Fitness

A Complimentary Focus Meeting at Burn Boot Camp: Accountability, Goal Setting, and Nutritional Help All in 15 Minutes

Resources Burn Bootcamp, Fitness, HWY 72, Nutrition

Though Burn Boot Camp is commonly known for its rotation of daily, varied workouts, a monthly membership also includes “Focus Meetings”, which is a crucial piece to the puzzle when it comes to one’s health and fitness journey.

I have been personally impacted by focus meetings at Burn Boot Camp throughout the last eight months and truly believe they’ve been essential in improving my overall health and wellbeing.

Psst: These photos are not staged (obviously because I am a sweaty mess! Ha!) and were taken on the fly during my actual focus meeting with a trainer. I grabbed my friend Miranda who kindly snapped away while I had my bi-weekly meeting!

getting a read on my weight, body fat percentage, etc. which will then be recorded so that I can monitor slow but steady progress

What is a Focus Meeting at Burn Boot Camp?

A focus meeting at Burn Boot Camp is a 15-minute private session with a fitness trainer who strives to discover one’s goals (often beyond weight loss), break down those goals, map out a realistic plan to reach them, and then offer accountability. These complimentary meetings typically take place either right before or right after attending a camp (a.k.a. 45-minute class) and are scheduled by the member on an as-needed basis.

Most members book monthly focus meetings, while others book weekly or bi-weekly depending on their individual goals and desire for accountability. (I try to book bi-weekly!)

Though some may assume that focus meetings are simply “just” weigh-ins, most members at the Madison, Alabama location will cite these meetings as turning points in their health and fitness journey.

Franchise partner Jamie Lambert says that these meetings are ideal, private opportunities to sit down with a trainer and share everything that’s holding you back. Whether it’s a nutrition hurdle, physical injury, or other life circumstance, Lambert explains that focus meetings “help trainers understand where each person is coming from, what they’re mentally bringing into the gym with them, and what challenges they’ve had in the past.”

She continued to share that the trainers at Burn Boot Camp value getting to know each member so that they have the opportunity to train them in much more personalized ways.

“It’s impossible for us to personalize a workout to your needs without a focus meeting. We present these meetings to our members as a way for the trainers to understand where you’re coming from and help figure out where you want to go.”

Lambert says that it’s common to see new members begin with goals that all revolve around the number on the scale, but she says that a focus meeting at Burn Boot Camp helps members create non-scale victories and goals too.

A few examples of conversations that happen during Focus Meetings include:

“As a teenager, how can I cross-train and prepare the right way to play/try out for _____ sport at school?”
“How do I start exercising after having knee/ankle/back surgery years ago?”
“How do I modify if I have chronic pain?”
“I’ve worked out in the past and never lost weight. How will this place be different?”
“I’ve lost and gained weight so many times but I want to finally lose the weight and keep it off. What do I need to do differently this time?”
“How do I strength train but not get bulky?”
“I really want to have strong legs and biceps. Can you help me focus on those areas during our workouts?”
“What diet plan do you recommend?”

Author note: I was initially intrigued by focus meetings so that I could be held accountable for weight checks, fat percentage, inches gained or lost, etc. but trainer Cameron Iverson has helped encourage me to mentally push past those focuses and develop general fitness goals that will help me feel physically strong in order to get more out of life.

She also shared that it’s just plain fun to have a goal of some sort and work to accomplish it over time.

We decided to focus on pull-ups because I’ve never been able to do a pull-up before. To be honest, it’s hard to even believe that I’d ever be able to do a pull-up. But Iverson has continued to hold me accountable to this goal and we work on my pull-up form at the end of every focus meeting.

Working on this goal with a trainer in a personalized way has made me excited to continue coming to the gym and motivated to schedule those frequent focus meetings. Regardless of what the scale or tape measurer says every couple of weeks, I know that I’m making consistent progress.

Lambert continued to share that the trainers at Burn Boot Camp have a passion for helping to personalize workouts via certain modifications during the camps and that “that is what they’re trained to do”, she says.

“The trainers love a challenge. It would be so boring for them if they didn’t get to help you reach your own individual goals,” she shared. “If you think you’re being a nuisance by asking for help, please know that you’re not.”

For Current Members

Lambert and her team of certified and highly skilled (and highly kind!) trainers truly believe in the power of combining consistent workouts with regularly scheduled focus meetings, and they encourage both trial members and long-time members to get on the app and schedule bi-weekly, monthly, or quarterly focus meetings.

Did you know that Burn Boot Camp offers a slew of trial options? Click here to learn more or call Burn Boot Camp in Madison at 256-384-4346.

