Joy of Fitness - by Edan Gelt

It's fab to be 40 when Edan Gelt, mom of 2, tries fun (and sometimes insane) classes at local suburban windy city fitness studios and lives to tell about it. Inspired by hot moms everywhere!

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Bouncing Back to Fitness: My Journey Post-MPFL Reconstruction Knee Surgery

It's been six weeks since I embarked on a journey that has been equal parts challenging and transformative. Why? Well, I recently underwent a medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction knee surgery. This was a necessary step due to some lax ligaments and a history of my knee deciding to do its own thing – dislocating more times than I care to remember. So, here's a sneak peek into my adventure of getting back to fitness after this surgery.

Week 1-2: The Road to Recovery Begins

Right after the surgery, it was all about taking it easy. The pain was real, and moving around was, well, a bit tricky. Physical therapy kicked off on day 2, focusing on gentle movements and waking up those muscles around my knee which included straightening and a Zynex NMES setting. Patience became my new best friend as progress tiptoed in.

Week 3-4: Building Strength with Determination

Slowly but surely, things started looking up. Physical therapy got a bit more intense, throwing in some resistance exercises to beef up those muscles. The introduction of putting some weight on my knee was a game-changer, boosting my confidence along the way. The doc also released my brace so I could bend it up to 60 degrees.  By the end of week 4, he moved me from the main brace to a DonJoy.  I was still relying on a crutch by the end of the day as I fatigued quickly.

Week 5-6: Gaining Momentum

At the six-week mark, I'm feeling the wind beneath my wings - somewhat. What initially felt like baby steps turned into small victories. Stepping onto the treadmill for the first time was like a mini victory lap  – not quite at full speed yet (2 miles per hour but no hands), but hey, progress is progress.  I also was able to do bike work now that my knee is bending at 120 degrees.

Challenges Along the Way:

Patience and Persistence:

Progress was slow, but hey, slow and steady wins the race, right? Celebrating the little wins, like bending the knee a bit more or going for a longer walk, kept me going. Consistency and cheering for every small achievement became my secret sauce.

Embracing Adaptations:

My usual workout routine got a makeover. Low-impact exercises took center stage, if I did anything at all outside of PT - I could have done better but listening to what my body needed became my guiding principle.

Mind-Body Connection:

This journey wasn't just about physical rehab; it was a mental and emotional rollercoaster too. Recognizing the connection between physical well-being and mental resilience became a crucial part of my recovery.  Especially after day 2 when pain was at the highest.

Moving Forward:

As I look ahead on this recovery road, I'm pumped by the progress so far and excited about what's to come. Every day brings a chance to push past the old limits and redefine what's possible.

Tips for Fellow Journeyers:

Chat It Up with Your Physiotherapist:

Regular chats with your physiotherapist are gold. Share your experiences, ask questions, and keep that communication flowing. I saw Rob Sharp at Physicians of Physical Therapy in Arlington Heights and I truly think he is the best.

Set Fun Goals:

Small, achievable goals are where it's at. Celebrate the wins, no matter how tiny – they all add up to a big win.  My goal is to climb a staircase, taking steps with each leg.

Listen to Your Body:

If something doesn't feel right, don't force it. Let your physiotherapist know, and tweak things as needed. Rest is just as vital as the workout.

Try Fun, Low-Impact Activities:

Get creative with activities like swimming or cycling. They're easy on the knees but still pack a punch in the fitness department.

So, there you have it – my journey of rediscovering fitness after MPFL reconstruction knee surgery. It's been a slow dance, but with dedication, some laughs, and the guidance of the pros, the road back to an active and healthy lifestyle is looking brighter every day.

[edanjoygelt]

Edan Gelt is Back | Navigating Aging Fitness and Wellness with Grace

In the distant past of 2017, I embarked on a challenge that saw me sweating through 30 unique workouts in 30 days, all while diligently chronicling my fitness journey on a blog. The motivation behind this endeavor was twofold: to test my physical limits and to generate content for a fledgling fitness app that had me hooked on the thrill of the challenge.

