It you meet or know Stefanie, you realize quickly that she is six feet of gorgeous...inside and out. She is an Air Force veteran, a wife, mother of 2 beautiful girls ages 12 and 3, a preschool teacher and a model (you may have seen her in ads for a few local boutiques!). She and her friend Betsy formed their own personal training small group in February of this year. Since Betsy works full-time they have been coming to the studio at 5 am consistently two to three times per week. Stefanie did not come needing to lose weight necessarily but she wanted to "tone" (aka gain muscle) and feel more fit. I knew when I began training her she would progress very quickly and she definitely has! Because of some of the issues that come with growing rapidly as a child (range of motion and flexibility), we work quite a bit to increase mobility in her hamstrings in particular and perform lots of core work to protect her back. Stefanie took time out of her busy life and answered a few of my questions about her experience and progress this year...
What's your history with exercise and fitness?
I used to work out regularly when I was in the Air Force, over a decade ago! I haven't been consistent in a workout schedule since then. I was never a total couch potato, but just wasn't excited or motivated.
What made you get started again?
My friend Betsy asked if I wanted to start working out with her, so we went and met with Alex and I knew from that first meeting that things were about to change!
What were your goals when you started?
My fitness goals then were to just show up! No...really! No excuses, just wake up, break a sweat and feel better and stronger everyday!
What has been the most rewarding and the most challenging part of process?
The most rewarding part of working out with Alex is seeing how hard work pays off! I have noticed my arms and shoulders getting more toned. I've even seen my ab muscles poke out! Woo-hoo! Also, when my friends comment on how I look and how they can see the changes too, that's like the cherry on top! Even my kids said "I like that Mom is stronger. She is awesome!" (Lola) "Go Mommy, Go! Can I have a waffle?" (Finley). The most challenging part is not getting down on myself on the days I feel weak. I have to remind myself, just like in my daily life routine, my fitness routine will have good days and bad days.
Favorite exercises? Most hated exercises?
I have a love for anything on the TRX. Oh, and good ole' box jumps! So fun! I have a love/hate relationship with plank up downs! I know they are good for me, but man... I hate doing them!
What do you like most about working in a small personal training group setting?
I LOVE my workout buddies! We push and encourage each other. Also, having Alex there to help us maintain form and keep us on track is the best! She's like our fun, not-so-mean drill sergeant. ;)
What are you goals now?
My goals now are to keep going... stay consistent! I want to continue to get stronger and leaner. I want to push myself outside of the studio now too... Heck, maybe I'll even start running again!
What is your advice for anyone else thinking about getting back into working out but may be nervous about taking that first step?
Just do it! I was nervous and scared, but when you've got the right people around you... it makes workouts more fun and exciting. I always remember, no matter what shape, size or fitness level the others may be, we are all there for a common reason, to become stronger, more confident, and healthier.