Who else needs some motivation to move sometimes? You might be surprised at my my latest source for fitness inspiration!
I’d like to thank Z Living on behalf of their new show Altar’d for bringing this post about fitness motivation to you. As always, I only write about things I believe in and think you will enjoy. All opinions are my own.
Happy Monday beautiful peeps!
How was your weekend? Mine was pretty awesome. I went out to two dinners out in downtown Asheville (I am spoiled!,) got in a great workout AND yoga session plus started to declutter the house. I already have several bags for goodwill. I have trouble purging, so it feels really good to just let go of some stuff.
I don't know about you, but I often go into Mondays with some serious motivation for the week. Basically I'm going to do ALL THE THINGS! But as the week goes on I will sometimes find myself in the mode of just getting done what needs to get done to survive. I can't be the only one who feels that way??? Right?
Inspired by that feeling, I thought we'd start the week with some serious motivation to move... and not just today but ALL THE DAYS 🙂! The inspiration comes from one of my new favorite TV shows called Altar'd! I first told you about the show last week. When I had the opportunity to interview one of the stars of the show on your behalf, I just couldn't turn it down and decided I had to share more.
Why Watch the Altar'd TV Show?
If you are just catching up, Altar'd is a tv show on Z Living on Tuesday nights at 8PM. Now you might be wondering why I'm talking motivation to move and a TV show, but this tv show is the kind that really will get you motivated to move off the couch after it's over!
The premise is a bride and groom who would like to be healthier take a 90 day fitness challenge right before their wedding. The catch is they will be separated and can’t see each other or even contact each other until they are walking down the aisle! So the new looks and weight loss will be a complete surprise.
Unlike another "romantic" tv show on right now, this one is about real change AND real love. I would much rather spend my time with Altar'd.
I'm a fan of Altar’d because it focuses on healthy weight loss without extreme tactics. The couples work out an hour a day with fitness experts Chris Marhefka and Erin Stutland and eat only meals designed by a diet delivery service. These two things combine to make some pretty inspiring transformations.
[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent="yes" overflow="visible"][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type="1_1" background_position="left top" background_color="" border_size="" border_color="" border_style="solid" spacing="yes" background_image="" background_repeat="no-repeat" padding="" margin_top="0px" margin_bottom="0px" class="" id="" animation_type="" animation_speed="0.3" animation_direction="left" hide_on_mobile="no" center_content="no" min_height="none"]I'll be watching #Altard @ZLiving on Tuesday nights! Share on X
Motivation to Move: An Interview with Erin Stutland
To be entirely honest with you, when I was given the opportunity to do this interview with one of the trainers and hosts of the show, Erin, I thought I'd break up the content into a few easy to follow tips. However I really enjoyed reading the entire interview and getting to know Erin a little better so I decided to publish parts of it in it's entirety. I figured if I enjoyed reading it, you would too.
I hope you enjoy it and get some motivation for the week out of it. And if you are short on time... scroll to the bottom for my cliff notes version!
Meet Erin!
Julie: Tell me about your favorite transformation on Altar’d.
Erin: I loved Shawna's transformation because it was equally as powerful outwardly as it was inward. She worked incredibly hard and was 100% committed every step of the way. As a result, I think she really found something new in herself that had been left behind for a long time.
Julie: What can we learn by watching Altar’d?
Erin: You will learn that change isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely possibly when you have a vision and you commit daily to that vision.
Julie: I really respect that the show is about healthy weight loss. What are your thoughts on sustainable choices like those on the show?
Erin: I think to sustain healthy weight loss you have to a) find exercise you actually enjoy and b) be sure you are eating foods you also enjoy. It can’t be about deprivation or starvation. You have to be able to live your life. However, most people find that once they start adapting to these healthy habits, some of the bad habits aren’t as appealing as they once were.
Julie: What makes Altar'd unique from other weight loss shows?
Erin: I think what is really unique about Altar’d is that the participants are living their daily lives. They are not sequestered like they are on other weight loss shows. So you see how challenging it can be to create new habits while still being in your same environment, going to work, seeing friends, etc. But, I think you will also be incredibly inspired by these participants’ dedication, focus and determination, proving that change is absolutely possible!
Julie: The couples on the show are working out a lot! How do you make it fun for them?
Erin: We mix it up. Take them outside of the gym to things like trampoline workouts, ropes courses and S factor. A good sweat doesn’t have to always happen in the gym.
Julie: What fitness tips that you use on the show could be helpful to Running in a Skirt readers?
Erin: I am a big fan of mixing up workouts. I never do the same thing for too long, otherwise I get bored. You have to stay engaged. Sometimes your body and mind need high intensity and sometimes It really needs to slow down with some good yoga.
Julie: What kinds of workouts can help people in a fitness rut?
Erin: I am the creator of Shrink Session workout, which is designed to get you out of the rut of negative, doubtful thinking. We combine dance, yoga, high intensity interval training and more to pack a powerful punch. So, obviously, I am a fan and recommend this. You can check it out on my site.
Julie: What kind of inspiration do you use to help your clients on the show that might help my readers?
