🎉 Happy 3rd Birthday TransFit!

Sweet friends,

We are so excited to see you this week because we are celebrating TransFit’s 3rd Birthday! Can you believe it’s been 3 years since we moved into the TransFit Studio in 5 Points? TransFit (Transformational Fitness) began in Caroline’s basement gym in East Athens when she was called to encourage women and become a personal trainer. She created this truly unique business by helping women view exercise as a form of worship! Today, TransFit is a full service personal training studio  designed to help women live their BEST lives by becoming transformed in every area of life- body, mind and spirit. That is where our foundational verse and mantra comes from: "Do not conform to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" Romans 12:2

Today, we celebrate every client and friend who has been a part of TransFit because we are stronger together! Together we are all transforming the community. We have loved partnering with Hope 139, Action Ministries, Downtown Academy, and now ESP to actually “live” transformed: using our bodies to love and serve this community!

We have transformed lives so much over the past 3 years in this space and could not have done it without all of your sweat, smiles, and prayers. We are SO grateful for you! You have filled the studio with encouragement and positivity as you have accomplished your goals and inspired one another to live transformed.

We can celebrate every day because we are so blessed to be surrounded by such amazing women and an awesome community!

We have so many fun things going on this week, so you do not want to miss out on all the fun! Make sure you follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with everything going on at TransFit.

We will have snacks, smoothies, decorations, giveaways, merchandise sales, and so much more going in the studio this week!

THEMED DAYS

Each day this week will have a theme, so make sure you dress up and join the fun!

Monday: Throwback Day

Bring back the 80s with big hair, leg warmers, neon, and leotards!

Tuesday: UGA Day

Come decked out in red & black to support the Dawgs!

Wednesday: TransFit Spirit Day

Show us how much you love TransFit! Wear your TransFit merchandise or blue!

Thursday: We Don’t Sweat, We Sparkle!

Bring your sparkle, shine, and glitter into the studio!

Friday: Crazy Pants Day

Celebrate the end of this awesome week with your funky leggings or crazy socks!

GIVEAWAYS

Each day this week, we will be doing a giveaway through our social media on Instagram and Facebook! Make sure you follow us on social media so you can enter these daily giveaways! You can turn on post notifications for our page to make sure you don’t miss anything!

Monday: January Jump Start (in the studio and via social media!)

Tuesday: Live Transformed Bible Study book (via social media)

Wednesday: Lululemon Yoga Mat (in the studio) & a FREE month of TransFit classes (via social media)

Thursday: Yoga Session (via social media)

Friday: 1-1 Session with Caroline (via social media)

SALES!!!

All week long, you will receive 20% off any merchandise purchases from our Etsy and in the studio! We have tanks, T-shirts, mantra bracelets, and other accessories! Use code “CELEBRATE” on Etsy!

Last but certainly not least, we have a FREE gift for you! Click the button below to download our Healthy Eating Out ebook. This contains information on both chain and local restaurants, and how to choose healthy options no matter where you go!

Note: The link will take you to a page where you click “add to cart.” You will NOT have to enter any payment information! Simply enter your email address, click continue on the payment section, then click purchase! You will be emailed a link to download your ebook!

Our TransFIVE ebook is another free gift you can download! This book is a 5 day challenge to transform your relationship with sugar. Click the button below to get this free gift!

Note: The link will take you to a page where you click “add to cart.” You will NOT have to enter any payment information! Simply enter your email address, click continue on the payment section, then click purchase! You will be emailed a link to download your ebook!

Sign up for classes on our FREE app now so you can be in the studio this week to join us in celebrating TransFit’s 3rd birthday!

You have brought us so much joy and inspiration over the past 3 years. We cannot thank you enough for being such incredible women and role models for this community! We are here to serve you! If you have any questions or want to schedule a one-on-one session, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

🙏 Are You Ready to Commit?

Sweet friends,

Change will not come without challenge. Transformation is a process that happens over time that takes commitment and action. We believe in you and are ready to walk with you along this journey!

With our Bible Study starting this Thursday, we want to encourage you to commit to living transformed and accomplishing your specific goals for this year! Our Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach, Pam Adams, will be leading us on a 6 week study through the book of Esther. We are excited about the new bible study and would love for you to join us in the next step in your transformation process! Nothing happens in isolation: body, mind, and spirit are all inter-connected!

You can still sign up for the Bible Study on our free TransFit app HERE!

It will be held on Thursdays from 12-1 pm at the TransFit studio and is open to all women in the community!

A word from our Director of Spiritual Outreach, Pam Adams:

“Friends, we are so excited about starting our Bible Study Esther: The Courage To Commit. My prayer is we will be encouraged and strengthened in our faith as we learn, trust, and apply the truths of God from this dramatic historical narrative.

In The Book of Esther, all the covenant promises to Abraham and David looked to be in jeopardy, but as we will see God is in control of every person and event and His promises will stand. He is the architect ordering our lives. Romans 8:28 says “we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” This is a reassuring promise for us when we are fearful, distressed, anxious, doubtful and find ourselves questioning life.”

“A few chapters later, Paul tells us in Romans 15:4 that “whatever was written in earlier times (meaning the Old Testament) was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” The Book of Esther instructs us to press on and be encouraged by the truths and promises of God’s Word, and in particular the truths that He is committed to us, His people, and is in every detail of our lives.

We’d love to have you join us in this Bible Study. Sign up on our app or email Pam@transfitathens.com. All women of the community are welcome!”

Love and Blessings,

Pam

Speaking of having the courage to commit, it’s not to late to fill out your goal sheet for 2019! We encourage you to find time this week to complete your goal sheet. Don’t forget to include your accountability partner! Remember we truly are stronger together! You can download and print the sheet HERE or ask us to give you one when you come into the studio.

You can find our Live Transformed Bible Study on Amazon HERE! It is a 6 week study to help you dive into the word and live transformed in body, mind, and spirit. We would also love for you to read Pam’s bio on our website HERE!

We are excited and ready to serve you this week! Be on the lookout for some exciting news as we celebrate our TransFit Birthday next week in the studio!

If you have any questions or want to schedule a one-on-one session, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

🏆 Holiday Extravaganza Winners!

Sweet friends,

After an incredible and blessed holiday season, the 2018 Holiday Extravaganza has finally come to an end! Hearing your stories and sharing your excitement with you has been so inspirational. Way to stay strong throughout the holidays and live transformed!

Congratulations to everyone who entered the challenge! We are so proud of you for staying accountable. We are so excited to announce this year’s holiday extravaganza winners! Here are the final results:

1. Paige Colquitt

2. Catherine Warner

3. Krista McLean

4. Katie Dillard

5. Allison Abernathy

6. Fran Hann

7. Lisa Shirreffs

8. Eliz Johnson

9. Kathy Cousart

10. Pam Matthews

Check out our first place spotlight below for inspiration to help you stay motivated to live transformed in body, mind and spirit. We are so blessed by Paige’s words and motivated by her transformation. Our prayer is that this ignites a spark in you to live transformed and accomplish your goals in 2019!

First Place Winner - Paige Colquitt

“I love competition… not so much competing against others, but competing against myself. I love trying to beat my own score or trying to do better with my goals from one week to the next. So when Caroline mentioned the Holiday Extravaganza, I was all in! I knew losing some pounds would be great, but I was actually more concerned with just feeling better. Some days I ate pretty well, but on the days I didn’t, I felt downright yucky. I felt bloated, was experiencing some digestive issues, and felt some joint pain. I knew certain foods I was putting in my body were causing this. Cleaning up my act with food choices became my priority during the holidays. I knew if I could improve my nutrition during the hardest eating time of the year, I could set myself up for success when 2019 rolled around. 

     My name is Paige Colquitt and I’m a retired kindergarten teacher. I love to read, hike, bike, paddle board, garden, volunteer, and I especially love to cook. With the cooking, I’ve tended in the past to focus on creating lots of ‘southern dishes,’ because those are the recipes I grew up eating. I knew I needed to change that. Since coming to TransFit over a year and a half ago, I do feel as if I have gotten better with creating and eating healthier meals and snacks. Being consistent, however, has been an obstacle. I would eat salads during the week, but I would scarf down pizza or fried pork chops on the weekend. Or I would do great with my water intake for four days straight, then hardly pick up the water bottle the next four days. It’s like I had all the pieces of the puzzle (knowing what I needed to do) but the pieces weren’t fitting together to complete the entire puzzle. 

    This past fall during our Bible Study, Pam Adams recommended a book to me entitled Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst. The premise of the book is to crave God, not food, and therefore, allow God to have control over this area of your life. After reading the book (I highly recommend it!), I realized that is what I needed to do because it certainly wasn’t working with me being in charge. Reading this book has changed my perspective on food. Now before I eat something, I ask, “God, is this something you want me to put in my mouth?” I’m not perfect by any means, but putting God above food has been a huge paradigm shift for me.”

“Caroline mentions a word often that I’ve actually adopted as my word for 2019 … INTENTIONALITY. I’ve intentionally started looking on Pinterest for clean-eating recipes. I’ve intentionally planned my meals ahead for the week by writing them down, making sure my fridge is stocked with the ingredients, and making it a point to stick to my meal plans each day, unless some emergency of some sort comes up. My breakfasts have consisted of smoothies (cinnamon almond is my favorite), Greek yogurt with berries and walnuts, and egg muffins. Salads with lots of fresh veggies and a protein are a must now for lunch. And dinner is usually a slice of lean meat with lots of vegetables (broccoli and brussels sprouts are my favorites). I’ve loved trying out new recipes on Pinterest like Italian Beef Soup or One Pan Turkey Meatballs with veggies. Sweet potatoes have become one of my favorites now … for breakfast, in my salad, or as a snack! I’ve limited my simple carbs to just fruits and even introduced ghee and almond butter into my diet. Saying goodbye to peanut butter has been hard! I intentionally make it a point to carry my water bottle with me everywhere now, getting in at least 80 ounces of water each day. My body feels so much better now, and I’m sleeping more soundly too!

