Each morning when I wake up, I wake up inspired just thinking about my clients and members of the Tone and Strengthen family. I love what I do. I get to change people’s lives and set them on a healthy path. All the while working with some of the best people I have known. These members of my fitness classes always put a smile on my face. I am grateful that I could continue teaching the classes virtually when the pandemic hit. I just couldn’t bear the thought of not spending time with these beautiful people. The clients who log on to my virtual classes and personal training make me excited to be there to teach the class or lead the training session in front of the camera. My clients literally pump me up for my work. My clients are a constant reminder of why I’m passionate about my mission to move people towards a healthier version of themselves.  

Today I am going to throw the spotlight on our long-term family member Faith McManimon. Faith lives with her husband in Newtown, PA.  She’s been retired for four years now from her position as a Radiologic Technologist (x-ray). She entered this career later in life after having raised her two daughters and returning to school.  Even though she is retired, she still considers herself with a full-time job.  Her job now a days is living a healthy lifestyle. Much time and work go into preparing healthy meals and getting the proper exercise. Here are a few things about Faith’s fitness journey that she shared with me over the weekend.

Give us a background of your wellness journey?  What inspired you?

I’ve always been involved in some fitness activity throughout my life, but nothing hardcore.  In my 20’s I skied a lot, which was probably my most significant sports related achievement.  I was involved in the aerobics craze, the “Curves” craze, and I did at-home personal training with a few friends.  I have supported community-based fitness programs the most throughout my fitness journey, and that is where I feel most comfortable.  I’ve been enrolled in yoga, aerobics, body shaping classes with weights, and Tai Chi throughout the years.  My work as a radiologic tech at the hospital was physically demanding and kept me active.  I could get by with some power walking and yoga classes.  But being retired, the pounds were slowly creeping on, and I realized I needed to increase my fitness level.  Also, living through a pandemic has not helped. That’s how I started taking fitness classes at my local recreation center. My current classes with Aesha are; Body by Barre, 20/20/10 Strength/Cardio/Core, and Vinyasa Yoga.  I also enjoy going outside for a power walk, and that’s what helps me shake off stress and feel alive.

What are your current fitness and wellness goals?

My fitness goals are to increase my weight load for strength training, improve my balance, and increase cardio performance.  Recently, I learned I needed to reduce my cholesterol, which has been another motivating factor.  I am devoted to becoming stronger, improving my balance, increasing my endurance, and building bone. I am motivated to avoid taking any prescription medicines.  I can happily say that through the combination of my workout classes with Coach Aesha, walking, and making some diet tweaks, I have lost 5-6 pounds.   Fingers crossed; I am confident my cholesterol numbers have improved.

I have set a new challenge for myself to begin to use the new elliptical machine my husband just installed.  I briefly tried it the other day. Oh my! If I can manage a workout on that machine, I’ll be proud of myself.

What challenges do you face in keeping up with your fitness goals?

I think being isolated for so long has been the biggest challenge in staying motivated and the recent weather pattern hindering my walks.  But the good news is, I can always count on Aesha holding her classes every day.  Since I’ve signed up, I have committed myself to showing up every day, and I do. 

How did you find Coach Aesha and started working with her?

In our Newtown Township booklet of class offerings, I read about this class called “Body by Barre.”  The description was intriguing to me, as I was interested in stepping up my fitness program.  There were two different class offerings, and I selected the one that looked to be less intense.   I took the class at the Northampton Community Center, and the rest is history.  I liked it so much, I added a second Barre class.  About one year ago, at the start of the pandemic, I was happy to add a Vinyasa Yoga class with Aesha.  Having these classes to participate in during the pandemic has been a lifesaver for me both physically and mentally.   They have helped me to stay on a schedule and stay focused on what is important.  

Tell us about your experience of working with Coach Aesha?

I could not be happier that I found Aesha.   She is always pleasant, upbeat, and kind.  Her playlists are great too!  She offers many modification options during the routines to accommodate any fitness level.  She continually gives her clients cues on proper alignment and form.  Aesha changes-up her class routines so that they do not become redundant, and the classes stay challenging.  She also wants her clients to work all muscles, even those that we seldom use.  Aesha is a highly qualified personal trainer holding many fitness certifications. I feel safe taking her classes. 

How has Coach Aesha’s training helped you with your fitness journey? 

I honestly could not thank Aesha enough for her dedication to keeping the classes going through this pandemic.  Without them, I would be a mess.  These classes have helped me stay sane.   My classes keep me on a schedule, like work.  She shows up; I show up.  I haven’t missed a beat throughout this pandemic year, and I am grateful.   I have been able to stay healthy, keep the weight off, and relieve mental stress.  It’s a win for me!  Somesday, when in-person classes resume, I’ll be signing up for those again.