Fast forward six years, and that blog page still exists, patiently waiting for fresh content. Why, you ask? Well, because fitness has become an inseparable part of my daily routine, and as I approach the big 5-0 in a few short years, it's more than just a workout—it's my mental and physical sanctuary.

My weeks are peppered with bike rides, covering up to 60 miles, weather permitting (and my neck cooperating), and bootcamp classes at the local gym a few days each week. Yet, something interesting has happened over the years. I've evolved into what I like to call the "modifier." You see, I used to look at those individuals who modified exercises during workouts and wondered if I could avoid going down that road. Spoiler alert: I couldn't. Now, lunges and squats tend to leave me with a knee the size of a grapefruit for the following week, my shoulder occasionally stages a protest, and every so often, I find myself pulling something I didn't even know I had.

While it might be a sign that high-intensity bootcamp sessions may not be the ideal fit for my body anymore, I'm not ready to throw in the towel just yet. In fact, this year, I'm pursuing certification as a personal trainer. My passion for exercise has evolved into a desire to help other women who, like me, are gracefully navigating the seas of aging. While it won't be my full-time profession, I foresee my newfound skill set as a delightful hobby.

Now, let's get down to brass tacks. Exercising as you gracefully age is a bit like a well-choreographed dance—one that requires careful attention to avoid stepping on your own toes. Here are some tips I live by, and I hope they serve you well on your fitness journey:

1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always, and I mean always, consult with your healthcare provider before diving headfirst into a new exercise routine, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or lingering concerns. Their insights are invaluable.

2. Baby Steps: If you've been somewhat inactive lately, start with gentle exercises and work your way up gradually. No need to rush; your body will thank you for the patience.

3. Warm-Up and Cool Down: Just like a fine wine, your muscles need a warm-up to get the juices flowing before you dive into the workout. Likewise, cool down to gracefully ease your heart rate back to normal and prevent those post-workout stiffness surprises.

4. Balance and Flexibility: These are your new best friends. Embrace exercises like yoga, tai chi, or balance training to boost stability and reduce the odds of unplanned acrobatics.

5. Strength Matters: Maintaining muscle mass and bone density should be a priority. Use light weights, resistance bands, or your own body weight to sculpt those muscles. Start gently, and let the resistance grow as you do.

6. Cardiovascular Love: Show your heart some love with aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Shoot for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio each week.

7. Listen to Your Body: Your body is a wise sage. Pay close attention to its signals during and after exercise. If you experience pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, don't be a hero—stop and seek advice as needed.

8. Stay Hydrated: Hydration is your secret weapon. Drink water before, during, and after workouts to keep your body in top form.

9. Form Matters: Learning the right form is like learning the steps to an intricate dance routine. It's crucial to prevent strain or injury. Consider working with a certified fitness trainer who can be your dance partner.

10. Mix It Up: Variety is the spice of life. Keep your routine fresh and exciting by incorporating different types of exercises to engage various muscle groups. Your body will thank you for the entertainment.

11. Joint Care: As you age, your joints can become a tad finicky. Be mindful of any joint discomfort, and adjust your exercises accordingly. Low-impact activities like swimming or stationary biking are often joint-friendly alternatives.

12. Stretch it Out: Embrace the art of stretching to maintain or enhance your flexibility. Stretch both before and after your workouts to ensure your body moves like a well-oiled machine.

13. Rest and Recovery: Your body isn't a perpetual motion machine. Give it the rest and recovery it deserves between workouts. Overtraining can lead to injuries and burnout, and nobody wants that.

14. Footwear Wisdom: Proper shoes are like your trusty dance shoes. They provide support and stability, reducing the chances of embarrassing slips and falls. So, choose wisely.

15. Stay Informed: Lastly, stay in the loop. Keep abreast of the latest exercise recommendations for the gracefully aging. New research and guidelines can be the North Star on your fitness journey.

