog about them and include on our Tour of Columbus recaps and visit now and then.

And rarely, we fall in LOVE and will continue going back time and time again.

This has only happened with a handful of places in Cbus since the onset of this blog four years ago. You probably already know that we are obsessed with VPower Yoga, Harbor Yoga and Orange Theory Fitness. Well, add another studio to that short list!

I started attending RISE Fitness Community for their December challenge last month and absolutely fell in love! This is a runner’s dream and the perfect combination of running, speed work, cross training (variety of options including HIIT classes and runner specific strength training in run club classes) and knowledgable coaches that are all runners themselves.

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Although there are a wide variety of run classes and HIIT classes, my work and family schedule has only allowed me to try two different types so far, Rise Run Club (RRC) Power and RRC Precision. As a distance runner, I’m (typically) good about getting in the mileage & the long runs with friends… but I’m always looking to add strength training and speed work to my routine. RISE offers the perfect combination!

RRC Precision is an hour long class where you rotate in 10 minute intervals between the treadmill and your yoga mat, doing runner-specific strength training and floor exercise intervals. RRC Power is very similar, but you do the 30 minute treadmill portion first, then hit the yoga mat for the second 20-30 minutes.  Both classes include a warm up and cool down. Get there a tad early and you can likely get in some additional time on the treadmill as you warm up!  I can almost always count on getting in 3.5 – 4 miles or more.

All of the RRC classes have the option to utilize heart-rate based training. Strap that bad boy on and push yourself into the four different zones throughout your workout! Your trainer will guide you through the session and like any good run coach, will also motivate you, believe in you… and PUSH you! I seriously feel like I could go conquer a marathon after I’ve finished a workout here.  Although I don’t plan to any time in the future. 🙂

I’m excited to check out other classes, especially RISE & RENEW – you start on the treadmill, and then end with a yoga session. Seriously?  My two favorite things! This is the best combination since peanut butter and jelly!!

There are also HIIT classes that take place in the front studio and do not include treadmill running. I haven’t taken this class, but we did a few workouts in the front area…

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When I told the owners, Michelle Flemming & Jessica Kopp, that I wanted to rave about RISE in a blog post, they were willing to answer a few questions for me. I love including things from the owner’s perspective!  Here are a few tidbits from co-owner, Michelle…

Why did you start RISE?

“We started RISE to help more people find health. We believe that each person is on Earth for a purpose and if they are healthy, they can do it with zeal. The world is a better place when people are doing what they are meant to do. Thomas Jefferson said, “Exercise and recreation are as necessary as reading. I will rather say more necessary, because health is worth more than learning.” The root of everything is having a healthy body, mind and soul. RISE is working towards that every day.

From a business perspective, we wanted to be the first to open a running studio in Columbus so that we could expand our love of running to our programming. Running studios are popping up around the country just like cycling did ten years ago. We love being a part of this action-packed opportunity.”

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Me with co-owner, Michelle Flemming

What is your experience as a runner and how does that help make RISE specifically beneficial for runners?

“Both Jess and myself have been runners for a long time. We were athletes growing up in sports that required at least 5 miles per game. After our sport specific days came to an end, we both desired a physical challenge, to feel strong again and of course a little competition (even if it just with ourselves). We ran for exercise and for mental health, but when RISE Run Club came about, we discovered another level of training. We are healthier and stronger athletes than we were ever before, and the best part is that our RISE athletes are actually in better shape than us! Although it is a pride check to get out run by one of our athletes, it is the exact reason that we do what we do: to bring out the best in people.”

Can you give us a quick rundown of the classes and programs you offer to benefit runners?

“We offer RISE Run Club and HIIT IT classes all day, every day of the week and our athletes reach their goals using any combination of the two. In addition to these large group exercise programs, twice annually we offer a half & full marathon training program (July & February). We love helping our athletes set a lofty goal, overcome obstacles, and cross that start line. The finish line is just some extra icing, and it is only after our runners do it that they realize the journey was just as sweet as the glorious finish.”

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Both owners and all the instructors we’ve met so far are kind, genuine and super motivational. They want you to work hard towards your goals, whether its getting into running, training for your first 5K or trying to qualify for Boston. That last one’s not on my personal bucket list, but I’m only half crazy!!

If you want to check it out, they offer first class free and have ongoing specials, challenges & more.  Tomorrow is FRIEND FRIDAY so bring a new training buddy to sweat it out with you and you’ll both receive a free class added to your account!

