#balancegyms

[bubbles759]

Did a body combat class today for the first time in years! It almost killed me and I'm sure I'll barely be able to move tomorrow but it was so much fun. Definitely reminded me how much I love a class like this but I am so very unfit at the moment. And gym mirrors are not my friends right now. I'm fixing that 😂 #bodycombat71 #bodycombat #fitness #gym #balancegyms #balance #cardio #boxing #sounfit #dontlikemirrorsrightnow #changingme #gettingfit #gettinghealthy #gettingslimmer #fit #healthy #illachetomorrow (at Stockton, New South Wales, Australia)

[balancegym]

Class Of the Month: YOGA

This month, Yoga is our Class of the Month! This month, we chatted with five of our Balance yoga instructors to learn why they love yoga, what their classes are like, and why you should try them out!

What’s your name, where do you teach yoga, and how long have you been teaching?

SF: Shayna Frankel, Balance Gym Capitol Hill. I’ve been teaching yoga for 4 years.

AH: Alexandria Hall, Balance Gym Thomas Circle and Foggy Bottom. I’ve been teaching yoga for 4 years.

RH: Rebecca Holland, Balance Gym Glover Park. I’ve been teaching yoga for almost 4 years.

AW: Amanda Wilson. I’ve been teaching yoga for three years.

BH: Betsy Huffman, Balance Gym Glover Park. I’ve been teaching yoga since 2005.

Tell us about your background - how did you discover yoga, and why did you decide to start teaching?

SF: I first discovered yoga during a previous career in a very fast paced, stressful setting. After many practices, I realized my true calling was moving away from my current job and towards something more fulfilling. I immediately jumped into teacher training, the practice spoke to me more than anything ever had and I knew that this was the path for me. I started teaching as soon as possible and life has forever changed for the better.

AH: I took yoga in college as an elective and found it exactly what I needed to stay grounded. Then I went to a yoga retreat 5 years later in Costa Rica and realized my purpose in life was to share yoga. I ended up my corporate life cold turkey and here we are. With lots of faith, tears, struggle and joy I’m living my purpose.

RH: I truly discovered yoga at Balance Gym actually, taking Betsy's classes on Tuesday and Wednesday every week. I started to expand and take more teachers at the gym. I eventually pushed myself to do yoga teacher training just to learn more. I had no intention of teaching when I started on the journey; however, it turns out I did enjoy it. When I was offered a class at the gym I jumped at the chance and have been teaching it ever since.

AW: As a lifelong dancer, I have always connected to movement as a way to manage stress and express myself. In college, a friend introduced me to yoga and it soon became a staple of my daily routine. I decided to start teaching yoga to deepen my practice and increase my understanding of yoga philosophy and anatomy.

BH: I was a competitive swimmer throughout my college career and have worked out ever since. I discovered yoga in the late 1990’s as a perfect way for me to maintain strength and length in addition to working out in the gym, and let go of a little bit of my competitive nature to find balance on and off my yoga mat. I learned so much from that early yoga practice that it led me to want to share the benefits of yoga with as many as I could.  

Why do you love yoga?

SF: I love yoga because it is one of the few places in life where theres no competition, no ego, just a chance to search deep inside learn more about the person you are.

RH: I love yoga because it is moving meditation. You can push yourself or you can take it easier on your body. There is no competition to be the best, just do what is best for you. I was doing Crossfit when I started, so it helped me move on off days and feel like I did something, without it having to be all my energy. 

AW: I love yoga because it helps me find peace and balance in a chaotic world. The skills I have learned on my mat, have been immensely transferable to the rest of my life. From the mat, anything is possible.

BH: I love yoga because the work we do on our yoga mats is a perfect metaphor for the work we do in our lives. We put our bodies into difficult and challenging yoga poses and learn to use our breath and our minds to find trust in ourselves and find personal power through them.

Why should people add yoga to their workout routine?

SF: Yoga is an amazing opportunity for the mind to take a break. Constant thoughts and stress puts a lot of pressure on the mind and body, give yourself time to relax, explore and breath.