In conclusion, aging gracefully doesn't mean giving up on exercise; it means embracing it in a smart and tailored way. Your fitness journey is unique, just like you. So, take these tips, put on your workout shoes, and let's continue dancing through the beautiful symphony of life.

[edanjoygelt]

10 Total-Body Workouts For When You Only Have 10 Minutes To Get It Done

An hour-long workout is just *not* happening today.

We don’t always have time to get in a full hour, let alone 30-minutes of exercise.  That doesn’t mean you should skip!  Try these great 10-minute workouts when life gets too demanding.

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Zumba – 30 of 30 complete!

I’ve never tried Zumba before, to be honest, I was just too intimidated.  A friend and former colleague Lidia saw my posts on Facebook and invited me to her class at LA Fitness downtown.  I figured if I was going to embarrass myself, I might as well do it in front of her.  

Lidia’s passion is dance and she used to do it competitively, dedicating nearly all of her free time to it.  She’s recently given up the art and now takes to the dance floor three times a week at various LA Fitness locations close to her Chicago home.

I arrived at LA Fitness on Sunday morning, post a St. Patty’s day hangover and joined Lidia and her regulars in the studio.  The music started and off she went as I tried to keep up as she Merengue’d, Salsa’d, and Bachata’d her way cross the dance floor.  She was amazing and as I side glanced in the mirror, I knew I looked like a flailing fish but I was kind of keeping up and totally having fun. The music was rhythmic and the infused hip-hop dance moves were fun – some more challenging than others.

I think I took the most enjoyment out of watching Lidia smile and exude enthusiasm – something I’ve never seen her do before.  Her big smile, energy and flair engaged us all.  I can see why her followers keep coming back.  

All in all, I had a great cardio workout, was sweating like crazy and burned about 400 calories.  I get why Zumba has it’s following but I also realize how important a good teacher is to class experience.

A big thanks to Lidia for the recommendation, I am and overly excited to make this the last work out in my 30 for 30 challenge!!!

Visit Lidia at LA Fitness Streeterville on Sunday mornings, or at the South Loop location on Wednesday or Thursday evenings.

http://lafitness.com

By:  Edan Joy Gelt

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Fit4MOM - Babes & Boot Camp + Cardio & Carriages

It’s not often you need to borrow a baby (or two) to a take a class, but that is exactly what I did to try Fit4Mom.  This fun and engaging group is all about exercising with your little ones.  The model is remarkable and I wish I knew about it when my kids were little (if it was even around then).  

I heard about Fit-4-Mom through my friend Megan Gertz, a child life specialist at Loyola, who helped us through some of our hardest times when Kennedy was diagnosed with leukemia. She is also an instructor for the amazing class I took in Bartlett.  I cannot say enough wonderful things about Megan.  She has dedicated her career to caring for ill children and their parents and now reserves her weekends for supporting fitness for post-natal moms and their children. Megan is one of the most selfless people I know.

Not only did Megan invite me to the class, she also let me borrow her two kids.  There was one catch; I had to share them with Brittany – a nurse that used to take care of Kennedy in-patient who is now pregnant, exploring the class; my pleasure.  The pair-up was perfect as a lot of the mommies who have been attending the group for a while had already made in-class friends.  In-fact, it’s like all the mommies were bonded together with the common thread of babies and boot camp.  Ingenious!

Some of the activities included running and lunging with the strollers and lining up the kids in a circle and side-squat-shuffling around them. Megan also set up a competition for the moms, dividing them in two groups and having them run across the room for different challenges, all while blowing bubbles to keep the little guys and gals entertained.  

Fit4Mom was an intense and effective workout that I didn’t expect; I thought I would be spending a lot of the class trying to keep my borrowed kids pacified but Megan’s kids lasted through 90% without a peep.  The hour went surprisingly smooth; none of the kids were fidgety until the last 10 minutes.

What I really liked: New moms and moms of little ones find it frustrating to recapture their pre-maternity figure while balancing child-care.  Fit4Mom offers a win-win solution. The children are amused watching their mom shuffle, jump and squat while singing songs.  Mom is happy she gets a workout in without giving up valuable time with her kid(s).

