Get to Know Former NBA Dancer Turned Flywheel Instructor, Caitlin!

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@caitlinjones

After being active for so many years, how do you continue to challenge yourself in the gym?

I started doing Crossfit 3 months ago and I’m addicted. Given my personal training background, I thought I knew enough about weight lifting to get a good workout in on my own. Maybe so, but since starting Crossfit I’ve acquired many new skills. I had only worked with kettlebells and dumbbells in the past, and now I feel like superwoman any time I do a complex lift with a barbell. WITH PLATES ON IT. I am so proud of myself. I also learned to climb a rope and walk on my hands. Next I want to work on my ring muscle-ups and handstand push ups!

Whether they know it or not, do your trainees ever help you learn something new during a session?

I think it’s less that they are teaching me specific facts or lessons and more that they inspire me with their commitment, energy, and intention. I like to thank everyone at the end of class for making it happen. With just a teacher and no students, there cannot be a class. It is their desire to be stronger, faster, better versions of themselves that makes every class possible.

 

What is your favorite workout to do to switch up your routine?

Crossfit! Anything involving weight lifting. Also yoga, although that is really more for my mind than my body. I also take an active approach to daily life – I love hiking, bouldering, playing with my nieces and nephew, playing with dogs, or walking around a new city. I’d love to learn to surf one day! My brother has trained in jiu jitsu all his life. When I move back to Pittsburgh, I’d also like to learn from him.

Who’s your pick to win it all this March Madness?

Uhh, is Pitt competing this year? I only root for Pittsburgh teams. Despite dancing in the NBA, I know almost nothing about basketball because Pittsburgh does not have a pro team. Go Steelers!

Meet The Bar Method Gold Coast Owner Emily Youkers!

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Does your fitness routine change once it (finally) starts to get warmer outside?
Strangely, I’m more dedicated to my workout in the winter than I am in the warmer months! Something about the cold makes my body crave movement so I find that I take more classes each week when its cold. Winter can seem like it won’t end and I know working out will be the one thing I can consistently rely on to feel better. Once the weather starts to warm, I want to be outside and it takes more discipline on my part to schedule time for my fitness routine. My workout time is so critical for me year round, not just physically but for my mental and emotional health. I’ve come to rely on physical activity as stress relief and a way to remove the “weight” from my shoulders on challenging days. The warm weather does get me outside more though. I’m more likely to walk than take mass transit and I’m more likely to participate in outdoor fitness activities and even try new things. I want to get out on the water more this summer and try rowing for the first time.
After being active for so many years, how do you continue to challenge yourself in the gym?
One of my favorite aspects of The Bar Method is it never gets boring so its very hard to plateau. No two classes are ever the same because each instructor has their own choreography, musical style and we’re constantly innovating with new exercises. When I feel the need to shake things up a bit, I rely on some simple changes to trick my mind and body out of its comfort zone. I’ll work out at a different time of day, with a new instructor and even choose a different location in the studio to give myself a different perspective on my form. Taking another instructor’s class gives me ideas on creative ways to combine exercises and then I’m a better instructor as a result. The Bar Method community of instructors is like your own team of personal trainers. We hold each other accountable to the quality of our “Method” so we can teach the safest and most effective classes to our clients.
Whether they know it or not, do your trainees ever help you learn something new during a session?
My clients give back to me in ways they probably never realize! Being a Bar Method instructor means I am trained to analyze a clients body type and shape, then combine that knowledge with their physical limitations or injuries to provide a safe yet highly effective workout. Just because I have 20 clients in a class doesn’t mean all of them are always doing the same exercise. In every class I’m providing alternate exercises and modifications to account for each individuals needs. I am so rewarded when I help a client tells me after class that a challenging position finally makes sense to them and they feel that “A-ha!!” moment.
What is your favorite workout to do to switch up your routine?
Hiking! I don’t do it as much as I used to after to moving to Chicago from Arizona but I miss it. Whenever I’m home, my friends and family know one of the first things I want to do is schedule a hike in one of the various mountain ranges. It clears and stimulates my mind at the same time. The beauty of nature, the drive to keep going even when I’m getting tired and solitude are so therapeutic.
Who’s your pick to win it all this March Madness?
I was secretly looking forward to seeing the Loyola team surprise everyone this year but sadly they’re out of the running. I’m all about the ASU Sun Devils now!!

2019: The Year of Self-Care

Raquel talks to us about how 2019 is the year of self-care and we couldn’t agree more! Find out how Raquel plans to re-focus in 2019 and what her biggest accomplishment was in 2018!

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What’s your advice for people looking to jumpstart their fitness/health routine in the new year?

If you are looking to jumpstart your fitness/health routine, grab a calendar and plan your workouts each week. Include one rest day and choose workouts that are motivating, fun, and empowering.

What is your New Year’s Resolution?

My new year’s resolution for 2019 is to add self-care into my daily routine. I am an Athlete and Fitness Instructor, but last year I was always sick, injured, or tired. My plan to combat that is to take an extra hour out of my day to either stretch, meditate, relax, nap, soak in a hot bath, or enjoy a bowl homemade soup over a Netflix show.

How do you plan on sticking to your resolutions?

Each week, I schedule my workouts, classes, and personal training clients on my iPhone calendar. Recently, I started scheduling my down time. It helps me stick to my resolution and gives me something to look forward to.

What was your biggest accomplishment in 2018?

Finishing my first screenplay was my biggest accomplishment for 2018. It taught me the discipline to plan and execute my ideas when it strikes, instead of waiting for the “perfect moment”.