        My husband and I visited New Orleans during the holidays so I knew that would be the true test of my eating. You can’t think of New Orleans without thinking of all that good food! I just gave it to God and took it one day at a time. I brought my own snacks (Lara Bars and almonds) and enjoyed the food, just making sure I ate small portions. I think all the walking in the city helped too! Again, just trying to be intentional with my choices helped a lot.

    Something else that was very beneficial was the weight check-in with Caroline each Monday morning after class. She was (and is) such a great encourager whether I met my goal each week or not. She continued to remind me that it’s not just about the weight, it’s about seeing myself the way God sees me. She also reminded me that transformation is a process that occurs over time. That has stuck with me a lot because it is so true. It does not happen overnight. 

     I love the Transformer classes! I’m an early bird so I normally attend the 5:30 a.m. class. It gets my day off to a fantastic start. On the other days, I get in my cardio swimming laps at Ramsey. Swimming is such a wonderful all-over workout! Caroline’s exercises in the back of her Bible Study book are awesome too. Those came in handy when I was in New Orleans. 

     It has not been a perfect last couple of weeks but I have tried to put more consistency and intentionality in what I do when it comes to food. Allowing God to be in the driver’s seat has been a game changer as well. I look forward to continuing this journey of good health, exercise, and nutrition! And I’m so thankful for TransFit and the change it has instilled in my life!” -Paige

WOW, Paige! We are so inspired by your journey! Living transformed is an ongoing process and Paige shows us exactly how capable we all are of meeting our goals this year one day at a time!

For more inspiration, check out our YouTube channel and app for free recipes and workouts!

Another Winner - Krista McLean

“The Holiday Extravaganza came at just the right time! I felt yucky and my clothes were just not fitting the way they should anymore! So, I decided to enter the challenge and really go for it! First step was to cut out the Dr. Pepper! Once I did that the rest of the sugar was easy to avoid.  I cut out almost all sugar, pasta, bread (except for the occasional splurge) and began training for a half marathon. All of that, especially the changes in my diet are what worked for me!  I feel so much better and my pants fit again!” -Krista

While we take in these words of encouragement and inspiration, remember it’s not too late to purchase our January Jump Start packages! We would love to have you join us in our journey towards a healthy lifestyle this year. This can be purchased on our FREE APP or on the website by clicking the button below!

We encourage you to fill out our 2019 goals sheet to help you stay accountable this year! Fill this sheet out and hang it somewhere as a daily reminder that you can do it! You can download and print the sheet HERE or ask us to give you one when you come into the studio!

Don’t forget about our awesome events going on in January!

Bible Study starts Thursday January 24th! It will be on held on Thursdays from 12 - 1 pm. The cost of the book is $20 and you can sign up on our app!

Middle School Girls Sessions will begin this Wednesday, January 16th from 4:15 - 5:15 pm! These sessions are for 4th - 7th grade girls. You can sign your girls up for sessions on our app!

Keep praying over your dreams and goals for 2019 and remember we are here to serve you! If you have any questions or want to schedule a on-on-one counseling session, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

🎉 Exciting January News at TransFit for YOU!

Ladies, 

We are off to a great start January 2019! We have loved seeing your smiling faces back sparkling in the studio! We are excited to share some important dates and events that are happening here at TransFit! Our entire TransFit Team wants to encourage you to reach your whole body health goals and dreams in 2019!

Holiday Extravaganza Weigh-In's: Weigh Ins are going on now and will end Friday, January 11th. If you participated in our Holiday Extravaganza challenge, come weigh-in so that you can get your $20 BACK! Thank you for working so hard over the holiday season! We are proud of you!

January Jump Start Packages: It's not too late to purchase your January Jump Start packages. Kickstart the new year and commit to your health for 2019! You can purchase packages on our website HERE and our our app HERE! 

Middle School Girls: Sessions begin Wednesday, January 9th at 4:30 PM. We would love for your daughter or friend to come join us for our middle school girls sessions! These girls learn about the importance of living transformed in body, mind, and spirit while working out with friends! You can sign up on our FREE app HERE! 

Friday TransFit Yoga Sessions: Come stretch your body and review your mind Monday’s 5:30 pm and Friday’s 9:30 am. The transforming yoga flow is for beginners and advanced yogi’s alike. Come out of your comfort zone and increase your flexibility this year. Click here to sign up!

Do you have a goal to run a 5k, 10k, 1/2 marathon or marathon in 2019? Anything is possible! Dream it, believe it, achieve it! Please email our TransFit Running Director and Personal Trainer Lisa Patton (lisa@transfitathens.com) to schedule a session to discuss your action plan in reaching your goals. You can also visit Lisa’a running page on our website HERE!

Friday sessions in the studio will focus extra on glute, hamstring, hip, and core strengthening and stability to better assist you in become a stronger more efficient runner or walker. We would love for you to come join our TransFit Running Community.

Need a reboot with your nutrition? We have great FREE recipes on our website and a FREE MEAL PLAN for you! Our Registered Dietitian, Kaeti Shurling, is back after maternity leave and would love to help you with your nutrition goals for 2019. Learn more about our nutrition counseling options HERE!

Bible Study: Our Director of Spiritual Development & Community Outreach, Pam Adams will be leading us though the Book of Ester. The 6 week study will meet in the studio from 12-1 pm on Thursdays starting January 24th. The cost of the 6 week study is $20 which pays for the cost of the book study. Please sign up on the app for this transforming study though one of the most amazing women in the word.

We would love to see you at these exciting new events and sessions! We also want you to be diligently praying about your dreams and goals for 2019. We are here to serve you! If you would like to meet one-on-one with any other our trainers please let us know!

You can sign up for all events and sessions on our FREE TransFit app HERE! If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit

🌟Exciting December News & Client Spotlight to Inspire You to Transform!

Sweet *|FNAME|*,

It’s December! Can you believe it?! The Christmas season is here, and we are so excited! Our theme this month is Believe. Everything is possible for the one who believes. You can accomplish your goals, give your best one minute at a time, and live transformed to finish 2018 strong!

Here’s what you’ve all been waiting for… Our December Challenge Calendar! The goal this month is to complete A MILE A DAY! You can accomplish this by walking, running, riding a bike or coming to a session in the studio. Tag #OneMileADay on Instagram to be entered in for a free session. We just want you to get moving every day. Each week also has an additional challenge to help you transform. This week, we challenge you to drink 80 oz of water per day! Download the calendar below or pick one up in the studio!

Join us for December’s Lunch and Learn because we are doing a luncheon of our and your FAVORITE THINGS! Think of something that you LOVE (valued around $15). Bring ONE of your favorite items and everyone will go home with a new favorite thing. Jami Washington from Downtown Academy will also be stopping by to talk about our service project. Come join us on Thursday, December 13th from 12-1 at the studio.

The cost of attendance is $12 to cover lunch from the Pine. Register on our TransFit app under “Special Events” or click the link below!

Come join us this month for an amazing afternoon TransFormer session! Lisa will lead you in a transformational workout on Mondays at 4:15. Come meet our new trainer, Corinn, and workout with her during our Tuesday and Thursday TransFormer sessions at 4:15. These two ladies can encourage you and help you finish the year living transformed! Sign up on our app or on our website HERE.

Follow our spiritual director, Pam Adams, on Instagram this month as she is doing a daily advent devotion in preparation of the Christmas season. She will be studying the book of Philippians and will be posting and guiding us through these truths during the advent season. You can follow her on Instagram at @pamablam or at the link HERE.

We still have a few ornaments left on our Giving Tree! Help us support Downtown Academy by giving them fitness equipment that they can use during recess, PE and after school activities. All you have to do is pick an ornament from our giving tree in the studio, purchase the gift and return it wrapped to the studio by December 14th. You can drop off gifts at the student and put under the tree or give gifts to any TransFit staff!

We have an incredible client spotlight will inspire you! She is an example of believing and never giving up! This beautiful friend, Lisa Irvin, is an example of consistency and accountability, which is key in transformation. Lisa is in the TransFit studio at least two times per week and has food journaled in MyFitnessPal for the last FIVE MONTHS to keep herself accountable! We are so proud of her! I hope you get to spend time with this amazing woman. Thank you, Lisa, for living transformed and being an inspiration to us all!

Lisa’s Transformation Story

“I have had an exercise routine of some sort for the past 10 years, but the way I exercise has changed over time. I have always loved running, but injuries forced me to stop. Even though I miss running, I knew it was time for me to find other forms of exercise that better fit my body. Now, my weekly exercise routine usually consists of a weight class twice a week at TransFit and a brisk 4 mile walk 4-6 days a week. I love the feeling of accomplishment after a workout or a walk. I know I’ve done something good for myself. I enjoy walking with a friend for the added encouragement, so it is sometimes hard to make myself go alone but I know I’ll be glad that I went when I’m finished.

This past summer, I began using MyFitnessPal to keep track of my nutrition, exercise and water intake daily. It has made a huge difference in my health and makes me consciously aware of what I am eating and doing for my body everyday. I am working to continue food journaling in MyFitnessPal and keeping up with my exercise routine to reach my goals. My current goals are to continue to stay active and to make healthy choices everyday.

My proudest accomplishment is my family! My husband Greg has been part of a running/walking group for many years, and they are faithful! Rain, shine, snow...whatever, they meet at 6:30 every morning. He inspires me to stay active too! My three children (Jake, Miller and Gracie) are my joy. I am so proud to be their mom! Being healthy and active are so important for my overall happiness. I couldn’t imagine not doing something active on a regular basis. It’s my “therapy”!”i

Lisa, we are so grateful for your story and incredibly proud of your transformation. We are thankful to join alongside you! We hope you feel so encouraged after reading her story.