After class, some moms stayed around and socialized, I returned my borrowed children and took my sweaty self home.  

Kudos to this great organization!  For more information about Fit4Mom in Bartlett and Barrington, visit https://fit4mom-bartlett-barrington.frontdeskhq.com/offerings

Your first class is free, baby not included.

By:  Edan Gelt

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Aerial Yoga – Flying High

 During this journey, I’ve tried a lot of yoga but nothing quite like aerial.  I was attracted to the practice because of how graceful and elegant the cirque du soleil folks make it look.  If I could trapeze, I knew I could hang upside down – but was unprepared by how chiropractic the practice of aerial yoga is. I think every section of my spine chirped at some point of the night and I totally loved it!

I found Jessi Rae at the Barrington Yoga Loft.  With bright purple hair, a beautiful smile and a rocking body, Jessi was my personal trainer of the evening – mano y mano.  She was graceful, smart and extremely patient with my clumsy maneuvering throughout the practice.

My first goal was to achieve cocooning in the silk and eventually trying different balancing techniques.  The silks may look like they are soft and bouncy but they are actually rigid and supportive, helping achieve the most awkward (and fun) positions.  At one point we were swinging upside down!

I was unbelievably sore the next day.  The stretches you are able to achieve by using the silks are amazingly deep and I felt as if I had gone for an adjustment and massage, versus attending a form of yoga.

I cannot recommend the Barrington Yoga Loft and Jessi Rae enough.  The experience was incredible and I look forward to trying again.  My only advice is wear something long enough to tuck-in, my shirt was over my head most of the evening!

Jessi teaches aerial in Barrington and Crystal Lake and offers SUP (paddle board) yoga in the summer and other classes.  For more information visit wildrootsyoga.com

By:  Edan Joy Gelt

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POUND – ROCK YOUR WORKOUT

Since I’ve started this journey, I’ve searched for POUND. I’m not sure how I even heard of it – I think my friend Donna may have mentioned it and then one of the awesome ladies who taught Pinot and Piyo said they knew someone.  I searched for a niche studio but was unable to find one.  Thankfully Sue Turco (one of the amazing women from the Wood Dale park district) made an intro just in time for workout 26.

Licensed POUND Pro, Traci Beutell, reached out and told me she was offering classes at the Schaumburg Park District. Off I went.  For some reason I imagined that POUND was the use of sticks on drums or a huge exercise ball.  I was wrong. I was handed a pair of bright green, lightly weighted Rip Stix, a mat and we were ready to rock and roll, literally.

So POUND, like Jazzercise and Werq, are corporately choreographed routines used at all locations.  Each trainer is licensed in teaching the choreography set to top-40 music.  POUND is based on a lot of drumming (to a beat), the harder you pound, the better the workout.  The friction from the shock of the hit, the posture of balancing while pounding and the inclusion of fine motor skills takes a simple motion and turns it into a full-body and mind workout.

Traci did a great job engaging the class, spent a lot of time with the newbies explaining the movements and her energy was contagious.  I had a great time and a good workout.  I am amazed at the ingenuity of turning drumming into a full body workout - very clever.

For more information or if you would like to try a POUND class, reach out to Traci at [email protected].

By:  Edan Joy Gelt

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9 Rounds – Your Own Schedule

Although 9 Rounds has been around for years, I first heard about it mid-way through my journey.  It’s a mix of circuit and boxing drills an unusual concept – different than any other kickboxing classes or boxing facilities I’ve been to. 

I visited the Arlington Heights location and was surprised when I walked in.  I realized I wasn’t going to an organized class but instead a circuit.  Everyone is doing their own thing and working their way through 9 stations (thus 9 Rounds). I couldn’t help but think - Title Boxing meets Curves!  The entire circuit is 30-minutes and it’s set up that you will never need to rush to meet a specific class time.