RH: I added it as a way to de-stress. Sometimes I would do heavy lifting before and consider it my warm down. And sometimes all I did was yoga and learned a new arm balance or better alignment. It is great, because depending on what you want to get out of the class, usually you just need to adjust your mindset and tell yourself "Today I will just breathe" or set a goal and say "today I will try the challenge pose". There are always so many options you can take to challenge yourself or to take an active rest that it was perfect for me, and probably perfect for others as well.

AW: Yoga is a great way to compliment other exercise routines. Many rigorous forms of exercise can be taxing on the body; yoga helps recover and restore the body, specifically by focusing on ligaments and connective tissue. Additionally, breath work is one of the most transferable skills fromyoga to other forms of exercise. For example, many runners find that yoga helps them control their breathing better while running and makes their strides longer.

BH: Power yoga is the perfect companion to a lifting regimen because it offers strength, flexibility, balance and most important, strength in length – holding muscle strength at the fullest extension of movement. In a lifting program, muscles tend to get tight with limited range so a good yoga practice gives them room to find a fluid range of power.

What are your yoga classes at Balance like? Why should people come and try it out?

SF: I teach the Monday night Vinyasa yoga class @ 7:30pm. We work through our practice to link breath and movement and to bridge the gap between the mind and body. My classes are all levels so even if you are a beginner, I welcome you to join us a learn how yoga can positively affect your life.

AH: I teach Soulful Yoga classes. I ask you to open your hearts to change via movement, breathe, Meditation and self awareness.

RH: My classes start out a little slow, but usually I try to have a creative standing sequence in there somewhere. I try to keep it similar enough week to week so everyone can see when their strength or flexibility increases. I cue breath a lot, because I know when I started I held mine a lot, and one of the most important parts of yoga is breathing. I love sequencing, so if students have requests I try to prepare a new sequence to help them open hips or get deeper into the poses they enjoy.

AW: I teach an all levels Vinyasa flow class that emphasizes alignment and breath work. I offer variations of poses so that students can increase or decrease the intensity of their practice. Students can expect to work hard and feel great. 

BH: My classes are a blend of strength, balance, and an aerobic challenge. Oh, and they’re fun too! We have an amazing group of Balance yogis.

What’s your number one tip for someone who’s new to yoga, or someone looking to make their practice more challenging?

SF: I would say, "let it go". Theres no need to compare your ability to others as yoga is not a "one size fits all" type of practice. For someone looking to make the practice more challenging, I offer tons of intermediate and advanced modification options in my classes.

RH: For someone just starting I would say to find a pose that you are comfortable in and pause there whenever you need to. There are no goals. Once you make it to your mat you've done all you need to do. For someone looking to challenge themselves, I would tell them to listen as the teacher cues. You can always go deeper into a pose just by small adjustments. We also love to offer our students options, so you can always let your instructor know what you are working on and we will usually try to incorporate it into the class to give you the opportunity to practice.

AW: Continually pause throughout your class to take internal assessments. I recommend that students check in and ask, "How does my breath feel? How does my body feel? How does practice change the way my breath and body feel?" Periodically checking in with yourself during class allows students to cultivate not only a practice of strength, flexibility, and balance, but also one of awareness.

Anything else you think people should know about yoga?

SF: Yoga is a spiritual journey, in order to get the most out of the practice, approach it with an open mind and an open heart.

AH: Every teacher is different every style is different you will only find the one for you when you start exploring! And when the student is ready, the teacher arrives.

AW: Don't take yourself or the practice too seriously! Don’t be afraid to push your limits and try something new, yoga is all about self exploration.

BH: Check your ego at the door and be willing to experience yoga as a personal journey. Yogis will learn new poses, breathing techniques and their personal power through challenging poses and great work. We might not get into crow post on the first day of practice but yoga is exactly that, practice!