Quick Links for Burn Boot Camp in Madison, Alabama

Website | Madison Facebook Page | Madison Instagram

5510 Promenade Point Pkwy, Madison, AL 35758

256-384-4346

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7 Reasons HOTWORX is Unlike Any Other Local Gym

Go & Do, Resources Boutique Gym, Fitness, HOTWORX

HOTWORX officially opened at Clift Farm in Madison in early 2021 and quickly accumulated several hundred members, each of who has found value in this unique fitness opportunity for various reasons.

HOTWORX is a boutique-style gym (i.e. small-scale facility, semi-personalized, not your typical big-box facility) that has many infrared heat saunas that play virtual workouts. Each sauna facilities a different workout, and members choose their sauna and time via the HOTWORX app.

HOTWORX offers both Isometric workouts and High-Intensity Interval training workouts. Isometric workouts include yoga, pilates, core, hot buns, Barre, and more and are each 30 minutes long. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workouts are just 15 minutes long and include cycling, rowing (coming super soon!), Hot Blast, and more.

Members are invited to book as many classes as they’d like, with some members showing up to quickly squeeze in one workout while others will stack 2-3 workouts one after the next.

Since first swinging open its doors and welcoming charter members, HOTWORX has continued to improve the options offered to its members. One step inside HOTWORX and it’s apparent that what is happening there is unlike other options in the area. There are seven crucial things that make HOTWORX a unique gym option here in Madison and the perfect fit for so many people who are still searching for a fitness regimen that just “clicks”.

Here are seven reasons HOTWORX is unlike any other local gym in Madison.

1. It’s a boutique-style gym with memberships that are 50-75% cheaper than others of its size.

Because their overhead is lower than other boutique gyms, HOTWORX is able to offer memberships at a fraction of the cost of other small-scale fitness studios. Memberships are just $59 per month and sign-up promos are often and good!

2. It’s a fantastic supplemental gym to other fitness regimens you are doing.

Manager Samantha Norville says that people from all different fitness backgrounds come to get in a quick workout in addition to what they’re already doing or training for. The aforementioned low monthly fee makes this feasible for many! Norville also mentioned that the infrared heat sauna is a great training option for those who are training to build their stamina in heat.

3. It’s open 24/7!

Though it is only staffed during daytime hours, members are welcome to come in any day of the week at any time to get in a workout. The facility is highly secure, and each member has a code to enter at all times of the day. Norville says that it’s not uncommon to see people working out at all hours of the night at HOTWORX.

4. It has a private, full bathroom.

HOTWORX has one private bathroom, complete with a shower and complimentary clean towels. Simply bring your own toiletries, rinse off, and get on with your day! This is a great option for those who aren’t big fans of large gym bathrooms.

5. HOTWORX has a full strength-training area.

My mind was blown upon seeing the new strength-training equipment at HOTWORX that is available to be used supplementally with any workout! This area is equipped with Bosu balls, a large variety of dumbells, many varied-weight kettlebells, battle ropes, and so much more. This strength-training area is not within a sauna.

6. The workouts are speedy but still highly effective!

HIIT workouts are just 15 minutes long and Isometrics workouts are 30 minutes long. No matter how much time you have to work out, you’ll be sure to get your heart rate up, burn extra calories, and rid your body of toxins thanks to the many added benefits of the infrared heat.

7. The saunas themselves are unlike anything else available fitness-wise in our community.

The benefits of working out in the infrared heat are endless!

Cellulite reduction
Anti-aging & skin rejuvenation
Improved circulation
Lower blood pressure
Detoxification
and much more!

More about HOTWORX in Madison, Alabama

Norville is the new manager of this HOTWORX location and says that she began working for them after experiencing her own life change in tremendous ways as a member.

“I lost 37 pounds fast!” She shares excitedly. “I broke my back in three places last year and I was told that I would never be the same athlete I once was. I started at HOTWORX though and have never experienced results from a gym like I never here anywhere else!”

She says that trying HOTWORX via the “first visit is free” opportunity was all it took for her to know that she’d found her fit.

When asked about stories she’s heard from current members and how they use HOTWORX, she says that they vary so much.

For starters, she says that she has several hikers who use HOTWORX as excellent cross-training for their hikes.
She also shared a story about a member who joined after being told that her blood pressure was through the roof and needed medicine.
- “She decided to join a gym and try to control it herself before getting on medicine, and sure enough, her blood pressure is back to normal!”
She also shared a story about a husband and wife couple that come in routinely twice a day – around 4 a.m. and again around 6 p.m. to get in a quick workout together.
- “Because there are so many benefits to the heat, your body will start to crave this place!”