I really can’t say enough good things about this studio, the workout(s) and the people. I will be a long-term athlete here and can’t wait to have them help me cross many finish lines over the coming years… starting with th

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Left to right // Jen (new member!), Jessica (co-owner), & me in the obnoxious neon 🙂

Tour of Columbus // StudioTorch

We visited StudioTorch last week for a kick-a*s work out and I was sore for days! As a distance runner, I’m usually good about getting in those miles and an occasional yoga session, but strength training and HIIT workouts? Not so much! This was a great workout that should definitely be incorporated for cross training into any runner’s routine.

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Different days of the week mean different workouts, helping keep your workout fresh & provide a complete training routine.  We got lucky – or maybe unlucky – and ended up doing Total Body. That explains why my total body was tight for a couple days! I’m a cardio junkie so I’d personally be drawn towards Fridays, but my body probably needs me to go on a total body or arms/abs day.

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We split into four groups and after a warm up, we rotated between four stations, completing a variety of HIIT circuits including treadmill sprints, 200 meter rows, squats, lunges, TRX exercises, core work… and probably a lot of other things that I’ve blocked out of my memory. My joke never gets old (to me), “I can run forever, but my legs start shaking after 20+ squats!” It was a 55 minute, heart-pounding workout that pushed me to my physical limits.

The head trainer was great and thankfully there were a few coaches in my group who I may-or-may-not-have watched several times during that first rotation. Everyone was super helpful, energetic and the class was just what I needed.

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Being that this was their “soft opening” before their big GRAND opening, most of the coaches, staff and of course, owners were there. After class, we snapped a couple group photos and got to chat with founders, Tom & Jon. Then we headed out to the lobby for their launch party refreshments including lots of goodies from local vendors. This was the royal treatment!  IMG_5029IMG_5036IMG_5038

All in all, this was a FANTASTIC experience.  A good calorie burn, great people, nice & clean facility (it actually still had that ‘new car’ smell!)… all the essentials for a great place to visit if you’re looking for a new place to check out. I *think* I’ve officially committed to attempting a PR in the spring… meaning I’ll need to up my game and start including more strength training & getting that heart rate up.  StudioTorch would be the perfect workout to mix into my spring training – I will be back!

SHOUT out // Beatz Fitness

Guest post by Ciera B // Read more about C on her blog @ agirlsguidesite.wordpress.com

I have been enjoying Zumba for a few years now, but haven’t found my home. I constantly am trying out new gyms and instructors, but nothing has ever truly stuck with me. Recently I was suggested by a friend to try out Beatz Fitness and thought I’d give it a try. There are two locations one in Westerville and one in Powell (a new one is on the way too) so I went to the Westerville location and immediately fell in love!

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The instructor Bobbi is very lively and an amazing instructor. The dances incorporate many moves that truly work out different parts of your body. It’s hard to enjoy Zumba if you don’t feel the music, but Bobbi’s playlists includes a wide range of very up beat music that truly makes you want to dance! The steps can get very intricate, but that is something I enjoy because I am always up for a challenge.

Every time I leave the studio I am sweating and out of breath, but in the best way possible. The Zumba class is an hour long, but the time passes quickly while dancing. I truly believe going to Zumba is an amazing workout especially when you invest yourself in the dance and the moves.  It is definitely a very different type of workout that leaves me in an energized and excited mood for the rest of the day.

Even though I have been going to this specific Zumba class for months now, Bobbi loves keeping all her classes fresh and different for people who are committed to going and want to learn more songs, dances and moves. I would recommend this class for anyone who has ever loved to dance and wants to change up their workout!

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Beatz Fitness class schedule

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Beatz Fitness Studio in Westerville

Sunday Shoutout // Taste of Fitness & The Beauty Barre

“A day late and a dollar short” they say.  These images and this recap are long overdue, but better late than never!  We had a blast at the Taste of Fitness event a few weeks ago.  Rachel Kerr of The Beauty Boost organized this Cbus fit day and if you know her, you know she does FIT very well!  We have worked with Rachel on many events including our somewhat annual RUN+YOGA event and interviewed her a couple years ago for the blog     –> check that out HERE.  We just adore her!  These next two pics are from a Bend Active event a while back…

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The Taste of Fitness 2017 event was well planned and our only regret was not going a bit earlier.  Some fit enthusiasts were there for just a quick taste, while others were there for hours.  There were two components to it…

In one space, instructors from studios all over Columbus were leading 20 min “tastes” of their regular fitness routines.  Various yoga & HIIT workouts were common, including an arm balance session with Studio 543.   We got sweaty, saw lots of friends, met some new faces and of course, snapped a couple pictures.

