Good morning and happy Friday friends! This week has been a bit of a doozey I must say. Like those strings of days that seem to creep by in the moment yet you find yourself being like hey where did the week go!?! Yes, that. I hope I am not the only one who this happens to! I’ve been trying to keep up with my workouts, squeeze in healthy meals, drink lots of water and still be social. It’s tough for a girl out there! Not really, haha. I feel super fortunate to be a part of a food community that supports each other and makes lots of time to get together and share good food. Seriously, so thankful. I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing without all you beautiful folks. So thank YOU!
This month for Fit Fridays I visited Dancers Shape, a barre, yoga and pilates studio on Burnet in Austin. It was such a great workout! Really fast paced for a barre class I thought too. Best thing about the studio? Lots of parking! Which made it super easy to jump into the class when I was fighting traffic on my way there. Jennifer the owner taught the class I went to and it was great! She has such a wonderful energy and her smile will put you at ease even if you’re trying to lift your leg in a totally awkward position and keep shaking and thinking that this might fall somewhere between torture and WTF was I thinking. Kidding! Well about the tourture part, not about Jennifer being awesome. Afterwards she gave me a little walk through the studio. They have tons of different classes throughout the week, the most interesting of which I thought was the foam roller class! How cool is that? I didn’t even know that was a thing! I totally want to go back a try it once I can walk straight again, ha!
Jennifer grew up in Austin, went to UT and then danced with the Radio City Rockettes in New York City! I mean my 12 year self is totally dying right now. I really wanted to be a dancer at one point in my life. It didn’t happen for me but it did for Jennifer! She brings all that experience and super positive energy to Dancers Shape! I really enjoyed my experience there and am serious about trying that foam roller class! Jennifer’s class really made my day and I hope that you’ll go and try one out! I would love to hear what you think. Now I’m going to kick it over to Jennifer for a little Q&A!
How did you decide to start Dancers Shape?
When I was dancing professionally with the Radio City Rockettes in New York City, I used similar techniques I teach here at Dancers Shape (barre, Pilates, yoga, cardio dance) to help maintain my fitness level. After many years of a rigorous performance schedule on a steel stage, I eventually needed hip surgery. That was when the idea of opening my own fitness studio really started to brew. These techniques helped me heal and get back to my dancer’s shape and ultimately back on stage – I wanted to help others see the same benefits. I created a unique blend of these techniques and opened Dancers Shape in 2010. Variety and quality have been and always will be my top goals as a business owner.
Where did your passion for fitness come from?
I have loved movement and dance since I was a little girl and have been fascinated with athletes and their ability to do things most people can’t. When I was told I needed hip surgery, I discovered how important injury prevention was and how critical rehabilitating your body correctly is when injured. I became obsessed with biomechanics and partook in the education necessary to learn all I could about the body so I could help others. The learning process never ends which makes me love it even more.
What is your favorite splurge restaurant in town?
Austin has so many delicious restaurants it is hard to decide, but Perla’s and Justine’s are definitely up there. Seafood is my favorite but you just can’t beat Justine’s hanger steak and frites!
How do you stay balanced with so much queso, margaritas and tacos everywhere?!?
Moderation is key. I’ll also cook more indulgent dishes myself so I know what ingredients I am eating.
Where is your favorite healthy spot in town?
Tie between Central Market and Snap Kitchen
What is your favorite healthy meal to make at home?
Seared tuna steak with a side of sautéed onions, red peppers, jalapenos and avocado.
What are your top three tips for getting back on the fitness saddle? (Or any fitness related advice really)
Get a workout buddy who is committed so you can motivate one another.
Try different classes and different types of exercise so that your body doesn’t get injured from overuse or plateau and get bored.
Do something every day – even if it is just a short walk. There is nothing worse for your body then being sedentary.
5350 Burnet Rd.
Suite 7
Austin, TX 78756
p: 512.382.9150
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