She says that demographically they have people of all ages and both genders that come in to work out.

“A lot of men assume HOTWORX is just for women, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth,” shared Norville. “Body-builder guys will come in to give it a try and assume it’s easy, but they quickly realize that it’s totally different than the way they’re used to training.”

Norville says that many members enjoy having the HOTWORX app synced to their fitness tracker watches and enjoying the perks that come along with this pairing. She says that many members enjoy tracking numbers and their progress.

“You can come in here having never done a workout in your life, and I promise that you’ll be comfortable because you’ll be guided through it.”

Norville says that she is confident that those that come in for a free trial will be captivated by what a different experience it is.

“You’ll enjoy the heat, the detox, and the way your body feels like it’s letting go of all of the bad stuff.”

Learn more about HOTWORX in Madison

Click here to schedule your first FREE workout at HOTWORX!

HOTWORX website | Facebook | Instagram

419 John Henry Way Suite J, Madison, AL 35757

(256) 325-2456

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British Native Thrives as FIT4MOM Franchise Owner in Madison

Family, Go & Do, Resources FIT4MOM, Fitness, FRANCHISE OWNER, motherhood, New Mom, Parenting

Six years ago, if you’d had told British native Rebecca Guntharp that in a few years she’d be married to an American, living in Alabama with two kids, and running a successful business, she’d have laughed until she couldn’t stop.

FIT4MOM Franchise Owner

But fast forward to today, and that’s exactly where she finds herself, and she’s so happy about it.

Guntharp is the FIT4MOM franchise owner here in Madison, Alabama and she loves what she does. FIT4MOM meets several times throughout the week in various locations around Madison and nearby towns to work out as a group with kiddos in tow. Her group also offers adult-only group fitness, playdates, storytime, Moms Night Out social gatherings, and much more.

In short, FIT4MOM is essentially a “one-stop-shop” for getting exercise, meeting new friends in a similar season of life, and having a lot of fun for both adults and children alike.

Guntharp says that joining this group in northern Virginia in 2017 was one of the best decisions she’d ever made in her life. The year prior, she’d moved to the States to start a new journey with her newlywed husband while also expecting her first baby.

She says that she didn’t know anyone and was very housebound for the first few months living in America.

“I couldn’t even drive because I didn’t have a Green Card or social security number yet,” shared Guntharp as she thinks back.

Once Guntharp delivered her daughter, she experienced many common feelings that swirl around for new moms, such as sleep deprivation and generally feeling down. She was also still sorting through a bit of what she describes as culture shock and adjustment.

“I kept asking myself if feeling this way was normal, and I just knew that I needed some friends of my own who were also in the same stage of life as me.”

Guntharp says that she finally decided to take the bull by the horn and find some kind of outlet for herself and her daughter.

“I was Googling one night and came across this FIT4MOM group and immediately signed up for a class. I’ll never forget walking away giddy by the fact that I actually got out of the house and met people. I felt so empowered.”

She continued to share that it felt so good to be a part of something again and that she’s been hooked ever since.

“I just kept going back,” she said. “I started going twice a week, but soon that turned into going every day.”

She was eventually approached about becoming an instructor and taught classes in Washington D.C. before moving to Madison just a few months later.

“We wanted to be closer to family,” she shared. “This area fits the bill!”

Guntharp, the FIT4MOM business owner here in Madison, says that in a strange series of events, she actually ran into the then-owner of the Madison FIT4MOM group while out to lunch during a house-hunting trip in this area. They’d met once during Guntharp’s instructor training in D.C.

“Her name is Melissa, and she completely took me under her wing. She was actually the one who put this area on our radar to move to when I met her in D.C. She got me all set up with every resource that a new community member would want to know about an area.”

Guntharp says that joining the FIT4MOM group here in Alabama gave her an instant community.

When Melissa had to move in March 2018, Guntharp says that it was a no-brainer to consider taking over as the owner for the local FIT4MOM group.

The last three years have been a joy but also a whirlwind, says Guntharp, whose name is on the list of small business owners who have survived the pandemic.

“I would love for FIT4MOM to become a common name in this town. I want every single mom to know about it. The community we have here is so special, and I want them to come for that, not just the workout.”

Guntharp says that her biggest goal as a FIT4MOM franchise owner is to see FIT4MOM become a to-go default as a suggestion for moms who are in need of something like what they offer.

“Madison it’s growing. I see it exploding right in front of us, and I would love for all of these people who are moving here or already here to know that we are an option and that we are here for them.”

Guntharp says that one’s first class is free, and that interested moms should sign up here.

Author note: I was invited to check out a FIT4MOM class recently and can’t say enough good things. I have gushed about it in person just as much as I have online. There is something really special about this particular group. To read all about it, click here.