[imsickofall]

#balanceteam #balancegym #nopainnogain #gymlifestyle #teamfurious #mensphisique #focus 5 week diet 🌸🔥

[tinylondono-blog]

This is a great cardio in a great way to build your strength your upper body in your core same time @wakeup.nf @freshandeasycolombia @smartfit @lauravanessaidarraga 🔥🔥💪🏽💪🏽#exercise #getfit #trainhard #nikeplus #nutrition #thursday #motivation #dedication #personaltrainer #fitbit #garmin #fitnessangelsbootcamps #bootcampinstructor #ptlife #pt #melbourne #australia #youcantstopthebeat #balancegym #balancelife #happy #healthylifestyle #personaltraining #happyday #vegan #vegetarian #healthcoach #healthy360 #gotrainfitness #fitnesstimetiny 🔥🔥☄️☄️💥💥💪🏽🏋🏻🍫🍑🍗 (at Starbucks Medellin)

[thefitonelog]

Come train with us now @ahmed_fayek with @repostapp ・・・ Never underestimate of any other type of workout because may be the one thing that you thought you are perfect at is nothing for others and a piece of cake. So, please people just focus on your target with working in many ways to reach it with a full feeling of satisfaction that no one can doubt you are weak. • • #FayekFit #FayekFitQuotes #BurningAthletes #BurnAndFit #Reebok #Fitness #FitnessMotivation #Fitspo #FitFame #FitFamous #FitnessLifeStyle #HealthyLife #Dedication #TRX #CairoGyms #TheFitOne #BalanceGym #HersGym #fitnessjourney (at Cairo, Egypt)

[wethepeopledc]

Hi from @crossfitbalancegp ! I’ve been doing #crossfit for a whole 4 months now, and it’s been GREAT! Super hard, but great! In January I injured my hands really badly and couldn’t even open a door. It’s been a slow slow SLOW rehab but my new crossfit buds are making it more fun! S/O to @playboysully and the Balance CF Team! #cf #worklifebalance #balancegym pc: @_maggiecaroline_ https://ift.tt/2z6fE4q

[adelaidefcblog]

Favorite tweets

1 @Adelaide_FC + 1 @CollingwoodFC + 1 @USAFLFreedom + 2 @USAFLRevolution + 6 mates + @balancegym = @BWEagles 💪 ✅ it @USAFL1997 @AFLMedia http://pic.twitter.com/2LqOfy1OUN

— Jay Levesque (@PEwhisperer) January 31, 2017

from http://twitter.com/PEwhisperer via IFTTT

[rxsmartgear]

High fives to everyone that came out to the #rxmethod today at @balancegym. #happydoubleunders #elevateyourfitness #rxsmartgear #doubleunders (at Balance Gym)

[balancegym]

Trainer Spotlight: Gabe Free

Gabe Free has been with Balance since 2015, and was recently promoted to Director of Personal Training at Balance Gym Capitol Hill! He first got into lifting to become a better athlete for rugby, football, and lacrosse, and now trains clients and teaches our Bells and Brawn class at Balance. Read on to learn what he loves about Balance, his favorite types of workouts, his go-to pre-workout meal, and why everyone can use a personal trainer!

Name: Gabriel Free

Occupation: Director of Personal Training at Cap Hill

Hometown: Capitol Hill, Washington DC 

At Balance Since: 2015 

Tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your fitness background?

My dad got me lifting in high school because I wanted to be a better athlete for rugby, football and lacrosse. I saw immediate progress and significant changes in my body and ability on the field. It made me feel like a winner every day. I became obsessed and knew I wanted to pursue this as a career to help other people reach their athletic potential and be winners themselves. 

How did you get started with fitness training/teaching?

In high school I actually helped coach other teammates who came into the weight room and asked me for help, as we did not have a strength coach. Officially, I started teaching some outdoor bootcamps during my summer breaks in college right in Stanton Park. 

What do you think are the most beneficial things about personal training, and how can people benefit from Balance's personal training program?

Always having someone to push you and guide you is key. Even trainers have trainers. It's really easy to fall into patterns and do the same lifts, same routine, same runs, every day. The key to growth and development is variety and getting better at your worst attributes. A good trainer should always help attack weaknesses in a client. Balance personal training is great because of the equipment variety at each gym. We trainers love our toys and Balance has the most! 

What are your favorite types of workouts - either to do by yourself or to work on with clients?

My favorite workouts are simple, use compound movements, are low volume and heavy. I love to finish with some high intensity strongman cardio as well. Example workout:A - Power cleans: 5 x 3 B - Back squat 5 x 5 C1 - DB Bench press 5 x 5 C2 - Walking lunges 5 x 5 D - Sled drags and pushes and bear crawls until I hate myself  Recover - Lots of protein and 8 hours of sleep - BOOM.

