A month ago I wrote a post about my Spring Fitness routine and why I focus on a “vision’’ versus a specific goal. Well, a month has passed and that vision is still going strong!
My dad is still running (trails) and I’m happy to be his sherpa sidekick. We’ve got a long way to go, but slow and steady is best to keep him (us) injury free.
My other vision had to do with teaching my strength and outdoor fitness classes. Now don’t get me wrong, I love playing drill sergeant and motivating my class to push harder (when needed), but that really isn’t my purpose or my “vision.”
As a fitness instructor, I want my class to LEARN! As a fitness instructor, I want to do more than just instruct, I want to continue to learn myself so that I can TEACH what is valuable and beneficial!
I want to teach them how to create their own workouts for strength, cardio, or for when they travel.
I want to teach them to embrace rest days and how to work balance into their strength training.
I want to teach them to LOVE burpees for it’s FULL BODY benefit. Yes, burpees are seriously the best move for you –> cardio and strength and core!
I want to teach them why we do funny looking exercises, like the ones that make you squat like a frog. And then everyone wonders…… what the heck does this work?
Side note: Froggy squat with extension is a GREAT move for hamstrings and inner thigh work. See video for full move!
Starting Froggy position is like this –> see video for full move
I want to teach them that you can work your core more when you engage it with each exercise and that crunches are not needed.
And lastly, I want them to learn to LOVE putting on workout clothes and having a game plan, a purpose.
Nowadays the workout clothes and gear are fashionable, comfortable, flattering, supportive, and darn right motivating!
And thanks to Adidas, I feel like I can do my job better. Because let’s face it, the clothes really do make the girl (or my case, teacher). Am I right?
Here my top three picks you’ll see me regularly sporting at gym!
1.ULTIMATE TWIST SPORT TANK TOP – Love this top! It has full support built in, is made with climalite® fabric that keeps sweat away from your skin, and the straps come around the neck and them form one T strap in back. That’s probably my favorite feature. It feels so light and easy to move in.
2. ENERGY BOOSTS RUNNING SHOES– I talked about these shoes in my last post, but this time I’ve had more time to demo them. Still love them! I wore them on the trails (see above) and while teaching. I love the “spring in your step” that you get with these shoes. And I was impressed how well the held up on the trails.
3. CHEVRON SHORTS– Wow, these are incredibly light weight and perfect for outdoor training. They are made with climalite fabric to keep sweat off and even have a hidden zipper on the side seam, which I didn’t even notice until I examined them up close. The inner brief is very light material and doesn’t bind when you move, which is a huge plus! 
Adidas Women designs innovative performance products to help women commit to their best self and conquer their fitness goals. We inspire women to look and feel their best, so kick-start your workout today with new styles from @adidasWomen. It’s time to #committomore www.adidas.com/women
[Tweet “Working out with a Purpose and Feeling Your Best! @LCCotter @adidaswomen #committomore #fitfluential”]
Do you make your workout purposeful? What’s your favorite piece of workout gear this month?
Cheers!
Corny Cotter (LC)
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Disclosure: Compensation was provided by adidas via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of adidas.
This is really amazing blog and I like it.
Thank you!
Nowadays the workout clothes and gear are fashionable, comfortable, flattering, supportive, and darn right motivating! I want to thanks to Adidas because of all products of Adidas are comfortable and easy to wear. This makes my job easier.
Great post!!! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience to us!!!
I love seeing real results and I do work really hard for this. And as I am a stay-at-home mom, I usually use different smartphone apps with 30-day programs. Each program is concentrated to one concrete part of body and they are really comfortable with all their burnt-calorie-counters and speaking instructions (like a real instructor in the GYM).
P.S. Love the Adidas Top <3
I would love to take one of your classes. That is all.
P.S. I love burpees. 🙂
While I realize the importance of rest days, does anyone actually like them? When you have a goal, resting is just a bummer no matter how much you know deep down that it is necessary. I suppose I could say the same thing about burpees as well though
The “No Gym, No Problem Workout” looks great! Excellent for travelling, or if it rains so heavily that you don’t want to leave your house and go to the gym.
