Exciting November News To Help You Transform!

Sweet friends,

November is here and the holidays are right around the corner! With the joyful holidays comes a lot of temptations of unhealthy foods and lack of exercise, but this month is the perfect time to challenge yourself to stick to your goals!

November is a time of Thanksgiving, and we want to focus on nourishing our bodies this month through mind, body and spirit. We can do it! Instead of diving into those unhealthy foods, let’s view proper nutrition and exercise as a form of worship!

For Nourish in November, we want to challenge you to be active and exercise 5 TIMES PER WEEK and eat THREE servings of vegetables per day! You can go on a nice walk in the cool fall air with your family, come into the studio for a TransFormer session, do yoga, or play with your kids in the backyard! Just be active! One serving of vegetables is typically equal to 1/2 cup. Try to get a minimum of three servings per day.

Download our November calendar below and fill in your exercise and vegetables EVERY DAY. Turn in or send us your calendar at the end of the month for a chance to win A MONTH OF FREE SESSIONS!

It’s almost time for our Holiday Extravaganza! For those of you that have never participated, this is your year! The goal is to maintain your weight through the holiday season! The cost is $20 to participate. Weigh-ins will begin the week of November 12-16.

If you maintain your weight, you get your entry money back in January when you come back to weigh-in! If you gain weight, your money stays in the bucket! At the end of the holiday season, we will re-weigh and the biggest loser gets to keep ALL of the leftover money! The top-five finishers will also receive a gift!

We are excited to share with you our Service Outreach Project for the holidays! Our service project will benefit the students of Downtown Academy, a school just a few miles from TransFit that seeks to provide children of inner-city Athens an excellent and rigorous Christ-centered education that builds knowledge, character and purpose.

We will be purchasing fitness equipment (balls, jump ropes, fitness bands, etc.) for students to use during recess and in their after-school program. This was a need we became aware of recently, and it resonated with our mission here at TransFit. We are passionate about health, which includes mind, body and spirit.

Look for the Giving Tree that will be set up in the studio right after Thanksgiving, with instructions on how you can participate. We look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus with our clients and community!

Join us for a yoga session on Mondays at 5:30 p.m or on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. to stretch and nourish your body!

This 55-minute yoga session will increase flexibility and core strength. The postures are connected through the breath for a transformative and balancing effect. The yoga session will burn fat, increase endurance, flexibility and strength. The session will inspire you physically and mentally to live transformed in mind, body and spirit.

Sign up for the session on our app at the link below!

We look forward to seeing you in the studio this month! Please let us know how we can encourage you to reach your goals and pray for you! If you have any questions or want to set up a one-on-one session, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

5 Halloween Recipes to Help Curb Your Sugar Cravings!

Sweet friends,

Halloween is one of the most fun holidays of the year as we dress up and spend time with our family and friends! But with all of that fun, comes a lot of temptations to eat sweet treats and candy. Don’t worry! We have some healthy recipes that you can eat before you take your kids trick-or-treating that will help curb some of those sugary cravings and some healthy Halloween treats that you can your family can all enjoy!

Try our White Chicken Chili recipe or our Kale Apple Salad recipe for Halloween dinner to help fill you up so you don’t want to reach for sweet treats!

White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili

Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 32-ounce box chicken stock(organic)

• 3 cans white beans, left undrained  (use all different types to add variety)

• 5 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)

• 1 16-ounce jar salsa(use fresh salsa-- this the key)

• 1 8-ounce block pepper jack cheese, grated

• 2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Black or white pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup finely crushed corn chips (optional, if you like your chili thicker)

• Sour cream, for garnish

Directions

• Place all ingredients except the corn chips in a crockpot. Cook on high until the cheese is melted.

• Chili may also be cooked on the stovetop over medium-high heat until cheese is melted.

• When the chili is ready, add the crushed corn chips, if using, and simmer for 10 minutes to thicken. Garnish with more chips, cheese and/or sour cream and serve.

Kale Apple Salad

Kale Apple Salad

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 6 cups kale, torn, and big ribs removed and discarded

• 1/2 apple, cut into thin, 1" pieces

• 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped and lightly toasted

• 2 tablespoons goat cheese

• 1/4 cup cranberries

Directions

• In a small jar, combine the olive oil, vinegar and lemon juice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously to combine.

• Place the kale leaves in a large salad bowl. Pour and massage the olive oil mixture into the leaves with your hands.

• Throw the apples, walnuts, goat cheese and cranberries on top of the kale and lightly toss to combine.

These three fun, Halloween-inspired treats are perfect for the entire family!

Monster Mouths

Monster Mouths

Ingredients

• Apples

• Lemon Juice

• Peanut Butter

• Almonds, peeled

Directions

• Slice the apples into pieces that look like lips (just a standard slice will work)

• Place the sliced apples in a bowl or lemon water for about 10-15 minutes so they don’t brown.

• Heavily spread peanut butter on top of each apple slice.

• Stick the “teeth” into the peanut butter of one apple slice.

• Place an apple slice without teeth on top.

Jack-O-Lantern Juice Smoothie

Jack-O-Lantern Juice Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond milk

• 1 cup frozen peaches

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree

• Handful of carrots

• 1 serving vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt

• 1/2 frozen banana

• 1 tbsp flax seed

• Crushed ice

• Honey to taste

  Directions

• Blend until smooth in the blender! Enjoy!

Frightening Fruits

Ingredients

• Bananas

• Chocolate chips

• Clementines

• Celery

Directions

• For the ghosts, take each banana and slice in half. Add a chocolate chip for the mouth. If you have mini chocolate chips, use these for the eyes. If not, slice a regularly sized chocolate chip in half.

• For the pumpkins, peel each clementine, making sure to keep the segments together. Cut small pieces of celery and use these as stems.

Have a happy, healthy and safe Halloween with your kids! If you are coming to a session at the studio on Wednesday, please dress in a costume! As we finish Optimism in October, let’s

This week is the LAST week of the Outdoor Runner’s Group! Come join personal trainer and running coach, Lisa Patton on Wednesday, October 31st for the last session of the year! You can sign up on our app HERE or on our website below!

We challenged you to be active and stretch every day in October! Below is a handout to give you ideas for stretches that you can do at home. As we finish out the month, don’t forget to keep filling out your calendars for Optimism in October! Send us or bring in your calendar for a chance to win a FREE MONTH of sessions!

Happy Halloween! Please email us if you have any questions or would like to set up a nutrition or one-on-one session at transfitathens@gmail.com. We can’t wait to see you in the studio!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Meet our #ChooseJoy Client Spotlight!

Sweet friends,

Thank you, thank you! We have loved seeing you be ALL IN for our theme Optimism in October! We have challenged you to be active and to STRETCH every day! We are so proud of you, and we want to encourage you to achieve your goals!

Our #ChooseJoy October Client Spotlight is an INCREDIBLE example to all of us of how exercise can change your mindset and truly transform your body and spirit! Sarah Kate Jones brings such positivity, light, and love into this community, and it is contagious. You can’t help but feel uplifted up when you spend time with her. She will always be honest with you, saying every day is not a cake-walk. Goals of finding her confidence in Christ not in the size of her clothes or in other opinions is a daily struggle. Many days are difficult to make exercise and nutrition a priority but she is consistent and committed with her daily exercise and has really worked to eliminate sugar in her daily nutrition plan. This amazing college women exudes confidence now and is living transformed one hour, one day at time. Progress daily leads to big results over time!

We are so proud of her, and we hope you get to give her a big hug next time you see her bright, sweet face!

Sarah Kate’s Transformation Story:

“Growing up, I played competitive soccer which entailed a strict work out regime of practice and games five to six days a week. I was accustomed to eating healthy, homemade meals thanks to my mom, and exercising was second nature. When I got to college, it seemed all I knew flew out the door, and the “Freshman 15” I was so scared of became a reality for me. I grew increasingly discouraged, comparing myself to other girls constantly. I didn’t know how to get back to where I once was. About a year ago, I was sitting with my mom crying over how out-of-shape I had become. She introduced TransFit to me, which was just the jumpstart I needed.

After the first month of classes, I noticed I was both physically and emotionally healthier. I began making better food choices, as well as actually desiring to exercise. All of Freshman year, I had to drag myself to the gym just to get on the treadmill, and now I was excited. Each time I would leave TransFit, I felt stronger and encouraged. The confidence in myself increased, and I remember looking in the mirror being proud of how far I had come.

