Tuesday, May 22, 2012

FEATURED MEMBER: Heidi

 This week's featured member is Heidi.  She is a regular in a bunch of different classes, and I see her out on the floor as well.  She is dedicated to fitness!
Heidi on the top of Flat Rock Mountain Anchorage
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was raised here in Kalamazoo and went to Gull Lake schools.  I graduated from Western Michigan University with a major in Criminal Justice.  I currently work for AAA of Michigan and have worked for the company for over 15 years as a Claim Specialist.  I am married with no children and 2 dogs.  I have a niece and nephew that I adore!!!  I’ve overheard some of their friends wishing they had an Aunt Heidi…so cute!!  Soccer continues to be my passion!!!  Every other year, I go to Alaska to visit a friend, and we go mountain climbing a few times per visit.

What is your usual weekly workout routine?
I work out at the gym Monday through Friday, taking classes and doing weight training.  I despise missing a day from the gym and my routine…just ask my husband!!  Monday – RPM, Tuesday - Stairmaster, Wednesday – Pump, Thursday – Attack, and Friday – weight training and cardio.   I run on the weekends to keep up with my cardio since I still play indoor/outdoor soccer.  I have to keep up with the girls who every year seems to be getting younger as I'm getting older!!!

What are your go-to snacks and meals?
I love anything with peanut butter, fruit, hard boiled eggs, veggies with hummus, nuts & yogurt for just a few snacks.  My meals consist of oatmeal, fruit, lean wraps, salads, fresh vegetables and lean meats.  I can’t lie…chocolate & wine are part of my weekly diet also!! (Moderation is the key!!!)

How do you balance being active with the demands of your daily life?

I must admit…it’s not too difficult for me and I truly cherish it!!!  I don’t have children so I am able to leave work and go straight to the gym.  If my workload increases I am still usually able to squeeze in the gym at some point during the day.  I am spoiled when it comes to my free time and I love it!!!

What is a fitness or healthy living goal you have for yourself?
Just to stay healthy….I truly enjoy exercising and can’t imagine my life without it.  I just turned 40 this year and my ultimate goal is to be able to continue to exercise and play soccer for as many more years as my body allows!!

What do you like about being a member at SWAT?
It is definitely the instructors and other members!!!  I have been a member of SWAT for over 10 years now.  (They definitely are doing something right.)  I can tell you that SWAT has gone through many changes over the years from staff to classes.  If you can remember Marta’s obstacle/interval class you know what I am talking about.  I enjoy how knowledgeable and helpful the instructors are as well as how friendly the members are to each other.  The Les Mills classes are definitely a bonus and I would never think of joining another gym that did not have them!!!      

What is your favorite class at SWAT?  Why?
RPM & Step…I am a cardio guru!!!  As you can see above, I don’t do Step anymore since it does not fit into my gym schedule…I really miss it and hope they bring it back to the 4:30pm time slot soon!!! 

Do you have a person who is your healthy living/fitness inspiration?  Who and why?
I always struggled with my weight while growing up.  I can’t tell you how many diets I tried without success.  When I reached high school I began getting involved in sports and the weight just came off.  I discovered at that point that exercise is a key in maintaining my weight and a healthy lifestyle.  There really is not one person who inspires me but many…my family, friends and the instructors continue to keep me on track!!!

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