Trainers Corner ..........................................................................19, 27

WHO WANTS THAT "SUMMER BOD"

by Allison Serrano

Summer is here! Which means many of my clients describe wanting a “summer bod”. We often exercise to look good, but it is even more important to exercise to feel good! The immediate effect of exercise involves the release of endorphins, which decrease our perception of pain. Consistent exercise can increase strength, stamina, and mobility, which can make our daily activities more enjoyable. Exercise also decreases the risk for many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. On those days that you are struggling to find the motivation to exercise, think about how beneficial exercise can be for you in the future!

Exercising consistently is easier said than done, here are some of my tips for creating a manageable and effective exercise routine.

Tip #1: Find a form of exercise that you enjoy. Not everyone loves typical forms of exercise like jogging or weightlifting. Try out different group fitness classes at the Village or maybe try a new sport, like tennis! Finding a group or partner (or Personal Trainer!!) to chat with during your workout can also make exercise more enjoyable.

Tip #2: Carve out time in your weekly schedule for exercise. If you don’t make time to exercise, there will never be any time to exercise. Pick at least three days/times per week that you are dedicating to exercise and write it in your calendar. Try not to schedule anything else during your allotted workout time and stay strict about it.

Tip #3: Pay attention to how you feel after your workout and remember that feeling every time you want to skip your scheduled workout. You will never regret a good workout!!

Allison was born and raised right here in the Valley. She received her Bachelor of Science in Physiology and Medical Sciences at the University of Arizona in Tucson. While in Tucson, she worked as a Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor at the University of Arizona Campus Recreation. While working at Campus Rec, she led workshops centered around women in fitness where she taught women how to lift properly, build a well-rounded exercise program, and gain confidence in the weight room. She spent her summers in college coaching powerlifting to youth and high school athletes in Gilbert.

Allison’s previous opportunities have allowed her to work with a wide variety of clients with various fitness goals. She has experience with powerlifting, strength training, weight loss programming, and functional movement training. Whether you have a performance goal in mind, are new to exercise, or are just wanting to stay active, Allison would love to share her knowledge. She has a passion for helping others understand the value of movement and explore different methods of training.