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Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and She Rocks Fitness?
I am the owner of She Rocks Fitness; a runner, yogi, cyclist, strength trainer and healthy chef who works hard, plays hard and enjoys life to the fullest. I believe you don't have to give up the things you love to achieve your fitness and health goals. It's about balance, moderation and learning about what works for you and your body. It takes time, patience and hard work but the benefits of living an active and healthy lifestyle are worth the sweat and tears. I love what I do!
It took me a while to get where I am a today but I have learned a lot over the years from traveling, working in corporate America and meeting so many amazing people along the way. I began this journey after college when I moved out West to pursue my passion for skiing and my love of outdoor adventures. I started out living in San Diego for 3 years and then moved to Denver for 7 years. While out West I competed in triathlons, bike races and running events. For a while I worked in the corporate world but was never truly happy. I hated sitting behind a desk and staring at a computer all day. So, when I was laid off a few years ago I knew it was time to pursue my passion! I became a certified personal trainer and also decided to become a certified yoga instructor from Om Time in Denver, CO. Both of these certifications required a lot of time studying and practicing but changed my life in so many ways.
I moved back to New Jersey over a year ago to be closer to my family, friends, and the ocean and to pursue my passion. It was a big move, but it was the right move and I am so happy to be back.
Why did you start She Rocks Fitness and what is your training philosophy?
She Rocks Fitness became an official business in November 2011 after I decided to leave a corporate gym. This was a big decision and one that I was definitely nervous about. Deep down I knew it was the right move at the right time and I have never looked back. I love being my own boss and my training approach and philosophy is all about educating my clients and emphasizing that living an active and healthy lifestyle is FUN, AFFORDABLE and can be done ANYWHERE.
Your company is specifically focused on women’s fitness needs. What are some kinds of things that are different in helping women get in shape and tone their bodies?
I truly enjoy working with women! My youngest client is 13 years old while my oldest is 67. I work with brides to be, new moms, athletes and women who are just looking to lose those nagging 5 lbs, fit into their skinny jeans or just be able to do 10 push-ups. Women are hard on themselves; it’s hard not to be when the media is constantly showing unrealistic images of how we should look. I remind my clients that it’s not about the number on the scale but instead how YOU feel physically and emotionally. Most women want a tighter tummy, butt and arms so I believe in giving them what they ask for! When it comes to training my clients I like to give them intense full body circuits that are done efficiently, can be done anywhere and target the entire body. Women come in different shapes and sizes and what might work for me may not work for you so I tell my clients to stay open-minded and experiment with both exercise and food. If running isn’t your thing try the Step Mill or swimming. If you don’t like peanut butter try other healthy fat options. Don’t make excuses--stay positive and Just Do It!
Why are circuit and interval training so important?
Interval and Circuit Training are important and also a favorite of mine for both training myself and my clients because it’s a great way to scorch calories, tone the entire body, get your heart rate up and get a killer workout in a short timeframe. Since we all have busy schedules efficiency is key. I love doing a 20-minute at-home circuit before heading out for an evening with friends.
Bikini season is right around the corner! What are some of your tips for getting toned and in shape in a hurry? Would you mind giving us a sample workout for getting a toned bikini bod?
It’s crazy how quickly summer is approaching and, yes, a lot of my clients want to get ready for bikini season. I don’t believe in “crash diets” or “cleanses” because they are not sustainable and will not stand the test of time. They may fix the problem for a week but not a lifetime. When it comes to summer tips I tell my clients to:
- Drink lots of water! If you are bored of the taste add cucumber or lemon slices. Seltzer is always a nice change up as well.
- Watch your salt and sugar intake which can cause a lot of bloating.
- Try not to eat out as much. Plan your meals for the week so you don’t have any excuses not to eat at home.
- Sign up for a race so that you have something to look forward to. It will keep you focused on your training.
- Train outside! Working out in the sun helps boost your mood, gives you a nice glow and allows you to soak up some Vitamin D.
- Don’t be scared of lifting heavy! This will help you burn fat faster and give your body that sexy muscle definition.
- Add variety and intensity to your workouts to keep it interesting and ease the potential for boredom.
Would you mind giving us a sample workout for getting a toned bikini bod?
I love this circuit! It can be done anywhere and doesn’t require any equipment. No excuses!
Perform 3 sets with a 2-Minute Rest Between each circuit
- 60 Jumping Jacks
- 30 Reverse Lunges: Alternating
- 15 Squat Jumps
- 30 Squats
- 60 Mountain Climbers
- 15 Burpees
- 15 Push-Ups
- 1-Minute Plank
Total Time: 22 Minutes
What are your top five exercises that women should consistently incorporate into their workout routines?
- Squats
- Planks
- Push-Ups
- Lunges
- Tricep Dips
What does “healthy” mean to you?
Healthy is about being active, eating well and living well! It’s about finding balance in this area of your life that allows you to feel beautiful, strong and happy. Achieving that balance is when I feel my best and there is nothing more empowering than a woman who feels confident both physically and emotionally. Being healthy is important and something that we can all achieve through hard work, dedication, and persistence. It took me a long time to get to this point in my life but I love the way I look and feel both inside and out. That’s what matters most.
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