Erin: I am a big fan of using mantras while I work out. I think about what I want to call into my life that day or that week and create mantras for myself and clients to say either out loud or to themselves while they move to the rhythm of music.
Julie: Women can be really hard on themselves… how do you get them over that and help inspire them?
Erin: Well, I think this is a larger societal issue that places a woman’s appearance of value above and beyond anything else that she might have to offer. But, in order to change that conversation, a woman has to start to own her magnificence. She needs to be reminded that she doesn’t need to cater to anyone or anything in order to succeed. This doesn’t mean that she can’t strive to be in excellent shape and feel wonderful in her body. It simply means that she needs to set her own standards of success and strive towards what makes her, and her alone, feel full and complete.
6 Takeaways from Erin
- To sustain a healthy lifestyle you have to find fitness and food you actually enjoy.
- Once you start more healthy habits, your old ones might not be as appealing!
- Mix up your workouts to keep you from getting bored.
- Use mantras as motivation.
- Change is not easy, but is possible for anyone.
- Watch Altar'd to get inspiration for your own fitness journey!
Tune in Tuesdays at 8 PM, including Valentine’s Day (TOMORROW!) to Z Living. You'll love the fitness inspiration in this show.
I’m linking up with Marvelous Monday, Motivational Monday, Thinking Out Loud Thursday, Wild Workout Wednesday, Runners Corner, Fit and Fashionable Friday and Fashion Friday.
Thanks for stopping by today! Come back tomorrow for simple ways to spread the love for Valentine's Day!
Your turn!
Will you be watching Altar’d with me!???[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
kimmythevegan says
I have to admit that working out is the easy part for me. I had a hard time getting into it initially, but once I made it part of my routine, it was easy to stay on track with it. My problem is eating too much or too much of the foods that aren't so great for me.
"a) find exercise you actually enjoy and b) be sure you are eating foods you also enjoy. It can’t be about deprivation or starvation."
So true! I remember when I first tried being more active and incorporating it into my life, I found it a huge chore. Then I tried a dance class and realized how fun and energizing fitness could be (and now I teach my own dance class!). I'm still working on the second part. It's a work in progress of course.
Thanks for sharing this interview Julie. The last answer is beautifully said.
JulieWunder says
I agree! I can get side tracked by all kinds of food! lol! So glad you enjoyed the interview.
Surgivisor says
Wow so nice!! I really love your this post. thank you so much for sharing.
Neely Moldovan says
I am going to check it out for sure! I can always use more motivation especially now that Ive had the baby!
Susanna Barbee says
Hello there, my pretty fit friend! You look so healthy. You're inspiring me to get moving. I'm running a 2 mile run with Brooks in one month, so perhaps I should start exercising. I just finished watching Breaking Bad and am looking for a new show. Altar'd may be it! I am definitely going to check it out.
Alisa @ Go Dairy Free says
Thanks for sharing this show! I hadn't heard of it, but it sounds very cool.
Jen @ pretty little grub says
I love those 6 takeaway messages. I've never heard of the show but it seems like something I would enjoy.
JulieWunder says
I think you would! Thanks Jen!
Melanie Burbage says
Interesting! I always hope that shows like this ( or soon to be shows) are out to really help the people, not just to lose the weight or change the most quickest but to make a HABIT of it and let it continue .
JulieWunder says
I know!! so much better than unsustainable changes.
Toughcookiemommy says
This is a great way to stay motivated. It's so important to have a plan when one is trying to stay fit.
JulieWunder says
So true. Thanks!
Taylor Kiser says
Loved all the tips! Especially the tip for keeping the workouts mixed up! Totally helps to keep things changed up so the threat of boredom doesn't take hold!
JulieWunder says
So true!! Mixing it up is the key.
Kerri Olkjer says
I hadn't heard of this show! It looks like something I'd love though.
JulieWunder says
Hope you get a chance to watch it!
Mikki says
What a great post the show sounds really interesting and what a great topic. Great way to encourage the new couple to be healthy.
JulieWunder says
Totally! Thanks Mikki.
Jessica @Nutritioulicious says
This is such a new and different idea, which is so interesting! Can't wait to see how it unfolds!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Jessica! Me too.
Jenn says
I haven't heard of this show, but I like the idea that they are actually living their normal lives while doing this. I definitely agree that once you start healthy habits, the old ones don't seem so appealing. And that can be as easy as eating a healthy breakfast...sets you up for making healthier choices all day long.
JulieWunder says
Totally!! Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!
Chrissy @ Snacking in Sneakers says
I'm definitely a reality TV person, so I would LOVE this show! The concept is so fun. We don't have cable so I need to see if I can access it somehow.
JulieWunder says
I think they stream it!
Emily @Sinful Nutrition says
I prefer working out at home, so this is such a great idea for me!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Emily!
amanda -runtothefinish says
Big fan of watching random reality tv while on the treadmill, but I haven't even heard of this show! I love her though, she's got great vibes
JulieWunder says
Totally! Love her energy!
Daniel says
This sounds like a really interesting concept and great that it's based on healthy weight loss! Loved the interview with Erin, some great tips there 🙂
JulieWunder says
Thanks Daniel! I totally agree!
