With 2 kids and several activities, every day feels like a whirlwind. But, in the midst of homework, dance, sports, play dates, and feeding my children every day, I never seem to make time for myself. I look in the mirror, and all I see is my exhausted face and several extra pounds that I want to lose…someday. After half a summer of kids’ outings, wearing shorts, and pool visits, I finally decided to make “me-time” a priority. I researched big box gyms, private studios, personal trainers, and crossfit boxes until I finally found a complete solution in Rochester Hills—Applied Fitness Solutions (AFS).
I had 3 priorities in choosing the right place for myself. First, there had to be accountability and a specific path to reaching my goals. I couldn’t imagine wasting hours on a membership that I wouldn’t use or that wouldn’t give me results. Second, it had to be convenient, with flexibility of workout times/classes, and childcare would be a huge bonus. Third, it had to be enjoyable. I’ve never found working out “fun” per se, but I couldn’t go somewhere that I would end up dreading. AFS really did have the complete package for this busy (and somewhat reluctant) mom!
With AFS the process started with an “Intake Consultation” with my onboarding specialist, Andrew. He interviewed me about my reasons for being there, past successes and failures, barriers, and life. Then, he outlined the AFS approach, including a personal fitness coach, individualized fitness program, available classes, check-ins, and reaching my goals. The AFS approach had one key difference from all of the other places I visited. They were interested in educating me, supporting me, and helping me achieve my goals, rather than locking me into a long-term membership or purchasing a huge class package.
AFS is super-convenient and affordable for moms, with several class offerings from the very early mornings through evening, and even childcare! They have a circuit training class called "Weight Loss Solution" for those looking to get in better shape overall or lose weight. For people getting into strength training, there is an awesome guided class called “Strength Solution” where a trainer shows you the right form for each exercise and how to stay safe for maximum results. They even have a mobility class! Andrew and I decided I would have my goal-setting meeting with my personal coach, Eileen, and then I would take part in 1 Strength Training and 2 Weight Loss Solution classes per week.
Although I was really nervous to begin, the classes have been a fantastic experience! In the Weight Loss Solution class, not only is there an instructor to cue and correct you, but they also have large TV screens you can look at, with videos of the trainers doing the exercises so you can check your form. In the strength class I have a completely structured workout program, and a trainer walks me through the whole thing. When I'm resting after a set, he/she helps someone else.With a maximum of 6 people in there at a time, everyone gets a personal-training experience the attention they need.
I love feeling excited and motivated every week to work out and finally do something for myself! Even though I am exhausted walking out after classes, I have more energy than I’ve ever had throughout the day. In a few weeks I have my first assessment to see what changes I’ve made physically, but I’m already feeling the benefits of self-care. This whole process is so worth it! If you have been wanting to make a healthy change or just do something that makes you feel great, I encourage you to call or visit AFS. Their combination of convenience, care, and structure can fit into even the busiest mom’s week!
Applied Fitness Solutions- 1136 S. Rochester Rd. Rochester Hills, MI
Phone- 248.923.1030
Website- https://4afsfit.com/