Join more than 1,000 others who follow FIT4MOM Madison on Facebook and Instagram.

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FIT4MOM Madison Review: All About My First Class

Family, Go & Do, Resources Community, Fitness, motherhood, Playgroups

There are some articles I write that are designed to be purely entertaining while others are intended to be more objective and useful. Then there are some that I imagine could actually be life-changing for some that read it, and that’s 100% how I feel about my featured Madison business today, FIT4MOM.

What is FIT4MOM in Madison, Alabama?

FIT4MOM is a nationwide fitness concept for moms with local franchises in every corner of the country. Madison is fortunate enough to have an explosive group run by franchise owner Rebecca Guntharp, and I was invited to check out a class earlier this week.

I brought my toddler and stroller along and showed up expecting to get in an hour-long workout before hopping back in the car to head home.

What I got out of the morning though exceeded my expectations and had my fingertips yearning to type this story and tell you about how the Madison FIT4MOM group has to be one of the most underrated options out there for moms with littles in our city. I only wish I could go back a few years and have had something like this when I needed it the most (i.e. military wife, a stay-at-home mom with a toddler, brand new to our city in Kansas, etc.)

In case you’re short on time, I’ll cut straight to the chase and sum things up: FIT4MOM meets throughout the week to do an instructor-led workout, and while the mid-morning workouts include kiddos, others meet in the early morning or evening hours and are reserved for just adults. The day-time workouts that include kids often follow up with a craft, storytime, and general hang out time. There is a monthly fee to be a member, though the fee is less than most gyms.

The Madison group just added a brand new location to their weekly schedule out at Phillips Park off Jeff Road in Monrovia. This is where I attended my first class.

I received an email the day before with a waiver to sign and instructions for what to bring: a yoga mat, snacks or toys for my children, and a stroller.

When my daughter and I walked up to the meeting area, we were greeted warmly by Guntharp and a couple other class attendees. I was instantly struck by how prepared Guntharp (the owner and instructor) was for the morning. She had a big FIT4MOM flag on her stroller, a headset to make sure her volume was loud enough to be heard by the group, a bubble machine that delighted my toddler, and a sanitized bag of resistance bands to lend me to use. I felt very comfortable thanks to how much she took me under her wing.

She and a few other attendees did this with a couple of other first-time attendees as well. I was so impressed by how inclusive the group was.

Guntharp politely encouraged members to maintain six feet of distance between each other during the workout, which gave everyone plenty of room to stretch out.

The class was slated to begin at 9:30 a.m., and by 9:29 Guntharp was ready to begin (I am always appreciative of those who are respectful of others’ time.) While stretching, we went around the circle stating our name, who our children were, and answered a playful ice breaker question. This was just one of many ways that this group encourages women to make new friends and get to know each other in a relaxed way.

The workout itself was modifiable for all fitness levels. There were options for runners and walkers and all kinds of ways to make the exercises more or less difficult. The workout itself flew by in the blink of an eye due to constantly changing locations around the park and varying the exercises we were engaged in.

Guntharp is a fantastic leader. After just one class with her, I could tell that she is fulfilling a role that she is so meant to do. She is encouraging, confident, organized, and fun. I loved seeing her lead the group! She led everyone in children’s nursery rhymes to entertain the kids, and her confidence singing with a headset microphone on was awesome!

If you’re worried that your child may not sit through a workout in a stroller, I’m here to tell you that my child threw a bit of a fit at one point, but all was okay. I didn’t bring as much to entertain her as I should have, so I know for next time. Guntharp encouraged me though that while my child’s fussing was surely distracting for me, other moms likely didn’t even notice it.

She shared that most of the kids become used to the routine of coming to class and end up loving it!

As far as the types of strollers other moms had, there were all kinds and brands. There were singles, doubles, and some moms who even wore their children in baby carriers.

The end of the class finished up with some core work and stretching, and then it was time to play!

This group and its leaders have such an eye for detail and making the morning feel special. All of a sudden they had out signs, coffee, books, crafts, and more. Moms and children were free to leave, stay to play on the playground, or hang out under the pavilion for some “get to know you” time with other moms.

Moms were all given an opportunity to introduce themselves and then listen along to a story with their children, participate in an easy craft, and then socialize. I watched as the instructors were so inclusive of all the moms who were there at the playground to play but ended up under the pavilion to see what all the fun was about. I listened as new friendships were made as moms introduced themselves and talked about how long they’d lived in the area, how old their kids were, and more.

