1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? (Where you’re from, your favorite hobbies,)
I’ve been married for 5 years to an amazing and supportive husband. Together we have a beautiful two-year old daughter who constantly keeps us running around and on our toes, we love it. I am a full-time 5th grade teacher, part-time receptionist at the Plaza Salon at the Garden State Plaza. I also teach Zumba 5 days a week at LR both Fairlawn and Clifton gym, and give a free class once a week at Personal Care Professionals in Edgewater. On my free time I enjoy going for walks or to the park with my husband and daughter. Family time is the most important thing and I believe doing active things together is a big part of staying healthy together as a family.
2. How did you become an instructor at Lucille Roberts?
After my daughter was born I found it very hard to get to the gym as often as I liked. So I began working out in my basement when she would go to sleep for the night. During those nights I would put the music on or YouTube and started coming up with my own dance routines. I loved putting on my headphones at night and dancing away in my own little world for a while. I decided from there I wanted to get my Zumba license and share how much fun working out could be with others.
3. What are some personal fitness goals you have?
My fitness goals tend to change. My goal after I had my daughter was to lose my 40lbs of baby weight I had gained. After I lost that weight my new goal was to get back down to the weight I was when I got married which was another 25lbs. When I hit that goal my next goal was to tone up and build muscle. No matter what my goals were at that time of my life the main goal is to always stay healthy. Reaching all my goals felt great but it felt even better knowing I did it in a healthy way.
4. What do you think is the best thing about Lucille Roberts?
What I love mostly about LR is all the different variety of classes they offer. I also feel as a woman it’s great to have woman to woman support. Meeting women that go through the same struggles you do helps you understand that you are not alone in dealing with whatever health/weight issues you may have. At LR you make friends who become apart of your workout world. The instructors are wonderful and fun and never push you to a level where you are uncomfortable.
5. What advice do you have for women who are trying to lose weight and meet their fitness goals?
Do-Not-Give-Up!!! Find something that will motivate you and stick with it. Some examples: Download fitness apps, find a gym buddy, take weekly pictures of your progress and keep a log, buy a pair of jeans that are 2 sizes too small and make it a mission to fit into them, etc. There is no better feeling than when you hear someone say, “Have you been working out?.. Wow I can tell!” or “You look great!” Most importantly make sure you make the time to stay active and workout. The hardest part is getting started. No, you won’t see results over night, but if you stick with it not only does it become easier but it becomes apart of your lifestyle … a very healthy one!