Follow Raquel on instagram @raquel.harris

 

Get the scoop on Hit House from blogger, Katie Tepper!

New to Muay Thai? Don’t sweat it! Find out why Hit House is great for all fitness levels and easy to learn. We got the scoop from blogger, Katie Tepper! She will give you all the details you need to get ready for your first class.
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1) Is this class a good fit for all fitness levels?

Hit House is great for all fitness levels, especially those who are new to boxing/Muay Thai. The class starts out with an introduction to each punch and kick that will be used to ensure you know proper form. Additionally, once you get into combos, they’re only about 4 moves long, so it’s really easy to follow.

2) What was your favorite part of class?

I love when the combo work starts, especially ones that involve both kicks and punches. I’ve been boxing for many years, and when you’re able to throw a combo really quickly and with power you feel like such a badass!

3) What piece of advice would you give someone that has never taken a Hit House class?

Don’t be afraid to tell the instructor you’re new! It’ll only work to your benefit as they’re more likely to assist you with technique. Also, don’t get intimidated or compare yourself to others in the class who are more advanced. “Gymtimidation” is a real thing that holds people back from experiencing new workouts because they’re afraid to look inexperienced or lost. This is particularly true for classes like Hit House because they require a level of coordination and muscle memory. If you let this get to you, you could prevent yourself from trying out a workout that could eventually become one of your favorites! Also, always remember that everyone’s fitness level is different and we were all beginners once.

#Detox2retox

We caught up with Fitness blogger Emily Dempsey to get the details on her trampoLEAN class. Follow Emily’s fitness journey on instagram @detox2retox.

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1) What was your favorite part of class?

From the moment class started, I was already addicted! While the studio may not be NYC’s swankiest, the class is no joke.

2) What piece of advice would you give someone that has never taken a trampoLEAN class?

Except a full body workout that incorporates a ton of cardio and strategic sculpting. Added bonus? TrampoLEAN does wonders when it comes to lymphatic drainage meaning your body is getting a natural detox! Can’t wait to go back for my next class!

Expect a full body workout that incorporates a ton of cardio and strategic sculpting. Added bonus? TrampoLEAN does wonders when it comes to lymphatic drainage meaning your body is getting a natural detox! Can’t wait to go back for my next class!

3) How did this workout compare to other cardio/HIIT classes in NYC?

I LOVED the class! It was so much fun! Great cardio workout and one of the best sweats I’ve had in a while!

Jumping into 2019 with Louis!

Need help jump starting your new year’s resolutions? Louis sets smart goals for himself that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time bound. Catch Louis in the studio this week!

 

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What’s your advice for people looking to jumpstart their fitness/health routine in the new year?

Set some smart goals for yourself. A smart goal is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time bound. An example would be, “I want to reduce my body fat composition 3% in the next 3 weeks”. The plan to do that might be to increase your exercise regime to 3 days of aerobic activity with two days of strength training and reduce your daily caloric intake 300 calories per day. Start a food journal so you can figure out what your daily caloric intake is like, then make the necessary changes in order to keep nutrients high and caloric intake at the level needed to reach your goal. Make it more fun by adding a challenge, include social support and have a reward in place to celebrate your success.

How did you stay healthy during the Holidays?

I stayed healthy throughout the holidays by setting weekly realistic goals for myself. Such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator 3 times a day. Limiting sweets to once per day. I ate more vegetables throughout the day. Realistic goal setting helps me set a plan and be accountable. Knowing I have a reward in place for myself at the end keeps me on track.

Thoughts on treating yourself?

I think it’s important to treat yourself. Do your homework if possible and look into how many saturated fats are hiding in food choices that you may be treating yourself to. A quick google check will give you insight on this. It’s recommended to limit saturated fat intake to no more than 7% of calories per day. With all the treats available it’s easy to surpass this limit.

What is your favorite part of the new year/holiday season?

I enjoy remembering all of the special memories of the holidays and passing them on to the little ones in my family. I also enjoy helping people explore the possibilities of the new year and helping them set new goals. I’m fan of holiday music, a warm fire and all of the magic that holidays bring.

Follow Louis on instagram at @bodyarchitect

Turn Your Workout Into a Party With Samantha!

Looking to jumpstart your fitness routine this year? Find out how Samantha motivates herself to stick to her workout program and how she plans to stay consistent in 2019!

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What is your New Year’s Resolution?
My New Years Resolution is to focus on myself and be consistent. Constantly remember that my journey is special and if I don’t honor the work I’ve put in I’ll never be able to appreciate where I’m going.

How were you able to stay healthy during the holidays?

The holidays can be stressful without the added stress of what my diet and exercise regimen are. That being said, I tried to stay as normal as possible. Indulging shouldn’t feel like it happens once a year. That’s when you go nuts at that one time. Instead, if you feel like the treats are just another sweet goody you can have if you want, you may actually turn it down. As far as moving, I tried my best to stay active. Simple as that. I did some core work and cardio here and there and will get back on track when I can.

 

What is your advice on treating yourself over the holidays?

Go for it, in moderation. I did! Know that your body doesn’t like the feeling of a ton of bad things inside of it and respect that.

 

What’s your advice for people looking to jumpstart their fitness/health routine in the new year?

My advice for the New Year New Me program is that it is a great source of motivation but make sure that you have a deeper purpose about your new found fitness journey. The more importance it carries beyond wanting to look good for a certain amount of time, the more likely you’ll be to stick to the new habits for life!
Follow Samantha on instagram @samantha_barriento