What are some of your gym must-haves?

My gym must haves are barbells, bumper plates and a squat rack on an 8x8 platform. With the right guidance, anyone can do just about anything with that. Foam rollers and lacrosse balls are a must for recovery. 

What’s your favorite healthy meal or snack to cook at home or eat on the go?

I live by my pre-workout oatmeal with a big scoop of peanut butter and lots of fruit. Sticks to your ribs and wont slow you down. Post workout I go for 25g of lean protein with as many colorful vegetables as possible. Eat a rainbow! Vegetable/fruit color variety will help with your micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Your pre and post workout meals are the most important of the day because your brain is most vulnerable to adaptation; never skip these. 

How do you suggest people fit working out into their busy schedules?

It doesn't take more than 20 minutes. Shoot, you can do 5 minutes of burpees/squats/sprints straight and be FRIED if you push yourself. I encourage people to be ready at all times because you never know when you will have spare time. Eliminate excuses. No one has time, everybody makes time. Bring sneakers and some compression gear with you at all times. People will think it's weird until you're jacked and they aren't.

What advice do you have for someone who’s new to working out?

I encourage new people not to fear judgement. Everyone started where you were. Some people will start even worse than you. The worst thing you can do is nothing. Take classes even if they intimidate you, seek out a trainer or friend who's in good shape and can workout WITH you.

What are your favorite things about Balance?

I love the culture of Balance. We don't have an elitist vibe like many gyms in the area, which cause the judgement that keeps people from growing. At Balance it's not about how expensive your exercise clothes are, how much you lift, or how many likes your selfie got - it's simply about getting better.

Complete this sentence: #Balancelife is: all sport, all people, all life, all winning 

[balancegym]

Balance Gym Bike to the Beach Team: MARY BETH TYLER

This weekend, several Balance members will be participating in the Bike to the Beach 100-mile bike ride, from Washington, DC to Dewey Beach, DE, and raising money for Autism Speaks. Today, we’re highlighting team member Mary Beth Tyler, who will be riding in her first Bike to the Beach this weekend!

You can support the Balance Gym Bike to the Beach team by donating here, and you can donate to Mary Beth’s ride here.

Name: Mary Beth Tyler

How many years have you participated in Bike to the Beach? Why did you decide to participate?

This is my first year! I wanted a challenge ride and to support a good cause.

What has your training looked like so far? When did you start training for the ride, and what is a typical week of training for you? 

Training is going well! I commute by bike daily and do a lot of riding regularly. I started training in earnest in late May for this. Typical training week is a few days of cardio and strength training at Balance + long training rides on weekends. I’m currently up to 6 hours on Saturdays - last weekend we rode about 60 miles out to Mount Vernon and back!

What has been the best part of training so far? The most challenging?

Pushing myself and achieving that mileage - it feels great after you've accomplished a long distance. The sun and the heat have definitely been the most challenging! I’m not sure how it’ll be the day of, but I’m hopeful that the early start will allow us to get most of the mileage done before the hottest part of the day.

How has Balance Gym helped with your training and helped you achieve your goals? 

Keeping up with the classes (Balance Ride & Balance Fit) have really kept me honest about my consistent / baseline conditioning. I’m typically in about 3-4 Balance Ride classes each week.

What are you most looking forward to about the event? 

Finishing it :) Enjoying a community ride, pushing myself, and stretching after the 104 miles!

How do you fit training into your busy schedule? 

I've had to carve out time for the long rides - I've got really supportive people who help me stick to my training commitments. I’ve also tried to start my rides super early to beat the heat!

What are your "must-haves" for a long bike ride (can be music, gear, snacks, etc.)? 

Music & Snacks! I play my music out loud so others can jam along. Snacks to keep the energy up on long rides. I usually bring apple slices, CLIF Bars, and Gatorade to refuel.

#BalanceLife is: my active community!

[balancegym]

Balance Gym Bike to the Beach Team: CLAIRE PERKINS

This weekend, several Balance members will be participating in the Bike to the Beach 100-mile bike ride, from Washington, DC to Dewey Beach, DE, and raising money for Autism Speaks. Today, we’re highlighting team member Claire Perkins, who will be riding in her first Bike to the Beach this weekend!

