Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and not recognized the person looking back? Even worse, did the person staring back somewhat resemble a blubbery sea animal beached on the sand?
Ok, maybe that hasn't been your experience, but after having two kids in short succession (one in 2007 and one in 2008), it certainly was mine.
It all happened so fast. One minute I was a sassy newlywed filled with the energy of youth and love, and the next minute I was a slightly deranged, overweight and haggard mother of two little boys...I was a frumpalump.
Shortly after that fateful encounter with my sea mammal alter ego, I decided it was time for a mommy makeover. But even though I was super motivated (mostly by gross fear) finding the time and energy as a new mom was difficult.
If you are like me (and I hope I am not alone) finding a place to begin the makeover journey can be (and was) the hardest step.
Starting at a gym can help. With several excericise options ranging from aerobics classes, weight-lifting and yoga stretching, plus hands-on personal training, a gym can start you off with the right tools for a total body makeover.
Below I have compared three local gyms to see which ones have mom-friendly features like, on-site child care, convenient hours, engaging classes, a comfortable atmosphere, and friendly, knowledgable staff members.
LA Fitness- 820 South Grand Ave.
One of the biggest draws to a large facility such as LA Fitness is the range of classes they offer.
Let's face it, working out can be pretty boring and with our minds constantly on all the things we have to do at home, it is difficult to find motivation. With over 50 classes available at LA Fitness there is bound to be something that will get your heart pumping and your face smiling. I personally suggest the latin rhythm based aerobics class, Latin Heat.
Other mom friendly features include, on-site day care ($15/month for two hour sessions) and extended open hours (most days begin at 4:30 a.m.).
For more information about LA Fitness call 626-335-5474
At Curves of Glendora it is not just about working out, but having fun and building great relationships. As mom's we often feel alone. Having work out buddies can provide us with extra motivation and the companionship of like-minded ladies.
Curves is a women's only gym (though they will not turn away a man) where moms can go to exercise without pressure.
There is no child care available at Curves but their hours and workouts specifically cater to mothers of school-aged children and teachers who want to exercise but find it difficult to squeeze into their schedules.
In addition to working out, Curves offers fun activities for its members such as Bunco night and dinner nights.
For more information on joining Curves call 626-852-1844
Locally owned and operated, is the perfect place for mom's who might feel a little gun shy about visiting a gym. With an unpretentious setting and plenty of personal care, busy moms can get the guidance they need from knowledgable personal trainers without being made to feel stupid or on display.
King's Fitness does not offer day care but with plenty of machines available a busy mom can get in and out without having to wait in line for a treadmill or for a circuit to finish.
The only drawback to King's Fitness is location, their immediate nextdoor neighbor is The Donut Man . . . talk about counter-productive.
For more information on King's fitness call 626-963-5464.
