Member Spotlight ~ Alisa P.

Each member of Endurance Fitness has a unique story and we are inspired by them!  Today we are going to hear from Alisa, who describes in her own words her personal fitness journey.

My husband and I have been married 11 years. We have two daughters that are 10 and 3. They keep us very busy. Outside of the gym, I enjoy reading and playing board games.

My husband and I joined Endurance in January 2018. We decided to join Endurance because of the location, the option for classes, the price, and the availability of child care. With young children, it’s hard to find time to go to the gym so I love that we have the option to bring them with.

The hardest part of getting started was finding a routine. My husband doesn’t like working out in the evenings and I work during the day so we wouldn’t come at the same times. I now have one day off every other week and we almost always go to the gym together on those days. I have a friend that joined soon after we did and she had a similar work schedule so we motivated each other to go to the gym.

When I first started, I would normally use the treadmill and some of the weight machines. I was very intimidated by the classes even though they are something that made me want to join Endurance. My friend I was going with didn’t have the membership with the classes included. I have another friend that joined around May 2018 and she wanted to do the classes. Since I had a friend with, I wasn’t scared to try them out. I don’t know why I was so scared to try any of the classes. All of the instructors are very nice and willing to help out and answer any questions. The other people are also always willing to help out if they know you are new. My favorite classes are BODYSTEP®, BODYPUMP®, and OULA. I recently started going to BODYFLOW® and CXWORX® when I can and I enjoy those a lot too.

If you are intimidated in trying a class, find a friend that can try it with you. Get to class a little early and let the instructor know that it is your first time so they can answer any questions you have. Don’t be afraid to look silly and not know what you are doing. Everyone was new at sometime and no one is judging you.

Since I started going to the gym, I have lost 40 pounds. I also started Weight Watchers in June 2018. Eating healthier and exercising has helped me lose weight and given me a lot more energy. I feel better better and I actually enjoy working out, which was something I never enjoyed doing before.

I think going to the classes helps keep me motivated to keep going back. Since they are at the same time on the same days each week, I can get in to a routine. It helps that I have my husband and a couple of friends that also go to the gym. There have been times that I didn’t feel like going but I knew my friend was going so that motivated me to go. My youngest daughter loves going to the gym so there are some Saturday mornings that I will go since she says she wants to go.

If you’re just starting out on your fitness journey, I would say to try lots of things to see what you like and what works for you. Try the different machines so see which ones you like the best. Try out some of the classes, there are a lot of different options for people at all levels.

Thank you Alisa for sharing your story!  You are an inspiration to all of us and we are celebrating your success with you!  

 

To learn more about how to get started in your own fitness journey or how to reach your goals, stop by the front desk or set up a meeting with one of our fantastic personal trainers!  

How To Find Your Exercise Mojo-And Keep It!

LOST YOUR WORKOUT MOJO?
Personal Trainer Nats Levi explains the four P’s of motivation.

By Nats Levi

So the year is flying by and you’ve just realized you haven’t been to the gym in weeks – and it’s clear your latest fitness resolutions went out the window months back! It happens. Here’s how to fix it.

If you’re feeling like you’ve lost your mojo the first thing you need to do is recognize that it’s totally normal. This is reality, motivation often goes astray. When your mojo is missing you have a few choices. You can choose to carry on as is and wallow in what could have been or, you can take a moment, decide to kick your own butt into gear and follow these four P’s of motivation.

 

  • Planning

Get your schedule sorted and start treating your workout as an event that’s just as important as any other appointment. Diarise and color code that time in your schedule, so that you have time which is set for your fitness. Consider this a date with your own physical fitness and mental well-being. You know that if you don’t schedule this in everything else will take priority; kids, partners, pets, the washing…

 

Consider what days you want to work out. How many days a week? What time is best for your body? Where will you exercise? Will you meet friends and take a class, or make time to see a personal trainer? The key is to find a “thing” you love to do for exercise. You also need diarise your workouts in a way that works for you. This could be “new school” using the calendar app on your phone, or “old school” using a written diary or paper schedule stuck to the fridge with beautiful heart-shaped magnets.

 

  • Priorities

You need to prioritize your set workout times as non-negotiable. These workout times should become known as “tiger time”, something you guard as fiercely as a tiger mom protecting her newborn cubs. You should decide on a minimum number of sessions that you need to allocate as “tiger time”. You do these sessions no matter what, and any extras are exactly that, extras. Yay, for the time to do the extras!

