articles

Momma Gone Fit

Featuring Jen Rehm, Owner and Instructor at the body barre in Denver, Colorado

August 16, 2013
Everyone loves an underdog. This is why shows like The Biggest Loser are so successful. Or maybe I should say the "perceived" underdog. The thing is, us moms, once we can see past the fog that children surround us with, know that we can do anything, especially with the support of our peers. Here at Macaroni Kid Family Fitness we love to feature moms (aka, the underdog) who have made that step to bettering their health because a healthy mom is a major step towards a healthy family! 

Whether you have become a fitness instructor, are training for a marathon or your first 5K, or just signed up with your local gym, you are on the move and proving to others around you that anyone can do it! You get to set the example and be peer support for your friends and family!

Today we are excited to profile Jen Rehm, Owner and Instructor at the body barre in Denver, Colorado.

What made you get fit?
As a mom of four, managing weight gain and subsequent weight loss is nothing new to me. The baby weight that came with my first two pregnancies was really easy to lose. However, 15 months after my third child, I still hadn’t lost all of weight like the last two times. It was at that point I realized I needed to step up my fitness routine and get back in shape.

How did you do it?
That same day, I joined the YMCA near my house and started working out immediately. I soon began taking group fitness classes and continued that regimen for about a year and a half. Finally, after gaining the confidence that comes with experience, I decided to get certified as a group fitness instructor and began teaching classes.

How does your family stay fit?
As a barre fitness instructor, staying fit is simply part of the job, and I have always encouraged my family to do the same. We go grocery shopping together and also cook together. Our house rule is ¼ protein, ¼ grains and ½ veggies on everyone’s plate. Additionally, my husband lifts weights and wakeboards almost every day (in the warmer months, at least!) and my oldest daughter bikes to and from the pool where she works as a lifeguard. I also put my younger ones in the stroller and bring them with me when I go running. 

How has fitness impacted your life?
Owning a barre fitness studio has allowed me a wonderful work-life balance where I get to do what I love and help people feel better about themselves. I work really hard, but have way more time for family than most people who own a new business do. 

What do you think would inspire other moms to get fit?
I’ve found that staying fit and keeping my family on the same track has been great for my marriage. Although men won’t often say it, they really do care about how their wives look, and vice versa! We keep each other motivated and strive to be examples of health and happiness for our children.

What's your fitness story? Email me at jennys@macaronikid.com!