How to balance my own fitness and instructing fitness classes?

I'd say trying to get into a routine is the best way to go about this. Plan out the next few weeks you have and have specific times you'll be working out.

If you're already working out in your classes, you're working out 3 days a week. Might want to add two more days where you hit it harder than you would with the class, and keep two rest days in there.

Hello Melissa Ortega,

You are rather active, already; that's great.
When I find myself in the same predicament, what seems to work is treating myself as I would treat a client.

That is good you want to balance your workouts. Exactly what kind of strength is being done during the step classes? It seems to me that you may benefit from adding a separate strength training session to your workout schedule.

Have you tried checking out the following to address your nutrition? Enjoy the Weight Watchers.
http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/

Do you teach the classes at a facility? If so, is a personal trainer able to help you? The face to face contact would be very helpful.

I hope this helps, take care.

Hi Melissa,

I would take a look at the strength training part you are doing. As an instructor, you usually do not get your own workout because half the time you are watching people and the other half you are demonstrating. And even the cardio portion may not be as much as you think.

I would add 2 strength workouts that you do to the level that YOU need and use just very lights weights in the classes that you teach.

I have recently got a Fitbit One and really like it a lot. It tracks your overall activity, and you can keep a food diary as you go. It may give you a better picture of your activity level when you are not 'on duty'.

Wish you well.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com

Yes I am very busy and I do admit I like to eat, so I've started tracking my meals using Weight Watchers. I have a hard time taking the time tracking my food, but I know it works if I work the program. I do realize I need to take a closer look at my nutrition. But I also want to explore other types of fitness I want to find some kind of balance between my own fitness and teaching classes.

Melissa

I am a huge proponent of High Intensity Interval Training. It's fast, efficient and burns calories! Look into classes in your area. It's good to be a student every once in a while.

I also suggest tracking your food intake with Myfitnesspal along with Wwatchers and speak with a Nutritionist that can assist you.

Have you ever considered hiring a personal trainer and a wellness coach?

It can be challenging to be our own coach.

I wish you well.

I agree with Joanne about a coach...they can help you find the solution that works best for you. www.wellcoaches.com has a directory of coaches. Good luck Melissa

Julie
www.JulieKaminski.com

Thank you everyone for the great advice.

Hi Melissa,
Sometimes working so hard at getting others in shape, our own workout time tends to suffer. When we put so much time in the gym, I've learned that less means more. I believe a high intensity strength training circuit is the way to go. Including compound movements, like the squat, deadlift, pushup, lunges, and kettlebell work. Movements that burn the most amount of calories in the shortest amount of time. But I also agree with Michael, your calorie intake is the most important factor.

I always ask myself in these situations; "What would I suggest a client do?" If I would give a client that advice, then I should be willing to follow it myself. It helps me stay on track and validate any advise I give. If I wouldn't do it, or if I suggest it to a client, I have to be willing to do the same: ie, chew slowly, drink plenty of water, take a rest day, balance my fitness routine - cardio, strength, flexibility-, don't eat the "crap", etc.

You're headed in the right direction just by asking the question and looking for an answer. What works for one of us will not work for others. Choose your path, work at it, stay true to it (weight loss, strength gains, toning don't happen over-night) and when you feel like giving in (or eating the extra piece of cake) remember why you're on this journey.

Good luck to you!
Jocelyn

I would hire a personal trainer.
Not only will you learn to manage your own lifestyle, but you will also develop as an instructor, coach, and leader yourself.
You must prioritize yourself! You must lead by example. And unfortunately, as unfair as it is, our own bodies can be the biggest influence in terms of a marketing tool.