 

  • People

Every great team and athlete has a crew and support tribe around them. You need yours. People such as friends, family and colleagues who are as invested in your success and helping you reach your goal are golden. Take the time to let those closest to you know what you need to do each week and why. Tell them about your goals and the commitment you are making. Ask them to help hold you accountable. You never know, if that colleague who socializes every lunchtime understands your mission they might not try and coerce you into a lunch date that clashes with your favorite class – which is a good thing, as it helps ensure nothing gets in the way of your prioritized workout time.

 

  • Purpose

So, what is the real kicker behind setting SMART (Specific Measurable Achievable Relevant Time-bound) goals? The answer is your WHY. Your purpose. Ask yourself why you want to lose the 10 pounds? What is the real reason, desire and purpose? Why is this important to you?

 

Is it to feel sexier? More like yourself? To be healthier for your kids? Will the completion of a half marathon finally prove that YOU can finish a challenge you set out to do? Does getting on stage in a bikini scare you so badly that once you strut in your heels in front of strangers, you will find freedom from your own insecurities? When you unlock your real purpose your motivation will be unreal. Your purpose is the reason you can cut excuses and keep consistent. It will see you stick to the plan – even when you think the plan is ridiculous and you really just want to eat cake! No matter what your goal is, identify your true purpose (be honest and ruthless with yourself). Find the why. Write it, draw it, plan it. Identify this and you can achieve anything.

 

Use these four P’s; planning, priorities, people and purpose and you will be back on the achievement buzz, full of motivation and striving towards the gym like it is New Year’s Day. Go get it team!

Ask a personal trainer today about how to get started in a fitness plan that works for you! 

If you want more tried, tested and true news from the leading edge of health and fitness sign up to get Fit Planet insights and advice straight to your inbox.

This piece originally appeared on www.lesmills.com/fit-planet/health/exercise-mojo

Fitness Center Equipment Lexington Circle Pines MN

What is offered at Endurance Fitness?

What Can You Expect At
Endurance Fitness of MN?

With so many options to choose from, Endurance Fitness has what you are looking for in a gym!  We are not a “big box gym” where our members are simply a number at the check-in desk.  We are are privately owned gym that takes pride in meeting our members needs, no matter where they in their fitness journey.  We offer classes that can be modified for any fitness level and personal training to help you reach you goals quickly and safely.  From yoga to kickboxing and everything in between, Endurance Fitness will be the gym you call home.  Stop in for 2 free trial visits or check out these videos to see what sets Endurance Fitness of MN apart from the rest!

Learn More About Endurance Fitness

BODYPUMP® At Endurance Fitness

What Is BODYSTEP®

What is BODYFLOW®

We offer 50+ group fitness classes per week at Endurance Fitness!  Plus, small group training, Pilates Reformer training, TRX Suspension and Kickboxing.  Fall is a great time to get started on a new routine, let us help you!

Endurance Fitness also offers free child care while you workout.  Our staffed Kids Care room is available to all members (and visitors) for children 6 weeks and older.  Our room is equipped with age appropriate toys, games and structured craft time.  There is also a restroom that has been customized for our youngest members who are able to use it independently!

Click Here to view our live, daily schedule!

Common Myths About Personal Training

Hi All,
My name is Bridget and I am one of the certified personal trainers you will find at Endurance Fitness of MN.  Personal Trainer; that title can have many mixed reactions, some of which are not very postitive. Today I would like to clear up some of those negative perceptions or misconceptions you may have about our profession! 

On the television and the internet, personal trainers are portrayed in an interesting way.  They are usually screaming at their clients, forcing them to eat nothing but protein shakes and pushing to the point of exhaustion or vomitting.  Meanwhile, they display their perfect, flawless bodies and encouraging unrealistic goals. This is NOT what a persoal trainer does and is definitely not who I am!  

Myth 1: All workouts with a personal trainer will be too hard!
No! As a trainer, it is my job to design a workout catered to you and your specific fitness level.  I will not have you squatting 2 times your body weight or running crazy sprints on the treadmill to the point of passing out!  With every client we start slow.  We discuss your needs and goals and begin working towards them.  We will use basic movements, light weights (or maybe nothing at all), we will take water breaks and hopefully have a little fun in the process.  We will move forward at your pace.  Will I challenge you? Absolutely (but I also want you to come back for more)!

