Namita Nayyar:
Tell us the challenges and motivation your children, are to you to aspire and seek such a perfect chiseled sculpted physique?
Danielle Palladino:
Being a mom gives everything in life more purpose. I am no longer making healthy choices for myself. On a daily basis I am very aware of my own habits, and the language I use when referring to food or workouts. They are always watching and listening so it’s important to me to actually do what I ask them to do, not say one thing and do another.
For example, we eat our “growing food” (vegetables and protein) before we have treats. At ages 9 and 8 they know what macronutrient is going into their body and know the difference between processed vs. natural foods. I have made exercise and movement an activity that is fun and something we do together as a family since they were toddlers. From bike rides to push up challenges to pistol squats my kids are learning body awareness, understanding patience and learning new skills takes time and doesn’t happen overnight. Most importantly they are creating daily healthy habits that are a part of our lifestyle.
We now push and encourage each other. There are days I don’t feel like exercising and my son will ask me to go for a run or my daughter will write her own workout and want me to do it with her. Making it positive, doing it consistently and doing it together is the most important part of ingraining these habits with kids.
Namita Nayyar:
Your Crossfit career started under the instruction of Kenny Kane at CrossFit LA beginning in 2011 which was a catalyst that led you to be a Fitness Trainer and also Crossfit Level 1 Trainer. Tell us more about your Crossfit physical enduring journey? You have run a 1/2 marathon while being eight months pregnant. Tell us about your exceptional achievement and experience in running the marathon in such conditions?
Danielle Palladino:
I wanted to be sure to stay active while I was pregnant so I set a goal of running a half marathon. This kept me motivated throughout my pregnancy. I set a schedule for myself and stuck to it. I enjoyed the journey as much as I enjoyed the race. And when I had to stop to go to the bathroom, everyone was more than willing to let me cut the line!
Namita Nayyar:
What exercises comprise your fitness regime or workout routine you may wish to share?
Danielle Palladino:
Exercises are not a one size fits all. I believe that people thrive off different routines depending on their goals and lifestyle. One thing that I believe all people, no matter what age or experience they have is the need to have a strength training routine.
The results have significant health benefits. Not only is it vital for weight loss it increases bone density, joint flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, balance, agility, coordination, reduces the risk of fractures, symptoms of arthritis along with many more benefits. I enjoy many other types of exercise but I hope to live well into my 90s still doing some form of strength training weekly.
Namita Nayyar:
Do you take a special diet or have a strict menu that you follow to remain healthy and physically fit?
Danielle Palladino:
I am not a fan of fad diets like Keto, intermittent fasting or having food restrictions. I work with clients to teach them healthy lifestyle, not a diet with a start and end date or to just look good for a vacation. You need to learn how to have cake at your child’s Birthday and not feel guilty. You need to be able to enjoy yourself on vacation and not feel like you fell off the wagon. You shouldn’t have to make a separate meal for yourself than you do the rest of the family. I teach clients how to enjoy food guilt free while still maintaining their goals.
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
