FEATURED MEMBER: Mary

Mary has been a SWAT member for almost a decade now, so chances are, you have run into her at some point.  She is always smiling (even at the end of a group fitness class!), and she works really hard...and don't you think this picture of her is just stunning (we're so used to seeing everyone at the gym with, shall we call it, the workout glisten - not with nicely done hair and makeup!)?

 

Tell us a little about yourself.

I have been married to my husband Chad for 19 wonderful years!!  We have 2 children: Mitch (16 yrs old) and Maddy (13 yrs old).  I have worked for over 22 years for Dr. Tom Saewert as a dental hygienist.  My favorite things to do are watch my son play soccer, watch my daughter ice skate, and exercise!!  I enjoy it and love how it makes me feel!!!!
 
What is your usual weekly workout routine?
I try to work out 4 -5 times a week.  Each day I try to do different classes.  My cardio routine usually consists of Body Combat on Monday, RPM on Tuesdays, Body Attack on Wednesday, off on Thursday, CXWORX/Step on Friday, and Super RPM on Saturdays.  I try to fit Body Pump in on Wednesdays and Saturdays!!

What are your go-to snacks and meals?
My favorite snacks/meals are Greek yogurt with granola or fruit, almonds, veggies with hummus, fresh fruit and at least 1 salad a day with a healthy protein choice.

How do you balance being active with the demands of your daily life?
I balance being active with the demands of my daily life by planning out my workout routine.  When I find it too busy to keep up with my exercise routine because of 2 very busy kids and their activities, I will switch my workout days to Thursday or Sunday!!

What is a fitness or healthy living goal you have for yourself?
I have two fitness goals: the first is to run a marathon and the second is to do a long distance bike ride!!  I volunteered for the Mud Run this past year and found it to be so very inspiring!

What do you like about being a member of SWAT?
I love being a member at SWAT!!  I have built so many wonderful relationships with other members!  All the instructors are so positive and motivating....everyone there makes you feel so special!!

What is your favorite class at SWAT?  Why?
I really do not have a favorite class.  I enjoy them all because they are so different.  They challenge my brain as well as my body.  There are days when I drag myself into the gym feeling a little tired and sluggish but walk out of there feeling totally rejuvenated!!  Love those instructors!!!!!

Do you have a person who is your healthy living/fitness inspiration?  Who and why?
When I joined SWAT 8 years ago I was the member who would walk by the group fitness room and say I cannot do that.  As time went on I would stop and watch for a couple of minutes but did not have the courage to join in.  As I would stand outside the room the instructor would be yelling at me to come on in!!  One day I did and that was the beginning of my love for the fitness classes!!  The instructor who so inspired me is Carol Raseman.....she always encouraged me and told me that I could do anything I set my mind to!!   She no longer teaches but is a personal fitness trainer.  Whenever I need a new challenge or to change things up she knows just what to do for me!!

Anything else you'd like to say?
Thanks SWAT for offering the best fitness classes in the Kalamazoo area!!!!