You can support the Balance Gym Bike to the Beach team by donating here, and you can donate to Claire’s ride here.

Name: Claire Perkins

How many years have you participated in Bike to the Beach? First time B2Ber!

What made you decide to participate? 

Cassia and Devin said it was a ton of fun and they generally have pretty good taste in these sorts of things. Also I just learned to ride a bike about a year ago, and this seemed like a great way to cap off that accomplishment.

What has your training looked like so far? When did you start training for the ride, and what is a typical week of training for you? 

I ran the Toronto marathon in May so was doing all long runs before that, but afterwards I transitioned over to long rides on the weekends. I started around 20 miles and built up from there. Last weekend we (my partner Harsha and I) took the "scenic route" to Baltimore about 60 miles and thats the farthest we've gone. Sometimes I do a 20 miler before work too 1 or 2x per week to get in a few extra miles. Its actually really nice because on a bike you get a breeze in the DC heat that you don't get on a run.

What has been the best part of training so far? The most challenging? 

The best part has been experimenting with a new kind of endurance sport and seeing how far I can push myself. Also you can get much farther on a bike than you can running, and there so many gorgeous trails I hadn't seen before! Most challenging has been figuring out the pain points for the first time - getting saddle sore or blisters on my hands - all of those things I didn't know would happen post-30 miles on a bike. And then having to figure out what gear or technique solutions people use for those things... this is all new to me.

How has Balance Gym helped with your training and helped you achieve your goals? 

Balance Gym and the people that work and workout there are all great because its a different mindset than lots of gyms or classes that are all about losing weight or looking good. Balance is more about feeling healthy and strong, and taking care of your mind and body together. Rather than having a workout be that chore that’s carved out of your day, that you struggle to get to and through, instead its an integral part of life that you enjoy. That’s definitely more my thing.

What are you most looking forward to about the event? 

Being out there on some new stretches of road with all those other bikers, enjoying the sunshine, the wind, that leg burn, and all those endorphins.

How do you fit training into your busy schedule? 

I get up early and run to work or do a ride before work and end at the office. I make it part of my life - and to be honest, I enjoy the training - so I look forward to it. On weekends I do long rides with my partner and with our friends and incorporate a new destination and a reward (aka good food) after.

What are your "must-haves" for a long bike ride (can be music, gear, snacks, etc.)? 

Sunscreen. Lots of water. And a cold beer (or three) to look forward to after.

Why do you Bike to the Beach? Just seemed like the thing to do.

[balancegym]

Strength and Speed: Why You Should Add Balance Body to Your Fitness Routine

This month, Balance Body is our class of the month. This class combines barbell complexes with tabatas to get you super strong.

How the Class Works: 

Balance Body combines eight different lifts that target every major muscle group with sets of four-minute tabatas  - twenty seconds of intense movement followed by ten seconds of rest. Unlike classes like CrossFit or Balance Bootcamp, the consistent format allows you to see strength gains from week to week.

Why Is it Effective?

So why is Balance Body super effective? In each set, you perform eight repetitions of eight different total-body movements, from squats, thrusters, and lunges to good mornings, rows, cleans, and push-presses. Between each set, you perform four minutes of tabatas – twenty seconds of intense, challenging body-weight exercises followed by ten seconds of rest.

“Combining these two unique and proven training methods and adding them to music really make for a fun, effective, and challenging workout,” says Devin Maier, who created the class in 2014.

Why Should You Try It?

Our Balance Body instructors told us some of their favorite things about the class, and why you should try it out:

“It’s awesome to have a class where you can really track your progress and push yourself into heavier weights! I’ve seen the best strength gains and fat loss come from Balnce Body.” - Cassia, Foggy Bottom

“For both the cardio freaks and lifters, it’s the most efficient use of 45 minutes!” - Christina, Foggy Bottom

“Even if you only have 30 minutes for a lunch break, you can still get in a full workout that includes both strength and cardio (since most people prefer to focus on one or the other.” - Ariel, Thomas Circle

“Balance Body teaches important strength movements and is accessible to any fitness level.” - Gabe, Capitol Hill

“It builds muscle, endurance, and core strength, and is a ton of fun! It's a well-rounded, all-inclusive kickass workout.” - Kacie, Glover Park

This class is awesome for any member that wants to learn some more strength-based moves and is looking for a true challenge.