Exercise truly makes me feel alive. Not only does it keep my body in shape, but it promotes positive self-esteem. The most challenging aspect to it is definitely the initial start. If I miss a few days, it’s much harder to get myself to work out or make the right food choices. Typically, I work out four days a week, which consists of going to TransFit twice and running on my off days. I have been going to TransFit for the last year, and I think what I am most proud of is how I am content with who I am. It used to be about the number on the scale, but now I know it’s not that. It’s about being active, making good food choices, and trying your best. I try not to get caught up in the “I hate my fill-in-the-blank” or the negativity with comparison. TransFit has changed the way I speak to myself and think about myself.

Goals I am currently working on is consistency in making healthy choices in the kitchen. Living a healthy lifestyle affects my spiritual life, my day-to-day plans, my thought life—everything. When I work out, I feel rejuvenated. I am more apt to make better food choices, I have more energy throughout the day, and I think about myself more positively. TransFit truly got me out of the self-negativity rut, and I am so thankful.

It is a joy to get to be in the presence of encouraging women as our goals are not just to lose weight, but to feel better about ourselves. Finding our confidence in Christ.”

Below is one of Sarah Kate’s favorite post-workout foods, a Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie. She says it replenishes her energy and tastes delicious! Try it at home after one of your workouts this week! 

Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

• ½ frozen banana

• 1 cup frozen strawberries

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt or 1 serving vanilla protein powder

• 1 tbsp ground flax-seed

• 1/2 cup crushed ice

• Honey or other sweetener, to taste (optional)

• 1 tsp maple syrup or stevia drops (optional)

Directions:

• Add ingredients into the blender in the order they are listed.

• Pulse until smooth. Serve and drink immediately.

• Top with fresh strawberries, unsweetened coconut flake, and a few vanilla wafers

• Add vanilla protein powder for an extra boost of protein to keep you feeling full for longer or to use as a post-exercise drink.

Choose Joy Challenge

Today is also Day 1 of our #ChooseJoyChallenge! We are going to finish Optimism in October strong by challenging you to choose joy every day this week! Today’s challenge is to write down or say out loud your Joy Statement of the Day!

Examples of Joy Statements:

“I will take action to reach my goal.”

“I am strong. I am healthy.”

“My metabolism works effectively.”

“I have boundless energy.”

What is your joy statement today? Share it with us on social media and hashtag #ChooseJoyChallenge!

We want to encourage you this week! If you would like to set up a one-on-one with one of our trainers or nutritionists, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

❗️Is Rest As Important As Exercise & Nutrition? ❗️

Sweet friends,

Seriously, do you ever ask yourself “Is rest really as important for transformation as exercise & nutrition?” Many of us make time for exercise and work on meal planning but neglect proper rest.

In our Lived Transformed Bible Study a few weeks ago, we explored the truth that we are to honor God with our bodies by getting proper rest and sleep. We often talk of caring for our bodies with proper nutrition and exercise, but true rest is a pillar of health we know we need, but don't prioritize. The importance of quality rest and sleep cannot be overemphasized. They are vital to the rhythms of our lives, gifts from God which serve specific physical and spiritual purposes. 

Physically, we must have proper rest and sleep in order to function at our best, but the latest research says lack of sleep has become a public health epidemic. As we sat around the circle at Bible Study, this topic was the one most of us had marked and highlighted as being a personal struggle.

We know we are not getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep, and we are concerned because the evidence shows that sleep deprivation is serious. It’s been linked to obesity, negative effects on hormones, skin aging, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, immune system issues, muscle atrophy, type-2 diabetes, etc. We also know how we feel when we don’t get proper rest and sleep, causing us to be irritable and short-tempered with others.

Something we can do to improve our health is set rest and sleep goals, just like we do for nutrition and exercise. The following are some suggestions:

 For Sleep:

• Sleep journal (to really be aware of our habits)

• No TV, no phones, or screen time a minimum of 30 minutes before bedtime

• Follow a consistent bedtime routine 

• Relax in an epsom salt bath

• Use lavender essential oils

• Take a Melatonin and/or Magnesium supplement 

• Enjoy a cup of warm Chamomile Tea

• Use a sound machine with white noise or calming sounds to induce sleep

• Keep the bedroom dark and temperature cool 

• Exercise (not the 3 hours before bedtime)

• Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows 

• PRAY for good rest and sleep and memorize and meditate on scriptures like Psalm 3:3-5, Psalm 46:10, Proverbs 3:24 

For Daily Rest:

• Practice deep breathing

• Allow margin in your schedule

• Take mini vacations/stay-cations doing something you really enjoy

• Invest in a devotional and have a “quiet time” with the Lord daily

• Take a leisurely walk 

• Lay on your back with your feet up on the wall

• Get together with friends that are life-giving

• Splurge occasionally on a massage

• Unplug from social media for a day, weekend, week or month

Leg Up the Wall Pose

Legs Up the Wall Pose is a restorative yoga posture that allows the mind and the body to relax, relieving stress and tension. The benefits of this passive posture are transforming.

Getting into the pose

Start by setting up a clean space around a wall. Next, move your hips as close to the wall as possible, then walk your feet up the wall until your body is in a somewhat L-shaped position. Make any adjustments to facilitate a more relaxing space-- maybe place a pillow under your head, or let your arms rest on your belly or out to the sides. At this point, focus on your breath-- try elongating your breath, taking a deep, slow inhale through your nose- “calm” and a deep, slow exhale through your nose to “let go”.

Try not to bring the body to a full 90 degree angle as this can impede circulation at the hips. Instead slide your hips a few inches from the wall and/or elevate your hips by placing a cushion under your sacrum.

Attempt to stay in the pose for at least 5 minutes for optimal benefits.

 Benefits of Legs Up the Wall Pose

Relaxation

The semi-supine aspect of the pose combined with controlled breathing leads to a slowing down within your body. This exhibits itself in a lowered heart rate which elicits a relaxation response and, in turn, helps lower anxiety, stress and insomnia.

Facilitates venous drainage and increases circulation

Elevating the legs promotes drainage from excess fluid build-up. In addition, gravity assists circulation by facilitating the return of blood back to the heart.

Soothes swollen or cramped feet and legs

Inverting the legs/feet has long been known as an effective treatment for reducing swelling and pain in the lower extremities. This can be therapeutic after flying, physical activity or from the detrimental effects of sitting/standing during the day.

Stretches the hamstrings and lower back

The angle of the body reduces the curve of the lumbar spine, which will elongate and stretch the back muscles. The closer your hips are to the wall, the more stretch you'll create in your hamstrings.

Relieves lower back tension

Pressure is released from the spine in a supine position (especially on a bed or cushion), relieving the back from mild strain.

Studies have shown that restorative yoga poses, specifically, Legs Up the Wall, can be beneficial for those suffering from the negative effects of Fibromyalgia, Varicose Veins, Cancer, Menopause Restless Leg Syndrome, Metabolic Syndrome.

 Spiritually, God has made our bodies to need rest and sleep. They are good gifts given in order that we would acknowledge and praise Him. He is the creator. We are His creation. We learn in Genesis that God rested after the six days of creation, not because He was tired (and He never sleeps), but because He was pleased with His creation.

We can honor God with our bodies when we take intentional time to rest, reflecting on our many blessings and having grateful hearts, acknowledging our dependence on Him. In the Old Testament, God instituted the Sabbath as a day when His people were to honor Him and do no work. But in the New Testament, the Sabbath is no longer a certain day, but a person-Jesus! If we've placed our faith in the finished work of Jesus, then He is our Sabbath rest now and for eternity! 

In our anxiety driven, broken world, we can lay our heads down on our pillows at night and have sweet sleep knowing we have peace with God. 

Thank you Pam for those helpful tips on how to rest our bodies and minds. Remember nothing happens separately. All pieces of the puzzle work together to keep on the journey to transformation. Please let us know how we can serve you.

Try one of our new stretch videos on our YouTube channel HERE, come to bible study, or a new TransFit session to worship with us!

If you have any questions or would like to meet with a trainer, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We want to help you transform your mind body and spirit in the last quarter of 2018!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Secret to finishing the last quarter of 2018 STRONG!

Sweet friends,

No regrets! Max out your full potential in 2018 by achieving your goals and dreams. We want to serve you and hold you accountable to finish the last quarter of 2018 strong!

To Finish 2018 Strong, You Need To:

1. Write out your goals

2. Meet with an accountability partner

3. Take action and renew your mind daily

To help keep you accountable, we will be offering FREE 20-minute client check-ins with one of our trainers next week! These sessions are designed to help you set goals and create a plan to achieve these goals for the last quarter of the year. Let us help you transform your mind body and spirit!

