No. Unfortunately, like so many woman, I was overly influenced by society and media and struggled with various eating disorders throughout adolescence. Then later, in college, I took a kickboxing class and a nutrition class, both of which opened my eyes to some of the negative aspects of my actions. I would say that is when I changed my perspective on things and started trying to work with my body in a more healthy and positive way.

This may sound strange to people who haven’t experienced this kind of lifestyle yet, but it just makes me feel so good. It gives me energy, takes the edge off my nerves, and generally makes me happy. I notice a difference in myself. For instance, if I’m on vacation and don’t exercise, I feel sluggish, cranky, and overall not good. If I stay active, I’m better; a better mother, a better wife, and a better friend.

Above all, it takes a positive personality and a good attitude. You need to be motivating, approachable, and inclusive while still challenging people to challenge themselves. I think there’s a huge misconception that fitness instructors have to have perfect bodies or be excellent at everything. But, ultimately it’s about helping people help themselves. And, that comes down to the person you are more than anything.

With that said, of course there are various certifications most gyms would require. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) or the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFFA) are good resources for information on these certifications. Also, talk to the group fitness coordinator at your facility or with the instructors of the classes you would enjoy teaching.

Kickboxing is my favorite activity by far. Specifically, I love Turbo Kick®, which I teach, and can’t imagine life without. It is a 60-minute, choreographed, group exercise class incorporating martial arts and cardio exercise with upbeat music that keeps you going. Outside of the gym, I love bike-riding with my family.

I think group exercise is the best place to start. For those new to group exercise, it can be intimidating. People are always afraid to mess up in front of others. But the truth is everyone there shares those fears and is worried more about themselves than they are about watching you.

A structured format, like group exercise, helps people achieve a complete workout. And a good workout should yield good results — which is always a good motivator to stay on track! Plus, the camaraderie of group exercise keeps people coming back and staying healthy. That’s what really matters.

It’s important that people just starting out understand that they may not achieve the same level of intensity as other participants. They may not even be able to complete the class. But, if they come and they try hard consistently, over time they’ll be able to do more. It’s your body, your workout. People need to understand that.

First you have to find out why you are bored. Is your current workout not challenging enough? Are you not seeing adequate results? Are you not connecting with the trainer or the other participants? Beyond that, I think the only logical advice is to change something. Try a different class or a different trainer, or bring a new friend or your spouse; whatever you can think of that might re-inspire you. Or, really go out on a limb and try a whole new sport or activity. Sign up for a marathon — whether you run or not — and start training for it. Take a tennis lesson. Goals are a great way to psych yourself up for fitness and you never really know what you can do until you try.

I’m not going to lie. Fitness makes me feel great on the inside, but I also love feeling fit on the outside too. Besides that, I’m only 29 now, but I want to enjoy my life for a lot of years to come. Fitness is the best way to maintain your quality of life. On the other hand, being unfit or unhealthy can really take experiences from you. I have a lot in front of me and I want to know I can do it all.

As a professional, I’m affiliated with many national organizations that help me stay connected to industry events and happenings. Beyond that, other organizations like Chalene Johnson’s Turbo Kick® are constantly reaching out to their trainers to help keep us informed and motivated. I actually just got back from a Camp Turbo Kick® in California and can’t wait to share the energy and information I brought home with me.

For folks who aren’t in the industry, health-related publications like Oxygen or Shape can be really terrific resources.

I’m not sure that the wrong message is coming from the fitness industry. I think the wrong message is coming from Hollywood, from fashion, and other groups in society who promote unrealistic expectations and impossible to live up to standards. I think the fitness industry can and does try to combat that as best they can. But, until we tackle those other areas where women and girls look to for their ideals, we’re always going to have a problem.

I eat at least five meals a day. I feed my body healthy meals in good proportions so that my metabolism works properly. That helps with the day-to-day as well as the special occasions when I want to treat myself to something I wouldn’t normally eat. I love foods like French fries with ranch dressing, but, I want to be able to keep burning calories when I indulge. Eating smaller meals often helps with that. I also surround myself with positive, motivating people that make me laugh and lift me up. And, I try not to sweat the small stuff when it comes to my body. I don’t try to live up to an image; I just try to live a healthy life.