I left my first FIT4MOM experience wanting to call a million girlfriends to tell them about this awesome opportunity. Not only is it a great way to get moving physically, but it’s a fantastic way to connect with others in similar seasons of life, get some fresh air, and make new friendships for you and your child(ren).

When asked what Guntharp believes the heart of FIT4MOM is all about, she very quickly said community.

“People find us for the workout, but really it’s the stepping stone to all of this. It gives people an excuse to make friends and instantly know a whole new group of people.”

She continued to share that 70% of the members aren’t native to Madison and moved here within the last few years.

When asked what advice she would give to the mom who wants to come but perhaps feels intimidated to show up to a group setting like this without knowing anyone, Guntharp says that “everyone understands what showing up the first time feels like because we’ve literally all had to do it.”

She continued to say that she knows it can be daunting but that “I like to think that once she arrives, she’ll be able to relate to somebody else pretty quickly.”

Guntharp says that the range of parents who attend is vast. Some are homeschool parents, some are working parents, and some are stay-at-home moms. She also says that moms with kids of all ages are welcome to join. If they’re bigger than “stroller” age, the mom will simply fill out a waiver saying that her child will hang with them and maybe even participate in the exercises!

PHILLIPS PARK FIT4MOM LOCATION GRAND OPENING

The grand opening of the Phillips Park location is Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 and you are invited! Please visit the FIT4MOM Facebook group event page to learn more and register for this free event.

Every recipient will receive a swag bag, free coffee from Rocket City Coffee Company, and much more. This will be a fantastic way to try out a class and get to know the group with no strings attach. Come out and celebrate, get in a sweaty workout, and have some fun with your kids and new friends.

Event Agenda:

09:15 am – 09:30 am Registration
09:30 am – 10:30 am Stroller Strides Workout
10:30 am – 11:00 am Playgroup, Coffee, & Giveaways

Follow along with FIT4MOM Madison on Facebook and Instagram!

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All About Brand New Fleet Feet in Madison, Alabama

Resources, Shop Fitness, fleet feet, Running

After traveling to the Fleet Feet location in Huntsville for many years, a good chunk of the Madison community is rejoicing over the brand new Fleet Feet location right here in Madison on Hughes Road. The location quietly opened last week but will host a big, official grand opening weekend from April 9th-11th.

Dink and Suzanne Taylor have owned the Huntsville location for 17 years and are more than thrilled to finally bring the concept to Madison as well. The store was actually on track to open last year, but the pandemic slowed the process of bringing it to life.

All About Fleet Feet in Madison, Alabama

When asked what guests can expect who have never visited a Fleet Feet location before, Suzanne shared that “We are your ‘running, walking, get you healthy, and keep you moving’ store.”

Fleet feet offers running and fitness apparel and products of all kinds, but their flagship product is their collection of tennis shoes.

“Our staff is absolutely amazing,” shared Suzanne. “When you come in, they’ll look at and study your feet and discuss how much time you spend on your feet. They’ll also discuss your activity level, goals, and more.”

She continued to share that her staff will then work to find the best shoes for one’s needs.

“Our store isn’t just for runners who need to find new tennis shoes. For example, if you’re going to Disney World, we don’t want you to be in pain, so let’s find a good pair of shoes before you go.”

Suzanne says that her family’s lives are built on being active and keeping people healthy, and “we live it every day by the fact that our whole family runs.”

She says that at the core of what she and her husband do is encourage other people to keep moving and really help them enjoy life.

“It’s so much more than picking out a shoe because you just like the color,” says Suzanne. “We’re going to get to know your feet and find something that helps you get out there and enjoy whatever your day holds.”

Suzanne is originally from Houston and says that her hometown’s go-to running store when she was growing up was always Fleet Feet.

When asked why she and her husband Dink originally opened the Fleet Feet store in Huntsville nearly two decades ago, she explained that her familiarity and high regard for the brand made it an easy choice.

“It made a lot of sense to my husband and me to pursue our passion as runners and open a store of our own.” She continued to share that “Not many people can say that their career is something that they’re in love with, but opening our Fleet Feet stores are the best things we’ve ever done.”

Another aspect of the business that the Taylors are excited about is offering training plans for runners, which will begin next month.

“The demand for these is high,” shared Suzanne. “We’re looking forward to kicking them off.”

Suzanne shared that those interested in training plans and group runs should follow along on Facebook for upcoming announcements.

Snag one of these shirts by coming out to the Madison location at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 24th for the postponed St. Patrick’s Day Fun Run!

Join the Grand Opening fun all weekend long beginning Friday, April 9^th.

The ribbon-cutting event with the Madison Chamber of Commerce will take place on April 9^th at 10 a.m.