[balancegym]

Join the Balance Gym Bike to the Beach Team

Need a new challenge for the summer? Join the Balance Gym Bike to the Beach Team and help us raise money for Autism Speaks!

What is Bike to the Beach?

Bike to the Beach is a 108-mile bike ride from Washington, DC to Dewey Beach to raise money for Autism Speaks. This year's ride will take place on Friday, July 28, 2017. Balance Gym has participated in Bike to the Beach for the last nine years, and is a proud sponsor of this year's ride.

Why should I participate?

Great question! There are SO MANY reasons to participate in Bike to the Beach:

Physical Challenge: If you're feeling a little bored with your current workout routine, training for a 100-mile bike ride could be a great way to shake it up. We recommend adding some of our Balance Endurance Ride classes to your schedule to prepare for the event.

Bragging Rights: You'll get to say you biked more than 100 miles in one day, which is pretty cool. PLUS, you'll get to Dewey Beach without sitting in all that annoying traffic on the Bay Bridge and 404.

It's Super Fun: By participating in Bike to the Beach, you'll have an opportunity to meet lots of cool new people at both Balance Gym and across DC, through training rides, fundraising events, and during the ride itself. Then, there's an awesome party at the finish line in Dewey Beach.

It's For An Amazing Cause: This year, Bike to the Beach is working to raise $125,000 through the DC ride to support Autism Speaks. By participating, you'll have the opportunity to support this important cause. When you register to ride, you'll commit to raising between $500 and $1,500 during your training.

108 miles seems really far. How do I train for this?

When you sign up for Bike to the Beach, you'll receive a training guide to help you prepare for the big day. Bike to the Beach will also be coordinating training rides to help members connect and prepare for the ride, and Balance Gym will be holding training rides and fundraising events for members of the team.

Fundraising is scary. Will I have help?

Yes! Bike to the Beach will provide you with a wide variety of tools to help you meet your fundraising minimum. In addition, the Balance Gym team will be holding several fundraisers throughout the spring and summer to help support our riders.

Sounds awesome. How do I sign up?

We're excited to have you on the team! You can sign up here and use code BALANCESPONSOR25 for 25% off your registration fee.

[balancegym]

We are excited to announce that our class of the month is BALANCE RIDE. We have just launched our new cycle program and we are excited for you to come ride with us!

'Check In' on Facebook to Balance Gym and mention BALANCE RIDE for your chance to win a Balance Gym Hoodie.

We have 4 versions of BALANCE RIDE over our 4 locations: Balance Ride - All Locations A high energy 45-60 minute cycle class that encourages users to turn up their resistance knob as they work through high speeds and steep climbs.

Balance Express Ride - Thomas Circle Looking to get some quality cardio on your lunch break? This is a 30 minute ride of interval zone training that is fast, fun and effective!

Balance Rhythm Ride - Thomas Circle + Foggy Bottom Like a dance party on a bike. Balance Rhythm Ride is 45 minutes of seated and standing sprints, climbs, tap backs and jumps that will have you motivated to the music.

Balance Endurance Ride - Thomas Circle + Foggy Bottom Whether you are preparing for a specific cycle or running race, or just want to increase your fitness level, this class is for you. 60 minutes of strict RPM targets throughout your ride will help you become a better endurance athlete and increase your overall fitness level.

See you on the bike!

[balancegym]

Instructor Spotlight - MICHELLE RISINGER

Name: Michelle Risinger

Occupation: Head of Innovation, Pact (global nonprofit)

Hometown: Wilmette, IL

How long have you been with Balance? Which classes/locations do you teach at? 

3.5 years!! How is that possible?! I teach Piloxing Mondays at Glover Park and Thursdays at Foggy Bottom both 7pm, and Barre 6pm on Wednesdays. I also teach the adult swim lessons at Foggy Bottom and sub Bootcamp!

Tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your fitness background? 