To set up your check-in, e-mail us at transfitathens@gmail.com!

Our Fall Meal Plan is still on sale for $9.99 until the end of this week! This plan was created by our registered dietitians Katie Woodall and Kaeti Shurling and includes four weeks of meal plans, grocery lists and recipes. Buy it at the link below to help transform your nutrition this month!

Chopped Kale Salad with Butternut Squash & Chickpeas

Yield: 4 as a meal or 8 as a side

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large bunch of kale 

• 4 cups of any other green lettuce (chopped spinach, broccoli slaw, more kale)

• 2-3 cups large diced butternut squash

• 1 15 ounce can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

• 1 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon curry powder

• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper

• Kosher salt

• ½ cup toasted pecan

• OPTIONAL: Chopped chicken or other protein, pomegranate

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons tahini

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Prep kale by cutting out the tough ribs of the kale and discard. Chop kale and add to a large bowl.  

2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Add the diced butternut squash and rinsed chickpeas to a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil, curry powder and cayenne. Mix until the squash and chickpeas are well coated. Sprinkle with kosher salt and bake for 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender and chickpeas are lightly browned.

3. Meanwhile add the dressing ingredients to a small mason jar. Shake to mix and taste for more seasoning or vinegar if desired.

4. Transfer the butternut squash and chickpeas to the bowl of kale. Add the pecans and drizzle with the tahini dressing. Toss to coat. Allow to rest for 10 to 30 minutes before serving so kale softens. Add chicken or other protein! Enjoy!

We are halfway through October, and we challenged you to be active and stretch every day this month! Here is a stretch video that you can do this week to reach your goal! You can also visit our YouTube channel HERE for more stretching videos.

Don’t forget to sign up for our Lunch and Learn on October 23 from 12-1 in the TransFit studio! We will be welcoming Kisa Raye, who is an exercise physiologist and facial stretch therapist, and she will be teaching us about stretching! The cost of attendance is $12 and includes lunch from Maepole. Register on our app at the link below under “Special Events".

Tight hips? This is the stretch for you!

If you have any questions or want to set up a one-one-one session, email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Three New Fall Recipes You NEED To Try!

Sweet friends,

It’s October, which means it’s officially FALL— FINALLY! Bring on that cooler weather! It also means it’s time for new healthier, delicious fall recipes! We are so excited to share some of our favorites with you! Approved by our TransFit Nutritionists.

You and your entire family can enjoy these recipes, and fall is a great time to encourage your kids to help out in the kitchen! It’s a win for everyone!

Porter’s Favorite Pumpkin Bread

Porter’s Favorite Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup light brown sugar

• 2 large egg whites

• 1 cup pure pumpkin

• 1/2 cup canola oil (or substitute coconut oil)

• 1/3 cup low-fat plain yogurt (I used 2% organic Greek yogurt)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup whole wheat flour

• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

• Spray metal loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray with flour.

• In large bowl, combine brown sugar and egg whites.

• Add pumpkin, oil, yogurt and vanilla extract, and stir to combine.

• In medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda and salt.

• Add flour mixture to pumpkin mixture, and stir until just combined (don’t overmix!)

• Pour batter into prepared pan.

• Bake 45 to 50 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes.

• Invert pumpkin bread onto wire rack. Cool completely.

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Ingredients:

• 2 lb. 99% lean ground turkey breast

• 3 15 oz. cans of great northern beans, or kidney beans

• 1 15 oz. cans of pumpkin puree

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1/2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tbsp oregano

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 2-3 cups of low sodium chicken broth

• 1 tsp olive oil

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Spray a large frying pan with oil, and over medium, cook the turkey, onion and garlic for about 4-5 minutes or until mostly white.

• Pour into large pot or crock pot the beans, pumpkin, peppers, spices and broth.

• Mix in the pot and let simmer or crockpot and set on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.

• Garnish with avocado, greek yogurt, cilantro and salsa! Enjoy!

Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites

Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup oats

• 3/4 cup organic creamy nut butter of choice

• 3/4 cup honey crisp apples, grated, small

• 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans

• 1/3 cup ground flax seed

• 1/3 cup local honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 2 tbsp Chia seeds

• 1/3 cup chocolate chips

  ** optional

  Instructions:

• Stir all ingredients together in a bowl until combined.

• Cover and chill in a bowl 30 minutes.

• Roll into 1 inch balls. Store in an airtight container! Enjoy!

Need more great fall recipes? We are offering a NEW Fall Meal Plan for only $9.99! The plan was created by our registered dietitians, Katie Woodall and Kaeti Shurling and includes four weeks of meal plans, grocery lists and recipes!

If you would like to set up an appointment with our registered dietitians or nutritionists, please feel free to email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We can’t wait to encourage you this week as you commit to your health!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

💥Exciting October News to Help You Transform! 💥

Sweet friends,

This month, we challenge you to be active and stretch every single day as we focus on Optimism in October! A great way to get your daily stretching in is to do yoga! Yoga is a great way to exercise and renew your mind, and has essential health benefits like increasing flexibility, building muscle strength, preventing cartilage and joint breakdown, and increases your blood flow! It will help you transform your mind, body and spirit!

Congratulations to our September calendar challenge winner, Jennifer Leahy! Jennifer committed to her strength and being active every day in September! You are such an inspiration!

Don’t forget to pick up your October calendar at the studio for a chance to be our October calendar challenge winner and win a month of free sessions!

Join us for a NEW yoga session on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. in the studio! The session will be lead by our new yoga instructor, Emily Dietz! Yoga is a great opportunity to reach this month’s goal of stretching every day!

Emily’s practice centers around vinyasa flow, and she loves the idea that all movement is linked with breath, both on and off the mat. Yoga helps center the mind and body and provides calm and connection to spirit. Come join her for her first class on Monday!

Are you a walker or jogger ready to begin running and want to feel your best? Or are you an advanced runner who wants to better your running form, build cardiovascular fitness, run more efficiently, or add speed to your step? Join TransFit Running Coach and Personal Trainer Lisa Patton on Wednesdays at 8:20 for a TransFit Outdoor Runners Workout!
TransFit Outdoor Runners Workout is a 55-minute session that includes essential dynamic warmup sequences, running form drills, strength exercises for runners, a heart-pumping outdoor workout, and an inspirational cool down and post-run stretches.

For October’s Lunch and Learn, we will be welcoming Kisa Raye to the studio on October 23 from 12-1! Kisa Raye, MEd, FST is an exercise physiologist, fascial stretch therapist and owner of KR stretch and inspi-Her Wellness LLC.

“Let’s take stretching beyond the muscle. Learn how to reach more and achieve more through better stretching techniques that will not only improve your physical health, but bring peace and balance to your mind.”

The cost of attendance is $12 and includes lunch from Maepole!

Sign up for the Lunch and Learn under “Special Events” on the TransFit app HERE!

We are now offering a FALL MEAL PLAN on SALE for $9.99! This meal plan, which was created by our registered dietician, Kaeti Shurling and Consultant Katie Woodall, includes four-weeks of meals, grocery lists and healthy fall recipes! Let’s transform our nutrition this month together! You can download the meal plan on our website at the link below or on our app HERE!

Here are some tips for stretching this month! You can also visit our YouTube channel HERE for more stretching and workout videos.

Hips and Glutes Focused Yoga Sequence

We are so excited for all of the new and exciting things happening in October at TransFit! We can’t wait to see you in the studio soon. If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Focusing on Optimism This October!

Sweet friends,

Can you believe it is already October?! Each of you worked so hard during Strength in September, and you finished the month strong with our TransFive No Sugar Challenge! Be proud of yourselves for transforming your mind, body and spirit! This month, we are focusing on Optimism in October! It is going to be a month filled with positivity and encouragement!

Optimism in October means renewing your mind, we can have true JOY!

How can we find this: our fullness of joy is found in our relationship in HIM! Even when our circumstances change, we can have joy at all times because joy is not grounded in our circumstances, but in Him. Joy in Him is eternal!

“Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:8

We want to encourage you this month to reach your goals and dreams! Our goal for you this month is to be active every day and STRETCH every day in October! Download the October calendar below, log your activity and stretching, and turn it into us at the end of the month for a chance to win A MONTH OF FREE SESSIONS!

Don’t forget to turn in your Strength in September calendars!

Are you a walker or jogger ready to begin running and want to feel your best? Or are you an advanced runner who wants to better your running form, build cardiovascular fitness, run more efficiently, or add speed to your step? TransFit Running Coach and Personal Trainer Lisa Patton will come alongside you with a transforming TransFit Runners Workout for all fitness levels to help you achieve your goals.