Here is one of Lisa’s favorite recipes! It’s a Kale and Quinoa Soup. Curl up with a warm blanket and try it with your family this week!

Kale and Quinoa Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 shallot, minced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 8 baby carrots, chopped

• 1/2 cup quinoa (cooked)

• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1/8 teaspoon coriander

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup water

• 2 cups kale, chopped

Directions

1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a soup pot or sauce pan. 

2. Toss in shallots, garlic and carrots to sauté until tender.

3. Add quinoa, cayenne, coriander, salt and pepper. Stir over heat for about 3–5 minutes.

4. Pour in broth and water and bring to a boil.

5. Lower heat, cover with lid, and let simmer 15 minutes.

6. Add kale and stir in, re-cover, and let simmer another 5 minutes.

We are excited to encourage you to finish 2018 strong and reach your goals! We want to encourage you in your journey to live transformed. Please reach out to us to schedule a nutrition counseling session or a one-on-one session at transfitathens@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you in the studio soon!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

4 Exercises to Improve Your Posture

Good morning sweet friends,

Do you ever slump your shoulders? I often I catch myself with a rounded upper back and shoulders. I know as a middle school girl I was embarrassed by my chest... or lack thereof. I vividly remember my friends complaining of having too much in that department, but I always slumped forward in shame. My mom would always come behind me, tug my shoulders back and tell me to hold my shoulders back and head up high. “Remember your posture, Caro,” she would say on rewind. Now, with my own girls and clients, I hear myself saying the same cues hourly. All this talk about posture had me diving into how to improve our body posture. God then whispered, “nothing happens in isolation— everything is connected, body, mind, and spirit. Your physical posture is important but how is the posture of your heart?”

All this posture talk coincides with a term we use at TransFit “Exercise is Worship.”
Really?!?! Are 50 kettlebell swings considered worship?

But here is what we mean by “exercise is worship”: authentic worship is less about the movement of our body and more about the posture of our hearts.

The posture we assume when we come to know Him instead of trying to do for Him.

The posture we take when our spirit is in awe of the gracious and loving mercy-giver who created everything, yet who loves us so.

The posture we need when we feel at our weakest but through a relationship with Him we can be made strong.

Exercise is worship! Let’s stand tall with our best posture keeping our eyes and heart focused on Him.

Worship is an attitude rather than an activity.

Worship is a gift not an obligation.

Worship is the posture of our heart toward our Savior.

Let our worship be in every minute, every movement, and in every day. Let our hearts remember His loving-kindness toward us, which never ends. Why? Because, He is worthy. He deserves the praise of our whole heart - our best posture.

Let our worship as the posture of our hearts be the way we are inside, instead of something we do or who we are on the outside.

Moving into this holiday season help us all to remember:

It is not the posture of our body, but of our heart, that is most important. Everything we do “flows from our heart.” When we worship, let our hearts be lifted in adoration, gratitude, and humility to our gracious God. Let’s stand taller today, sweet friends, shoulders pulled back, head held high because we have been given the most amazing gifts.

“Lord, direct our focus always toward you and teach us to follow you in gratitude and love. Adjust the posture of our heart to be fixed and focused on your love and grace. Amen”

For your physical posture here are 4 exercises you can do today to improve your posture. Maintaining the natural lumbar curve in your low back is essential to preventing posture related back pain. This natural curve works as a shock absorber, helping to distribute weight along the length of your spine. Adjusting postural distortions can help decrease back pain.

Frequently getting up from a seated position and doing these 4 quick and easy realignment exercises can help you re-educate your muscles and improve your posture.

 1. Wall Angel

Stand with your back against a flat wall with your feet about four inches from the base. Maintain a slight bend in your knees. Your glutes, spine and head should all be against the wall.

Bring your arms up with elbows bent so your upper arms are parallel to the floor and squeeze your shoulder blades together, forming a letter "W" Hold for 3 seconds. Then, straighten your elbows to raise your arms up to form the letter “Y.” Make sure not to shrug your shoulders to your ears.

Repeat this 10 times, starting at “W,” holding for 2 seconds and then raising your arms into a “Y.” Do 2-3 sets.

2. Hip Flexor Stretch

Kneel onto your right knee with toes down, and place your left foot flat on the floor in front of you.

Place both hands on your left thigh and press your hips forward until you feel a good stretch in the hip flexors.

Contract your abdominals and slightly tilt your pelvis back while keeping your chin parallel to the floor. Hold this pose for 20-30 seconds, and then switch sides.

3. The X-Move

Kneel onto your right knee with toes down, and place your left foot flat on the floor in front of you.

Place both hands on your left thigh and press your hips forward until you feel a good stretch in the hip flexors.

Contract your abdominals and slightly tilt your pelvis back while keeping your chin parallel to the floor. Hold this pose for 20-30 seconds, and then switch sides.

4. The V-Move

While standing, stagger your feet so one is slightly behind the other. Grasp the handles, or the ends, of the resistance band and lift your arms upward and slightly outward away from your body about 30 degrees.

Keep a slight bend in your elbows. Stop at shoulder level; hold 3 seconds and return slowly.

Make sure to keep your shoulder blades down and back straight. Repeat this exercise for 8-12 repetitions for 3 sets.

Click on the button below to view a demonstration of each exercise from Caroline! You can also view other exercise and stretch videos on our YouTube channel HERE.

We want to encourage you to finish the last week of November nourishing your body and with the best posture! Please let us know how we can help you live transformed. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a one-on-one, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

🙌 #GivingTuesday: Here's How You Can Be All In

Sweet friends,

Can you believe it is the last week of November?! This month as flown by, and we hope that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your friends and family. As we finish this last week of Nourish in November, we want to remind you to nourish not only your body, but your mind and spirit as well. We are so thankful for the life and gifts that He has provided each and every one of us!

You may notice a new addition to our TransFit studio next time you are here! We have set up our Giving Tree! Friends, this Christmas season, TransFit will be partnering with Downtown Academy. We hope to bring lots of joy to teachers and students and are asking clients and friends to purchase fitness equipment for recess, PE and the after school program.

That’s where the Giving Tree comes in! Each ornament on the Giving Tree has a piece of equipment that Downtown Academy needs! All you have to do is pick an ornament, purchase the gift, and return the wrapped gift back to the studio by December 15th.

If you want to help out but don’t want to take an ornament, you can! You can purchase items like footballs, kickballs, jump ropes, rhythm ribbons or other equipment that will keep students moving!

You can drop off gifts at the studio and put them under the tree or give them to any TransFit staff member! Most items can be found at Five Below, Academy Sports, Dick’s, Walmart and Target! We are so excited to GIVE with our Giving Tree this year!

We have a special Cyber Monday SALE for YOU! Use code TRANSFORM20 for 20% OFF of any merchandise on our Etsy! Click the link below to check out our apparel, jewelry, candles and bible study!

Our Holiday Extravaganza challenge is under way! Over 90 people have signed up to participate this year, and that means there is plenty of money to play for! You have already made it through the first challenge day of Thanksgiving! How did you do!?

Get back into food journaling with MyFitnessPal, drinking plenty of water and making sure you are getting in three servings of vegetables! Check out some of our healthy recipes that you can try at home with your family and use the link below to sign up for a session on our app!

We can’t wait to see you in the studio this week to encourage you to finish Nourish in November strong! We want to help you reach your goals. Please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com with any questions or to schedule a one-on-one session! We can’t wait to see you in the studio soon!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

True Confession of a Perfectionist Trying to Let Go…

Sweet friends,

Does anyone else start to feel the pressure as we head into the holiday season? Why do I do this to myself every year?  Do you feel the pressure to have the perfectly decorated house, the most delicious Thanksgiving meal, and of course, the perfect party dress? Anybody else reading my mail? 

As we enter into the holiday season this year, I crave for things to be different. I am passionate about the saying “I AM ENOUGH.” I want to believe this statement and trust Him in the process.

Sweet sisters, today let’s all replace these lies we perfectionist face with what is true. Let’s say these words loud and clear together:

“I am cherished”

“I am beloved”

“I am good enough”

Because of what our incredible Christ has already done for us; yes, YOU are adored by a faithful God.  What amazing news that is and what a relief when we can actually believe in our hearts what is true about who we really are!

That is why my life mission at this stage in life is to inspire women to transform not only their physical bodies, but their entire lives. Our goal is to help women overcome the lies that we all battle everyday of “the perfect life” and to embrace the gifts they have been given to be able to walk in confidence in who they were meant to be! 

Our annual contest Holiday Extravaganza helps us to maintain our weight over the holidays. Why do we do it?  Because we are called to give our best with what we have been given or should I say gifted? We are called to glorify Him and love others well. We can do this when our physical bodies are at their best. 

You are right, physical transformation is the before and after photos of women losing 50 pounds. We know that good nutrition and proper exercise can lead to weight loss; however, losing weight is not what life is all about. Losing weight or getting to a “number” on the scale doesn’t lead to true happiness. It’s a fleeting jolt of bliss but will never lead to real joy. 

Real transformation has little to do with our body shape and has everything to do with the truths we are putting deep in our hearts and minds.  When His word permeates through our veins daily we can have a genuine life change, and enjoy the process of transformation daily. It’s this transformative journey where we experience deep relationship and the true joy with our God and our community. 

How the truths seep into your veins is not by some physical activity that you do, or by some kind act you performed. The process of transformation is something He does in you over time. 

2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”  He grants us grace when He formed us specifically in the palm of His mighty hand. He is the one who will transform you from the inside out. He can replace the lies that we have to be perfect with the truth that we are cherished and adored. Enough.

