Being an Instructor: The Significant Before and After Change

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Being an Instructor: The Significant Before and After Change

March 24, 2014 Dancers Shape

When the clients starting pointing out how toned up Dancers Shape instructor Emily B. was looking, we decided it was time to sit and chat about how she slimmed down this past year since she’s been an instructor at Dancers Shape.

Dancers Shape: As an instructor, can you share a little bit about how you’re working your own body during a class you’re teaching so we can get a realisticidea?

Emily B.: I currently teach class about 10-11 times a week, but it’s not the same as if I were taking 10-11 classes a week. When teaching the class, instructors have to take time out to do demonstrations and then watch to make corrections so that clients are properly (and safely) doing the movements. Talking on top of demonstrating actually amps up my work load – especially in the abdominals and weight sections.

DS: Other than teaching classes, what else do you do to stay active and fit?

EB: I really enjoy jogging about 2-3 times a week for about 3 miles each time. I also have been dancing since I was 11 years old. I really enjoy ballet and modern classes. I also take the Dancers Shape Yoga class as a supplement if I’m missing a dance class that week. I love the benefits of stretching and opening the joints.

DS: What do you think changed most when you became an instructor?

EB: I paid a lot more attention to healthy eating and portion control. Seeing other clients and instructors inspired me and I realized that many who were seeing physical changes also were focusing highly on eating healthy. Adding more greens to my diet and having smoothies every morning was something I did. I took away the bready carbs in the morning and replaced it with something fresh. I love apples!

DS: What changes have you noticed in your body?

EB: How much stronger and energetic I’ve gotten. At first, I felt like I could hardly get through pushups. Then I started feeling like it wasn’t as difficult getting through a class. I began seeing definition in my arms and torso. I was slimming down a little bit all over, and was especially noticing those super frustrating parts: hips and thighs. Ah the shrink wrap effect!

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DS: Did it happen quickly?

EB: It didn’t seem like anything was happening at first, and then all of a sudden it just started sliding off. I first noticed it when I was putting on my pants and they were much roomier than I remember. I could even go down a size.

DS: We noticed people leaving comments on the Dancers Shape Facebook page when you modeled the new apparel! It looks like people have taken notice.

EB: Yes! My fiancé definitely noticed, and his “wow” expression was fantastic. He noticed that I was trimming down and had a lot more muscle definition. A lot of friends were pointing out that my hips and thighs were looking slim. It’s a really great feeling!

DS: What motivates you when you start to have a draining day and the last thing you want to do is workout?

EB: Even though you have to push through and it’s not easy, I honestly love to workout. I like that feeling after: I crave it now. I just push myself because I know this pays off.

DS: How do you feel now?

EB: I feel much stronger and I have more energy since I joined Dancers Shape. I think my mental state has dramatically improved. I just feel more happy and fulfilled after I work out. I used to feel sluggish before working out, but now I really look forward to it!

DS: What would you tell your friends about Dancers Shape if they were afraid to try it?

EB: Just give it a try. You don’t have to do everything perfectly. Sometimes people feel like they need to be the best in class, but it’s important to remember everyone is at different levels. Give it a go! You don’t have to be an advanced student in class: Everything can be modified. I would tell them that everyone seems to walk away with a feeling of accomplishment. I know I do!