Saturday, April 10^th will feature vendor partners from all over the area, so come out to do some shopping at Fleet Feet as well as within other retailers in the shopping center that are now open.

Join the Store 2 Store virtual event!

Participants will have three days to log 14.1 miles, which is equivalent to the distance between the Huntsville and Madison store. Finishers will receive a race shirt, race medal, and either a New Balance Tote Bag or New Balance Backpack.

To sign up for the Store 2 Store event, click here.

Fleet Feet in Madison, Alabama

181 Hughes Road, Suite 17

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Gyms With Childcare in Madison, Alabama

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Our community has a slew of options for parents who are looking for gyms with childcare in Madison, Alabama.

Gyms with Childcare in Madison, Alabama

The following list will give you an idea of childcare prices, hours of operation, and what ages are permitted for drop-off. I hope this list is helpful in deciding which fitness avenue is the best for your family this year!

Phaze 3 Fitness

Ages permitted: 6 weeks to 11 years

Monthly childcare cost: $10 for the first child and $5 each for additional children

Childcare hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., and Sunday 12 – 4 p.m.

To learn more about Phaze 3 Fitness, click here. To learn about the measures they’ve taken to ensure health and sanitation measures they’ve taken amidst COVID, click here.

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Empire Fitness

Ages permitted: 6 months to 12 years

Monthly childcare cost: Included in membership

Childcare hours: Monday through Friday from 7:45 – 11 a.m., Monday through Thursday from 4 – 8 p.m., Friday from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Saturday from 7:30 – 11 a.m., and Sunday from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Empire Fitness website

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Burn Boot Camp

Ages permitted: 6 weeks to 12 years

Monthly childcare cost: Included in membership

Childcare hours: Monday through Friday at the 8:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m., and 5:45 p.m. camps, Saturday at 8 a.m. and 9:15 a.m.

Burn Boot Camp website | All Things Madison Burn Boot Camp story

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Crossfit Madison

Ages permitted: 6 months to 12 years old

Monthly childcare cost: $10/month for the family

Crossfit Madison website

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Madison Wellness Center

Ages permitted: 2 months up to 12 years

Monthly childcare cost: $10/month per child

Childcare hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m.

Madison Wellness Center website

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Hogan Family YMCA

Ages permitted: 8 weeks and up (infant room, school-aged room, and youth center available)

Monthly childcare cost: Included in membership

Childcare hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 3 – 7 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., and Sunday from 12 – 4 p.m.

YMCA website

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Fit4Mom

Ages permitted: Children of any age are welcome. Children younger than five years old must be in a stroller or baby carrier for safety reasons.

Monthly childcare cost: Included in membership

Childcare hours: During class times

Fit4Mom website and schedule

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Go & Do, Resources Fitness, Gyms, Gyms with childcare

When Jamie Lambert visited north Alabama in the Spring of 2019 to spend time with close friends, she had no idea that she would leave with a business idea that would change the trajectory of her family’s lives.

Lambert, a fitness enthusiast, was shocked to visit our area and discover that no one had brought Burn Boot Camp to North Alabama. As avid members at the Burn Boot Camp location in her Springhill, Tennessee community, she knew that this was something missing from our area.

Fast forward two months later, and the papers were signed to launch Burn Boot Camp right here in Madison, Alabama.

Burn Boot Camp in Madison, Alabama

Burn Boot Camp, located in the Walmart Shopping Center on HWY 72, officially opened at the beginning of March, just days before the pandemic swept the country.

Despite having to make a slew of changes and roll with what felt like punch after punch, local franchise owner Lambert strongly believes that Burn Boot Camp is here to stay and can’t wait for more community members to experience the transformation that is happening inside their facility.

What is Burn Boot Camp?

Burn Boot Camp is a fitness facility that offers 45-minute “camps” throughout the day where participants are coached throughout their workout in a group setting with nonstop movement. Trainers demonstrate moves and then walk around helping with modifications, technique, and overall motivation.

“If trainers see you performing a move incorrectly, they’ll help you. We don’t want any injuries in here. They’re also known to walk over and hand you a heavier weight if they see you working with something that’s too light for your ability level,” shared Lambert. “The trainers will push you!”

Lambert couldn’t stress enough that all fitness levels and abilities are encouraged at Burn Boot Camp. She says that the trainers will meet each member where he or she is at.

“We pride ourselves in knowing the name of every single person that walks through our doors.”

Lambert also shared that trainers often hold 15-minute one-on-one focus meetings with participants where they get to know his or her personal goals, previous struggles, and much more. This is also a great time for members to ask nutritional questions.

