AGE:  26

PROFESSION:  Clinical Social Worker, MSW

BACKGROUND:  In high school, I stayed physically fit through participating in competitive sports (field hockey, soccer, track & field). When I moved to L.A. and began college, however, I noticed that I began gaining weight as my activity level decreased. After years of failed attempts to jumpstart a more active lifestyle, I decided to join Sonki Fitness.

The results from my initial 5-week session was encouraging, but I was determined to continue working harder and improve even more. After a few months of training with Sonki Fitness, not only did I begin to improve significantly but also felt a great sense of being able to accomplish anything I set my mind to. It was then that I further challenged myself to train for and complete my first full marathon. The training I received in Sonki’s classes helped prepare my body and mind for the physical demands of running 26.2 miles. Now, I continue to set and accomplish goals. In my most recent fitness assessment at Sonki Fitness, I accomplished my goal of running a mile in under six minutes, as well as completing 44 regular push-ups in one minute and 94 sit-ups in two minutes.

What is your current exercise routine?  I attend the 6:30 am class three times a week. On my off days from Sonki Fitness, I supplement my training with jogging and stretching. Recently, I have challenged myself to participate in the evening and Saturday classes as well. I am excited about the results I am seeing and the motivation I have to work toward being in the best shape of my life!

What is your motivation to stay in shape?  Aside from feeling great and being a hit at parties 😉 , I would say that one of my greatest motivators is the influence I have on my family and friends to integrate (or at least consider integrating) fitness into their lives.

What is your greatest challenge to staying in shape?  My love of food and getting out of my warm, cozy bed so early in the morning.

What is your key to success?  The key to my success has been to remain positive, focused, and to remind myself that I will never regret working out. Whenever my body is hurting and I feel like giving up, I continually repeat the motto that Sonki Fitness trainer Katie presented to us during class: “Pain is but weakness leaving the body!” It works! 😉

How long have you been doing Sonki Fitness Boot Camp?  I attended Sonki’s boot camp for about 8 months consistently before taking a hiatus this summer for a long vacation. While away I truly missed the weekly workouts and attempted to do my best to remain in shape. This past session was my first session back and it felt great!

What do you like about Sonki Fitness Boot Camp and how has it affected your life?  I really enjoy the interaction with other participants. Many of my challenges prior to starting with Sonki were due to having a hard time pushing myself to work out on my own. The relatively small workout groups engender a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition that keep me motivated.

What advice would you give to others about fitness?  Deciding to focus on your health and fitness is one of the best decisions a person can make. Once you start, simply commit to not letting anything stop you from continuing. We all have days when we don’t feel like working out – but don’t give up!