I started this business 8 years ago because my mind was leading me in all the wrong directions, and I was in a pit of depression and despair. I had fallen prey to the “not perfect life” so it’s “not worth it life.” However, what was “perfect" in the world was not real. God transformed my life by instilling real truths about my body, my “perfect life”, and what really should be filling my soul.  

He still is transforming me daily, and can transform you. WHY?  Because He loves us and He choose us.  He does this not because we are “a number on a scale” or because we have done all the right things. He made us enough just the way are— today. Right now, this hour, this minute. So remind yourself of that truth. YOU ARE ENOUGH. A scale or a pair of jeans doesn’t need to control you and ruin your day.  You were put on this earth to love, not feel guilt or to beat yourself up over a size or number. Jesus reminds us over and over in His word to “love our neighbor as ourselves.” 

Why is it hard for us to accept this and live this out? And how do we do this, really? 

We start by seeking self-respect, security, and significance in Christ. We start to know Him, spend time with Him, and love Him to be able to truly love ourselves. 

So stop right now telling yourself: “I’m too fat, I’m too old, I’m too tired, or I’m too flawed”

Silence that inner critic who says you can’t, you won’t or you aren’t…because YES you are imperfect; we all are, but YOU ARE ENOUGH. Because of Him, you are worthy, you are loved, you are strong enough to get though whatever comes in your life journey.

 So my challenge to you is this: start treating yourself with love, self-respect, and significance.  

You were fearfully and wonderfully made and specifically designed for an amazing life purpose. You are loved and you are enough.

Today is the day to take action on your goals, your life, your health, and your body. Treat the temple you have been given with utmost care and respect. Love and honor yourself by taking care of yourself. Remind yourself daily, no, hourly who you really are:

You are enough, and you are adored by a mighty and powerful King.

How can we help you, care for you, pray for you? Our staff wants to know you, connect with you and encourage you. Please reach out to us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We would love to schedule one-on-one time for coffee, or a walk or healthy lunch!

Love and Blessings,

Caroline

Join us for the Most Transformational Challenge to Finish 2018 Strong!

Sweet friends,

It’s that time of year again! The holiday season is upon us, and that means lots of temptations for unhealthy splurges! Don’t worry, we’re here to encourage you! We are stronger together- in body, mind, and spirit!

Accountability is the key to your transformation and we are ready to finish 2018 feeling energized, confident, and strong! Monday starts a big week in the studio for Client Appreciation Week and as we begin weigh-ins for our Holiday Extravaganza Challenge! Join us in the studio as we transform together to finish 2018 stronger than ever!

Holiday Extravaganza is the best holiday challenge to keep you accountable to your goals over Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years! You can come into the studio to weigh-in or you can send us an email at transfitathens@gmail.com if you want to schedule a time to weigh in. Feel free to invite friends & family to play as well! All ladies in the community are welcome (special instructions for those who have had a baby in past 4 months)!

DETAILS OF THE GAME:

Starts the week of November 12th - Finish week of January 10th

How It Works:

Challenge begins the week of November 12th. In order to play, any person who wants to play puts $20 in the bucket. You will weigh in (confidentially) and do your best over the holidays to eat right, exercise, drink water, and do our weekly challenges. On the week of January 8th, we will weigh in again. 

If your weight stays the same, you get your $20 BACK! If you gain weight, your money stays in the bucket and you contribute to the biggest loser prize! 

If you are the biggest loser (based on body-weight percentages), you get to keep all the money in the bucket! Our top five winners will also receive a special gift! The Holiday Extravaganza is the best way to keep you accountable over the holiday season!

The winner last year won over $1,500 CASH!!! This is the BEST challenge to keep you accountable over the holidays!

Want to stay accountable over the holiday but don’t live close to TransFit or in Georgia? We still want to help you transform! Check out our ONLINE TRAINING OPTIONS to help you reach your goals where ever you are!!

Congratulations to our October Calendar Challenge winner, Beverly Sparks! Beverly was such an inspiration to all of us in the month of October. Read her story below about how she is transforming her mind, body and spirit. What an inspiration this beautiful soul is to all of us! Don’t forget to fill out your November calendar to be entered to win a MONTH of free sessions!

“In July of 2014, I retired from the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service after 32 years of combined service at UGA and Texas A&M University.  My position at UGA required long hours, lots of airline travel, many hours behind the wheel, and too many on the go or banquet meals and rushed eating at business meetings. I tried very hard to make healthy food choices but the many years of airline food, eating on the go and high stress began to take a toll on my weight, health and spirit.  My first goal after retirement was to improve my health and I made a commitment to join a gym, lose weight and address poor eating habits. Several attempts to get into a regular workout routine failed. I found it very difficult to stay motivated.

In January of 2018, a great friend (Lynn Robinson) invited me to workout with her. That day changed my attitude toward working out forever. The atmosphere at TransFit is positive, non-competitive and inspiring. In the classes I attend, the exercises are adjusted to your personal level of ability, yet the instructors are always adjusting your routine to keep you challenged. The women working out with you, both young and closer to my age, are welcoming, supportive of each other and very encouraging.

I am now in my eleventh month of workouts at TransFit.  New habits have formed and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to exercise this body every time I attend a class.  My strength and balance have improved. My weight is healthy and stabilized and my clothes fit much better. I sleep better and find it easier to concentrate and focus on the positive things going on in my life. I no longer “have to go workout”... I want to go work out! Keeping a calendar of activity is one form of accountability and reminds to stay active even on the days I don’t go to a TransFit class.

What an honor it is to be selected as the October recipient of Calendar Challenge at TransFit! The TransFit Team has been a real blessing and instrumental in helping me transform my body, mind and spirit in the past year. Thank you Caroline and your awesome TransFit Team!”

We love you Beverly and we are so proud of your attitude and your commitment to transforming! Just take the first step ladies, start where you are and we can help you with your goals and dreams!

The TransFit team is excited to welcome a new staff member to our family! Corinn Gurak will be joining us as a Personal Trainer, and she will be teaching a TransFormer evening class! We are so excited to welcome Corinn to our Team TransFit.

“In high school, I was a runner in cross country and played soccer, which made running and weight lifting a part of my daily routine. My junior and senior years, I became fascinated eating healthy and working out. This fascination eventually spiraled outside of my control, and I spent much time my freshman year of college learning healthy living, which always needs balance!

I knew after this that I wanted to share the joy and balance of healthy living with the women around me! I became a fitness instructor at Crunch Fitness. I love encouraging my clients (who always become friends) to reach their goals. These passions lead me to TransFit, where I fell in love with the mission of TransFit and I adore Caroline and the other instructors here. I am excited to begin leading and training an upbeat and exhilarating Transformer class in the evenings!”

We are excited to inspire you in the studio this week for CLIENT APPRECIATION WEEK! Please let us know how we can encourage you. If you would like to schedule a nutrition session or one-on-one personal training session, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Exciting November News To Help You Transform!

Sweet friends,

November is here and the holidays are right around the corner! With the joyful holidays comes a lot of temptations of unhealthy foods and lack of exercise, but this month is the perfect time to challenge yourself to stick to your goals!

November is a time of Thanksgiving, and we want to focus on nourishing our bodies this month through mind, body and spirit. We can do it! Instead of diving into those unhealthy foods, let’s view proper nutrition and exercise as a form of worship!

For Nourish in November, we want to challenge you to be active and exercise 5 TIMES PER WEEK and eat THREE servings of vegetables per day! You can go on a nice walk in the cool fall air with your family, come into the studio for a TransFormer session, do yoga, or play with your kids in the backyard! Just be active! One serving of vegetables is typically equal to 1/2 cup. Try to get a minimum of three servings per day.

Download our November calendar below and fill in your exercise and vegetables EVERY DAY. Turn in or send us your calendar at the end of the month for a chance to win A MONTH OF FREE SESSIONS!

It’s almost time for our Holiday Extravaganza! For those of you that have never participated, this is your year! The goal is to maintain your weight through the holiday season! The cost is $20 to participate. Weigh-ins will begin the week of November 12-16.

If you maintain your weight, you get your entry money back in January when you come back to weigh-in! If you gain weight, your money stays in the bucket! At the end of the holiday season, we will re-weigh and the biggest loser gets to keep ALL of the leftover money! The top-five finishers will also receive a gift!

We are excited to share with you our Service Outreach Project for the holidays! Our service project will benefit the students of Downtown Academy, a school just a few miles from TransFit that seeks to provide children of inner-city Athens an excellent and rigorous Christ-centered education that builds knowledge, character and purpose.

We will be purchasing fitness equipment (balls, jump ropes, fitness bands, etc.) for students to use during recess and in their after-school program. This was a need we became aware of recently, and it resonated with our mission here at TransFit. We are passionate about health, which includes mind, body and spirit.

Look for the Giving Tree that will be set up in the studio right after Thanksgiving, with instructions on how you can participate. We look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus with our clients and community!

Join us for a yoga session on Mondays at 5:30 p.m or on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. to stretch and nourish your body!

This 55-minute yoga session will increase flexibility and core strength. The postures are connected through the breath for a transformative and balancing effect. The yoga session will burn fat, increase endurance, flexibility and strength. The session will inspire you physically and mentally to live transformed in mind, body and spirit.

Sign up for the session on our app at the link below!

We look forward to seeing you in the studio this month! Please let us know how we can encourage you to reach your goals and pray for you! If you have any questions or want to set up a one-on-one session, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Meet our #ChooseJoy Client Spotlight!

Sweet friends,

Thank you, thank you! We have loved seeing you be ALL IN for our theme Optimism in October! We have challenged you to be active and to STRETCH every day! We are so proud of you, and we want to encourage you to achieve your goals!

