Don’t Forget Self-Care: Fitness Guru Amanda Kloots Can Help
When buzzy fitness guru Amanda Kloots swept through Chicago earlier this month, there was zero chance that I was going to miss the opportunity to work out with the hottest trainer out of NYC. When I showed up to her 1 p.m. dance cardio class at Studio Three, the place was packed with excited fans eager to work out with her. Packed to no surprise that is, because Amanda Kloots’ name definitely precedes her. And of course it does: The former Broadway dancer and Radio City Rockette has a huge following—more than 48,000 on Instagram—plus, constantly sold out classes at NYC’s Studio B. She has developed the AK! Dance and AK! Body classes, as well as the uber popular group fitness AK! Rope, a jump rope method that she swears is the quickest, most effective way to get a full body workout.
So what was my experience, you may ask? I am going to just go out on a limb here and say that after the Amanda Kloots AK! dance cardio class, I’ve never felt more challenged, had more fun or have gotten my booty kicked from a workout like this before. All to great music and super motivation from Amanda herself, who won’t let you slack-off during class and will call you out if you do. I caught up with Kloots for advice on self-care, fitness, how to keep motivated after the holiday slump, and of course what’s her advise to those of us who want to get in shape in the New Year. Read on.
How did you make the transition from Broadway to a work out guru?
I started my business after my last Broadway show closed.I found myself in a position where I really needed to take control of my life- make my own decisions and create something. It wasn’t easy to leave Broadway though so for a while, I was doing both! I would train clients and teach my classes but also audition for shows or work on material with choreographers. I was scared to leave my career that I had been doing for 16 years. As time went on and my business became more successful, it became clear what direction I needed to head in. I loved having my own business just as much as performing, maybe even more, and seeing myself grow after all the hard work was very motivating.
How did you come up with the idea of your classes?
I came up with my AK! Rope class one day while I was training a private client. I had her start the session off by jumping rope and as we were jumping I thought of the idea! I decided to do the whole session with the rope and I would create arm, leg, ab exercises along the way to do a full body workout! My AK! Dance class I came up with from my years of being a dancer. I loved the idea of creating routines to specific songs so that you learned a dance. I like to say it is Jane Fonda meets Britney Spears backup dancer! My AK! Body class came from all my private clients. I wanted to create a class that was as if you were in a private session with me, working your whole body in one hour.
What are some of the gifts for yourself you gave for the holidays?
I took myself to Face Gym and got one of their amazing facials!
Besides the rope, what are your other go-to fitness gear and equipment?
Nothing else! Focus on your own body weight so that you can truly exercise anywhere without any excuses!
Can you share your wellness routine with us?
I eat healthy but everything in moderation. I don’t believe in dieting or depriving oneself. I drink a ton of water too! When I workout, I go 110%! If you only give yourself an hour a day to workout you have to go hard! I also love sleep and think it is extremely important for good health. I get 7-8 hours every night!
What about fashion? Describe your style.
Well, I live in workout wear, but when I get dressed in real clothes, I love a great pair of jeans and a button down or t-shirt!I’m a sneaker girl always so I love a good pair of white sneakers that I will wear with dresses or shorts! I am a girly girl though so give me a beautiful dress any day of the week! Dresses are so easy and you always look pulled together.
What’s in your gym bag?
My AK! Rope, a mini speaker, a KIND bar, a water bottle and usually some sort of change in clothes!
What is your advice to those who want to get back into shape in the New Year?
JUST START! Don’t get caught up in a certain day or time! Find a workout you LOVE so it isn’t a chore to do it and stay dedicated.
What are the most doable/realistic fitness resolutions?
Jump rope every day for ten minutes.We all have ten minutes in our day to exercise instead of watching tv, emailing, looking at Instagram or texting a friend. Put down the remote, grab your AK! Rope and jump. Ten minutes of jumping rope burns 150 calories!
What would you advise those readers who feel lethargic and tired to workout, especially after the holiday season? How do you get out of a workout funk?
I always think about how lucky I am to be able to move my body. To get up, stand on two feet, to jump, to dance! If you have ever been injured or know of someone that is physically paralyzed, you know how lucky you are to be able to exercise. Don’t take it for granted!
What should we expect from AK in 2019?
Prenatal and Postnatal workouts are coming to my website so stay tuned!
When will you be back in Chicago 😊?
I hope soon!I love the Windy City!
If you are not located in New York City, but still wish to try one of her classes, you can find them available for purchase on her website here. And if you wish to stock up on new workout gear, see our selections below.
All photos courtesy of Amanda Kloots