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In the other space, various fit-minded brands were set up, offering samples of whatever it was they offer.  Juices, clothing, massages, snacks, coffee… you name it and it was there!

There were tons of local brands in attendance, but some of our personal favorites included Thank Yoga, Zest & Native juices, Orange Theory Fitness & Bend Active.  On the way out, we chatted with the barista from The Roosevelt CoffeeHouse and learned a few tips about “acquiring a taste for drinking your coffee black.”  The Taste of Fitness event was crazy amazing and we hope Rachel brings it back each year!

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If you run, you need good shoes. Period.

As we spend hours and miles out on the trail each week, we hear a lot of conversation about the right running shoe or “time to get new shoes!”  Although a good pair can cost a pretty penny, Runner’s World experts state, “If you want to stay healthy, fit, and injury-free, invest in a good pair of running shoes.”  And we agree!

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Below are some questions we hear, as well as our own two-cents as recreational and somewhat experienced runners.

What is the best brand of shoe?

There is no best brand.  There are so many brands out there because all of them offer something unique to fit your personal preferences.  High arch.  Over-pronator.  Lots o’ cushion.  Minimalist (my fav).  Over the last ten years as a distance runner, the most commonly purchased and highly spoken of running brands I’ve personally encountered include Saucony, Brooks, Mizuno and Asics.  I’ve owned each of these and liked them all.  But there are a TON of other great brands out there too, so find something that works for you!

I’m a creature of habit in some ways.  Once I find something I love – a dessert, a good red wine, running shoes – I’m usually loyal to the end.  Don’t get me wrong, I love to try new things and be adventurous, but I’ll always come back to those old faithfuls.  For me personally, my go-to running shoe is the Saucony Kinvara.  It’s a lightweight, neutral shoe that I LOVE (I’m on my fifth pair/edition).

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Kinvara 8 will be released soon and as Saucony says is Comin’ in HOT!  Photo credit: Saucony

I also recently acquired the Saucony Freedom which is similar to the Kinvara, but with more cushioning.  I save those for long & double digit run days, to make my knees a little happier.

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Saucony Freedom with EVERRUN cushioning.  Photo credit: Saucony

What is the right type of shoe for me? 

GO GET FITTED.  Let me repeat, GO GET FITTED.  I HIGHLY recommend you go to your local shoe store to do a run-fit and have an expert find the pair that is best for you.  Heck, while you’re there, some runners even get TWO pairs and rotate them, depending on your mileage.  Stores around Columbus that are especially helpful include Columbus Running Co (also called CRC, my go-to store), Fleet Feet and Front Runner.  CRC does a lot of demonstrations with various brands during their Saturday morning runs, check out their website and events list for upcoming shoe demos.  The Dublin location is owned by Eric Fruth a super-cool, knowledgeable Cbus running expert!

Things to consider…

  • Pronation – I personally underpronate, meaning I have a little more impact on the outside part of my feet/shoes.  Therefore, I am in a neutral shoe.  I could probably move up from a minimalist to a more cushioned shoe, but I like the lightweight feeling and haven’t had any problems (until I hit double digit runs).  Check out this great article & some videos about pronation from Runner’s World.
  • Arch – low, medium, high… plays into your shoe fit. Maybe you’ll need arch support or even orthodics (like my husband).
  • Cushion – pending your pronation, arch, mileage and just general preference, you may need more or less cushion for quality impact support.

Style, color, price may play into your decision as well, but should be less important than the criteria listed above!

How do you know when its time for a new pair?  

Many runners keep track of the miles on the shoe and then replace.  According to TheRunnersGuide.com, “The generally accepted consensus is runners will require a new pair of running shoes every 300-500 miles.”  I’ve never been able to track that and typically just buy a new pair for each spring and fall training season.  I run an average of 15-20 miles per week, give or take, and typically train for a quarter or half marathon each season.  So two pairs per year works for me.  When my knees start hurting on a long run, its almost ALWAYS because I’m in a shoe that has too many miles.  And off to CRC I go!