I once had a friend tell me “They should tie you to a dynamo” – I think that about sums me up. The water is my sanctuary - I’ve swum competitively for 26 years and swam Division I in college. I’ve played water polo for 20 years and still compete internationally. I also played semi-pro in Europe for the Scottish National team. I got into group fitness 4 years ago when I was recovering from injuries and the journey has been incredible. 

I also have this whole other life in the international development industry, I have a Masters in International Peace and Conflict Studies and was living on a military base in Afghanistan before moving back to DC and starting at Balance!

What is Piloxing? 

Piloxing is a non-stop, cardio fusion of standing Pilates, boxing and dance that will push you past your limits for a sleek, sexy, and powerful you! PILOXING® cardio fusion incorporates cutting edge research and fitness techniques to burn maximum calories, build lean muscles, and increase stamina. The program uniquely blends the power, speed, and agility of boxing with the targeted sculpting and flexibility of Pilates. These techniques are also supplemented by the use of weighted gloves, further toning the arms and maximizing cardiovascular health. Add to that exhilarating dance moves and you have a muscle-toning, fat-burning workout that will make you feel physically and mentally empowered!

Why should people try Piloxing, and what can they expect when they get there? 

Piloxing is a high-intensity, low-impact format making it easy on the joints and open to all levels. If you love high intensity movement, dancing and sweating you’ll love this! We are so excited that Piloxing is now offered Tuesdays and Saturdays at Thomas Circle!

What are some of your gym must-haves? (can be gear, clothing, snacks, etc.)

Haha, like most women in fitness I have a serious weakness for workout clothes- if my day job would let me in rocking yoga pants, a tank top and a strappy bra I’d be in heaven.

What's your favorite healthy meal or snack (to cook at home or to eat on the go)? 

I actually try to eat a plant-based diet so I am all about the veggies. I always carry a piece of fruit on me in case I get hungry and I make homemade protein balls with sunflower seed butter, honey, tons of seeds, dark chocolate and dried cherries which are sooo good!

How do you suggest people fit working out into their busy schedules?

Remembering that investing in your health is the best investment you will EVER make. Find people who lift you up, find the workouts that inspire you and a gym that meets your needs!

What are your favorite things about Balance? Why do you love working here?

I love that Balance is always willing to try new things! They took a chance on Piloxing, a class they’d never heard of and it’s been really successful, I feel like I’m always coming to them with new ideas and they are willing to take a risk for success!

#BalanceLife is: boundless opportunity!!

Anything else you'd like to add? I love this quote: “When life knocks you down… do a burpee!”

[balancegym]

Member Spotlight: Ricardo Figueroa

Ricardo Figueroa decided to try CrossFit after a friend challenged him to join, and now he’s one of the most consistent and hard working members day in and day out. In 2017, he completed all of the CrossFit Open workouts Rx’d, and looks forward to getting stronger and leaner in 2018. Read on to learn more about him!

Name: Ricardo Figueroa

Occupation: Engineer

Balance Location: Thomas Circle

How long have you been CrossFitting? 

I have been on and off for the past 3 years.

Why do you CrossFit?  

After trying many other workouts, Crossfit was the one workout that was fun, think about it, random exercises all put together to make for an awesome full body workout.

What made you decide to try CrossFit? 

A friend challenged me to join and I accepted.

What's your favorite CrossFit workout/movement?  

Definitely Murph is the top.  It has most of the movements I enjoy and you can actually do the workout anywhere without the need of a gym. 

What's been your proudest CrossFit moment so far? 

Performing this years 2017 Crossfit Open workouts Rx.

What are some of your fitness goals? 

Increase my heavy lifting and continue to get leaner.

What do you like most about working out at Balance? 

The community hands down.

What do you like to do outside the gym for fun? 

I play many sports, Tennis, Volleyball and Golf.  Also a foodie!

What’s your favorite quote? 

"Smart has the brains but stupid has the balls", Can't recall who said it but definitely it has been on my mind since I heard the quote.

Tell us something we don't know about you (fun fact): 

I used to DJ back home for parties during my college years

How do you fit working out into your busy schedule? 

I make sure I reserve an hour of my day to workout no matter what I do through my day.  It's a commitment I have made to myself

#BalanceLife is: Life Changing