“Something our members would tell you that they love about Burn Boot Camp is our trainers. They are heavily involved. When they know your goals, it helps them to the best of their ability to see you reach them.”

For those who would prefer to work out from home, Burn Boot Camp is ready and willing to help participants do that. Located inside the facility is a large TV that where trainers see members who are logged in to live classes via Zoom.

“Our trainers will keep up with what they’re doing on the screen and verbally coach them through each exercise.”

Lambert shared that offering camps over Zoom is something that’s new due to the pandemic but is an option they plan to keep around.

Camps are offered all throughout the day starting at 5 a.m. with some that are for just woman and others that are co-ed. A handful of camps also included complimentary “childwatch”. These designations are all clearly made online.

Joining a camp is as easy as picking a timeslot to go, arriving a few minutes ahead of time, grabbing your equipment, and finding a spot (which is clearly labeled with blue tape to promote distancing from others). The trainers take it from there!

Children who are in childwatch are well cared for, able to use restrooms, and play in an indoor environment with a window where parents and children can see each other if desired. Lambert stressed that all items in the childwatch area are sanitized between each camp. Each child’s temperature is taken upon arrival.

One of my favorite touches inside Burn Boot Camp is the wall of laminated pictures and stories of those who have achieved various goals. Some are weight-related while others are related to mental health, or simply just getting more out of life.

“Everyone here wants to build others up. We want to help you reach your goals. Our employees, our members, everyone is just amazing. The community is unlike any other, and it’s the most inspiring.”

Lambert shared that the owners all started as members but that their love for the brand is what brought them here.

“We looked at the real estate market and knew that Madison was the right place for the first location,” shared Lambert. “We have two more locations we plan to open in the next year as well, so we’re excited.”

Lambert said that community can expect additional Burn Boot Camp locations in Huntsville (potentially the Jones Valley area) as well as another location in Madison (the south side of town is looking promising!)

To learn more about Burn Boot Camp, visit their website, or follow along on Instagram.

*All pictures courtesy of Burn Boot Camp Madison.

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Opening Soon: HOTWORX in Madison, Alabama

Go & Do, Resources Boutique Gym, Fitness, Gym, HOTWORX

There’s another new boutique fitness concept coming to Madison and opening soon, this time in the Clift Farm development.

HOTWORX is on track to open at the beginning of January 2021 and is currently offering deep discounts for the first handful of community members who sign up pre-opening.

HOTWORX in Madison, Alabama

HOTWORX local manager Claire Broussard says that this concept is “something very new and different” for this area and can’t wait for community members to learn more about it.

Broussard shared that this fitness studio will feature eight small saunas that offer virtual instruction. Normally each sauna allows three participants at a time, but when the studio opens only one or two people will be allowed in each sauna at a time.

Workouts will be either 15 minutes or 30 minutes, depending on the type of workout.

Broussard says that the idea is “more workout but less time.”

“The infrared heat detoxifies your body, reduces cellulite, is good for weight loss, and increases calorie burn.”

Class styles include isometric and HIIT and Broussard says that often guests like to do one 15 minute class followed by a 30-minute class to get in a “really quick, really effective” workout.

HOTWORX will be open 24 hours a day, allowing even more flexibility for guests to come at a time that best suits their schedule.

“Even during the hours that HOTWORX is staffed, there’s no official check-in.”

Broussard shared that guests will use an app to select their sauna and class time and then head straight for their assigned sauna upon arrival.

“You pick your sauna based on time and class and then the app shows available slots. It’s a very independent process.”

Something unique about this boutique fitness concept is that there is no financial penalty if you cancel your class ahead of time.

HIIT classes include cycling and blast while Isometric classes include yoga, pilates, barre, and more.

The facility will include bathrooms and a shower.

HOTWORX is in the pre-sale stage and offering a rate of a $10 enrollment fee + $44/month unlimited membership package.

Once the pre-sale stage is over, enrollment fees will jump to $99 with a $59/month fee.

Interested community members can check out more about HOTWORX in Madison, Alabama on Facebook or visit their preview center at Clift Farm. You can also give them a call at (256) 325-2456.

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Club Pilates Owners Acquire Pure Barre: Similarities and Differences in These Workouts

Go & Do, Resources Exercise, Fitness, Pilates, Pure Barre

Boutique fitness facilities are scattered all over Madison, offering community members a lengthy list of options for finding the right fitness regimen that caters to his or her unique goals and needs.

Josh Schultz says that he knows of two facilities that cater to small movements and whole-body muscle-strengthening workouts: Club Pilates West Huntsville and Pure Barre Madison.