Any other tips or favorites?  Here are a few from some runners in our crew…

  • “I was a Mizuno WaveRider girl for 14 years… but just recently tried the Brooks Ghost and LOVE them!  Neutral shoe, so comfy!” -Amanda R
  • “Asics gt-2000 series” -Lauren & Leah  // Amanda C just switched to Aasics too!
  • “I like my Mizuno Wave Paradox.  My feet are not great so I need a shoe with a lot of support.” -Deedra
  • “I don’t have a favorite and get whatever the expert fits me in!  I like a lot of arch support and cushion.  I have several pairs of different brands & switch it up!” -Peggy
  • “Saucony ISO Triumphs!” -Christine
  • “Brooks Glycerine!  The key is sizing up a full size and getting personal inserts.” -Jen

I (Teresa) used to wear Brooks Glycerine before switching to Saucony.  My husband loves them too.  Great shoe!

Thanks for reading!  Let us know if you have a favorite running shoe, questions about shoes, running or just ideas for future posts.  For more of our favorite FIT brands, check out our Brands we Heart page.

Photo credits to the following IG accounts: @LivingFitColumbus  @Saucony  @ColumbusRunning

Local Shoutout [Columbus Commons]

 

This summer we are excited to have partnered with the Columbus Commons!  They host a wide variety of events, several of which are fitness related.
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FITNESS CLASSES

We’ve frequented Columbus Commons several times for fit events…we’ve run in races that ended there, attended yoga classes and even organized a RUN+YOGA event last summer with one of our favorite yoga studios, VPower Yoga.  From the Commons website… “No contracts, no excuses! Among the park perks at Columbus Commons are free fitness classes.  Sponsored by United Healthcareand instructed by Ohio Fit Club, you’ll find seven classes every week.”  The summer fitness classes have two sessions, the second one starting August 1 and ending Oct 1.  Stay tuned for another RUN+YOGA event with Living Fit Columbus & VPower Yoga at the Commons in late summer!

 

FOOD TRUCKS

Every Thursday from early May through late October, various food trucks take over! There are several that are there every week, along with rotating special trucks each month.  We checked it out last Thursday and didn’t have any problem finding some healthy options.

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Some trucks have beverages and some do not, so bring your own water bottle or bring $2 cash for your drink of choice.

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Kids are welcome and there are plenty of things for them to do, including Jeni’s ice cream, a carousel and a miniature picnic area.

We really wanted to try Kinetic… but so did everyone else!  The line was a tad too long, so we wandered around to find another healthy option.  We chose the Mixing Bowl Asian Grill, with extra protein and light sauce. IMG_9351IMG_9354

COMMONS FOR KIDS 

Every Friday the Commons hosts special events, just for littles!  We will be attending this Friday, as well as having a GIVEAWAY, so check back soon.  New this year, Kiddie Fitness classes are being offered from 10:30-11AM… we hope to make it to the July yoga class.

 

To enjoy all the other ‘happenings’ the Commons has to offer, check out their event schedule HERE.  Hope to see you this summer!

Sunday Shoutout: beYoga [Baby Wearing Yoga]

Sunday Shoutout & Tour of Columbus – beYoga 

I just recently got cleared from my doctor to begin yoga and core work, so I was excited when my neighbor invited me to a baby yoga class at beYoga.  Not only had I never been to this studio, I also had never done this particular style of yoga… baby wearing!  Participants are encouraged to bring a baby carrier and wear baby during the session.  I was very curious and happy to attend.  The class description reads…

This class is specifically designed for Moms and their babies. Baby wearing is a perfect way to balance your yoga work out and bonding time with your newborn. You get all the benefits of yoga, (core strength, flexibility and mental relaxation) plus the benefits of enhanced connection with your newborn and other new moms. Chest to chest positioning with baby wearing allows mommy to steal sweet kisses while hearts beat in unison, while enjoying that new born baby smell. That said, we do know that babies do come with ‘cries’ for attention and you, as mama, are welcome to attend to those needs throughout class as you see fit. Bring your own Baby Wrap/Carrier.

The studio is located in Upper Arlington and it took me about 20 minutes to get there from Dublin.  Upon arrival, both the class instructor and the studio owner greeted us.  They made me feel welcome and were super friendly & inviting!

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Phones were to be off during the session so I asked if I could take a quick picture before we started.  Madelyn looks excited for her yoga session, don’t you think?

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The class was perfect!

It started with some free time to play with baby and talk with the other mommas.  It was fun to get to know a bit about them and also see the different styles of baby wearing contraptions.  I have a Baby Bjourn and others included the Ergobaby and the Moby wrap style.  After going through the class, I would recommend more of a wrap style because the harder/thicker straps on my Bjourn started to hurt a tad toward the end.  Plus, although I love the Bjourn for walks, during the yoga session I would have preferred to keep her a bit closer and tighter to my body, which a wrap tends to be better for.  Guess we are going shopping soon!

