Angela B. from Happy Fit Mama on Staying Fit

You wouldn’t believe that Angela stays fit without forking over money for a gym membership! She shares how she exercises without any equipment and how she makes time to exercise!

Tell us more about yourself, your site, and your family.

I’m a Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist from the ACSM. My specialty is in Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation but I have also done Personal Training in the past. I love being eating healthy and being physically active. My passion is running right now. I’ve done 4 half marathons and am training for my first full marathon in September! Ahhh! My blog, Happy Fit Mama, is all about trying new fitness routines like Aerial Yoga and Barre but also my daily running and yoga practice. I like to experiment in the kitchen using the most natural and organic ingredients available. Oh, did I mention that I have twin boy/girl toddlers? They keep my husband, Ron, and I on our toes all the time. Our chocolate lab, Cooper, has to stay on his toes, too!

How have you been able to find time staying fit while balancing time with your family?

The best time for me to run is at 5 a.m. Thankfully, I’m a morning person! I actually get a very satisfied feeling knowing that my workout is done before most people are even awake. If I don’t get out on my own for a run, I’ll pack the kids in the double stroller. I get down on the floor with my kids and will throw in some stretches, yoga moves, pushups, planks, etc .while they are playing. They love to join me!

Do you belong to a gym?  For moms on a budget, who don’t belong to a gym, how do you suggest they exercise?

I don’t belong to a gym.  You can get a fantastic workout at home without any equipment. Body weight exercises like squats, burpees, lunges, push ups, planks, and tricep dips can be done anywhere! Get outside and walk, run, cycle, play at the park with your kids. Follow On Demand workouts from your cable provider. There are also a TON of online workouts available from pilates, yoga, dance, you name it! Some are free but others may have a fee.

Since it’s almost summer, how have you gotten into shape?

I’ve kicked up my strength training routine! That’s the best way to tone and tighten your whole body and see results fast.

It seems as if you do a variety of different exercises.  What are your favorite exercises that you recommend moms try?

I think variety is key in staying motivated with exercise. If you do the same thing everyday, you don’t see results. Try a new workout that takes you out of your comfort zone. Not a dancer – try Zumba! I’m not the biggest fan of heights, but I tried Aerial Yoga and LOVED it!

Your site has great suggestions on healthy snacks.  What types of on-the-go foods do you eat after working out?

Nuts, Greek Yogurt, Larabars, and Green Smoothies are my go to post workout snacks. They are full of protein to help repair muscles from exercise induced damage.

How do you like to relax after exercising?

My favorite way to relax after exercising is an uninterrupted, hot shower that is longer than 2 minutes!

—
Site: Happy Fit Mama
Facebook: www.facebook.com/happyfitmama
Twitter: @happyfitmama
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/happyfitmama/
Email: happyfitmama@gmail.com