Each station is 3 minutes and the lights change from green, yellow to red to let you know when to change rounds.  Unique to the Arlington Heights location, the trainers gear up in pads and make one of the rounds a one-on-one hands/pads experience.  My trainer was Carlos and in typical Edan form, I could not keep up with the sequence he gave me for hands/pads.  Maybe one day my body will follow what my mind is trying to process.

The low down on rounds - the first station was jump rope, 2nd round was squats/weights, and then 6 rounds of different bag work – including the speed bag that I was unable to master. The last round was something core. The stations change daily and the workouts are created by the trainer, versus corporate like most fitness chains.

 If you have a great workout, you ring the boxing bell to indicate how good it was 9 Rounds is a good option for those that are looking for a quick workout, can’t commit to specific class times and don’t want to break the bank.

For more information visit www.9round.com

By: Edan Gelt

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TriBalance Schaumburg – My Hot Yoga Haven

I’ve been going to TriBalance intermittently since 2011 when I found it by chance searching for a hot yoga studio. I fell in love.  Since then, the studio has grown, changed locations and expanded its offerings but still stays true to the community and practice.  This is one of the magical havens that got me through the hardest times of my daughter’s battle with Leukemia.  It was my go to stop for a time-out from life when I was overly anxious.

Before my visit this week, I hadn’t been to TriBalance in awhile; it is a bit far from my home and honestly, I forgot how much I loved it.  When I returned, I took a Sunday morning class with Kim Michelle Curda – she was fantastic.  Her voice was rhythmic and although the class was pretty full with more than 40 yogis, she still walked the room, was audible, attentive and remembered to address each side of the body throughout the routine (she must have a memory of steel).

Unlike Bikram yoga that has 27 uniform poses done in sequence in a brightly lit room, hot vinyasa at TriBalance offers around 40 poses, in a dim (but hot) room - paper chandeliers on the ceiling with light music in the background. The classes are 1 – 1.5 hours long and unique, forcing students to focus on the voice of the teacher and embrace the meditative healing power of yoga.  Don’t get me wrong, there is a LOT more than meditation going on, your body will be sore the day after but your mind will be set on “chill”.

After a class at TriBalance, I come home in peace.  The kids can yell at me, dinner could explode, the dog could be going crazy and I honestly just don’t care.  I’m in a peaceful mental place after a visit to TriBalance and highly recommend trying it if you have been practicing yoga or are a newbie.  I’ve tried other studios for hot vinyasa and I have yet to find one that comes close to the TriBalance experience.

TriBalance offers other classes as well and I’ve tried a few which include boot camp, boxing and also I brought my daughter to the kid yoga (not heated).   Every experience was great and their instructors are top notch.

For more information about Tribalance Yoga, visit their website at https://tribalance.com/

By:  Edan Joy Gelt

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The Treadmill Tabata Workout That Banishes Gym Boredom

This treadmill interval workout uses tabata to turn up your burn—and finishes off with bodyweight exercises to make you stronger.

Edan Joy Gelt's insight:

Can't make it to the gym? This is an awesome workout and no need for a home treadmill like the headline suggests!

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Three60Fit – Muay Thai Training

Muay Thai was never on my list for the 30 in 30 endeavor – I didn’t even know it was an option for fitness. I heard about Three60fit from Susan Baysinger (a friend from my son’s wrestling team).  When she learned about my challenge, she reached out to the Three60Fit team and made a warm introduction. 

The club owner Christian and their publicist Michelle were warm and welcoming, inviting me to choose any class and come on in.  After looking over the schedule, I opted for Muay Thai because it wasn’t anything I’ve tried before (I didn’t even know what it was). 

Three60Fit has a cool setup with climbing wall, cage, bars, weights, etc.  It’s a smaller facility but well equipped.  I met Christian, his beautiful dog Sophie and Wayne Gregory, my trainer of the evening.

There were about 12 of us but my class consisted of 3 (including the instructor). Christian was leading an adjacent boot camp/cross-training class at the same time with about 8 students. 

