More than just a good sweat...

like, fitness adderall?

My selective ADD is most prevalent in learning institutions, dating and fitness. While there’s no real cure for the first two inevitable situations, I found the perfect drug for the last: John Garey Pilates.

One day you’re setting your muscles on fire in a Ballet Barre class, the next day you’re dripping in Spinning; one day you’re getting pushed to your wit’s end in Boot Camp, the next day you’re suspended in TRX straps; and, if you think you’re tough like me, one hour you’re abs are falling off in Mat Pilates, and the next hour you’re going into cardiac arrest in a Fitness Trampoline class. That next day was rough.

reps on reps on reps

Nestled right up above my old college hangover chomping grounds is, ironically a studio for, GASP, physical activity. When I bought my $19 unlimited month pass to Physique on 6th on Living Social, I didn’t know that anything else existed on Redondo Ave. and 6th St. but eggs, potatoes, toast and lots of coffee.



I was drawn to Physique on 6th first for the discount, second for the Pilates classes, and third because I was in a walking boot and I thought that maybe, just maybe, I found a way to burn at least some calories. I was nervous that the owner and instructor, Rebecca Cisneros, would turn me away because of my injury, but she welcomed me into the class with modifications and tons encouragement.

hungover hanging

Photo Credit: TRX Training Center

Kettle bells, Swiss balls, resistance bands, medicine balls…if you’re like me, you’re a sucker for, what I call, “fitness toys.” Naturally, I jumped on the TRX Suspension Training bandwagon and dropped $200 to own a pair of canvas straps…and I don’t regret it one bit.

sweat like a [downward] dog.

What’s better than the long, lean, refreshed feeling leaving a good yoga class? Ringing out your sports bra after a good workout. As a fan of high-intensity workouts AND a long-time fan of yoga, I’ve found the perfect combination of the two:  Core Power Yoga.

Core Power Yoga offers heated power yoga classes ranging from beginner to advanced levels.  Classes range from 80-100 degrees with humidity.  Every instructor I have had is energetic, excited, helpful, knowledgeable and personable.  Your instructor greets you at the front desk to check you in and remembers your name for the mid-class shout-out encouragement, “Jessica, you’re doing great!”