Oh if someone could teach me to love burpees, or even do them without wanting to die, that would be fabulous. I love your whole attitude though and I can see why it makes you such an awesome teacher.
As far as gear I just treated myself to some new Asics socks in a rainbow of colors, my feet look so happy 🙂
You almost have me convinced to do burpees. Sooooo close! I wish you taught at my gym. You really look like you have a great class. The classes at my gym are kinda meh.
Will you be my fitness instructor? Because I could stand to learn all of these things…
yes! come visit!
Great post, friend <3
Love the froggy squat with extension (I like that name a lot better than squat to stand with hip flexion ;)) for hip mobility, too!
i actually added in a squat hop after each rep.. oh that burned!
I’m a big fan of knowledge at the same time as teaching which means I’m constantly trying to learn more from other people as well. I think that’s what makes me like teaching so much is it pushes me as well. I like people to leave feeling like they could plan a workout for themselves and not just be instructed by me.
Cute gear! I don’t know as I have ever fallen in love with Burpees. I always tell my classes- they hate you too!
yes yes! always learning!
OMG that top is absolutely gorgeous, I want it!
I need to learn to fall in love with burpees, maybe you could do a post on it and get everyone else to fall in love with them too 😉
I’m hoping to get out for a hike with Nick this weekend. I’ve never done trail running, I’d be nervous about tripping over as I am that clumsy!
haha, now there’s a good post idea!
Favorite workout gear is always anything Mizuno, but I have been trying Fabletics to get some more workout clothes to match my million pairs of shoes. I went a bit crazy and put up an IG rant about one of their shirts today, may be my favorite workout tank ever.
oh i want to go check them out now!
I love this! What a great fitness instructor you must be… I feel like every fitness instructor should be that way–to teach but also to continue learning. Also, it’s so helpful to know WHY we should be doing exercises. Burpees (and planks) trump all.
i agree. Teach a man to fish theory, right?
I want… to take workout classes with you! If you can teach me to love burpees, then you’re a miracle worker.
i tend to work miracles, really. ;p
I love this post – my daughter and I had a talk about “teaching” vs “instructing” the other day – teaching in its tru form, passes on so much that helps the person being taught to grow – no matter what the subject matter is!
With that said though, I have been trying to love burpees …but…seeing your 300 challenge made me almost faint! 🙂
yes, so true!! And teaching allows us to pass on that valuable tool.
Wish I could come to your class- I have no doubt you are an AMAZING teacher! And those clothes- so cute!!
I got a new sports bra from Fashletics that I can wear to run AND looks cute. My smaller boobs (still sad) probably help, so I found a benefit from losing a cup size last prep. 🙂
ahh the perks of smaller boobs! LOL!
Love this Linds. YOU are so inspiring with everything you do. Oh how I wish we could teach together and I can learn from you. 🙂 I’ve got to try that frog squat move tomorrow. I’ll let you know how it goes!
add a squat hop after each one too! you’d love on the bosu!
I ADORE this friend and how inspiring you are for your clients and how inspiring you are to ME and how much I learn from you from afar, as an instructor and sherpa-ee (hehe) and client myself. You are so incredibly strong, like really really strong, and I would love to just once, or maybe a million times, work out together, YOU as MY trainer. I would learn soo much. I just know it. PS those frog squat things – intense!! XOXO
we can trade off teaching each other! gah, move here!
Love the chevron shorts! They look awesome 🙂
yes, you’d love!! so light!
I love these set workouts. I’m pinning this 🙂
Thanks for sharing that “no gym” workout! I’ll have to give it a whirl this week.
As for that Addidas top…well, you already know I fell in love with it on IG. If they ever have you do a giveaway, I’ll be first in line! 😉
haha i’ll see what i can do about that giveaway
I always try to make my workout purposeful! I typically do whatever I’m in the “mood” for 🙂 So I work hard & get in a good sweat! I love those chevron shorts!
I want you as a teacher!
(I love these video demos!)
you know austin is waiting for you and a visit!
Love your mentality behind teaching! I’m sure your classes love you for it! You received some adorable Adidas apparel – I especially love those shorts. 🙂
i can’t wait for you to start teaching!