The warm-up for Muay Thai was jump rope with alternating stances. Then Wayne had us shadow box with the inclusion of elbows and knees with alternating feet.  My mind could not keep up with the strategies for arm and leg motions and I was all over the place.  He said, “Focus on elbows.  Elbows are like razor blades, when you throw them you’re trying to cut somebody.  Knee strikes knock the wind out of people”. Oh boy, what did I sign up for???

Wayne is a no-nonsense guy when it comes to Muay Thai, he is oober focused on form, stance, breathing and liquid motions.  You cannot spend time with Wayne and fake-it.  Wayne is there to truly train the sport of Muay Thai - he loves it and is dedicated to making sure his students do too.

I won’t lie, there were times, I longingly looked over at Christian’s class filled with rings, TRX and weights and begged for the familiar.  I wanted something I was good at and Muay Thai was definitely a challenge for me.  This all changed once Wayne got me in the cage (yes cage) and we started practicing the moves he taught.

I faltered there a bit too – he would demand, “elbow” and I would knee him.  He was cool with it and once I let my embarrassment subside about my lack of listening skills, I gave it my all and didn’t do too bad.

I’m a bit bruised and a lot sore but what a great practice.  I’m sure it would take me well over a year to really gain the muscle/mental memory to even practice with any type of competence but it’s definitely foreseeable. 

I look forward to coming back and trying other classes.  To learn more about Three60Fit, visit the website at: http://three60fit.training

 By: Edan Gelt (one beat up blogger!)

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CrossFit Pally - The Sport of Fitness

This was my first true cross-fit experience. I did a trial years ago with my friend Klaudia but never jumped right in.  The owner Jeff suggested I first try a boot camp class first, but no, not me – I wanted to blog about authentic CrossFit…so here it goes.

 The first time I showed up, it was the wrong day.  CrossFit Pally had interrupted it’s regular schedule for the 5-week CrossFit Open, where gyms across the world take part in a series of challenges, submit results of the participants and find out who qualifies for the CrossFit Games.  They offered me a shot at the nightly trial (I think not). 

One of the women trying to qualify was doing consecutive box jumps, burpees and 30lb kettle-bell lifts, all under 20 minutes with increasing reps. Watching her made me feel like I would be sick on her behalf – damn she was strong!

I came back on Monday night and met with Emily for a regular CrossFit experience.  She walked through the workout of the day with everyone and set me up with a heavy bar for squats. The workout was a combo of heavy lifting over an extended period of time, 2,000-meter rows and then a timed experience where so many reps of sit-ups, lifts and jumps were to be completed (a race to the finish).  It’s not entirely competitive but it can be for someone like me (if I was actually in my league).

 During the workout, I peaked into the other room to get a glance at the boot camp, it was a similar combination but more of a circuit, filled with some of the same activities – probably more my pace.

 The ability to actually walk or sit the day following CrossFit Pally was limited.  My muscles were sore, everywhere.  I felt great but knew I had a lot of work to do.  I can’t really claim that CrossFit is organized weight lifting because it doesn’t give the activity justice.  It’s a strength, endurance, gymnastics, cardio and agility program that is just a revolving challenge.  CrossFit may seem scary but it’s scale-able, the trainers work with you for modifications.

 I definitely liked the concept, the trainers and the owners and consider it a must try but, go at your own pace and don’t over do it.  Check out their schedule at http://www.crossfitpally.com/

[edanjoygelt]

Title Boxing – Speed, Strength and Full Body/Mind Engagement

I’m not new to Title Boxing. I was a member from 2012 – 2014 and LOVED IT.  I think I left Title to mix it up and give my body another type of fitness platform but there is no denying the incredible full body workout that Title provides.

When I searched for Title online – I thought they closed.  There was no sign of them on the Title Boxing Club website.  Thankfully I drove by and saw they were still there and gave them a call to set up a visit.

 I went to a 7pm class and it was packed.  I was amazed to see the club still going strong with about 20 - 25 in class.  If you’ve never been to Title, it is rows upon rows of bags.  The more people that show up, the harder it is to move around the bag but thankfully I still had wiggle room.

