By: Alexa Shabinsky By: Alexa Shabinsky | February 8, 2022 | Lifestyle,
Deanndria Mujahid has been in the fitness industry for quite some time, but it wasn’t until she took her first-ever pilates mat class that she fell in love with the discipline. “I knew there was something to the method that I loved, both for my own body as a runner, and also for all clients regardless of fitness level,” she explained.
Mujahid founded Conscious Movement pilates studio almost 9 years ago and has since grown an amazing clientele and community in Coral Gables and beyond. Her pilates career began as an evening and weekend instructor during college, but once she realized the breath of fresh air that teaching provided her she took it full time. Mujahid expressed, “It was a one-woman show for a while, but has transitioned into a team of wonderful instructors over the years.”
As a mom of three and an entrepreneur, Mujahid has learned how to wear a lot of hats, which she described as, “never a dull moment.” Due to this, she has also explored many different fitness regimes that allow someone like her, who doesn’t have a lot of time in the day but still emphasizes getting their daily movement in.
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Many individuals in the fitness space always get asked to help people get started on a fitness journey, or for some sort of inspiration. When asking Mujahid the biggest piece of advice she would give someone who is looking to embark on a fitness journey she explained, “I truly believe that there is not a one size fits all approach to starting a fitness regime. Everyone is unique. But in general, I advise clients to just start, wherever they are, however they can.”
And sometimes starting small means a quick 15-minute workout or walk. She continued, “Setting super lofty goals that may not be feasible in this season can lead to disappointment. Start small, even if just for 15 minutes, and build from there. You can get a great workout in 15 minutes, which is why I started my YouTube Channel, to give 15 minute Pilates workouts for those at home. Exercise does not have to be complicated. Go for efficiency. It just comes down to making it a priority and doing what you can.”
With getting a kick start into the fitness space, Mujahid has broken down a go-to 15 minute workout, which is the perfect way to quickly get some movement in throughout the day.
Be prepared: have workout gear readily accessible at home in the same place, or if headed to the studio, be sure to have your clothes with you. One less excuse!
Take out the decision-making: Have a workout playlist ready to go to choose from that week, or sign up far in advance for your studio classes. This limits a mood-based decision.
Stay accountable: Find a friend to join you, or maybe share your goals with your favorite instructor to help motivate you. Placing your workouts in your calendar is also a way to make it a priority.
Be sure to check out Conscious Movement located at 4100 Salzedo Street to take your pilates experience to the next level.
Photography by: Courtesy Dane Wetton