Soooo I was planning on sharing a recap of the Run For The Parks 4-Miler I did last weekend, but then something even cooler happened.
I got to interview Jillian Michaels!
If you’re not sure why that excites me so, check out this post. In a nutshell, I heard Jillian speak at Blogfest last summer (I sat front row!). At that point, I’d been toying with the idea of getting certified to be a personal trainer. Her speech is one of the many things from that weekend that pushed me to actually do it. Hetherto, I’m putting that race recap on hold to share this exciting news!
So how did this interview come to be? Well my people found out from her people that Jillian is offering fitness professionals in NYC and surrounding areas the chance to become certified in her BODYSHRED program this Saturday, April 18th. (By my people, I mean Gmail and by her people I mean her people – she’s legit and has people – and they found me! How cool is that?). I unfortunately can’t attend the workshop (wahhhhhh!), but I did get the chance to interview her about the program and some other fitness related things!
I sent her my questions in (what I hope was) a professional manner, but inside I was having a total fan girl moment. I’ve been a Jillian fan for a while. I always loved her on The Biggest Loser and have a bunch of her workout DVDs in my stash, so I’m pumped that she has created these workshops to teach other trainers her ingenious ways.
My interview with Jillian will give you more info on BODYSHRED. It sounds pretty awesome, and she’s hosting certification workshops in a few locations! If you’re interested in attending one of the workshops, keep reading for an awesome DISCOUNT! Are you ready?! It’s Q&A time!
Me: One of my favorite quotes from the speech you gave last summer was, “The best fitness regime is one that is holistic.” I am a HUGE believer in mixing up your workout routine and am constantly trying new things. Can you tell me how BODYSHRED follows this holistic fitness approach?
Jillian: BODYSHRED is a 30-minute high-intensity, metabolic conditioning workout that utilizes my “3,2,1” interval approach, which consists of 3 minutes of strength, 2 minutes cardio and 1 minute of abs, all on a circuit. I spent a lot of time and effort perfecting the BODYSHRED method so it would encompass all of the key elements of a well-rounded workout regimen, such as strength, power, speed, agility, balance and endurance. BODYSHRED is “Intelligent Training” – it’s kinetic, energetic and challenging no matter what your fitness level and integrates progressive training methodologies, backed by science, into one comprehensive program.
Me: You also spoke about overcoming fear and believing in yourself. When you work with clients on an individual basis, you can develop a one-on-one relationship and a deep understanding of their goals. When it comes to group classes, like BODYSHRED, how do you connect with the individuals in the group and inspire them to overcome their fears and doubts?
Jillian: It all comes down to finding the root of why you want to get healthy and fit. Identifying that goal and keeping it in mind, especially during times when you feel the most unmotivated, is the key to successfully making physical activity a part of your lifestyle, rather than just a behavior. It’s a bit more challenging to help clients shed light on their deep-rooted goals when you’re in a group setting, but I like to generalize my language when I’m addressing a group during a BODYSHRED session. Chances are someone will relate to what I’m saying and can use my words as fuel to power through the toughest parts of the workout.
Me: What is the best piece of advice you’d give to a new trainer, like me?
Jillian: The best advice I can give is to always remain passionate in what you do and remember that you always have more to give. Try not to lose sight of the reason why you want to become a health and fitness professional in the first place – you want to help people! Whether you’re interested in personal training or teaching group classes, remember that your clients will feed off your energy, so make you’re your passion is evident in all you do as a trainer. It’s a gift and an honor to play a part in someone’s journey to become healthy.
Oh, Jillian, I didn’t think it was possible to admire you more than I already did, but I do! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions!
And now for more amazing news! Jillian and her people are offering Fitful Focus readers and fans 25% OFF one of Jillian’s BODYSHRED Certification Workshops. The next one is coming up THIS SATURDAY in NY (details below), but she is also offering workshops in various locations across the country throughout the year. Just use code “TNG25” at checkout.
Here are the deets on the workshop this Saturday:
WHAT: Jillian Michaels BODYSHRED Certification Workshops for local NY & NYC fitness trainers
WHEN: Saturday, April 18th, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
WHERE: MC Dance & Fitness – 222 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck, NY 11021
To begin, trainers must sign up via jillianmichaelsbodyshred.com.
Hey, fitness pros! Find out how you can get 25% OFF @JillianMichaels’ BODYSHRED Certification…
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Let’s Chat:
Are you a Jillian fan?
Who inspires your health/fitness? Do you have a fave celeb trainer?
Are you going to attend one of the workshops?
This post is linked up with Wild Workout Wednesdays.