Our #ChooseJoy October Client Spotlight is an INCREDIBLE example to all of us of how exercise can change your mindset and truly transform your body and spirit! Sarah Kate Jones brings such positivity, light, and love into this community, and it is contagious. You can’t help but feel uplifted up when you spend time with her. She will always be honest with you, saying every day is not a cake-walk. Goals of finding her confidence in Christ not in the size of her clothes or in other opinions is a daily struggle. Many days are difficult to make exercise and nutrition a priority but she is consistent and committed with her daily exercise and has really worked to eliminate sugar in her daily nutrition plan. This amazing college women exudes confidence now and is living transformed one hour, one day at time. Progress daily leads to big results over time!

We are so proud of her, and we hope you get to give her a big hug next time you see her bright, sweet face!

Sarah Kate’s Transformation Story:

“Growing up, I played competitive soccer which entailed a strict work out regime of practice and games five to six days a week. I was accustomed to eating healthy, homemade meals thanks to my mom, and exercising was second nature. When I got to college, it seemed all I knew flew out the door, and the “Freshman 15” I was so scared of became a reality for me. I grew increasingly discouraged, comparing myself to other girls constantly. I didn’t know how to get back to where I once was. About a year ago, I was sitting with my mom crying over how out-of-shape I had become. She introduced TransFit to me, which was just the jumpstart I needed.

After the first month of classes, I noticed I was both physically and emotionally healthier. I began making better food choices, as well as actually desiring to exercise. All of Freshman year, I had to drag myself to the gym just to get on the treadmill, and now I was excited. Each time I would leave TransFit, I felt stronger and encouraged. The confidence in myself increased, and I remember looking in the mirror being proud of how far I had come.

Exercise truly makes me feel alive. Not only does it keep my body in shape, but it promotes positive self-esteem. The most challenging aspect to it is definitely the initial start. If I miss a few days, it’s much harder to get myself to work out or make the right food choices. Typically, I work out four days a week, which consists of going to TransFit twice and running on my off days. I have been going to TransFit for the last year, and I think what I am most proud of is how I am content with who I am. It used to be about the number on the scale, but now I know it’s not that. It’s about being active, making good food choices, and trying your best. I try not to get caught up in the “I hate my fill-in-the-blank” or the negativity with comparison. TransFit has changed the way I speak to myself and think about myself.

Goals I am currently working on is consistency in making healthy choices in the kitchen. Living a healthy lifestyle affects my spiritual life, my day-to-day plans, my thought life—everything. When I work out, I feel rejuvenated. I am more apt to make better food choices, I have more energy throughout the day, and I think about myself more positively. TransFit truly got me out of the self-negativity rut, and I am so thankful.

It is a joy to get to be in the presence of encouraging women as our goals are not just to lose weight, but to feel better about ourselves. Finding our confidence in Christ.”

Below is one of Sarah Kate’s favorite post-workout foods, a Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie. She says it replenishes her energy and tastes delicious! Try it at home after one of your workouts this week! 

Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

• ½ frozen banana

• 1 cup frozen strawberries

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt or 1 serving vanilla protein powder

• 1 tbsp ground flax-seed

• 1/2 cup crushed ice

• Honey or other sweetener, to taste (optional)

• 1 tsp maple syrup or stevia drops (optional)

Directions:

• Add ingredients into the blender in the order they are listed.

• Pulse until smooth. Serve and drink immediately.

• Top with fresh strawberries, unsweetened coconut flake, and a few vanilla wafers

• Add vanilla protein powder for an extra boost of protein to keep you feeling full for longer or to use as a post-exercise drink.

Choose Joy Challenge

Today is also Day 1 of our #ChooseJoyChallenge! We are going to finish Optimism in October strong by challenging you to choose joy every day this week! Today’s challenge is to write down or say out loud your Joy Statement of the Day!

Examples of Joy Statements:

“I will take action to reach my goal.”

“I am strong. I am healthy.”

“My metabolism works effectively.”

“I have boundless energy.”

What is your joy statement today? Share it with us on social media and hashtag #ChooseJoyChallenge!

We want to encourage you this week! If you would like to set up a one-on-one with one of our trainers or nutritionists, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

❗️Is Rest As Important As Exercise & Nutrition? ❗️

Sweet friends,

Seriously, do you ever ask yourself “Is rest really as important for transformation as exercise & nutrition?” Many of us make time for exercise and work on meal planning but neglect proper rest.

In our Lived Transformed Bible Study a few weeks ago, we explored the truth that we are to honor God with our bodies by getting proper rest and sleep. We often talk of caring for our bodies with proper nutrition and exercise, but true rest is a pillar of health we know we need, but don't prioritize. The importance of quality rest and sleep cannot be overemphasized. They are vital to the rhythms of our lives, gifts from God which serve specific physical and spiritual purposes. 

Physically, we must have proper rest and sleep in order to function at our best, but the latest research says lack of sleep has become a public health epidemic. As we sat around the circle at Bible Study, this topic was the one most of us had marked and highlighted as being a personal struggle.

We know we are not getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep, and we are concerned because the evidence shows that sleep deprivation is serious. It’s been linked to obesity, negative effects on hormones, skin aging, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, immune system issues, muscle atrophy, type-2 diabetes, etc. We also know how we feel when we don’t get proper rest and sleep, causing us to be irritable and short-tempered with others.

Something we can do to improve our health is set rest and sleep goals, just like we do for nutrition and exercise. The following are some suggestions:

 For Sleep:

• Sleep journal (to really be aware of our habits)

• No TV, no phones, or screen time a minimum of 30 minutes before bedtime

• Follow a consistent bedtime routine 

• Relax in an epsom salt bath

• Use lavender essential oils

• Take a Melatonin and/or Magnesium supplement 

• Enjoy a cup of warm Chamomile Tea

• Use a sound machine with white noise or calming sounds to induce sleep

• Keep the bedroom dark and temperature cool 

• Exercise (not the 3 hours before bedtime)

• Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows 

• PRAY for good rest and sleep and memorize and meditate on scriptures like Psalm 3:3-5, Psalm 46:10, Proverbs 3:24 

For Daily Rest:

• Practice deep breathing

• Allow margin in your schedule

• Take mini vacations/stay-cations doing something you really enjoy

• Invest in a devotional and have a “quiet time” with the Lord daily

• Take a leisurely walk 

• Lay on your back with your feet up on the wall

• Get together with friends that are life-giving

• Splurge occasionally on a massage

• Unplug from social media for a day, weekend, week or month

Leg Up the Wall Pose

Legs Up the Wall Pose is a restorative yoga posture that allows the mind and the body to relax, relieving stress and tension. The benefits of this passive posture are transforming.

Getting into the pose

Start by setting up a clean space around a wall. Next, move your hips as close to the wall as possible, then walk your feet up the wall until your body is in a somewhat L-shaped position. Make any adjustments to facilitate a more relaxing space-- maybe place a pillow under your head, or let your arms rest on your belly or out to the sides. At this point, focus on your breath-- try elongating your breath, taking a deep, slow inhale through your nose- “calm” and a deep, slow exhale through your nose to “let go”.

Try not to bring the body to a full 90 degree angle as this can impede circulation at the hips. Instead slide your hips a few inches from the wall and/or elevate your hips by placing a cushion under your sacrum.

Attempt to stay in the pose for at least 5 minutes for optimal benefits.

 Benefits of Legs Up the Wall Pose

Relaxation

The semi-supine aspect of the pose combined with controlled breathing leads to a slowing down within your body. This exhibits itself in a lowered heart rate which elicits a relaxation response and, in turn, helps lower anxiety, stress and insomnia.

Facilitates venous drainage and increases circulation

Elevating the legs promotes drainage from excess fluid build-up. In addition, gravity assists circulation by facilitating the return of blood back to the heart.

Soothes swollen or cramped feet and legs

Inverting the legs/feet has long been known as an effective treatment for reducing swelling and pain in the lower extremities. This can be therapeutic after flying, physical activity or from the detrimental effects of sitting/standing during the day.

Stretches the hamstrings and lower back

The angle of the body reduces the curve of the lumbar spine, which will elongate and stretch the back muscles. The closer your hips are to the wall, the more stretch you'll create in your hamstrings.

Relieves lower back tension

Pressure is released from the spine in a supine position (especially on a bed or cushion), relieving the back from mild strain.

Studies have shown that restorative yoga poses, specifically, Legs Up the Wall, can be beneficial for those suffering from the negative effects of Fibromyalgia, Varicose Veins, Cancer, Menopause Restless Leg Syndrome, Metabolic Syndrome.

 Spiritually, God has made our bodies to need rest and sleep. They are good gifts given in order that we would acknowledge and praise Him. He is the creator. We are His creation. We learn in Genesis that God rested after the six days of creation, not because He was tired (and He never sleeps), but because He was pleased with His creation.

We can honor God with our bodies when we take intentional time to rest, reflecting on our many blessings and having grateful hearts, acknowledging our dependence on Him. In the Old Testament, God instituted the Sabbath as a day when His people were to honor Him and do no work. But in the New Testament, the Sabbath is no longer a certain day, but a person-Jesus! If we've placed our faith in the finished work of Jesus, then He is our Sabbath rest now and for eternity! 

In our anxiety driven, broken world, we can lay our heads down on our pillows at night and have sweet sleep knowing we have peace with God. 

Thank you Pam for those helpful tips on how to rest our bodies and minds. Remember nothing happens separately. All pieces of the puzzle work together to keep on the journey to transformation. Please let us know how we can serve you.

Try one of our new stretch videos on our YouTube channel HERE, come to bible study, or a new TransFit session to worship with us!

If you have any questions or would like to meet with a trainer, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We want to help you transform your mind body and spirit in the last quarter of 2018!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

💥Exciting October News to Help You Transform! 💥

Sweet friends,

This month, we challenge you to be active and stretch every single day as we focus on Optimism in October! A great way to get your daily stretching in is to do yoga! Yoga is a great way to exercise and renew your mind, and has essential health benefits like increasing flexibility, building muscle strength, preventing cartilage and joint breakdown, and increases your blood flow! It will help you transform your mind, body and spirit!

