So my fitness journey since becoming a new mama (2 years ago) has been touch and go. Balancing my full time job and work travel along with being a mom and spending time with my hubby and little one sometimes puts fitness on the back burner. While I’ve consistently worked out in some form or fashion, I could certainly up my game.
Enter Youfit Health Clubs. They became a client of our agency late last year and while I usually dive right in and support all my clients as a brand ambassador, this specific client truly resonates with me. Not only was I former member, but now doing “work research” includes getting to work out during lunch, after work, on weekends, etc. I really have zero excuse now to not get in the best shape of my life.
Outside of the ridiculously close proximity to my home and office and the awesome hours and class schedule, Youfit is also super welcoming. While I can navigate my way through a gym, work out, take a class, etc. I don’t consider myself an expert by any stretch of the imagination. So for me, I want a place where I can feel comfortable and not intimidated. Youfit fits the bill. I’ve had issues in past work out lives with feeling like I joined some sort of cult — where if you’re not working out 24/7, eating a certain way and planning to compete professionally, you’re less than. As a working mom, I don’t have time to feel like the gym is an extra to do. I really want my time working out to be positive, fun and produce results, but on my own terms.
Over the last couple of months I’ve been consistently working out at Youfit with a combination of group exercise classes including Zumba and YouGX body sculpt and going in for cardio and my favorite workout, the Express Circuit — a 30-minute full body workout with 10 machines and 10 sets of cardio. I love this because I can go during lunch, get a great sweat session in and mix it up with the cardio portion. I’ll do kettle bell swings, planks, squats, lunges, jumping jacks, etc. Each time, I can customize it for me and how I’m feeling that day. They also have two weekly Express Circuit classes with a YouCoach where you complete the circuit with other members. That’s always fun since you have a certified personal trainer running the class and inspiration/competition with the group aspect.
Now I have decided to take my fitness game to the next level and have signed up for a Fitness Assessment (free at Youfit with your membership) and to start working with a YouCoach Personal Trainer. I’m super excited, but also scared to see what my assessment reveals. I know I could be in better shape and definitely could eat healthier (I’m Cuban and I can’t resist certain yummy, but bad for you food) — so I’m equally excited and terrified for the results.
This will be the first time ever working with a Certified Personal Trainer and I’m excited to go on this journey and hopefully look and feel better.Probably my favorite part of the PT program is having one-on-one attention with a customized program that works for me and my schedule and where I’ll be held accountable. I’ll be able to work with my designated YouCoach during days/time that are convenient and to meet my specific fitness goals.
I don’t really have a specific goal in mind outside of toning and tightening my current body. To be perfectly honest and vain, I’d love to be able to wear a bikini and feel confident in it again. Since having Westley, I’ve enjoyed and rocked one pieces during the summer. While I don’t think they’re going anywhere (because I LOVE them and they’re sexy and comfy), I’d like to have the option of rocking a two piece and feeling confident as in 20-something, pre-baby confident!
I’ll be posting and sharing photos along the way in hopes to inspire other moms to make health and fitness a priority. Trust me, I know how hard it is to carve out time for yourself, but being a more active, healthy and present mom will benefit not only me, but also my family.
Cheers to the journey. Wish me luck!
Ivette
Ivette Faulkner 