The second part of class [about 10 minutes] included baby & momma interaction.  We played with baby, sang songs and used touch (ten little fingers, ten little toes!) to connect and communicate.  Madelyn was wide awake during this portion and was all smiles.  Melt my heart!

The last (and majority) portion of the class consisted of baby wearing flow.  It felt great to get an actual yoga session in!  We did a lot of balance poses including Warrior variations, tree and even dancer.  Chair was the most common starting pose for each sequence so my quads got a good workout.  And although it wasn’t heated, wearing a baby sure heated me up (and made me miss hot yoga!) I was very pleased with the class, the workout, the mind+body connection and of course, sharing one of my passions with my beautiful new daughter.  I still am not used to saying that word.  Daughter.  So, so blessed!

Speaking of daughter… my hungry little peanut didn’t even make it through the entire class.  I spent my savasana nursing her in the corner.  She tends to have an appetite and a mind of her own, when she wants it, she wants it!  Here we are sneaking a pic in the corner.  Based on her facial expression, I’m guessing she is thinking “Mom, put your phone away!”   

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After class ended, the instructor was kind enough to snap a quick memory…

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I would highly recommend the class for any new mommas!  I don’t know that I’ll go regularly since its a bit of a drive, but I am very happy I attended and learned some sequences I can incorporate into yoga at home.  Of course, I had to practice back in our own space and share a few pictures with you…

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Thanks for reading!  

Madelyn gives beYoga and the baby wearing class a double fist pump! 

Check out our own version of baby&me yoga in a previous post HERE.

SUNDAY SHOUTOUT! [Balanced Yoga]

Sunday Shoutout & Tour of Columbus – Balanced Yoga Pre-natal class

[by t gellenbeck and c loncaric]

We’ve checked out Balanced Yoga in Clintonville previously, but since then they’ve done a major overhaul…. and this time we tested a pre-natal class!  Here is a quick recap of our visit…

Thoughts by Teresa:

Having only been to Balanced one other time about a year ago, I was surprised by their renovations.  The entry way was open and stylish, with a small retail section (one of our favorite Bend Active shirts was on display!) and lots of storage for shoes and personal items.  As we headed upstairs, the renovations continued and the studio room we entered had a great vibe to it.  Here is a quick tour, thanks to our handy iPhones…

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I wasn’t sure what to expect, as this was my first ever pre-natal class.  Frankie, the instructor, greeted us with a smile and I felt like I sort of already knew her since I’d stalked her bio on the Balanced web site. She was friendly and very knowledgeable about yoga, pregnancy and momma-hood.  Although I did expect it to be slower than the cardio-like power vinyasa classes we are used to, I was pleasantly surprised that we still did several power poses that challenged me.  Frankie gave many modifications for the various stages of pregnancy and at almost 37 weeks, I had no shame in dropping to child’s pose when needed.  I enjoyed the class very much and if the studio were closer, I would probably go regularly these last few weeks!

Thoughts by Christine:

I love the vibe of a room when you gather with a group of like-minded women. It felt like a special treat to myself to be surrounded by others going through the pregnancy experience with me.  It was wonderful to see some celebrating the start of their pregnancy journey and motivating to see the ladies nearing the end of their pregnancy still take the time to nourish their body and spirit. I felt no judgement in the room and was completely comfortable doing what felt good for my body.

Some things I enjoyed [and observed] about the pre-natal class at Balanced…

  • The vibe of this class, although slower than our typical class, still had some spunk to it!  Music was playing in the background, and the instructor spent time moving around the room and offering assistance or adjustments.
  • The class was a balance of active poses, stretching and relaxation. At my stage in pregnancy (17 weeks) I am still very active and able to attend Power Vinyasa and Flow classes two-three times a week.  It can be hard for me to slow down and take it easy!  I thought this class was great because we still worked on strength building in our legs, and went into traditional poses like down dog and chaturanga (with options to modify) that I love, but we also took it slow and were instructed to pay attention to our breath and our bodies throughout the practice. In all yoga classes we are reminded that if something doesn’t feel good, we shouldn’t do it, and this is especially important during the various stages and changes in our pregnant bodies. Shavasana while propped up on blocks and a bolster was so great.
  • The studio has been recently renovated and is beautiful and inviting. There are three rooms for classes and plenty of bathrooms and spaces for personal storage. The only downside to the location is that parking off High St. can be tough during a busy time of day.