Congratulations to our September calendar challenge winner, Jennifer Leahy! Jennifer committed to her strength and being active every day in September! You are such an inspiration!

Don’t forget to pick up your October calendar at the studio for a chance to be our October calendar challenge winner and win a month of free sessions!

Join us for a NEW yoga session on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. in the studio! The session will be lead by our new yoga instructor, Emily Dietz! Yoga is a great opportunity to reach this month’s goal of stretching every day!

Emily’s practice centers around vinyasa flow, and she loves the idea that all movement is linked with breath, both on and off the mat. Yoga helps center the mind and body and provides calm and connection to spirit. Come join her for her first class on Monday!

Are you a walker or jogger ready to begin running and want to feel your best? Or are you an advanced runner who wants to better your running form, build cardiovascular fitness, run more efficiently, or add speed to your step? Join TransFit Running Coach and Personal Trainer Lisa Patton on Wednesdays at 8:20 for a TransFit Outdoor Runners Workout!
TransFit Outdoor Runners Workout is a 55-minute session that includes essential dynamic warmup sequences, running form drills, strength exercises for runners, a heart-pumping outdoor workout, and an inspirational cool down and post-run stretches.

For October’s Lunch and Learn, we will be welcoming Kisa Raye to the studio on October 23 from 12-1! Kisa Raye, MEd, FST is an exercise physiologist, fascial stretch therapist and owner of KR stretch and inspi-Her Wellness LLC.

“Let’s take stretching beyond the muscle. Learn how to reach more and achieve more through better stretching techniques that will not only improve your physical health, but bring peace and balance to your mind.”

The cost of attendance is $12 and includes lunch from Maepole!

Sign up for the Lunch and Learn under “Special Events” on the TransFit app HERE!

We are now offering a FALL MEAL PLAN on SALE for $9.99! This meal plan, which was created by our registered dietician, Kaeti Shurling and Consultant Katie Woodall, includes four-weeks of meals, grocery lists and healthy fall recipes! Let’s transform our nutrition this month together! You can download the meal plan on our website at the link below or on our app HERE!

Here are some tips for stretching this month! You can also visit our YouTube channel HERE for more stretching and workout videos.

Hips and Glutes Focused Yoga Sequence

We are so excited for all of the new and exciting things happening in October at TransFit! We can’t wait to see you in the studio soon. If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Focusing on Optimism This October!

Sweet friends,

Can you believe it is already October?! Each of you worked so hard during Strength in September, and you finished the month strong with our TransFive No Sugar Challenge! Be proud of yourselves for transforming your mind, body and spirit! This month, we are focusing on Optimism in October! It is going to be a month filled with positivity and encouragement!

Optimism in October means renewing your mind, we can have true JOY!

How can we find this: our fullness of joy is found in our relationship in HIM! Even when our circumstances change, we can have joy at all times because joy is not grounded in our circumstances, but in Him. Joy in Him is eternal!

“Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:8

We want to encourage you this month to reach your goals and dreams! Our goal for you this month is to be active every day and STRETCH every day in October! Download the October calendar below, log your activity and stretching, and turn it into us at the end of the month for a chance to win A MONTH OF FREE SESSIONS!

Don’t forget to turn in your Strength in September calendars!

Are you a walker or jogger ready to begin running and want to feel your best? Or are you an advanced runner who wants to better your running form, build cardiovascular fitness, run more efficiently, or add speed to your step? TransFit Running Coach and Personal Trainer Lisa Patton will come alongside you with a transforming TransFit Runners Workout for all fitness levels to help you achieve your goals.

TransFit Runners Workout is a 55-minute session that includes essential dynamic warmup sequences, running form drills, strength exercises for runners, a heart-pumping outdoor workout, and an inspirational cooldown and post-run stretches. Sign up on our website HERE or our app HERE!

This month, we will be continuing our Bible Study on Thursdays from 12-1 at the TransFit studio. Our Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach, Pam Adams, will be leading us through the Live Transformed bible study, which will guide us through God's Word and teach us how to live transformed! You can sign up on our website HERE or on our app HERE! Come join us!

In October, we will be offering a FALL MEAL PLAN on SALE for $9.99! This meal plan, which was created by our registered dietician, Kaeti Shurling and Consultant Katie Woodall, includes four-weeks of meals, grocery lists and healthy fall recipes! Let’s transform our nutrition this month together! You can download the meal plan on our website at the link below or on our app HERE!

Here is a sneak peak at one of the recipes in the meal plan for a Pumpkin Protein Greek Yogurt Parfait! Yum!

Pumpkin Protein Greek Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek plain yogurt (I use FAGE 2%)

• 1/2 cup organic pumpkin puree

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp honey or 2 drops of Stevia

• 1/2 cup quick and easy granola

Directions

• Mix first five ingredients together!

• Add granola on top and extra cinnamon to taste!

• Enjoy a delicious fall protein packed meal!

Get started with your stretching for the month! Here are some stretching tips. You can also visit our YouTube channel HERE for more stretching and workout videos!

Stretching sequence for low back relief

We can’t wait to see you in the studio this month to help you transform your mind, body and spirit this month! Please email us if you have any questions or want to set up a session with one of our dietitians at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Tap Into Your Inner Strengths! 👊🏼

Sweet friends,

For the last six weeks, we have welcomed 4th through 8th grade girls into our studio on Wednesday evenings. These girls have absolutely FILLED the studio with energy, enthusiasm and positivity, and we have loved having them come exercise with us each week. It is so important for girls to learn to love exercise and their bodies from a young age. Our personal trainer, Mallory Gilliam, has lead this group of girls and has each week picked a different topic for them to focus on. The girls have set goals for themselves, talked about what makes them EXCITED about their life, and the power of strength in their daily lives. These messages are not only important for these middle school girls, but for ALL of us, regardless of age, and we just wanted to share these messages with you!

Strength is a beautiful gift that takes many forms. There are four categories of strength that we focus on at TransFit:

Mental strength

Physical strength

Emotional strength

Spiritual strength

Within each of these groups, we all have certain strengths that are unique to each one of us, and when we tap into these God-given strengths, we find purpose and passion that allows us to live fully.

Our spiritual beliefs are most likely to determine our mental and emotional strengths. Believing that we are strong, capable, and confident allows us to build our physical strength. Building our physical strength further enhances our mental and emotional strength. Each component is connected. Therefore, we must focus on improving each one. There are multiple ways to do this. To name a few, we can practice positive self-talk, exercise regularly, and spend daily time in prayer.

Positive affirmations focus on the things that we love about ourselves.  When we are focusing on such things, we become more confident are assured of our abilities, which lead us to take action.  Taking action on our physical health leads to other benefits beyond strengthening our bodies.  According to the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, resistance training reduces anxiety, may help treat depression, and improves overall self esteem. When these mental and emotional aspects are improved, we are bound to experience more joy, peace, and gratitude throughout our days. Our minds, bodies, and spirits are interconnected. We have the ability to use our bodies to treat our minds and vice-versa.

When working with the TransFit Girls, we focus on the truth that our thoughts determine our actions.  This one truth brings together all four components of transformed strength. What we believe is what we become, and one of the best things that we can do for ourselves is to fill our minds with the truth that Isaiah 40:21-28 provides – God will strengthen us even when we feel that we have no strength left. Know that you are strong and that you have multiple gifts and abilities that are unique to you. Use your strengths to live a life full of purpose, and keep transforming one moment at a time.

We are excited to encourage ALL women that walk through the doors of TransFit to be STRONG in their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual strength!

Join us this September for our Lunch and Learn service project with Action Ministries. We will be putting together hygiene kits and snack bags for the homeless and impoverished in our Athens community. We will be assembling these bags on Wednesday, September 26 from 12-1 at the TransFit studio and delivering the bags Friday, September 28! We can’t wait to serve with you!

If you would like to join us, please sign up on our TransFit App HERE under “Special Events”. If you can’t join us at the event, you can also drop off your donations at the TransFit studio.

Items We Need:

Hygiene Kits:

• Toothbrushes/toothpaste

• Shampoo/conditioner

• Baby wipes

• Socks

• Soap

• Lotion

• Deodorant

Snack Bags:

• Granola bars

• Apples

• Other types of snacks that can be easily eaten on the go

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We are so thrilled to continue encourage and inspire you this month! We are #StrongerTogether! Please let us know how we can help you reach your goals and dreams this month!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Our Client Spotlight Inspiration of STRENGTH This September!

Sweet friend,

We loved encouraging you this week as we celebrated National Day of Encouragement! We have challenged each of you to get active for 30 minutes a day and incorporate strength training at least 3 times a week! We know that you can do it because we know we are #StrongerTogether. Remember, the winner of the challenge will be entered into a raffle to win a MONTH of FREE sessions!

Y’all, our incredible September client spotlight will encourage you that YOU CAN do anything you put your heart, mind, and soul into! Believe it, achieve it, and never give up! This beautiful friend, Lynn Robinson, exudes strength in so many areas of her life, and we are all blessed by her presence. Lynn is consistent, dedicated, hard-working, focused and does it all with a smile! We are so proud of her! I hope you get to spend time with this amazing woman. Thank you, Lynn, for living transformed and being an inspiration to us all!