TransFit Runners Workout is a 55-minute session that includes essential dynamic warmup sequences, running form drills, strength exercises for runners, a heart-pumping outdoor workout, and an inspirational cooldown and post-run stretches. Sign up on our website HERE or our app HERE!

This month, we will be continuing our Bible Study on Thursdays from 12-1 at the TransFit studio. Our Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach, Pam Adams, will be leading us through the Live Transformed bible study, which will guide us through God's Word and teach us how to live transformed! You can sign up on our website HERE or on our app HERE! Come join us!

In October, we will be offering a FALL MEAL PLAN on SALE for $9.99! This meal plan, which was created by our registered dietician, Kaeti Shurling and Consultant Katie Woodall, includes four-weeks of meals, grocery lists and healthy fall recipes! Let’s transform our nutrition this month together! You can download the meal plan on our website at the link below or on our app HERE!

Here is a sneak peak at one of the recipes in the meal plan for a Pumpkin Protein Greek Yogurt Parfait! Yum!

Pumpkin Protein Greek Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek plain yogurt (I use FAGE 2%)

• 1/2 cup organic pumpkin puree

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp honey or 2 drops of Stevia

• 1/2 cup quick and easy granola

Directions

• Mix first five ingredients together!

• Add granola on top and extra cinnamon to taste!

• Enjoy a delicious fall protein packed meal!

Get started with your stretching for the month! Here are some stretching tips. You can also visit our YouTube channel HERE for more stretching and workout videos!

Stretching sequence for low back relief

We can’t wait to see you in the studio this month to help you transform your mind, body and spirit this month! Please email us if you have any questions or want to set up a session with one of our dietitians at transfitathens@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Curb Your Sugar Cravings With These 5 Tips!

Sweet friends,

We are halfway through our TransFive 5-Day No Sugar Challenge! You’re almost there, and we are so proud of you! In the challenge, we are reviving our body, mind and spirit by eliminating sugar! The eBook includes a meal plan, recipes, tips, a getting started guide, daily inspiration and more! It’s not too late to join the challenge! Download our FREE eBook below!

As we know, eating refined and processed sugar can have a negative impact on your health! As we reach the halfway point of our TransFive No Sugar Challenge this week, you may be starting to crave sugar and being tempted to reach for that pack of candy! Be STRONG! Here are three tips to satisfy your sweet tooth and curb those sugar cravings this week!

1. Brush your teeth

   Brushing your teeth can help stop those sugar cravings! Not only will you have fresh breath, but you won’t want to eat any sugar after brushing!

   2. Drink hot tea

   Drinking hot tea can not only help you curb your sugar cravings, but it can also help fill you up. If you’re reaching for sugar for a boost of energy, grab some green tea! You can also try mint tea, lemon balm tea or carob tea.

   3. Chew sugar-free gum

   Chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to stop those sugar cravings! Step out of your comfort zone, and break that habit! Instead of reaching for that piece of chocolate or sweet treat after dinner, pop in a piece of sugar free gum!

   4. Reach for fruit

   Grab some fruit when you are tempted by sugar cravings! Sugar is a source of natural sugar and will keep you from reaching for processed sugar while also giving your great fiber and nutrients. You can eat raw fruits, put fruits in your morning smoothie or infuse your water by adding a few berries to stop cravings!

   We have great smoothie recipes in our TransFive No Sugar Challenge eBook! It’s not too late to join us! Download it HERE.

   5. Go for a walk

   When you start craving sugar, go for a walk around the neighborhood or get a change of scenery to keep your mind off the sugar that you are craving. Not only will this curb your sugar craving, but it will help you reach your daily goal of exercise! It’s a win-win!

You can do this! You’ve already made it halfway through the challenge, and we are so proud of you! Please reach out to us to tell us how you are doing with the challenge at transfitathens@gmail.com and use the hashtag #TransFit5 on social media!

If you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment with one of our registered dietitians, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. You can also sign up for sessions on our app HERE and our website HERE!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Your 5 Day Plan to Transform Your Nutrition!

Sweet friends,

What an amazing month celebrating strength in September! We’re gearing up for our last full week of the month, and our team would like to challenge you to strengthen your nutrition!

Nope, we’re not talking about bicep curls using cans of black beans (although we should try that!) We’re talking about committing to better nutrition just as we commit to our workouts!

So, what exactly are we committing to? Five consecutive days of no sugar! That’s not even a full week — just five days!

As your personal trainers and nutritionists, we know the effort you put into each workout! We see the sweat and the hard work you put into every single rep. We want you to feel just as good on the inside!

For this 5-day challenge, we encourage you to reach for clean, unprocessed foods, and carefully choose wholesome foods that will fuel your body without any added sugars!

Of course, you can eat fruit or foods that naturally contain sugar. But for five days, avoid processed foods that contain any form of sugar in its ingredients!

If you’re already wondering how you can manage this or you’re feeling like this is way out of your comfort zone, remember — it wouldn’t be a “challenge” if it didn’t challenge you!

Let’s remember the second part of our September theme: Stronger Together! So ladies, remember that we’re taking this challenge with you! We’re right alongside of you, cheering for you as always!

The first thing we want you to do is pick up your phone and text or email a friend, family member or one of us at TransFit. Let someone know that you’re taking the challenge for extra accountability! We believe in you and know that accountability is KEY!

5-Day Challenge Steps to Success

1. Clean out.

Take a few minutes over the weekend to clean out your pantry and fridge. Get rid of any foods that might be a temptation. 

2. Plan.

It’s hard to be successful without a plan, and we made it easy for you — follow this link to download our 5-day challenge meal plan. Every meal, including snacks, are already planned for you! The dinners are quick and family-friendly. Simply print it out and keep it posted on your fridge! Extra accountability, right?

3. Prepare.

We made this step easy for you, too! Along with your meal plan, we’ve included a grocery shopping list! Once your shopping is done, take a few minutes on Sunday to wash and cut up any produce you’ll need for snacks and salads. You can also prepare a few salads so they’re ready to grab and go!

Adjust your meal plan to fit your family’s activity schedule. We understand that fall schedules are full of sports and other after-school activities. If you know that a particular night is super late, plan accordingly by preparing your salad or meal in a to-go container so you avoid a late-night drive thru. You can also pack a cooler of healthy snack options!

4. Keep moving.

Stay on track with your exercise goals during the challenge! If you feel hungry between meal times, take a short walk to get your mind off food. Most likely, you’ll forget about being hungry and you’ll gain some extra steps. 

5. Stay hydrated.

Keep a water bottle with you at all times! Drink at least 1 cup of water as soon as you wake. And drink 1-2 glasses of water before meals to help keep you feeling full. Your goal during the challenge is 100 ounces of water each day! If 100 sounds like a lot, break it into smaller water goals — 25 ounces before 10:00 am and at least 50 ounces before lunch.

Don’t forget about our lunch and learn/service project coming up this week on Wednesday, September 26 from 12-1! We can’t wait to SERVE with you!

We believe in YOU! And we are so proud of you for working hard during September! Let’s take this 5-day challenge, one day at a time — and remember, we’re stronger together!

If you have any questions about this challenge or want to set up an appointment with one of our nutritionists, feel free to email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We can’t wait to be #StrongerTogether!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Tap Into Your Inner Strengths! 👊🏼

Sweet friends,

For the last six weeks, we have welcomed 4th through 8th grade girls into our studio on Wednesday evenings. These girls have absolutely FILLED the studio with energy, enthusiasm and positivity, and we have loved having them come exercise with us each week. It is so important for girls to learn to love exercise and their bodies from a young age. Our personal trainer, Mallory Gilliam, has lead this group of girls and has each week picked a different topic for them to focus on. The girls have set goals for themselves, talked about what makes them EXCITED about their life, and the power of strength in their daily lives. These messages are not only important for these middle school girls, but for ALL of us, regardless of age, and we just wanted to share these messages with you!

Strength is a beautiful gift that takes many forms. There are four categories of strength that we focus on at TransFit:

Mental strength

Physical strength

Emotional strength

Spiritual strength

Within each of these groups, we all have certain strengths that are unique to each one of us, and when we tap into these God-given strengths, we find purpose and passion that allows us to live fully.

Our spiritual beliefs are most likely to determine our mental and emotional strengths. Believing that we are strong, capable, and confident allows us to build our physical strength. Building our physical strength further enhances our mental and emotional strength. Each component is connected. Therefore, we must focus on improving each one. There are multiple ways to do this. To name a few, we can practice positive self-talk, exercise regularly, and spend daily time in prayer.

