My PiYo Training Adventure

This past weekend I decided to do something that would take my totally outside of my comfort zone.  While it was a hard decision to make and execute, I’m so glad that I did it.  In my quest to become a better me and to help others, I decided a good method to accomplish my goal was to become certified to teach a fitness class.  I’m excited to state that I attended and completed PiYo training.

You’re thinking:  What is PiYo?  PiYo is all about strength training and core conditioning to increase core strength, flexibility, and stability.  It is a hybrid, athletic workout combining the mind/body practices of yoga and Pilates, as well as the principles of sports stretch, strength training, conditioning and dynamic movement.  It does not involve chanting, meditating, or spirituality.  When performed on a regular basis, it helps to increase strength, flexibility, and balance, while offering a way to reduce stress reduction and improves the overall fitness level of the individual.  PiYo is strength fusion.  And let me tell you:  THIS WORKOUT IS NO JOKE!

PiYo was created by Chalene Johnson and is distributed by Powder Blue Productions. To complete the training, I traveled to Charlotte, NC. The magnificent Meredith (Roy) Campbell was the Instructor.  Upon arrival, I got to meet her in person which was like meeting a celebrity since she’s in the Turbo Fire workouts.

At the beginning of class I was given a PiYo Training Manual, DVD/CD of one of the latest PiYo lessons, and lesson notes to use while teaching.  All of these items will help develop and bring out the instructor inside of me!  Hmm…definitely with more confidence and practice on my part.  We had a good balance of discussion and hands-on experience throughout the training.  The morning session ended with a lesson workshop (the lesson on the DVD we were given).  Even though the room was slightly chilly at this time, I was soaked and left plenty of sweat on my sticky mat.  In fact, I was still sore two days later.  I used muscles I didn’t even know I had.

After lunch, the discussion continued mainly focusing on form, technique, and teaching skills.  In small groups we completed a brief demonstration, and then it was test time.  The test consists of a practical exam and a written test.  I don’t find out my results for a few weeks but I’m confident with how I performed; even if I need improvement.  One item that was pointed out early in the day is that I have bad posture.  I hunch my shoulders forward.  Guess I should have listened to my mom all those years.  At least I know that is one thing that I need to focus on while practicing.

This being my first time attending a training of this type, I didn’t know what to expect.  The day played out different than I thought but I got so much out of it.  I’m thankful that I had the opportunity to attend and learn from one of the best.  Would I do it again?  Heck yeah!  Off to practice I go…next training, Turbo Kick!