Lynn’s Transformation Story:

“Thirty years ago, my husband and I were delighted at the birth of our second child, a beautiful baby boy. As any newborn does, he became the center of focus in our household; his older sister, who was then 7, loved him dearly, as we all did. But, there was a problem looming. I didn’t bounce back from his birth as quickly as I did with my first child, I couldn’t lose the baby weight, and I had to return to work. I felt overwhelmed with guilt and concern that I couldn’t properly parent my children; in fact, I was certain that I was a poor excuse of a person. Yes, I had developed a classic case of postpartum depression. In those days, there were few treatment options. My husband suggested that I consider joining a gym, which I thought was crazy; how could I work full time, care for our children and all the other “things” that seemed so important? Yet, that’s exactly what I did – I joined a gym, and I’ve been in a gym, for the most part, all those thirty plus years.  The exercise program, coupled with counseling, enabled me to recover from the depression I experienced. 

In exercise, I discovered that regular, challenging workouts gave me new energy and focus, improved my physical as well as mental health, and enabled me to whittle off those extra pounds I carried. Through the years, I‘ve exercised at many gyms, participating in cardio classes like step, dance aerobics, HIIT, spin, etc. I’ve taken numerous strength and conditioning classes, like FIRE, Pilates, and PUMP. I’ve worked with weights, bars and all kinds of machines. I even spent 5 or 6 years in a CrossFit gym, primarily with a personal trainer. While there, I set a goal to complete a pull up before my 60th birthday, and, to my surprise, I accomplished that. But, again, there was a problem looming. The aging process crept in, and I suffered a torn labrum in my left shoulder. Despite surgery, physical therapy and a long recovery, the shoulder still challenges me, and continually reminds me that there are limits to what I can, and should do. I was quite discouraged about my exercise program (or lack of one I considered meaningful), when my daughter suggested I try a class at her new gym, TransFit. 

TransFit was totally unlike any other gym to me. First, the décor is brimming with encouraging phrases and Bible verses of affirmation; the business model based on the scripture from Romans 12:2 is motivational in itself, but it’s linked to the development of our whole selves, with particular focus on building our bodies, which are “Temples of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19). I love that each exercise session ends with praise and thanks for God’s grace and blessings in our lives. I’ve learned a great deal about food and nutrition since joining TransFit. The frequent reminders to drink 80 ounces of water daily, read food labels, avoid added sugars, eat the right amounts of healthy protein and fats, along with questions like “what did you eat for breakfast” and “what’s your goal for today” prompt me to focus on the “little” dietary improvements I can make to achieve the larger goals of living healthfully. Initially, I was impressed that all the instructors remembered my name, (and I still am impressed with that!), but I marvel that they remember the aches, pains, and limitations I had last week and inquire about them next time I’m at the gym. And, to receive text/email reminders/affirmations from them is such a blessing. The workout sessions are always challenging, but the Instructors are helpful with modifications, when they see a need. If I leave the gym ‘glistening’ with sweat, I feel a sense of accomplishment. 

So, with this welcoming and nurturing environment, I enrolled in TransFit classes and primarily now attend the Small Group Personal Training sessions, with a goal of attending at least three days each week. There’s a wonderful camaraderie among the women in that group that inspires me to achieve greater discipline in my life. Since I usually purchase the 30-day all access pass, I also participate in HIIT and/or Yoga classes. I do cardio work three to four times per week on the treadmill, row machine, or elliptical. In cool weather, I enjoy power walks through our quite hilly neighborhood. Generally I allow myself two days per week “off” from an organized approach to exercise.

I have been truly blessed to access the TransFit experience, where participants are encouraged to strengthen themselves physically, for sure, but our health is also addressed in spiritual, mental, nutritional, and social ways as well.”

Lynn, we are so grateful for your story and incredibly proud of your transformation. We are thankful to join alongside you! We hope you feel so encouraged after reading her story.

Here is one of Lynn’s favorite recipes! It’s the TransFormer Pear and Spinach salad. Try it at home this week with your family!

TransFormer Pear and Spinach Salad

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Salad

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted

• 1 cup pomegranate arils

• 4 oz feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries

• 2 Bartlett pears (firm but ripe), cored and sliced

• 1 avocado, peeled and sliced tossed in lemon juice

• 9-12 oz baby spinach

Dressing

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 5 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp honey

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• Place all dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake well or blend.

• Place all salad ingredients in a large salad bowl, drizzle with desired amount of dressing, then toss to evenly coat.

• Serve immediately

If you would like to meet with any of our trainers, nutritionist or registered dietitian, you can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. Let us know how we can help you be STRONG and live transformed!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Drum Roll Please... Our August Challenge Winner!

Sweet friends,

It has been such a great month in the studio! It was amazing to watch everyone COMMIT to their health in August, and we saw so many inspiring results! Wow! Everyone worked so hard and really gave it their all and were COMMITTED to living transformed! In August, we challenged you to drink 80 oz. of water per day and be ACTIVE for at least 30 minutes every day! Now, we are excited to announce our WINNER!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE....

Our August Commit Challenge Winner is...

PAIGE COLQUITT!

Congratulations, Paige!

Paige really challenged herself in August and committed to living transformed every single day! She completed the water and exercise calendar every day in August! You are such an inspiration to all of us, Paige!

"The water challenge this month helped me immensely in getting my daily water intake of 80 ounces. Every day was not perfect, but every time I felt hungry, I drank more water... And it helped to curb my appetite! I absolutely love to exercise! I honestly wish I could take a TransFit class every day, but since I can’t, I substitute swimming and running on my other days. Getting exercise done first thing in the morning gets me up and moving and makes me feel ready to tackle the day."

Our amazing client, Judy Talton!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our August Commit Challenge! Don't worry if you missed it, we just started our September Strength Challenge! This month, we are challenging you to be ACTIVE for 30 minutes every day and to incorporate strength training into your exercise routine at least 3x per week! We know that a challenge like this can bring AMAZING results, and we are excited to encourage you all month long! Make sure to submit your calendar at the end of the month for a chance to win an ALL-ACCESS PASS FOR A MONTH OF FREE SESSIONS!

Click our September calendar below to download it and start filling it out for this month's challenge!

In case you missed Saturday's e-mail, we have a lot of exciting news at TransFit this month! Join us for a new Bible Study, Lunch and Learn Service Project and New Sessions! Links to sign up are below!

Sign up for our September Service Project/Lunch and Learn on our app under "Special Events"! We can't wait to serve the community together! The link to our app is HERE!

Sign up for our Thursday Bible Study, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 4:15 sessions and Saturday sessions on our website HERE or on our app HERE! We can't wait to see you in the studio to help you reach your goals this month!

If you would like to meet with one of our Trainers or Nutritionists to help you set and renew your goals please email us! #strongertogether

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Meet Our Newest Inspirational TransFit Team Member

Amazing friends,

We are so excited to welcome Pam Adams to our TransFit Leadership Team to help serve and lead our community of women in transforming lives! Pam has been a godly mentor and life coach to many women and we are grateful to add her to our staff to help encourage you!

Pam will be serving as our Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach and will be leading weekly bible studies, prayer time and coordinating outreach in the community for TransFit. We are excited to share these new opportunities for your to deepen your whole body health transformation in September! Remember that nothing happens in isolation. Everything is connected. Your body, your mind, and your spirit! Pam has such an amazing story, and we know that she will be such a light in the TransFit studio!

Learn more about Pam HERE!

"About five years ago, I was at a transitional point in my life (about to be an empty nester) and desired to take better care of my physical health. I asked around for recommendations for personal trainers and a friend suggested TransFit.  I knew as soon as I checked out the website and Caroline’s biography, that this would be the place for me. I saw that she had been a competitive UGA gymnast and the sport was a passion of mine when I was younger, though in no way was I even near her level! What I didn’t know, was the extent to which I would be blessed once I stepped into the studio. I got way more than a personal trainer! I gained a dear friend and sister in Christ (although I also like to think of her as my real, much younger little sister that I never had). Caroline’s philosophy extends beyond the physical. She knows and tells her clients often through words and the way she lives her life, that the mind, body, and spirit are connected, and all are important to living life to the fullest. TransFit is where we can connect all these facets of life! 

I have been married to a wonderful man, Mark, since 1984. We met at the University of Georgia and married a couple of months after graduation. I taught school for the first five years of marriage, but soon life got busy with Mark’s career which included many moves around the country as well as an international move to Chili, and raising our three boys. During these years, I invested most of my time in women’s ministries, serving on leadership teams, having some of the most amazing spiritual mentors. Some of these women have had such a great effect on my life that they will always be part of my story. When we moved to Athens about 13 years ago, I began working in college ministry at the church we attend, mostly with college women. It’s been a great joy to serve these students. Now, with my last college group having just graduated, I have decided to transition and join TransFit as the Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach, where I will get to serve clients and the community alongside this incredible team. I have a passion for the Word of God and my desire is to help women be spiritually transformed as instructed by Paul in Romans 12:2.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

My role as Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach will be to help women grow in their faith through offerings of Bible studies, meeting with those that desire guidance and prayer, leading service projects to give back to the community, and various other events and activities that promote spiritual health. I am really excited about this opportunity and look forward with expectant joy to serving and seeing what the Lord has for the women of TransFit."

Please give Pam a warm TransFit family welcome! Our Bible Study will start Thursday September 13th 12-1 pm in the studio. 

 We are here to serve you and help you transform in body, mind and spirit. Please email us any prayer requests or if you would like to set up a 1-1 with any of our TransFit staff. 

Get ready for more exciting September news coming soon!

Love and Blessings,

Team TransFit

How Can You Finish August STRONG and COMMITTED?

Sweet friends,

Can you believe the month of August is almost over? We are so excited to energize and inspire you this week! Let's finish the month strong and stay COMMITTED to our goals and dreams!

Remember our great COMMIT acronym to help you finish strong this month! 

C- CONFIDENCE- "You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you." Song of Solomon 4:7

O- OBEDIENCE- "He replied, 'Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.'" Luke 11:28

M- MOTIVATION- "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." Colossians 3:23

M- MINDFULNESS-  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillippians 4:6-7

I- INTENTIONAL-  "Commit to the Lord, whatever you do, and He will establish your plans." Proverbs 16:3

T- TRANSFORM- "Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

Here is what is true: you are strong, you are confident, you are enough just as you are, and you are a beloved daughter of the King. Renewing your mind is a minute by minute decision to think thoughts that are true about the person you really are!