Positive affirmations focus on the things that we love about ourselves.  When we are focusing on such things, we become more confident are assured of our abilities, which lead us to take action.  Taking action on our physical health leads to other benefits beyond strengthening our bodies.  According to the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, resistance training reduces anxiety, may help treat depression, and improves overall self esteem. When these mental and emotional aspects are improved, we are bound to experience more joy, peace, and gratitude throughout our days. Our minds, bodies, and spirits are interconnected. We have the ability to use our bodies to treat our minds and vice-versa.

When working with the TransFit Girls, we focus on the truth that our thoughts determine our actions.  This one truth brings together all four components of transformed strength. What we believe is what we become, and one of the best things that we can do for ourselves is to fill our minds with the truth that Isaiah 40:21-28 provides – God will strengthen us even when we feel that we have no strength left. Know that you are strong and that you have multiple gifts and abilities that are unique to you. Use your strengths to live a life full of purpose, and keep transforming one moment at a time.

We are excited to encourage ALL women that walk through the doors of TransFit to be STRONG in their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual strength!

Join us this September for our Lunch and Learn service project with Action Ministries. We will be putting together hygiene kits and snack bags for the homeless and impoverished in our Athens community. We will be assembling these bags on Wednesday, September 26 from 12-1 at the TransFit studio and delivering the bags Friday, September 28! We can’t wait to serve with you!

If you would like to join us, please sign up on our TransFit App HERE under “Special Events”. If you can’t join us at the event, you can also drop off your donations at the TransFit studio.

Items We Need:

Hygiene Kits:

• Toothbrushes/toothpaste

• Shampoo/conditioner

• Baby wipes

• Socks

• Soap

• Lotion

• Deodorant

Snack Bags:

• Granola bars

• Apples

• Other types of snacks that can be easily eaten on the go

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We are so thrilled to continue encourage and inspire you this month! We are #StrongerTogether! Please let us know how we can help you reach your goals and dreams this month!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Our Client Spotlight Inspiration of STRENGTH This September!

Sweet friend,

We loved encouraging you this week as we celebrated National Day of Encouragement! We have challenged each of you to get active for 30 minutes a day and incorporate strength training at least 3 times a week! We know that you can do it because we know we are #StrongerTogether. Remember, the winner of the challenge will be entered into a raffle to win a MONTH of FREE sessions!

Y’all, our incredible September client spotlight will encourage you that YOU CAN do anything you put your heart, mind, and soul into! Believe it, achieve it, and never give up! This beautiful friend, Lynn Robinson, exudes strength in so many areas of her life, and we are all blessed by her presence. Lynn is consistent, dedicated, hard-working, focused and does it all with a smile! We are so proud of her! I hope you get to spend time with this amazing woman. Thank you, Lynn, for living transformed and being an inspiration to us all!

Lynn’s Transformation Story:

“Thirty years ago, my husband and I were delighted at the birth of our second child, a beautiful baby boy. As any newborn does, he became the center of focus in our household; his older sister, who was then 7, loved him dearly, as we all did. But, there was a problem looming. I didn’t bounce back from his birth as quickly as I did with my first child, I couldn’t lose the baby weight, and I had to return to work. I felt overwhelmed with guilt and concern that I couldn’t properly parent my children; in fact, I was certain that I was a poor excuse of a person. Yes, I had developed a classic case of postpartum depression. In those days, there were few treatment options. My husband suggested that I consider joining a gym, which I thought was crazy; how could I work full time, care for our children and all the other “things” that seemed so important? Yet, that’s exactly what I did – I joined a gym, and I’ve been in a gym, for the most part, all those thirty plus years.  The exercise program, coupled with counseling, enabled me to recover from the depression I experienced. 

In exercise, I discovered that regular, challenging workouts gave me new energy and focus, improved my physical as well as mental health, and enabled me to whittle off those extra pounds I carried. Through the years, I‘ve exercised at many gyms, participating in cardio classes like step, dance aerobics, HIIT, spin, etc. I’ve taken numerous strength and conditioning classes, like FIRE, Pilates, and PUMP. I’ve worked with weights, bars and all kinds of machines. I even spent 5 or 6 years in a CrossFit gym, primarily with a personal trainer. While there, I set a goal to complete a pull up before my 60th birthday, and, to my surprise, I accomplished that. But, again, there was a problem looming. The aging process crept in, and I suffered a torn labrum in my left shoulder. Despite surgery, physical therapy and a long recovery, the shoulder still challenges me, and continually reminds me that there are limits to what I can, and should do. I was quite discouraged about my exercise program (or lack of one I considered meaningful), when my daughter suggested I try a class at her new gym, TransFit. 

TransFit was totally unlike any other gym to me. First, the décor is brimming with encouraging phrases and Bible verses of affirmation; the business model based on the scripture from Romans 12:2 is motivational in itself, but it’s linked to the development of our whole selves, with particular focus on building our bodies, which are “Temples of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19). I love that each exercise session ends with praise and thanks for God’s grace and blessings in our lives. I’ve learned a great deal about food and nutrition since joining TransFit. The frequent reminders to drink 80 ounces of water daily, read food labels, avoid added sugars, eat the right amounts of healthy protein and fats, along with questions like “what did you eat for breakfast” and “what’s your goal for today” prompt me to focus on the “little” dietary improvements I can make to achieve the larger goals of living healthfully. Initially, I was impressed that all the instructors remembered my name, (and I still am impressed with that!), but I marvel that they remember the aches, pains, and limitations I had last week and inquire about them next time I’m at the gym. And, to receive text/email reminders/affirmations from them is such a blessing. The workout sessions are always challenging, but the Instructors are helpful with modifications, when they see a need. If I leave the gym ‘glistening’ with sweat, I feel a sense of accomplishment. 

So, with this welcoming and nurturing environment, I enrolled in TransFit classes and primarily now attend the Small Group Personal Training sessions, with a goal of attending at least three days each week. There’s a wonderful camaraderie among the women in that group that inspires me to achieve greater discipline in my life. Since I usually purchase the 30-day all access pass, I also participate in HIIT and/or Yoga classes. I do cardio work three to four times per week on the treadmill, row machine, or elliptical. In cool weather, I enjoy power walks through our quite hilly neighborhood. Generally I allow myself two days per week “off” from an organized approach to exercise.

I have been truly blessed to access the TransFit experience, where participants are encouraged to strengthen themselves physically, for sure, but our health is also addressed in spiritual, mental, nutritional, and social ways as well.”

Lynn, we are so grateful for your story and incredibly proud of your transformation. We are thankful to join alongside you! We hope you feel so encouraged after reading her story.

Here is one of Lynn’s favorite recipes! It’s the TransFormer Pear and Spinach salad. Try it at home this week with your family!

TransFormer Pear and Spinach Salad

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Salad

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted

• 1 cup pomegranate arils

• 4 oz feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries

• 2 Bartlett pears (firm but ripe), cored and sliced

• 1 avocado, peeled and sliced tossed in lemon juice

• 9-12 oz baby spinach

Dressing

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 5 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp honey

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• Place all dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake well or blend.

• Place all salad ingredients in a large salad bowl, drizzle with desired amount of dressing, then toss to evenly coat.

• Serve immediately

If you would like to meet with any of our trainers, nutritionist or registered dietitian, you can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. Let us know how we can help you be STRONG and live transformed!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

5 New Exercises You Need To Tone Your Glutes! 🔥

Sweet friends,

We are so proud of you for starting September STRONG! As we work towards Strength in September in all areas of our lives, here are 5 new exercises to tone and strengthen your glutes! Of course we all want our glutes, hips, and legs to look tight, toned, strong and lifted... but there are so many other great benefits to a strong and healthy lower body!

Strengthening your “gluteus maximus” (also known collectively with the gluteus medius and minimus, as the gluteal muscles,) is the main extensor muscle of the hip and can help improve your posture, help you lose unwanted body fat, as well as improve your athletic performance. “Buns of Steel” can also help get rid of that pesky lower back, hip and knee pain! These back side muscles help support the lower back and are a hip stabilizer, so the stronger your glutes are, the less other muscles have to help them do their job!

Strengthening the glutes can also help increase bone density. As we get older, our bone density begins to decrease. Exercises that place stress on the lower body such as lower-body weight training, running and yoga can postpone and reverse age-related bone density loss.

Here are 5 new exercises you should try today to tone and strengthen those glute muscles! Let’s strengthen our whole bodies so that we can love and serve our families, friends, and this community well, friends. Living transformed means taking ACTION on with your health!

