By Cameil Ross
We have all heard the many benefits of eating well and staying active: weight management, longevity, increased energy levels. The list goes on. As a certified fitness instructor, one of my goals is to make sure people have a little fun while working towards a more healthy lifestyle. When I posted on social media how I worked out in my heels, people commented that I should make it into a class. So I did. Enter Stiletto Sweat Session.
The 30-minute class is a mix of cardio, strength training and fun! We begin in our sneakers completing high energy cardio routines, then for the last 15 minutes, we strap on our stilettos, crank up the music and use our heels to strengthen our legs, butt and abs.
How does this classify as a workout? Well, the first half of the class is comprised of routines that include high knees, bur-pees, jumping jacks, and jump squats. All of which either will raise your heart rate and/or are plyometric moves that use your own body weight and gravity to make moving more difficult. The second half of the class (the heels portion) includes lots of squats, lunges, and even abdominal routines. Having heels of any height makes stability more challenging. If done correctly, having heels on while working out helps to zero in on the thighs and booty.
At the end of every session, I have the ladies dance however they want and let loose. No matter their size, height, or age, I want to make sure everyone leaves feeling sexy, confident and, most importantly, like they’ve had a good workout. Heels can give a sense of confidence and sexiness because they instantly adds some sass to your stride. When you add exercise to that, it can make us feel like we can do anything. (And let’s be honest. We begin to think about all the new things we can try during sexy time!) I often receive emails asking if men are welcomed and my response is always, “Everyone is welcomed, as long as you bring your heels!” As a queer woman of color, being inclusive is important to me.
My mission as a trainer has always been to demonstrate that you can be both fit and fabulous — inside and outside of the gym. I’ve started hosting events, like my Fitness Mix & Mingle at a local juice bar, that help to bring more and more people together to discuss fitness and living a healthier lifestyle while having a good time. And I encourage my clients to slip on their heels at home.
One of the things I like to do is clean the house while wearing heels; it’s a great workout! Try vacuuming or sweeping in your stilettos. You will be surprised by how many squats, dips, and lunges you do everyday without even noticing it. Also, try putting heels on while brushing your teeth and do squats for the duration of the time. Make sure your squats are wide and low — and that your bathroom floor isn’t slippery.
Give it a go. Pick out your favorite pair, have fun, and feel great!
Cameil Ross is a New York City-based certified fitness instructor and fashion enthusiast. She’s marrying fitness and fashion one squat (with heels on) at a time! Check out sealedclutch.com for more insight into her classes and upcoming events.
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