Adriana Lopez says
Motivation is welcomed, sometimes you need a friend to motivate you to continue with your healthy journey. I think a show coudl help something creative and interesting to consider.
JulieWunder says
It does come in so many forms.
Francisca Ramos says
I like the show and how they separate the couples on a weight loss before the wedding. This is the best way to get them to lose weight and not depend on each other for progress. I like how Erin said, "You don't need to cater to anyone or anything in order to succeed." It's so true! A women should feel good in her body. No matter her size.
JulieWunder says
So true!! Beauty is different for everyone!
Chrissy says
Sounds like a good show. I too like that they are still living normal lives and doing normal workouts with normal meal choices. Great interview segment. Love the takeaways - so true!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Chrissy! I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
Annemarie LeBlanc says
I love the show's concept. I think I will be watching each and every episode of it. Looks like it will be a hit with viewers.
JulieWunder says
I hope so! Thanks Annmarie!
Sarah says
Mondays I either have lots of motivation or none at all!
Love the idea. My husband is my biggest motivator on days when I need it.
JulieWunder says
That's amazing!!! Sounds like you picked a good one!
CourtneyLynne says
Oooo so many great fitness moves!!! I will have to give these a try and see if they work for me!
JulieWunder says
Yes!! Great idea!
Tara @ A Daily Dose of Fit says
Love those takeaways! I remind my clients about the same things daily!
JulieWunder says
Sounds like you are a great trainer!!! xoxo
Maria says
Thanks for this! I often get into a funk where I have no motivation to get to the gym. I'll remember these L)
Blane Sherer says
First I've heard of the show.
Sounds like a winner.
Hope it finds a consistent viewership.
Laura says
It's fun to find motivation in unexpected places! We don't have a way to watch TV, but this show sounds great!
JulieWunder says
So true! Thanks so much Laura!
Liz Mays says
Altar'd definitely sounds like a show I could get into. I like Erin's approach to getting healthy. I think the show could be very inspiring.
JulieWunder says
It is! Thanks so much Liz!
Nicole @ Fitful Focus says
This sounds like a fun show! I love her take aways!
JulieWunder says
Me too! Thanks so much Nicole!
Liz @ I Heart Vegetables says
Wow, that sounds like a great idea for a show! I'll definitely have to tune in! It sounds like something i'd enjoy.
JulieWunder says
Me too! Thanks so much Liz!
Crystal says
I had never heard of that show before, but it sounds like a great one. I love the title! So much of your life is altered when you get married, but it's great these couples are starting out making their lives better.
JulieWunder says
SO true! Thanks so much Crystal!
Kerri McGrail says
Very interesting show idea! Loved learning more about Erin and some of her tips 🙂
JulieWunder says
Thanks Kerri! I did too!
Debbie@debbiethisandthat.com says
Really great tips, Julie! Haven't heard of this show before so need to check into it.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Debbie! Hope you enjoy it!
abbey sharp says
This show sounds super interesting! I'll have to check it out 🙂
JulieWunder says
Thanks Abbey!
Emily Kyle says
You are so spot on! I'm ready Monday, but come Wednesday or Thursday, I am dragging my feet!! Thanks for this inspiration to keep moving forward!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Emily!
Emily says
Woah.. that is a really interesting idea; I've seen brides and grooms workout together beforehand but not separately. I love that you asked such good, pointed questions, and her answers are so good.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Emily! You are too kind!
Liz says
Wow what an interesting topic for a show indeed! I can't wait to learn more and see how they progress!
JulieWunder says
Me too! Thanks Liz!
Patricia @Sweet and Strong says
That's so true that if you don't enjoy your workout and food choices you aren't going to stick with it. And I love that the show is about overall wellness, having healthy relationships is a huge part of living a healthy lifestyle.
JulieWunder says
Me too!! I really thought the message resonated with what we all do!
JulieWunder says
Me too! Thanks so much Patricia!
GiGi Eats says
My energy and mood post work out = why I work out.
I love tv shows like this!
JulieWunder says
Me too! Thanks Gigi!
Annmarie says
I haven't watched this yet but now I'm intrigued!
JulieWunder says
Thanks! I think you would like it!
lacey@fairytalesandfitness says
Ok now after reading this. I have to watch this tmrw. If this isn't motivating, what is?
JulieWunder says
Totally! Hope you enjoy it!
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says
This show sounds much more practical than some of the older extreme weight loss shows. I will check it out
JulieWunder says
Totally! I think you will enjoy it!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
I've never seen this show, but the premise wounds interesting!
JulieWunder says
I totally agree!
heather @Lunging Through Life says
I'm interested in this show just to see how it all goes. I love Extreme Makeover Weightloss edition where they lose it over a year. But It's whether or not it's sustainable that questions me.
JulieWunder says
Totally! I feel like this might be more manageable and they are teaching healthy habits!
Susie @ Suzlyfe says
Interesting idea for a show! I would be curious if they are able to keep to it afterwards.
JulieWunder says
Me too! It's not a extreme loss so I think they have more of a shot!