Squat + Side Leg Lift

Deadlift + Leg Lift Back

Glute Bridge + Band

Clamshell + Band

Step Ups + Knee Up

If you need more tips and guidance on toning and strengthening your glutes or need coaching on walking, jogging, or running, join TransFit Trainer and Running Coach, Lisa Patton, this Wednesday at 8:20 a.m. for our NEW TransFit Outdoor Runners Workout!

TransFit Outdoor Runners Workout is a 55-minute session that includes essential dynamic warmup sequences, running form drills, strength exercises for runners, a heart-pumping outdoor workout, and an inspirational cool down and post-run stretches. The full body TransFit Outdoor Runner's Workout is an amazing opportunity for woman of all fitness levels to transform through running!

Join us this month for a Bible Study on Thursdays from 12-1 starting THIS Thursday, September 13th at the TransFit studio! The study will be lead by our Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach, Pam Adams! Pam will be leading us through the Live Transformed Bible Study, which will guide us through God's Word and teach us how to live transformed! You can sign up on our website HERE or on the TransFit App HERE!

For our September Lunch and Learn, we will be partnering with Action Ministries for a service project! The goal of the service project is to serve the Athens community by providing lunches and hygiene kits to the homeless and impoverished. We will be assembling these kits on Wednesday, September 26 from 12-1 and delivering the lunches and kits on Friday, September 28! You can sign up on our TransFit app HERE under "Special Events"! Come join us! We can't wait to SERVE with you!

If you cannot make it on the service projects dates, you can still help by donating items to make these kits. You can drop off any items by the TransFit studio between now and September 26!

Items We Need:

Hygiene Kits

• Toothbrushes/toothpaste

• Shampoo/conditioner

• Baby wipes

• Socks

• Soap

• Lotion

• Deodorant

Snack Bags

• Granola bars

• Apples

• Other types of snacks that can be easily eaten on the go

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We are so thrilled to encourage and inspire you this month! We are #StrongerTogether!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Drum Roll Please... Our August Challenge Winner!

Sweet friends,

It has been such a great month in the studio! It was amazing to watch everyone COMMIT to their health in August, and we saw so many inspiring results! Wow! Everyone worked so hard and really gave it their all and were COMMITTED to living transformed! In August, we challenged you to drink 80 oz. of water per day and be ACTIVE for at least 30 minutes every day! Now, we are excited to announce our WINNER!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE....

Our August Commit Challenge Winner is...

PAIGE COLQUITT!

Congratulations, Paige!

Paige really challenged herself in August and committed to living transformed every single day! She completed the water and exercise calendar every day in August! You are such an inspiration to all of us, Paige!

"The water challenge this month helped me immensely in getting my daily water intake of 80 ounces. Every day was not perfect, but every time I felt hungry, I drank more water... And it helped to curb my appetite! I absolutely love to exercise! I honestly wish I could take a TransFit class every day, but since I can’t, I substitute swimming and running on my other days. Getting exercise done first thing in the morning gets me up and moving and makes me feel ready to tackle the day."

Our amazing client, Judy Talton!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our August Commit Challenge! Don't worry if you missed it, we just started our September Strength Challenge! This month, we are challenging you to be ACTIVE for 30 minutes every day and to incorporate strength training into your exercise routine at least 3x per week! We know that a challenge like this can bring AMAZING results, and we are excited to encourage you all month long! Make sure to submit your calendar at the end of the month for a chance to win an ALL-ACCESS PASS FOR A MONTH OF FREE SESSIONS!

Click our September calendar below to download it and start filling it out for this month's challenge!

In case you missed Saturday's e-mail, we have a lot of exciting news at TransFit this month! Join us for a new Bible Study, Lunch and Learn Service Project and New Sessions! Links to sign up are below!

Sign up for our September Service Project/Lunch and Learn on our app under "Special Events"! We can't wait to serve the community together! The link to our app is HERE!

Sign up for our Thursday Bible Study, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 4:15 sessions and Saturday sessions on our website HERE or on our app HERE! We can't wait to see you in the studio to help you reach your goals this month!

If you would like to meet with one of our Trainers or Nutritionists to help you set and renew your goals please email us! #strongertogether

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Stronger Together! Don't Miss This Exciting TransFit News!

Sweet friends,

Happy September! We can't believe that September is here already! Let's start the month STRONG and work to transform our body, mind and spirit! We can do this TOGETHER with dedication, encouragement and the guidance of HIS love! We have so many exciting, new things happening in the studio this month! Come join us!

In September, we are focusing on STRENGTH and being ACTIVE EVERY DAY! We challenge you to be active for at least 30 minutes each day and incorporate STRENGTH TRAINING at least three times a week! Stay active by taking a walk around the block, going for a jog (try our new track workout) or hike with your family, going to yoga, coming into the TransFit studio for a session! Just make sure that you are getting strength training in at least three days a week (30 minutes is a goal) and staying active on a daily basis! 

Click the calendar below to download the September Strength Challenge to help keep track of your exercise and progress! Fill in each day with your activity and then e-mail it to us at the end of the month for a chance to win a month of FREE sessions!

We thrilled about our September Service Project! Let's be stronger together and change this community! We can do it ladies! 

For our September Lunch and Learn, we will be partnering with Action Ministries for a service project. The goal of the service project is to serve the Athens community by providing lunches and hygiene kits to the homeless and impoverished. We will be assembling these kits on Wednesday, September 26 from 12-1 and delivering the lunches and kits on Friday, September 28! Come join us! We can't wait to SERVE with YOU!

To assemble these kits, we need your help bringing in supplies. Feel free to use this list as a guide!

Items We Need:

Hygiene Kits

• Toothbrushes/toothpaste
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Baby wipes
• Socks
• Soap
• Lotion
• Deodorant

Snack Bags

• Granola bars
• Applies
• Other types of snacks that can be easily eaten on the go

This month, we are so excited to welcome a new face to our TransFit team! Pam Adams has joined our TransFit family as the Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach. Sweet Pam will be leading weekly bible studies, prayer time and coordinating outreach for us in the community. She is such an inspiration and devoted friend to so many women, and we are so excited to have her with us!

Pam will be leading a NEW Bible Study on Thursdays this September starting September 13 from 12-1pm at the TransFit studio. The study will go through the Live Transformed Bible Study to guide us through God's Word and teach us how to transform!

Email Pam if you have any questions or prayer requests at pam@transfitathens.com.

We also have NEW session times available at the studio this month. Our 4:30 sessions on Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays will be moving to 4:15 this month. Come take a TransFormer class with our Personal Trainer, Mallory Gilliam to end your days STRONG! 

We are also offering TWO Saturday sessions! We have classes at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Saturday mornings, so that you can begin your weekend transformed! Come get moving and get your daily exercise in with a session with one of our trainers!

View our class schedule HERE on the website or click HERE to sign up for a session on our TransFit Athens App! We can't wait to see you in the studio soon to start September with STRENGTH!

It has been a FULL month at the studio with our middle school girls! We welcomed 4th through 8th graders into the studio, and it has been such a blessing! Our trainer, Mallory Gilliam has been working with the girls on seeing their lives as the true gift that they are and knowing that their beauty is rooted in Christ! Each Wednesday night, the girls are such a light in our studio!

Make sure you sign your middle schooler for the next session starting in September! You can register your child on our website HERE or on our TransFit App HERE! We can't wait to see your girls again in the studio!

Let's start September with good nutrition to help our strength this month! Our Director of Nutrition, Katie Woodall shared this recipe for Oven Baked Fajitas that you can try with the whole family!

Oven Baked Fajitas

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pound chicken breast or cutlets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Taco seasoning (no msg)
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. salt

Directions

• Combine seasonings and set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, cut chicken into slices, then add sliced veggies.
• Add seasonings
• Stir well until the chicken and veggies are evenly coated with seasonings.
• Spray a 9 x 13 inch pan with cooking spray and add chicken and veggies.
• Pour chicken broth over the top.
• Bake at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes.
• Serve in corn or whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps with all your favorite fixings like rice, black beans, shredded cheese, salsa and avocado slices!

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We are so thrilled to encourage and inspire you this month! 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Meet Our Newest Inspirational TransFit Team Member

Amazing friends,

We are so excited to welcome Pam Adams to our TransFit Leadership Team to help serve and lead our community of women in transforming lives! Pam has been a godly mentor and life coach to many women and we are grateful to add her to our staff to help encourage you!

