Submitted by: Creed Harkless
This week’s spotlight is on Stacie Monaghan. She’s a prime example of what can happen when you’re consistent with your nutrition, first and foremost, and your workouts.
Q: What has your experience with Next Level been like?
A: I was one of those people who also needed to be talked into joining Next Level. I attended a couple of trial classes and absolutely loved it! Next level has taken my workouts to a level of intensity that I could never achieve on my own. I love that each class is always a little different. You never know what the trainers are going to throw at you next. You are just expected to show up and get it done. What keeps me coming back session after session is the awesome trainers and the positive energy of a group atmosphere. The trainers really do want to see you succeed. They push you to physically and mentally crush it every time you walk through those doors. And when I see people around me pushing themselves as hard as they possibly can (Holly Risetter), it becomes addicting and I want to be right there with them! (Awesome class 9:15!)
Q: What would you say is your biggest reason for staying active and healthy?
A: I want the best quality of life for myself and family. To achieve this goal, fitness and nutrition have to be a priority. Obviously this is easier said than done. So many of us have busy lives with kids in numerous activities. The quick stop at McDonald’s becomes very tempting. Nutritional goals are always going to be a constant struggle. I have looked to allrecipes.com or Pinterest for ideas on quick and easy healthy meals to help with those non-stop days where you just don’t seem to have a spare second. Also, if my children see how dedicated I am to exercise and healthy eating habits I hope that will someday have a positive impact on their future choices in life.
Q: What advice would you give moms who are new to fitness?
A: The balance of caring for your family and carving out time for yourself can seem next to impossible sometimes. I’ve experienced this struggle as both a working mother of 3 to becoming a stay at home mom after our 4th child was born. I feel there is never enough time in the day to accomplish all those tasks on the never ending “to do list”. This is why I love Next Level. The trainers understand that people live busy lives so they try to provide the tools necessary for you to achieve your personal fitness goals. The fact that they provide childcare was huge for me. My son loves seeing his “workout” friends and the ladies that run the daycare are so sweet and caring. When I can’t make my regular class I have the flexibility to make it up at a different time. Another huge bonus! And for those struggling with the nutrition side of things, take advantage of having an accountability coach. The Next Level program is making it pretty hard to come up with those excuses on why you just can’t do it.
And if you’re new to fitness or to Next Level in particular, please don’t worry about looking foolish or make the mistake of comparing yourself to someone who has been there for awhile. Set your own personal goals and achieve them. Remember you are there to better yourself and every single person in that room wants to see you succeed!