15 – 30 - 15

The class started with 15 minutes of intense cardio and a LOT of jumping.  You can definitely modify but if you’re like me, you will go all out until you are panting.  I was tired and winded by the time it was “gloves on”. 

Then it is a ½ hour on the bag.  The challenge isn’t only form but remembering the combo.  The trainer (who was Eric), started with about 4-5 moves, would work the moves for 1-2 minutes and then add another 4-5.  Remembering the combo, to breathe (correctly – which is a puff out for each hit), and form makes time fly.  Your body and mind are completely engaged. 

At the end of the ½ hour, we worked on some partner activities and then ended with 15 minutes of core.  My calorie burn was 500, I was exhausted and felt exhilarated.

To learn more about Title Boxing in Schaumburg, visit their Facebook page at  https://www.facebook.com/TITLEBoxingClubSchaumburg/.

By:  Edan Gelt

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Pure Barre – Squeeze, Tuck, Pulse, Bend, Stretch

Pure Barre in Kildeer definitely got the best of me.  Three little pieces of equipment (ball, band and bar which I call the B’s) sent my body into a fight or flight mode.  I was going to fight the intense muscle fatigue and stay in the class or I was going to fly out the door to escape, this class is seriously that demanding!  I challenge any athlete or fitness buff to take on the B’s and not shake like crazy (which I was told is the goal). 

Of course, when picking out my weights for the class, I scoffed at the choices (1lb, 2lb or 3lb), thankfully I grabbed 2lbs and not the 3’s (I mean, I usually do 15-20lbs); I can handle more. Yikes!  Hello ego, time to suck it up and survive an intense hour of shear burn and pretend you’ve got this fitness thing in the bag.

The class started off in the middle of the studio, switching back and fourth between pulsing and squeezing movements with the weights and ball.  Lisa was the instructor, a perfectly tone and beautiful leader and as graceful as one can get.  I followed her lead and as my muscles were screaming, I looked around the room and observed the women taking the class.  The young and beautiful, the older (and still beautiful), all had lean muscle EVERYWHERE.

The class progressed from focusing on one muscle group to the other - toning, strengthening, pulsing, squeezing, and then we moved to the bar.  We repeated motions on varying muscle groups until we shook and could take no more.  The movements were small but effective.  There was no down time, as soon as one muscle group was singing; we’d start on the next.

 I am more of a fast-paced girl, in and out, a few high-energy movements in each area but what I need is Barre.  I felt muscles I didn’t even know existed and despite the difficulty of the class for me, I knew this would bring me to the next level.  The practice of Barre results in the long and lean definition I’ve been chasing for years.

The owner Faith and instructor Lisa were welcoming and insightful.  I highly recommend adding this class to any fitness regimen.  One must at least try this class to understand the benefits.  It’s completely different than anything I’ve tried in the past.

Check out their schedule at www.purebarre.com/il-kildeer

By:  Edan Gelt

http://www.edanjoygelt.com

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Soul Cycle – Making Sweat Sexy (FREE!)

 I’m not a big fan of cycling or spin, I never have been.  Despite my 100-mile cycling journey last year and the relentless hours training for the century ride, I’ve never actually liked spin classes.  I attended them for training, endurance, cardio or just a good burn but cycling is definitely not my number one choice – until SoulCycle.

My first impression walking into SoulCycle was Vegas Baby! Encore meets Cosmopolitan – the tone is trendy and swanky.  You check-in and rent your shoes if you need them (kind of like a bowling alley but chic – they even make shoe rental cool).  You throw your stuff in a white shiny locker, complete with built-in combo lock and head off to the cycling room.

Upon entering, the room is dark – like going to an elegant nightclub.  You find your assigned bike (mine was 22), adjust the seat and get rolling.  The instructor Gunner was also super chic– she was tone, high energy and beautiful.  She ran the DJ-looking booth while spinning and lead the class in a dance/spin routine, doing push-ups, light weights and forward/backward motions, while the music was thumping and the crowd was dancing.  Gunner engaged the group, complimenting members by name when they met the music’s rhythm and quizzing the class on the name of the person next to them.