Myth 2: I have to get into better shape before I can work with a trainer!

Nope.  Personal trainers are for every fitness level.  People with little to no workout history can benefit greatly from working with a trainer. I love to start with a client at a beginner level.  I can safely introduce movements, focus on form and really get some great results.  Also, this is a wonderful way for you to learn exercises for you to eventually feel confident to put together your own workouts and continue independently.

Myth 3: I will have to drink protein shakes and eat nothing but vegetables!
Not true!  Although we will discuss your current nutrition (especially if your goal is to lose weight) and I will give you suggestions, I will not force any unrealistic dietary restrictions!  I believe in moderation and indulging every once in awhile.  We all love a good cheeseburger and fries every now and then, especially in the summer!  Nutrition is hard and that part of a healthier lifestyle is really up to you.  I will, however, encourage you to get more veggies into your diet and give you simple guidelines to help you reach your goals!

Myth 4: Personal trainers have perfect bodies, never miss a workout or eat anything unhealthy.

Again, not true! I am the mother of 2 beautiful little girls, although I do work very hard, my body has changed and in some ways will never be the same as it was before.  I have insecurities and areas that I need to work on too.  I am not dancing around in a bikini or short shorts!  Nobody and no body is perfect.  Some days I just do not want to workout (gasp!) and I don’t always look forward to my workouts (double gasp!).  Some days, I woud rather sit at home with a bag of chips and binge watch Netflix, but those are the days it is important to dig deep for that motivation and get to the gym.  Having an appointment with a trainer can be a great way to hold yourself accountable even when you don’t want to.  Working out is hard for everyone, but I promise (even if you are not looking forward to it) I will help you through it and you will feel better in the end.  Back to the cheeseburger and fries, my nutrition is not perfect either, I indulge sometimes and have slip ups.  Like I said, nobody is perfect and we all need to enjoy life (unfortunately kale doesn’t have the same effect as a donut)!

Now time for some truth…
I love what I do.  I believe fitness is important, but also not easy.  I truly enjoy helping people get into shape and teaching my clients new ways to reach their goals.  I also really love watching people become stronger and more confident that carries through in all areas of their lives.  Seeing clients lose inches and pounds is pretty great too!  If you are still a little hesitant to give personal training a shot, I would love to offer you a free trial seesion so you can see what it’s all about or ask me any questions!  

Fitness is a journey and I’d love to be a part of yours!

To learn more about personal training visit the personal training page on our website:
http://www.endurancefitnessofmn.com/memberships/personal-training/

To contact Bridget to set up personal training sessions, email her at 
bridget@endurancefitnessofmn.com

Hello, Nice to Meet You!

Howdy!  My name is Jon McClanahan.  I am new to the Twin Cities, as I most recently resided in North Carolina for the last 10 years.  Although I’m a southern boy at heart, I’ve grown to love the city lights of Minneapolis and at least tolerate the cold weather!  For my full-time job, I am the Chief of Staff and Professor at the University of Minnesota Law School-which means that I get to teach at Endurance in the late evenings and weekends.

Fitness is my part-time job but my full-time passion.  I was overweight as a young adult, so it was critical for me to find a healthy outlet for my stress.  I began as a bodybuilder, but I quickly realized that I was better suited to running, biking, and group fitness.  I am currently a long-distance runner and triathlete, as well as an instructor.  I remember my first Les Mills class (BodyStep) like it was yesterday; I was just transitioning out of a difficult personal relationship and needed to find a group of similarly-minded people.  I was immediately hooked.  Within six months, I had attended my first initial training.  Fast forward five years later, and I am fully certified in 6 Les Mills formats: BodyPump (weight training), BodyStep (interval training with step/weights), BodyFlow (Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi), RPM (cycling), BodyJam (serious dance), and Sh’Bam (not-so-serious dance).

I love Les Mills because of its mission-to combat the global obesity epidemic-and its culture-one that promotes inclusion and friendly accountability.  Les Mills instructors and members are some of the best people I know, and I think that’s because the brand attracts genuinely good people who are working toward shared health and fitness goals.

The one piece of advice I’d give to new members generally is to step outside your comfort zone.  The type of change we seek-the kind that matters-doesn’t come by sticking to your old ways.  Try 30 minutes of that BodyFlow class, even if you don’t see yourself as a “Yoga person.”  I thought I couldn’t dance, but after taking several Les Mills classes I made it my mission to become an instructor.  The piece of advice I’d give new members to my classes is to say hello, tell me your name and a bit about yourself and your goals.  Studies show that group fitness works, and it’s in part because of the connections we make with each other.