Schultz and his wife Paula have been the franchise owners of Club Pilates since September 2019 and recently acquired Pure Barre Madison this summer. Schultz shared that both brands are owned by the same parent company and that he and Paula were thrilled at the opportunities to acquire Pure Barre.

Club Pilates & Pure Barre in Madison: Similarities and Differences

“There are things we do very similar but also different across both brands,” shared Schultz. “It’s been really great to learn about Pure Barre and figure it all out.”

via @purebarremadisonal

While the two locations will remain where they are – Club Pilates is on HWY 72 and Pure Barre is in downtown Madison – they are hoping to do some things together on a local level.

“If someone comes into one facility but we believe that the other facility may be a better fit for that individual, we will steer them in that direction.”

via @clubpilateswesthsv

Schultz says that while both workouts are based on similar principals, they are executed differently.

“A lot of people ask us what Pure Barre really is,” shared Schultz. “Think small movements to burn very specific muscle groups. It’s not a dance movement class like some think.”

via @purebarremadisonal

He says that Pure Barre is a high energy, 50-minute workout that is designed to hit many muscle groups in a certain pattern for a full-body workout. One is likely to see more calorie burn in these classes.

“A Pilates workout is focused on technique and working on the core. It’s a lot of lengthy and strengthening of your muscles with very specific movements.”

Pilates workouts often include a special apparatus called the Reformer, a bed-like frame that rolls back and forth on wheels.

Both workouts are very posture-based and focus on a neutral spine. Schultz emphasizes that they work extra hard to keep one’s body upright.

As far as demographics go, Schultz shared that women make up 90% of their membership at Club Pilates and 99% at Pure Barre.

via @purebarremadisonal

“It’s funny to see some people come in here and think that these bodyweight workouts won’t be enough for them. It’s all about using muscles that you don’t generally use.”

via @clubpilateswesthsv

He encourages everyone of all ability levels to try their free intro classes.

To book your free intro class and view the current class schedule at Club Pilates West Huntsville, click here.

To book your free intro class at Pure Barre Madison, click here.

Club Pilates West Huntsville

7564A US-72 W, Madison

256-680-3778

Pure Barre Madison

14 Main St. Unit A, Madison

256-684-5549

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Restoring Bodies Fitness & Nutrition: Studio Services Catered for 45+

Resources Fitness, Health, Local Business, Over 45, Restoring Bodies, Seniors, Yoga

As Madison continues to grow in population, so do the opportunities for community members to dive into their hobbies and interests right here within our city.

One of those unique opportunities comes in the form of Restoring Bodies Fitness and Nutrition Services, a studio that offers group exercise classes and nutrition assistance catered to those who are 45 years old. Designed with the pre-retiree and fully retired man or woman in mind, Restoring Bodies desires to offer a non-intimidating, family atmosphere to engage in functional fitness that will allow members to age gracefully while living a vibrant, healthy, life.

Restoring Bodies has been physically closed for over three months but are eager and excited to open their doors again next week to clients who are comfortable and ready to return.

I recently spoke with manager and yoga teacher Chris Irrgang who shared that the studio is less than five years old and is owned by retired veteran Tammie Brown. Brown is currently studying to get her master’s degree in public health so that she expand what she can offer her clients, specifically dietician services.

on left: owner Tammie Brown

“To have a studio where people can come and get a holistic experience is Tammie’s dream,” shared Irrgang.

When asked how Restoring Bodies began, Irrgang shared that it all boiled down to Brown’s desire to help people.

“If you’ve ever been around Tammie, you know that her passion is to help others. She saw a niche that was not being served in our area, so she decided to fill it.”

Irrgang says that the studio caters to those who are 45+ and that most of the teachers are within this age group as well. She emphasizes though that anyone is welcome to join.

“The main classes we offer are yoga, circuit training, and step, but next week we will begin offering classes that rotate between dance, barre, cardio, and strength.”

Though the studio has been temporarily closed due to the pandemic, they have continued to offer four classes a week through Zoom. Once classes begin in-person on July 7th, some teachers will still continue to stream the classes online for those who aren’t quite ready to return on site.

Restoring Bodies is Silver Sneakers-approved and offers this program through their “Aging Gracefully” classes. The schedule for these classes and more can be found online.

This fitness studio also offers “Connected Warriors”, which consists of yoga for veterans and their family members. These classes are completely free and given by instructors who volunteer their time to do so.

When asked what Irrgang enjoys the most about Restoring Bodies, she answered without hesitation: “The family environment is special. We know each other. You come in and you are part of us.”

Her advice for those who may feel intimidated by the idea of joining Restoring Bodies is simple: “We want to reach this group of people. Our studio is made just for you. My job is to make you feel comfortable, and it is your job not to worry about it.”