Pam will be serving as our Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach and will be leading weekly bible studies, prayer time and coordinating outreach in the community for TransFit. We are excited to share these new opportunities for your to deepen your whole body health transformation in September! Remember that nothing happens in isolation. Everything is connected. Your body, your mind, and your spirit! Pam has such an amazing story, and we know that she will be such a light in the TransFit studio!

Learn more about Pam HERE!

"About five years ago, I was at a transitional point in my life (about to be an empty nester) and desired to take better care of my physical health. I asked around for recommendations for personal trainers and a friend suggested TransFit.  I knew as soon as I checked out the website and Caroline’s biography, that this would be the place for me. I saw that she had been a competitive UGA gymnast and the sport was a passion of mine when I was younger, though in no way was I even near her level! What I didn’t know, was the extent to which I would be blessed once I stepped into the studio. I got way more than a personal trainer! I gained a dear friend and sister in Christ (although I also like to think of her as my real, much younger little sister that I never had). Caroline’s philosophy extends beyond the physical. She knows and tells her clients often through words and the way she lives her life, that the mind, body, and spirit are connected, and all are important to living life to the fullest. TransFit is where we can connect all these facets of life! 

I have been married to a wonderful man, Mark, since 1984. We met at the University of Georgia and married a couple of months after graduation. I taught school for the first five years of marriage, but soon life got busy with Mark’s career which included many moves around the country as well as an international move to Chili, and raising our three boys. During these years, I invested most of my time in women’s ministries, serving on leadership teams, having some of the most amazing spiritual mentors. Some of these women have had such a great effect on my life that they will always be part of my story. When we moved to Athens about 13 years ago, I began working in college ministry at the church we attend, mostly with college women. It’s been a great joy to serve these students. Now, with my last college group having just graduated, I have decided to transition and join TransFit as the Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach, where I will get to serve clients and the community alongside this incredible team. I have a passion for the Word of God and my desire is to help women be spiritually transformed as instructed by Paul in Romans 12:2.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

My role as Director of Spiritual Development and Outreach will be to help women grow in their faith through offerings of Bible studies, meeting with those that desire guidance and prayer, leading service projects to give back to the community, and various other events and activities that promote spiritual health. I am really excited about this opportunity and look forward with expectant joy to serving and seeing what the Lord has for the women of TransFit."

Please give Pam a warm TransFit family welcome! Our Bible Study will start Thursday September 13th 12-1 pm in the studio. 

 We are here to serve you and help you transform in body, mind and spirit. Please email us any prayer requests or if you would like to set up a 1-1 with any of our TransFit staff. 

Get ready for more exciting September news coming soon!

Love and Blessings,

Team TransFit

How Can You Finish August STRONG and COMMITTED?

Sweet friends,

Can you believe the month of August is almost over? We are so excited to energize and inspire you this week! Let's finish the month strong and stay COMMITTED to our goals and dreams!

Remember our great COMMIT acronym to help you finish strong this month! 

C- CONFIDENCE- "You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you." Song of Solomon 4:7

O- OBEDIENCE- "He replied, 'Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.'" Luke 11:28

M- MOTIVATION- "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." Colossians 3:23

M- MINDFULNESS-  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillippians 4:6-7

I- INTENTIONAL-  "Commit to the Lord, whatever you do, and He will establish your plans." Proverbs 16:3

T- TRANSFORM- "Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

Here is what is true: you are strong, you are confident, you are enough just as you are, and you are a beloved daughter of the King. Renewing your mind is a minute by minute decision to think thoughts that are true about the person you really are!

Believe it beautiful friend, and transform your life by taking action on your goals and dreams and LIVE transformed by His amazing love for you. 

Commitment is an ACT, not a word! You can determine the person you want to be! Take action each minute this last week in August! Commit to being all in TODAY!

Be inspired by our August client spotlights Erika and Marren! 

This month, we focused on staying COMMITTED to being ACTIVE EVERY DAY! Stay strong in the last week of the month, and go on a nice walk around the neighborhood, a hike with the family, swimming with your kids, coming into the studio for a session or stretching! Just make sure that you are moving for at least 30 MINUTES each day!

We also focused on staying hydrated and drinking at least 80 oz of water each day! Please turn in your calendar at the end of the month to be entered in to win your FREE MONTH of sessions! 

This month, we also COMMITTED to transforming our health and our nutrition! Though preparing healthy, wholesome dinners can be challenging during the busy week, we want to serve you with this meal plan to make it a bit easier! Our nutrition consultant, Katie Woodall, and dietitian, Kaeti Shurling, shared this plan to help! Let's finish out the final week of August strong and try some of these healthy recipes that your entire family can enjoy!

Click HERE to access our FREE recipes and meal plans!

Ladies, make sure to sign up for sessions in advance, so that we know you are coming and can plan for you! Don't forget about our new sessions and we have some exciting events and news transpiring in September so get ready!

You can sign up on the app HERE!

If you have any questions, please email us at transfitathens@gmail.com. We are so thrilled to encourage and inspire you this week! 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

High-Protein Salad You NEED To Try!

Sweet friends,

We can't believe August is almost over! This month, we focused on COMMITTING, whether in our exercise, our nutrition or our spiritual journey. It's been a great month at the studio and we want to encourage you to finish the month STRONG and COMMITTED to our goals and dreams!

REMINDER: Our challenge this week is to incorporate high protein snacks in our daily nutrition plan!

Here are some great suggestions of snacks that you can take with you on the go in your busy schedule this week!

Here is a salad full of protein you can try at home this week with your family to stay committed to your nutrition!

Southwestern Salad

Ingredients

• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt
• 2 scallions, chopped (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, quartered
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup black beans, canned (rinsed) or cooked
• 1/2 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen 
• 1/2 cup grape tomatoes
• 1/4 cup edamame

Instructions

1. Place avocado, cilantro, yogurt, scallions, garlic, lime juice, oil, and salt in a blender; blend until smooth.

2. Place greens in an individual salad bowl; toss with 2 tablespoons of the dressing. (Refrigerate the remaining dressing.) Top the greens with black beans, corn, edamame and tomatoes. Sprinkle with a touch of Mexican cheese! 

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Are you ready for a Nutrition Challenge You CAN do this week?

Good morning, sweet friends,

 Today is the day! You are ready for a new nutrition challenge! This month, we are focusing on COMMITTING each day to our whole body health plan! Let's focus this week how we can commit to our health by making some changes with our nutrition! 

YOUR CHALLENGE THIS WEEK: ADD IN HIGH QUALITY PROTEIN SNACKS!

One new way you could COMMIT this week is to increase the amount of high-quality protein that you include in your daily nutrition plan! Protein is an essential food for repairing muscle tissue and keeping you feeling full longer. Replace processed foods with quality protein and you will feel the difference. A great way to incorporate this essential protein in your diet is to include it in the snacks that you eat throughout the day! High protein snacks (15-20  grams) should be consumed 30-45 minutes after workouts for maximum muscle building and repair benefits. They can also be consumed as a snack throughout the day to fight cravings and to help manage weight. Below are some suggestions of snacks that you can take on the go during your busy schedule. COMMIT to incorporating a few of these snacks in your diet this week!

Here are some of our dietitian, Kaeti Shurling's favorites:

• 1/4 cup of nuts (cashews are a great option!)
• 1/2 cup of trail mix
• 1 cheese stick
• 4 oz of low fat cottage cheese
• 1 hard boiled egg
• 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt with slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup of cooked Edamame
• Koia drinks
• 1/2 cup of chickpeas
• 1/2 cup of black beans
• 3 oz of tuna
• Kind Bars (under 5 grams of sugar)
• 2 tbsp of peanut butter
• Turkey roll-ups
• Rice cake layered with nut butter and chopped walnuts

Here is a homemade protein bar that you can make this week and also store to take with you on the go!

Homemade Protein Bar (Approximately 180-220 calories, 15-20g protein)

Ingredients:

• 2 & 1/2 cups whole grain oats
• 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 4 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Line a 8x8 dish with wax paper

2. Mix all ingredients by hand

3. Press mixture down into dish, using a spatula to flatten

4. Freeze for 30 minutes. Cut into six or eight bars. Refrigerate. Enjoy!

Try out these great high protein snacks and COMMIT to your healthy lifestyle with a delicious, higher protein nutrition plan!

High Protein Trail Mix

• 1 cup lightly salted almonds
• 1 cup lightly salted walnuts
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 cup dried cranberries or blueberries
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (leave chocolate chips out if you will be outdoors) 
• 1 tsp. sea salt
• 1 tsp. cinnamon

**For nut allergies, replace the almonds and walnuts with pumpkin seeds & sunflower seeds!

You can always toast the nuts in the oven at 450 degrees for 3-5 minutes first to bring out a rich flavor then toss with favorite mix-ins.