Kia kaha! (Be Strong!)

Join Jon in a class or two!

Monday evenings (7:30-8:15 p.m.) BodyStep Express

Thursday evenings (7:05-8:05 p.m.) BodyPump

Sunday mornings (11:00-12:00 p.m.) BodyFlow

You Inspire Us!

Meet Our Inspirational Member of the Month, Theresa!

Then (2015)

Theresa has been a member of Endurance Fitness since we opened in March of 2017.  She attends a variety of group fitness classes throughout the week and with her dedication to living a healthier lifestyle, she has lost over 100 pounds since her journey began in 2015!

What made you decide to live a healthier lifestyle and how did you get started?

I decided to begin working out and eating right to combat the “winter blues” back in 2015.  I began my journey by attending group fitness classes.  I found classes and instructors that I really liked and I was hooked!  The first classes that I started with were BODYPUMP® and BODYSTEP® with Stephanie, Wendy and Vickie.

Now (2018)

What benefits have you experienced and what keeps you motivated?

When instructors and other class members know you by name, you become a part of a group that keeps you accountable.  When you attend classes, you form connections and friendships with other members.  That keeps me coming back!

Now I have more energy and more self confidence.  I am not self conscious about walking into any store and trying on clothes.  My confidence in how I feel now carries through in all areas of my life, personal and professional.  I am not trying to hide behind baggy clothing anymore.

What advice would you give a new member?

Just start.  Show up, even when you don’t feel like it.  The days you are tired and do not want to workout are some of the best days to get a workout in!  Try to start your day on a positive.

When I started I was nervous too.  If you mess up, laugh at yourself, nobody will notice and we’ve all been there!  You have to get out of your own head and just go with it.

Give the classes a try.  Use the SmartStart options, they really work.  Make sure you let the instructor know that you are new to class and ask for help.  Even ask other members, they are always willing to help out!  Try to get to class a little early so the instructor can show you what to expect.

What surprised you about your fitness journey?

My brain needed to catch up to where my body was!  I found myself feeling anxious about getting rid of  “my fat cothes”, you  know the ones that sit at the back of the closet just in case you need them?  It was actually fun to get rid of that dark cloud and embrace the new me!

Thank you Theresa for letting us be a part of your fitness journey and sharing your story!  You are an inspiration to us all!  

A New Personal Training Experience At Endurance Fitness!

Virtual Personal Training with Lisa Ledman

Packages Include

– Free intial consultation with Lisa Ledman,
  ACE Certified Personal Trainer
-Workout plans based on your individual goals
-Video demonstration and written instructions of exercises
-Nutrition guidance
-Accountability and feedback
-Results tracking

Benefits

-Learn to use gym equipment effectively and safely
-Reach your health and fitness goals
-Access to a fitness expert
-Workout effectively on your own schedule
-Accountability and motivation
-Training plans for personal goals or athletic events 
-24/7 training plans

What Can You Expect?

Initial Phone  or In-Person Consultation
Your intial phone or in-person consultation is designed to help understand your goals and to develop a plan based on the information gathered. During your consultation, virtual training will be fully explained and any questions you may have will be answered.  During this week, your plan will be developed and sent to you upon enrollment in virtual training, completion of an online questionaire and signed waiver.

Workout Plans
Workout plans are customized based on the intial consultation and your goals.  You will receive a detailed workout plan, complete with step-by-step directions and videos.  Accountability and guidance through email, text and/or social media will be provided by the trainer.  Nutrition guidance and results tracking will be provided based on your goals.  Plans will be adjusted weekly based on your results.

Training Plans
Event training plans are customized based on the intial consultation and the type of event you would like to train for.  For example, if your goal is to run a half-marathon, your plan will include both running and cross-training workouts.  You will receive a detailed training plan weekly,focused on successfully completing and reaching your goals for the event.  Accountability and guidance will be provided to you by your trainer.  Plans will be adjusted weekly based on results and the proper progression towards completing your event successfully.

Nutrition Guidance
Nutritional guidance will be provided by the trainer, who will review your food log (if this is one of your goals).  Suggestions and ideas to improve your nutrition will be provided.