Ahhh in other words, you want to teach a man how to fiiiishhhhh. Wait, I think that’s kind of how that saying goes? I’m so bad with punch lines, haha. And I loooove love Adidas products! All their workout gear is so cute without getting the way of functionality.
you read my mind! that is what i had stuck in my head! FISH! haha
I love that you’re all about educating your clients and the people who attend your classes! Back in my personal-training days, I tried to teach people the why behind everything we were doing and prepare them for doing those same things on their own. That’s what needs to happen to truly help a person cultivate a healthy lifestyle. Keep it up!
yes! exactly!! and i don’t want them to “need” me. I want them to be self sufficient!
hopefully the kiwi can pass along some of your core/strength workouts! went to the back dr yesterday and he thinks i have been dealing with a lower back muscle issue (but having an MRI next week to be sure it’s nothing else). he said because im already so strong, he wants me to do hardcore physical therapy and lots and lots of core and strength work. EEK! OUCH! HELP!
Ouch! not fun! was it because of the TRX classes? Let me know if you need any help!
You just made me want to take one of your classes! I try to make each workout have a purpose but it’s hard. Honestly with stress of my job I barely have time to eat or sleep. It’s a blessing that I’m able to get a workout in everyday. No clue how I do it but I do except days when I’m dog tired and sleep through my alarm like Monday 🙂
You just made me want to take one of your classes! I try to make each workout have a purpose but it’s hard. Honestly with stress of my job I barely have time to eat or sleep. It’s a blessing when I get a workout in.
LOVE adidas spring line – especially that tank!
You are an AMAZING instructor! What a joy and a blessing it would be to one day attend a class of yours! Those ladies of Texas are darn lucky!!
it would be an absolute joy to have YOU!
It looks a little different up in here. A little makeover? BTW, loving the look of those chevron shorts . . . need
i did a little make over, it was time. feeling springy! haha
It’s been awhile since I clicked over to your actual site. Not sure how long its been here but I’m loving your revamped design! 🙂
thanks lovely!
You are wonder woman! Seriously. You do so much for others and are one of the most genuine people I “know”!
I always try to make my workout purposeful… no use wasting precious time if it isn’t! Loving my Lulu speed shorts, as always… picked up a new pair at the Lulu outlet in bright pink!
oh heck ya! sport those shorts!
I’ve never seen those froggy squats before. Definitely trying those out.
you’re gonna love hate them.
I try to make each run something different with purpose – some easy and pleasant, some recovery, some speed work, some interval, progession etc….And my new fave workout apparel for this month is from Gapfit. I forget the name of the top but it is awesome with a built in bra, great fit and awesome look to the back.
gapfit is awesome!! love love love
Yes – I love to put on my workout clothes and have a purpose!!!
Hard to pick one favorite piece of gear – shoes, Garmins, nice tops…..
Those froggy squats with extensions look awesome – I think they will fit in nicely with my week of moves that help stretch me out!!!
BTW – the next time I’m in Austin I want to come to your class(es) and maybe even run trails with you – please????
yes!!!! please come! xxoo
I love this because that’s what I want for my clients, not to just follow along with something. I want them to know WHY so that when I’m not their coach, they can continue on with their new lifestyle <— that's what I want it to be for them.
yes, amen to that friend. You are so good at coaching!
Cute workout clothes are definitely great motivation for me, but the biggest motivation of all is how I feel after I complete a workout. I feel healthy, accomplished and strong! Those feelings always keep me coming back for more!
accomplished is such a great feeling. Love that!
Love love love this post! You are doing all you wrote about – such a great example for all!
trying to practice what i preach
You’re such an inspiration. It’s so great that you want to make such an impact on other people’s lives and continue to learn and grow. What’s your favorite thing about being a fitness instructor? I do my best to make my workouts purposeful, but sometimes my mind is in other places. My favorite new piece of fitness gear is my FlipBelt!
i love seeing progress and confidence in women! sometimes they just need a little affirmation
My workouts haven’t been as purpose-driven as I’d like. Lately I’ve been just going through the motions to get them done as quickly as possible. Gotta squeeze them in while baby’s napping! 🙂
well i think you do it extremely well! Always impressed by you!