Let the family measure and mix and have fun playing with your favorite combinations. Place 1/4 cup into snack bags and keep in your snack basket! 

We are excited to see you this week to help you reach your goals!

Blessings,

Team TransFit

Our Inspiration of COMMITMENT This August!

Sweet friend, 

It has been a wonderful month at the studio. School is back in full swing and you are ready to set new goals! We love seeing you all back with smiles ready to COMMIT this August! We have challenged each of you to get active for 30 minutes a day and drink at least 80 oz. of water! We believe in you and know you can do it. The winner of the challenge will be entered into a raffle for a MONTH of FREE sessions!

Today, we have the privilege of sharing an amazing client spotlight with you. Erika and Marren are our August client spotlights! These two ladies have been so dedicated and focused on making small changes daily which have led to amazing BIG results! Erika and Marren inspired our theme of COMMIT this month, as that is the word to define their transformation stories. We are so proud of this incredible mother daughter duo and are excited for you to read about their journey! 

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Erika's Transformation Story: 

"I started at TransFit two years ago as I wanted to get physically stronger/healthier, wanted to be a positive example to my kids and wanted to get rid of the flappy “bat wings” on my arms. I knew Caroline from church and knew several people that had only positive things to say about working out with the TransFit team. While I had enjoyed serious hikes and backpacking in my twenties, and even became a pretend runner for a short while and ran a couple marathons (bonus – if you are one of the slowest runners, they let your husband ride his bike beside you to sing songs and scout out bathrooms!), my workout efforts for the past 20 years have been totally sporadic. I needed a way to view exercise differently and have been SO thankful for the TransFit approach of focusing not only on our bodies but our minds and spirits as well. Remembering to see this as a form of worship makes all the difference! And this is why I felt confident in having Marren get involved at TransFit – I knew it would be a safe and helpful place for a teenage girl to learn about long-term health and what that really means.

Last year, Marren joined me in the weekly yoga sessions at TransFit and it was great for us physically, but also a great bonding time. So much so that when we were planning a 6-week, 10K mile family road trip for this summer, Marren and I knew we wanted to focus on staying healthy with our eating and workouts. We talked about the best way to do this and we came up with bracelets to wear each day as reminders and Marren came up with the word “Commit” so we had them made and wore them each day – we still do. What a totally different road trip from the previous ones! Our normal “car foods” were changed – instead of chips, special cookies, and marshmallow trail mix, we had apples and bananas. We made an effort to hike more and work out at hotel fitness centers, and we did squats or some kind of exercise at every gas station stop.  Sometimes other travelers joined us! My big feat – I only had one bag of Cheetos during the entire trip. Total record for me!  But while on the trip, we also knew we wanted to start the Fall with stronger bodies and committed schedules for working out so we set up personal training sessions 3x per week for 5 weeks in July/Aug for a jump start. It was awesome and we are geared up for an exciting year!

I enjoy seeing my body take shape in ways I’ve never known in my life and the feeling of satisfaction after a tough workout. It makes me so thankful to have a body that can work out like this – even though I’m not the fastest, strongest and far from the most coordinated – God has given me a strong body and the TransFit team reminds us to be grateful and not compare.  And I SO enjoy seeing the other women at TransFit who inspire me each and every session. They amaze and encourage me in great ways they don’t even realize! 

Most challenging is making sure I’ve had enough water to drink as I can tell that makes a huge difference in my exercising success. I am one of those people that is never thirsty, I don’t drink with meals and drinking my daily water takes planning and effort. Lame but true. I have implemented several “tricks” to make it easier – I fill the bottles at night so they are room temp in the AM (I don’t like it cold), I number my water bottles so I can feel a sense of accomplishment as I complete them, and I will sometimes cut up strawberries to flavor them. I am so bad at drinking water that I added it as a “daily chore“ for my kids from the time they were little and it has worked – they both drink tons of water each day since it is now a habit. 

I’m excited for our new routine which is 2 small group sessions and 1 yoga session per week at TransFit and then walking or playing badminton at home for 30 minutes on the other days. We also plan on adding in weights and bands for home use. Having a workout warrior buddy living in the same house with me keeps me accountable and encouraged as I don’t have to do this alone!

Both of my kids have vastly different, but very strict food restrictions and diets. It is God’s sense of humor that someone like me – who likes protein bars, cheese hot dogs, Spaghettios from the can, and anything packaged that can be microwaved/not cooked – has kids that require “real” food to be top-of-mind every moment of every day. But what an incredible blessing that both of them have healthy brains and bodies greatly based on the food that goes in them. The fact that they both manage their own diets, know what they can/can’t eat and know the science behind their diets is great, but they also don’t complain. Our big saying is “it’s just food” and we take our own everywhere. It doesn’t have to match what everyone else is having. That they can manage their health in this positive way will help them for life and I’m thankful my husband and I were able to help guide this – with a ton of support from professionals and prayer warriors. Additionally, my kids having their “own faith” was our number one goal for their lives and we’ve been so thankful to see that happen. 

The main goal is to keep up the sustained level of working out 3x a week at TransFit and then at home as well. We are scheduling for the full month so I don’t inadvertently double book any meetings or activities during those times. We see this as a top commitment and my goal is to treat it as such. 

I’m also continuing to work on my water intake. I think this one will have to remain on my goal list for a long, long time!

While I’m generally an energetic person, working out provides a more sustained level of energy throughout the day both mentally and physically. Also, I’m more “eager” to move big limbs in the yard or climb stairs in the house than I would have been before – just because I know I can. And it provides great time and memories with my daughter – from working out to planning our food to talking about the music or devotions we heard at TransFit that day!

And I have learned the wonders of having a baseball hat and clean t-shirt as quick changes when I must get to a meeting/event without having time to shower."

Erika's Favorite Recipe: Vega Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Snack Bar

Marren’s Transformation Story:

"I first started at TransFit last year by attending weekly yoga sessions with my mom. Those were great, and I had been doing a C25K program and some exercise at home as well. But 2 ½ months ago, I got serious about changing my habits. This summer, my family went on a 6-week cross-country trip, and I realized I wanted to have more consistent workouts when we returned so we scheduled personal training sessions to help jump-start the process. When we came back from the trip, I started going to TransFit with my amazing mom 3 times a week for 5 weeks straight and we worked out at home 3 other days of the week. It was exciting to see the changes!

Also, a few weeks before we left on our trip, I started working with Katie Shurling, the TransFit registered dietitian, who is awesome!  She has helped us SO MUCH with my PKU, which is a genetic metabolic disorder that essentially requires me to eat way less protein than most people. (I like to say I’m a mutant and I’m sure there has to be a superpower within me because of it!) This means no meat, no dairy, etc. so it is hard to ever feel really full and hard to find good food options. But Kaeti has given me so many yummy food choices that are healthy and low in protein and help fill me up. She also works with me on the MyFitnessPal app so I can track my protein and calories in one place, which is much easier.

I LOVE the way exercising makes me feel! When I am done working out, I (usually) feel invigorated and ready to take on the day. Exercising helps me feel less moody and just overall happier throughout the day. The most challenging part for me is actually doing a workout, whether that means going for a walk or coming to TransFit. Some days I just don’t feel like doing anything, but I am always rewarded afterward. 

I exercise about 6 days a week, with one day just of resting. At home, my mom and I usually go for a walk around the block or at OVP or we play badminton together. 

I have dyslexia and have had to work hard to learn the ways my brain functions. I’ve had eye patches that I despised, extra hours of studying, and many frustrating days, but now I LOVE to read and write and I am so thankful to everyone who helped me with this challenge. 

I am working on staying COMMITTED throughout the school year when working out is going to be harder to fit in my schedule. Also, I want to share my new love for working out with others and encourage them that exercising can be so much fun! I just bought a shirt that says “I don’t have to work out. I get to work out” and I fully believe that. 

Now that I have started working out and eating healthier, I feel so much better, physically and emotionally, and I have way more energy. I feel more alert and am excited to see what the day brings. I also feel good about myself and am thankful for the wonderful body God has given me."

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Erika and Marren, we are so incredibly proud of you and your transformation. We are thankful to join alongside both of you! We hope that you feel so encouraged after reading their stories! 

If you would like to meet with any of our trainers, nutritionist, or registered dietitian, you can email us at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! Let us know how we can help you COMMIT to living transformed! 

Blessings, 

Team TransFit