Results Tracking
Together we will be tracking your results, including weight, body fat, strength, pace and other measurements neccessary to monitor your progress towards reaching your goals.  Your progress will be closely monitored, your  plans and goals reviewed to be adjusted as needed to help you be successful.

To Learn More or Begin Your Journey Contact:

Lisa Ledman, ACE Certified Personal Trainer
ItsYourJourneyTraining@gmail.com
(651)230-2848

Virtual Training Rates

  • Number of Weeks/Rates:
  • 3…………………..$60
  • 5+1 free………..$100
  • 10+2 free………$200
  • 15+3 free………$300

Event Training Plan

  • Event/Rates:
  • (Minimum length of training required)
  • 5k
  • 4-week min……………….$60
  • 10k
  • 8-week min……….$90
  • Half-Marathon
  • 12-week min………$150
  • Relay Race
  • 12-week min………$175
  • Obstacle Race
  • 12-week min………$200
  • Marathon
  • 16-week min……….$250
  • *Please ask about other optional events not listed

How To Get Started At The Gym

Walking into a gym for the first time can be an intimidating experience.  Whether you decided to join because your doctor recommended it, your friend has been begging you to come check it out or you simply decided it was time to make some healthy lifestyle changes, you may be a bit overwhelmed by the whole thing.  We know, we have all been there.

One of the first things you should do as a new member (and especially if you are new to this whole fitness thing in general), is schedule your orientation session with one of our certified personal trainers.  Personal trainers are a great resource to help you set your goals, answer your questions and most importantly,  make sure you are safe during your workouts.  Everyone has different needs and even workouts that they like to do at the gym, a trainer can help you pinpoint where you will be the most successful.

Meet our personal trainers:
http://www.endurancefitnessofmn.com/memberships/personal-training/

 

Now you may be saying, “I just want to get healthy.  I have no idea where to start.”  Ask yourself, what do you like to do outside of the gym?  What activities do you find you are drawn to?  There are group fitness classes, small group trainings and even workouts you can do on your own that you will find enjoyable (yes, we said “enjoyable”!).  When you enjoy your workouts you will find it is easy to stick with it long term and you will reach your goals sooner.  Maybe you enjoy dancing.  Stop in to an Oula or Zumba class sometime!  Is there a particular event you want to participate in, but feel like you need to gain some strength? A Les Mills BodyPump class may be just what you are looking for.  Our personal trainers and staff can help you find group fitness classes that will fit your needs.  Whatever you decide to try, be patient with yourself.  You have taken the first step and often that is the hardest part!

“But I can’t keep up in a class.  Everyone else knows what they are doing!”  Yep, we hear that a lot.  While group fitness is not for everyone, it is a great way to get connected with other members who will help you stay motivated.  Remember, everyone in that class had a first day and felt the same way, even the instructors!  There are some tips that will make your experience easier and more rewarding.

1.  Check out our class descriptions and videos online so you can get an idea about the different class offerings at Endurance Fitness.

2.  Arrive a few minutes early.  Take a minute to introduce yourself to the instructor and let them know you are new.

3. Ask questions!  Instructors and even members will be excited to help you.  Our instructors are highly trained and passionate about the classes they teach.  They want you to succeed and have fun while you are doing it!

4.  Don’t get discouraged if you feel like you are struggling.  It usually takes a few class sessions to get the hang of the terminology and the moves.  Each time you take a class, you will learn what to expect and it will get easier.

5.  Listen to your body!  We highly recommend following the Les Mills SmartStart program.  Attend a class for the first 4-5 tracks (songs).  That will give you a good idea of what to expect in class.  If your body is telling you that is enough for the day, you are welcome to step out of class.  Maybe in the next week or so, try adding a couple more tracks. Keep doing that and soon you will be completing the entire class!

More about group fitness:
http://www.endurancefitnessofmn.com/memberships/group-fitness/

Starting a new fitness routine can be hard, but it is also very rewarding.  First think about why you are starting this journey and what are your goals.  Then schedule your orientation session with one of our personal trainers to learn about the equipment, figure out any classes that you would like to try and to get the best start possible.  Don’t be intimidated to try something new.  You may just find that you are a really good dancer, you look forward to the relaxation of a yoga class or that you are stronger than you thought in a Les Mills BodyPump class.  However you choose to start, we will be there to support you and cheer you on!

~The Endurance Fitness Team