Heather Kinzalow became a fitness instructor by accident … or fate.
“An instructor didn’t show up for a class (I was taking), so I stepped up and did what I needed to do,” she said. “I got thrown into it. Literally.”
Seventeen years later, Kinzalow instructs four classes and owns Fitness Plus in Phenix City with her husband, Carl.
The class is offered Fridays at 9 a.m.
Fitness Plus, 1409 280 Bypass, Phenix City, 334-297-3057, also offers BodyPump, TurboKick, Yoga, TNT, Step and Silver-Sneakers.
She created Cardio Camp as a way to give participants, and herself, a more intense workout.
“Once a week you should always push yourself beyond your comfort zone,” said Kinzalow. “I wouldn’t recommend exercising that hard more than twice a week.”
The biggest benefit of Cardio Camp is the core work and the increased cardiovascular activity.
There are always options to either increase or decrease the difficulty of a move.
“Anybody can do it,,” Kinzalow said, as long as they follow the modifications. “We have (participants) from young to old.”
In two weeks you can start to notice results, as long as this once-per-week class is combined with other classes or activities.
Kinzalow recommends at least four days of cardio per week.
The Workout: This hour-long class consists of a lot of cardio, including sprints, ladders, jumping jacks and jump rope without the rope. There are also strength and toning elements such as push ups, ab work, lunges and squats. “I’ve been exercising for 22 years,” said Kinzalow. “Over time I’ve put together what has worked for me.”
Sweat Factor: This was possibly the sweatiest hour of my life, but everyone, from the 20-something on my left to the 70-something on my right, was right there with me.
Difficulty Level: The individual exercises are pretty basic and easy to follow, though sometimes it takes a couple sets before you can tell that you’ve got the form right.
Kinzalow said participants have the most difficulty getting through the 1-2 minute super set of high cardio (jacks, jump rope) alternating with push ups and planks.
Average Calories Burned: Kinzalow said a person can burn 400-600 calories depending on their metabolism and how much effort they put into the class.
Commitment: Only members can take classes at Fitness Plus, but anyone can try a class as a guest.
There is a no-contract membership option. A $19-per-month basic membership includes most fitness classes and use of the cardio machines, weight machines and free weights; the $39-per-month membership option adds BodyPump, tanning and childcare to the package.
Perks: Fitness Plus offers cardio machines, weight machines, free weights, dressing rooms with showers, childcare and a smoothie bar.
Classes include BodyPump, yoga, TurboKick, Step, cardio, TNT and Silver-Sneakers.
The Afterglow: “Fun” isn’t the first word that comes to mind, but I thoroughly enjoyed the class. I was definitely proud of myself for finishing strong. The next day I was feeling it in my glutes and calves.
The group atmosphere definitely encouraged me to put everything into it. It’s very high-energy and the routine changes up enough to repel boredom. Kinzalow said every class is different.
The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed with an average of about 15-20 people in a class.
Interested in other classes?
Follow Katie throughout the summer as she tries out different fitness classes in the area.
Coming up next week: Turbo Jam at Health Plus Fitness Center in Auburn
Previous profiles include:
BodyPump at Fitness for Women
RPM at Gold's Gym North
Zumba at the Central YMCA
Curves of Columbus
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