I can see myself enjoying this class throughout the rest of pregnancy, now when I am more active, and then deep into my third trimester when I still want to move, but need to tailor my activity to my pregnant body.

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Christine, demo-ing the modified plank… one of many modifications Frankie offered.

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Christine [left, 17 weeks] and Teresa [right, 36.5 weeks]

Overall we both enjoyed the class very much and give it two (or rather four) thumbs up!  More details…

  • Suggestions:  bring your own mat (rental = $3), get there early due to street parking
  • Drop in class was $15, liked that you could do one pre-natal class (many studios that offer it require a series) 

 

 

 

SUNDAY SHOUTOUT & FIT SPOTLIGHT [Amy Crandall]

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I met up with Amy Crandall last week for a cup o’ Joe at our local Winans coffee shop.  She truly inspires me on so many levels and is an uh-mazing person!  Fit.  Positive.  Real.  Absolutely beautiful. And one of the nicest people you will ever meet.  Not to mention that she blogs, does photography and drinks coffee.  She is pretty much my soul mate!

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Although her degree and post-college experience was in photography, Amy is now typically on the other side of the camera.  She has done modeling for numerous companies, many local, including Bend Active, Thread, Capital Style, Bohindi, The Blowout Bar and more.  Her modeling career happened very organically as her positive attitude & open [creative] mind showed her the various facets that life has to offer.

Looking and feeling good doesn’t just happen, she works for it!  Amy has earned several fitness certifications including yoga, personal training and pilates.   She is a personal trainer and class instructor at PEAK Human Performance in Dublin as well as the creator of a fitness website and blog, Active Body, Creative Mind.  She is excited to soon be launching an online personal training component to Active Body, Creative Mind. The training  will pilot as a complimentary two week shape up plan that will include nutrition, training and well-being advice.

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Amy was an open book during our chat, sharing many of her fitness tips and routines…

Motivation for Living Fit?

“Aging gracefully!”  Amy has clients in their 70s that still exercise, proof that taking care of yourself will help you remain youthful & healthy.  Fitness allows you to feel good, confident, peaceful, happy.  The more surface level accomplishments [for instance, body & physique]  will follow!

Best fitness accomplishment?

Her team just finished leading the first 8 week challenge at PEAK.  The two month journey not only connected people, it also helped them achieve and notice results ~ emotional, physical & mental ~ from weight loss to cultivating healthy habits.

Typical workout routine?  

“I love to lift weights – it will transform your body!”  Amy lifts twice a week, doing a whole body routine and jumping rope between sets.  This serves as her cardio [although I’ll keep trying to get her to join us for a group run sometime]!  She also does pilates once per week and tries to squeeze in a yoga session when she can.

Amy leads an extremely active lifestyle and in addition to her workouts,  enjoys hiking, walking and acroyoga. Dates with her main squeeze often include a workout, such as spending Valentine’s Day at The Butcher Shop in German Village and their recent trip to SnowShoe for Wanderlust.

Oh, and she foam rolls & stretches.  Every day.

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Typical Diet or Nutrition Plan?

Amy is a creature of habit & has similar foods at each meal.  A sample day may look something like this…

  • Breakfast – Ezekial bread, almond butter, banana, apple, chia seeds [healthy fat & good for runners]
  • Lunch – two scrambled eggs & lots of veggies, cooked with coconut oil
  • Dinner – Protein [chicken, ground turkey] veggies, healthy fat or carb
  • She also typically eats ½ avocado per day to get her healthy fat and limits dairy

Some of Amy’s favorite things…

  • Favorite FIT place around Columbus:  Peak Human Performance!  

Known for their athletic performance enhancement, she loves [and teaches] the Fitmix class & Pilates.  PEAK provides “Smart Training” – an assessment of what your body really needs.

  • Favorite cheat food:  TimTam Australian cookie with tea and other treats; allows herself to indulge now and then!
  • Coffee drink:  French pressed coffee with cream and raw sugar.  Her daily dose of half & half is about the only dairy she really consumes!

Any advice for others on their journey to get or stay FIT?  “Create healthy habits.  Be patient with yourself, and allow the time your body needs to adjust.”

Was blessed to have spent some coffee time with this amazing lady.  Can’t wait to see her out on the fitness scene in Cbus!