Burpees and I have a love/hate relationship at the moment. Mostly because I have been avoiding them. But I’m sure we’ll work it out & be BFF’s again by the end of May.
i hope you guys make up soon. hehe
I love that you want your class to learn- the same ideals shine through your blog 🙂
Man- I’d love to attend one of your classes. Those frog squats with extension are awesome (I just tested a couple in my dress before work!).
I am making my workouts purposeful more now than ever before. It’s fun!
haha you did them in your dress? you are bad ass! add a squat hop after each one next time. and yes, come take my class!
Cute clothes are always good motivation!
Love this adidas gear! And you know I LOVE LOVE LOVE that you and your Dad are running together. It makes my heart so happy!
and that makes me happy! <3
I’m coming to your class! Ironically, I have a guest post coming up in the next few weeks that includes purposeful training. My favorite workout gear right now are my Athleta shorts! Loving the colors.
Love the Adidas clothes!
ohh i can’t wait to hear!
It’s always great to find a fitness teacher who’s focused on teaching rather than getting a workout themselves. My favorite yoga teachers are those that do great explanations of poses, adjustments, and have an inspiring message. Also – I wish I loved burpees!
yes, me too! i love learning why we do each pose, etc.
Burpees are my favorite too!! And froggy squats are secret quad killers.
Great post!
ahhh love you more for that!
Love those adidas clothes! So fun. And love being outside for workouts. It really is the best and you’d be my favorite teacher for taking things out.
Yes girlie! New workouts clothes are definitely motivation to give a boost, too, and inspire others when teaching for sure!
Love the “no gym” workout. I’m going to have to try that froggy squat. My hamstrings are soooo tight! Those shorts look really great!
let me know what you think!
I am trying to love burpees… trying! Love a purposeful workout.. best trainer ever right here!
Great post! I also teach and want my students to understand the why for exercises :). I couldn’t agree more that engaging your core during all exercises is the best way to strengthen the core.
i need to come to your class next!
…and this is exactly why you are trainer. You do it for all the right reasons. Good for you, girl xoxo
thank you for always encouraging!
Awww I love this Lindsay! So very true, and I am sure your clients feel so lucky to have you around. You know my workouts definitely have purpose, but actually most of them have a purpose of recovery, and bringing fresh blood to my legs to recover from the hard days. I actually only run hard one day per week, and have one day of a long run to bring a different kind of hard.
Thanks for sharing your inner thoughts 🙂
totally!! recovery is EXTREMELY purposeful!! p.s. how are you feeling?
I got a yellow sports bra from Fabletics this month that I’m in love with. I do workout with a purpose. Does “stay fit” count as a purpose?? Too general?
that totally counts! you have to chase kids around, gotta stay fit for that!
I would love to be in one of your classes! I am a weirdo and love burpees. I am a big fan of workouts that give the most bang for my buck and burpees def do that! I also agree to workout with purpose…before every run I think about what I want to accomplish: burn off dessert, increase speed, relax, etc…each day is different!
yes! another fellow burpee lover!!!
Wish I could take one of your classes, and wish I could have that entire Adidas outfit for free 😉
Yes, crunches are not needed, especially when pregnant 😉
i wish you could too!
I feel like I have to have a purpose for my workout or I get lost halfway through!
so true
Great post! I love to create my own workouts, I’m going to have to try out your froggy squat! I’ve never done it with the extension.
My fav piece of workout gear this month is a new pair of Saucony shorts I got as a Mother’s Day gift, the have built in compression shorts which I love. I love the Chevron print on those Adidas shorts!
let me know if you do! it’s a love hate move. haha
Can you please teach me to love burpees? And big props to papa for continuing to run trails- that is admirable! I make workouts purposeful by stopping a workout, even 1/4 of the way through if I know I’m not committed or giving it my all!
i will, but you must teach me how to twerk. 😉
I love to learn and to be taught! That’s why I do Crossfit and am almost constantly in a coaching. There’s so much to learn and my goal is to be able to create my own best workouts.
And oh I LOVE Adidas!! I have so much clothes from Adidas and it’s SO perfect.
totally! cross fit is awesome at teaching you why you do certain moves! please move here!