Although Nia has been training and instructing group
exercise classes for over 10 years, this is actually her second career.
While working as a medical secretary she ballooned to 200 lbs and decided that she
needed a change. She dusted off her gym membership and got moving. Soon
after that, she decided that she wanted to teach classes and found her true
passion in instructing and training! Her claim to fame is training the
Season 4 winner of The Biggest Loser and afterwards being on the Tyra Banks
Show. Quite a long way from an overweight medical secretary!
How did you first hear about the TRX?
I read about the TRX in a Men’s Fitness magazine. I
read everything- you never know where you can learn a good training move.
I was impressed how it was invented. I stay on the cutting edge of what
is hot and what works and this piece of equipment looked SERIOUS.
What excited you most about the TRX?
What excited me the most about the TRX is the diverse ways
you can use it, how easy it is to transport, and the amazing results you get
from incorporating it into your workout schedule. I have recommended TRX
to a client who is a flight attendant. She travels a lot and doesn't
always stay in four-star hotels that are equipped with gyms.
How have you incorporated the TRX into your workout
routine/lifestyle?
I love to use the TRX to do squats and lunges. Thighs
are a weak spot for me, so I like to mix the TRX up with the Smith
Machine. On days when I just cannot get to the gym after clients, boot
camp and laundry, I just pull out the TRX and bang out a 30-minute workout that
leaves me aerobically challenged and my muscles thoroughly worked.
Where do you typically workout using your TRX?
My TRX workout happens in my basement where I can do my
workout in peace. When I'm upstairs my crazy dog Buddy gets in the way.
What are your fitness goals?
My fitness goal is to stay strong and flexible into my
senior years.
How do you stay motivated?
I am constantly educating myself on what is new. I buy
books and magazines, do lots of continuing education and consult with other
personal trainers. We can all learn from each other.
What does it mean to you to be fit and why do you think it
is important?
Being fit and strong is about having energy to get through a
busy day and accomplishing all tasks. Fitness is about being successful
and truly loving and living life to its FULLEST!
Anything else you would like to add?
I've been fit and I've been fat. Fit tastes much
better!
You can find Nia at www.vernonhillsbootcamp.com
or on Facebook (Nia Merced).