Meridian Health

Hazlet resident Daniela Leonardi, 38, is a busy wife and a mother of three children, ages 4, 8, and 9. Still, she makes time to exercise at Meridian Fitness & Wellness Center at Hazlet five to six days a week. Here are Daniela's tips for making exercise an essential part of her life.

 

… staying motivated

I take two back-to-back group fitness classes, such as spinning and Pilates, every morning. Exercising in a group setting keeps me motivated because everyone around me is working so hard. The classes are always changing, so my body is constantly being challenged and I never get bored.

...feeling better from the inside out.

Exercise is just as important for my mind as it is for my body. When I work out regularly I feel happier, healthier, less stressed, and more energized. That's what keeps me going back to the gym as often as I can.

.… making exercise a habit.

Every morning, I wake up and put my gym clothes on. I eat a bowl of high-fiber cereal with nonfat milk, drop the older kids at school, and go straight to the gym. I don't even make the beds until I get home later. Putting fitness into my schedule like any important appointment means I won't miss a workout.