The hour-long stationary excursion had me panting but craving more.  The upbeat music and atmosphere kept me engaged, and time flew by.  SoulCycle has definitely invested in the psychology of fitness.  The environment, the décor, the vibe – it’s methodically developed to act like fitness crack, once you go, you’re addicted and once you see the results, there is no turning back!   

For more information about Soul Cycle, visit the website at: https://www.soul-cycle.com

SoulCycle North Shore is offering all readers a FIRST TIME FREE class. Just call the studio (224.470.7685) and mention this blog, and they'll book you right in!

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TSNY (Trapeze School of New York) in Chicago – A Mental & Physical Extreme Exercise

When I first suggested taking trapeze as a fitness class, I was told “that’s not exercise– that’s a thrill, like sky-diving”.  Ha. Ha. Ha. Ha.  I might have agreed (maybe) until showing up for the death-defying act and being EXTREMELY sore the day after.

I grabbed my girlfriend Jane and off we went.  When I originally scheduled the 2-hour session, I didn’t think much of it but as we drove closer, the pit in my stomach grew heavier.  Questions starting popping up: How high is this going to be? (23’) Does it hurt to fall in the net? (Nope) Will I be able to even step off the platform to swing? (Yep)  What if I chicken out? (I didn’t)    My mind was racing.

When you first arrive, you sign a waiver – I’m not sure what I signed but it was definitely a tad longer than the ones I’ve been signing for other fitness endeavors.

Claire was there to help get us acquainted. After a quick walk through of how to transition from the platform to the bar (3ft above the ground), the fun began.

Claire told us to listen to the instructions called out by Steve once on the bar.   Steve was in charge of holding the safety lines and calling out movements through the microphone. Each movement works with momentum, so as long as each task is performed when instructed, gravity makes things seamless.  The safety lines keep you from falling and if you do, you are let down slowly.

We were given a harness belt with two loops on each side.  We clasped the red and blue ropes on to the belt and ascended up a bright orange ladder, 23’ in the air.  Thankfully Jane went first, because if she hadn’t, I don’t know if I would have worked up the nerve to start the climb.

Once on the platform, the say “ready” (this is where you bend your knees after both hands are on the bar), and then “hup” – this is where you jump.  I don’t think I jumped at the first “hup”, or maybe I did, it was all a blur.  

During the first swing out and back, when at the highest point out, Steve instructed “legs up” to hang upside down.  Missed this. I tried to swing my legs at the lowest point, which was too much work and I failed pulling a muscle in the process. After I finally got my legs in the swing, I refused to let go of my hands to swing upside down; so much for listening!

Jane nailed it out of the gate and let out a scream during her first swing out – pointed toes, hanged upside down and had great form to boot.

By the time we were done, we had completed 9 sessions in 2-hours, which ended with an upside-down swing, a catch (Claire caught us from another bar) and a backward summersault dismount.

I was sore the next day, my lats, hamstrings and quads ached but the best exercise actually had little to do with physical exertion.  Crawling the ladder, stepping off the platform, letting go of the bar while hanging upside down – these were extreme mental exercises. It was an override of instinct – “feel the fear and do it anyway”.  Each crawl up to the platform became mentally easier as the night wore on.

I will definitely be back with friends, my family or anyone who will dare to go with me.  It is a mental and physical feat without comparison. I just wish they were a bit closer to home.

TSNY (Trapeze School of New York) in Chicago is held outdoors in the summer at Belmont Harbor and year-round, at Broadway Armory.  To schedule a class or more information, visit their website at https://chicago.trapezeschool.com

By:  Edan Gelt

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Cardio vs. weights: Which is actually better for weight loss?

For decades, conventional wisdom said cardio was the best exercise for weight loss. Then strength training muscled its way into the spotlight.

Edan Joy Gelt's insight:

Cardio still wins?