MY Sports Club Story: Mikaila
We’re excited to feature our Astoria Club member Mikaila in our MY Sports Club Story series. She originally joined NYSC as a college student, where she quickly realized working out at the gym was a great stress reliever. She recently re-joined the gym this year and shares why she’s so happy to be back in our NYSC family.
Which club are you a member of?Astoria, Queens
When and why did you join NYSC? What keeps you coming back?
I originally joined NYSC at 19 when I was in college. As a runner, I needed to gain stamina and endurance, so I started using the free weights. Within two months I felt my stress levels go down and felt much better overall. These days, I keep coming back to challenge myself. Now that I am a 5K runner I use the treadmill to track my speed and duration. The ability to use the treadmills combined with the variety of weights keeps me a loyal member.
What is your favorite part about being a member of NYSC?
My favorite part about being a member is the convenience, availability of the machines and weights, spaciousness, and cleanliness.
How does working out at NYSC improve tasks you do in your daily life?
By working out at NYSC I find the energy to start my work day with energy, confidence and a feeling of accomplishment.
What are your favorite activities to do while at NYSC?
My favorite activities at NYSC are running, stretching, and ab workouts.
Can you tell us more about your plant based lifestyle?
I will be celebrating 16 years of veganism this November. I no longer felt comfortable consuming animal products and decided to make this change. I hope to help the planet with this decision as well.
What are some of your cooking hacks?
There are many alternatives to having meat and fish in one’s diet. I cook with tofu, make chickpea pasta, and bake with Aquafaba instead of eggs.
Where do you get recipe inspo from?
My family is from the Philippines and I find ways to make their traditional recipes vegan.
What is your favorite pre or post workout meal/snack?
My favorite pre-workout meal is one slice of Ezekiel Sprouted Bread with half peanut butter and half jelly. For my favorite post workout meal I love a shake from Tropical Smoothie Café.
How do you stay motivated?
I stay motivated by reminding myself that I alone can make things happen. If I choose not to go to the gym, then the only person accountable is me.
Advice for people looking to start their fitness journey?
The only person you need to show up for is yourself. Your body is your temple and it’s yours to build and empower.
Do you have a story about how our Club has helped improve life outside our Club? Submit your MY Sports Club Story here.
