This week, I'm featuring one of the fabulous Buckhead instructors, Kiley! She's amazing, and great at what she does (kicks my butt on the reg). From a retired NFL cheerleader to Pink Barre instructor to founder of a women's ministry, this lady stays busy!
Everyone has a story. How did you first hear about Pink Barre?
K: I was recommended by my physical therapist and a chiropractor after tearing my psoas while dancing to take barre as part of my recovery. Because I was in the NFL, I needed a way to recover faster and prevent future injuries as well. Pink Barre provided the set ups I needed to safely heal while developing muscles I never used before! I feel much stronger and even more flexible a year into Pink Barre. Even after many seasons of weight training and dancing for decades, our work outs always challenge me.
I'm a big believer in leading a balanced lifestyle. I'm curious how you juggle it all -- between work, working out, teaching class, and socializing -- how do you do it all?
K: It's been ingrained in me since I was young to balance a busy schedule with a daily workout. I'd be lying if I said it was easy, but because of my dance background, I learned from a young age discipline and boundaries in a busy but healthy lifestyle is key to preventing burn out. While short term fitness goals are always important, one huge goal I've set for myself is to maintain a healthy lifestyle for years to come in order to enjoy a full life.
What's one thing people who be surprised to know about you?
K: Football and sweatpants are my love language. I'm a slight tomboy despite all the high buns and barre clothes! OR (I couldn't decide) I founded a ministry for current and retired professional cheerleaders called Preserve The Light. We meet for Bible studies across the nation, serve our cities, share our testimonies and travel for mission trips internationally.
Being that you're on the go a lot, what do you always make sure to keep with you?
K: A cooler! I have Celiac's disease and also can't eat dairy or soy. A cooler in my car keeps the exact food I need to get through the day while staying safe within my allergy limitations. You'll always find cashews, carrots and humus in my cooler!
When it comes to your diet, what's your motto?
K: Just EAT! My mentality is everything is OK in moderation, but if you see something you'd like to change in yourself, it needs to be a lifestyle change, not a diet that you'll have to press reset on in a few months.
We all know that abs are made in the kitchen, but there are always days where you need to #TreatYoSelf. How do you treat yourself?
K: Frozen yogurt is my jam. Whether it's a pint from Kroger or the Menchies that's in our shopping center (which is sometimes torture)... me + ice cream = happy day.
Where is your favorite healthy spot to dine in the city?
K: I'm an Arden's Garden addict for something quick, but satisfying (or my cooler in the back of my trunk. Joking, kind of)!
What do you love most about Pink Barre?
K: The community, easily. We're here to support each other as we become the best version of ourselves. That means we focus on set up for exercises so we prevent injuries, but we have FUN from the minute we walk in the door to the long seconds while we hold exercises in class. I love that we laugh throughout our classes!
I struggled with my weight and self image for years. What word of encouragement would you give the ladies who feel like their weight defines their worth?
K: Girl, I feel you. But what I tell myself is what I tell everyone who struggles with their appearance: You're made exactly how you were intended to be, on purpose and for a purpose. How boring would it be if you walked into class and we all looked the same? Beauty and worth is more than what we see in the Barre mirrors. You are all together beautiful my love, there is no flaw in you. ;)
And for those readers who haven't tried Pink Barre, why should they (other than the fabulous instructors)?
K: I was hesitant at first, too! But when you step in our doors, you can always expect a smile, warm atmosphere and no matter how many times you come to class (or don't come), you will absolutely be sore the next day! Our workouts are no joke, but I promise several bad jokes during class and some stellar throwback jams on some Thursdays/Fridays!
Huge thank you to Kiley for being a part of this fun series for Pink Barre! If you're interested in joining me for a class, e-mail me or leave a comment below.
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