Believe it beautiful friend, and transform your life by taking action on your goals and dreams and LIVE transformed by His amazing love for you. 

Commitment is an ACT, not a word! You can determine the person you want to be! Take action each minute this last week in August! Commit to being all in TODAY!

Be inspired by our August client spotlights Erika and Marren! 

This month, we focused on staying COMMITTED to being ACTIVE EVERY DAY! Stay strong in the last week of the month, and go on a nice walk around the neighborhood, a hike with the family, swimming with your kids, coming into the studio for a session or stretching! Just make sure that you are moving for at least 30 MINUTES each day!

We also focused on staying hydrated and drinking at least 80 oz of water each day! Please turn in your calendar at the end of the month to be entered in to win your FREE MONTH of sessions! 

This month, we also COMMITTED to transforming our health and our nutrition! Though preparing healthy, wholesome dinners can be challenging during the busy week, we want to serve you with this meal plan to make it a bit easier! Our nutrition consultant, Katie Woodall, and dietitian, Kaeti Shurling, shared this plan to help! Let's finish out the final week of August strong and try some of these healthy recipes that your entire family can enjoy!

Click HERE to access our FREE recipes and meal plans!

Ladies, make sure to sign up for sessions in advance, so that we know you are coming and can plan for you! Don't forget about our new sessions and we have some exciting events and news transpiring in September so get ready!

You can sign up on the app HERE!

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We are so thrilled to encourage and inspire you this week! 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Our Inspiration of COMMITMENT This August!

Sweet friend, 

It has been a wonderful month at the studio. School is back in full swing and you are ready to set new goals! We love seeing you all back with smiles ready to COMMIT this August! We have challenged each of you to get active for 30 minutes a day and drink at least 80 oz. of water! We believe in you and know you can do it. The winner of the challenge will be entered into a raffle for a MONTH of FREE sessions!

Today, we have the privilege of sharing an amazing client spotlight with you. Erika and Marren are our August client spotlights! These two ladies have been so dedicated and focused on making small changes daily which have led to amazing BIG results! Erika and Marren inspired our theme of COMMIT this month, as that is the word to define their transformation stories. We are so proud of this incredible mother daughter duo and are excited for you to read about their journey! 

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Erika's Transformation Story: 

"I started at TransFit two years ago as I wanted to get physically stronger/healthier, wanted to be a positive example to my kids and wanted to get rid of the flappy “bat wings” on my arms. I knew Caroline from church and knew several people that had only positive things to say about working out with the TransFit team. While I had enjoyed serious hikes and backpacking in my twenties, and even became a pretend runner for a short while and ran a couple marathons (bonus – if you are one of the slowest runners, they let your husband ride his bike beside you to sing songs and scout out bathrooms!), my workout efforts for the past 20 years have been totally sporadic. I needed a way to view exercise differently and have been SO thankful for the TransFit approach of focusing not only on our bodies but our minds and spirits as well. Remembering to see this as a form of worship makes all the difference! And this is why I felt confident in having Marren get involved at TransFit – I knew it would be a safe and helpful place for a teenage girl to learn about long-term health and what that really means.

Last year, Marren joined me in the weekly yoga sessions at TransFit and it was great for us physically, but also a great bonding time. So much so that when we were planning a 6-week, 10K mile family road trip for this summer, Marren and I knew we wanted to focus on staying healthy with our eating and workouts. We talked about the best way to do this and we came up with bracelets to wear each day as reminders and Marren came up with the word “Commit” so we had them made and wore them each day – we still do. What a totally different road trip from the previous ones! Our normal “car foods” were changed – instead of chips, special cookies, and marshmallow trail mix, we had apples and bananas. We made an effort to hike more and work out at hotel fitness centers, and we did squats or some kind of exercise at every gas station stop.  Sometimes other travelers joined us! My big feat – I only had one bag of Cheetos during the entire trip. Total record for me!  But while on the trip, we also knew we wanted to start the Fall with stronger bodies and committed schedules for working out so we set up personal training sessions 3x per week for 5 weeks in July/Aug for a jump start. It was awesome and we are geared up for an exciting year!

I enjoy seeing my body take shape in ways I’ve never known in my life and the feeling of satisfaction after a tough workout. It makes me so thankful to have a body that can work out like this – even though I’m not the fastest, strongest and far from the most coordinated – God has given me a strong body and the TransFit team reminds us to be grateful and not compare.  And I SO enjoy seeing the other women at TransFit who inspire me each and every session. They amaze and encourage me in great ways they don’t even realize! 

Most challenging is making sure I’ve had enough water to drink as I can tell that makes a huge difference in my exercising success. I am one of those people that is never thirsty, I don’t drink with meals and drinking my daily water takes planning and effort. Lame but true. I have implemented several “tricks” to make it easier – I fill the bottles at night so they are room temp in the AM (I don’t like it cold), I number my water bottles so I can feel a sense of accomplishment as I complete them, and I will sometimes cut up strawberries to flavor them. I am so bad at drinking water that I added it as a “daily chore“ for my kids from the time they were little and it has worked – they both drink tons of water each day since it is now a habit. 

I’m excited for our new routine which is 2 small group sessions and 1 yoga session per week at TransFit and then walking or playing badminton at home for 30 minutes on the other days. We also plan on adding in weights and bands for home use. Having a workout warrior buddy living in the same house with me keeps me accountable and encouraged as I don’t have to do this alone!

Both of my kids have vastly different, but very strict food restrictions and diets. It is God’s sense of humor that someone like me – who likes protein bars, cheese hot dogs, Spaghettios from the can, and anything packaged that can be microwaved/not cooked – has kids that require “real” food to be top-of-mind every moment of every day. But what an incredible blessing that both of them have healthy brains and bodies greatly based on the food that goes in them. The fact that they both manage their own diets, know what they can/can’t eat and know the science behind their diets is great, but they also don’t complain. Our big saying is “it’s just food” and we take our own everywhere. It doesn’t have to match what everyone else is having. That they can manage their health in this positive way will help them for life and I’m thankful my husband and I were able to help guide this – with a ton of support from professionals and prayer warriors. Additionally, my kids having their “own faith” was our number one goal for their lives and we’ve been so thankful to see that happen. 

The main goal is to keep up the sustained level of working out 3x a week at TransFit and then at home as well. We are scheduling for the full month so I don’t inadvertently double book any meetings or activities during those times. We see this as a top commitment and my goal is to treat it as such. 

I’m also continuing to work on my water intake. I think this one will have to remain on my goal list for a long, long time!

While I’m generally an energetic person, working out provides a more sustained level of energy throughout the day both mentally and physically. Also, I’m more “eager” to move big limbs in the yard or climb stairs in the house than I would have been before – just because I know I can. And it provides great time and memories with my daughter – from working out to planning our food to talking about the music or devotions we heard at TransFit that day!

And I have learned the wonders of having a baseball hat and clean t-shirt as quick changes when I must get to a meeting/event without having time to shower."

Erika's Favorite Recipe: Vega Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Snack Bar

Marren’s Transformation Story:

"I first started at TransFit last year by attending weekly yoga sessions with my mom. Those were great, and I had been doing a C25K program and some exercise at home as well. But 2 ½ months ago, I got serious about changing my habits. This summer, my family went on a 6-week cross-country trip, and I realized I wanted to have more consistent workouts when we returned so we scheduled personal training sessions to help jump-start the process. When we came back from the trip, I started going to TransFit with my amazing mom 3 times a week for 5 weeks straight and we worked out at home 3 other days of the week. It was exciting to see the changes!

Also, a few weeks before we left on our trip, I started working with Katie Shurling, the TransFit registered dietitian, who is awesome!  She has helped us SO MUCH with my PKU, which is a genetic metabolic disorder that essentially requires me to eat way less protein than most people. (I like to say I’m a mutant and I’m sure there has to be a superpower within me because of it!) This means no meat, no dairy, etc. so it is hard to ever feel really full and hard to find good food options. But Kaeti has given me so many yummy food choices that are healthy and low in protein and help fill me up. She also works with me on the MyFitnessPal app so I can track my protein and calories in one place, which is much easier.

I LOVE the way exercising makes me feel! When I am done working out, I (usually) feel invigorated and ready to take on the day. Exercising helps me feel less moody and just overall happier throughout the day. The most challenging part for me is actually doing a workout, whether that means going for a walk or coming to TransFit. Some days I just don’t feel like doing anything, but I am always rewarded afterward. 

I exercise about 6 days a week, with one day just of resting. At home, my mom and I usually go for a walk around the block or at OVP or we play badminton together. 

I have dyslexia and have had to work hard to learn the ways my brain functions. I’ve had eye patches that I despised, extra hours of studying, and many frustrating days, but now I LOVE to read and write and I am so thankful to everyone who helped me with this challenge. 

I am working on staying COMMITTED throughout the school year when working out is going to be harder to fit in my schedule. Also, I want to share my new love for working out with others and encourage them that exercising can be so much fun! I just bought a shirt that says “I don’t have to work out. I get to work out” and I fully believe that. 

Now that I have started working out and eating healthier, I feel so much better, physically and emotionally, and I have way more energy. I feel more alert and am excited to see what the day brings. I also feel good about myself and am thankful for the wonderful body God has given me."

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Erika and Marren, we are so incredibly proud of you and your transformation. We are thankful to join alongside both of you! We hope that you feel so encouraged after reading their stories! 

If you would like to meet with any of our trainers, nutritionist, or registered dietitian, you can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! Let us know how we can help you COMMIT to living transformed! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit