Fitness instructor Jackie Brooks has a way of making fitness classes more fun. With students signing up for her classes over and over again, this mom of three and avid soccer player is making working out enjoyable.
Brooks has been teaching fitness classes for over 26 years. She started teaching while a university student, where she earned her official certification. She quickly made the transition from teaching dance classes to group fitness classes.
She has taught a variety of classes that range from stretch and flex to dance fitness. Brooks believes exercise classes are a great way to hold yourself accountable for your workout. Brooks says it creates a sense of community and encourages people to stay involved and engaged in the workout.
“Group exercise classes are great for several reasons: The number one reason for me is that it is set in your schedule and it helps us keep the appointment with ourselves to workout. Accountability is another huge plus,” Brooks said.
Brooks’ classes are full of students eager to learn and optimize their workout. Her classes integrate music, cardio and strength training to ensure you are getting the most out of your time. Students rave about her classes. They love the variety of music she plays and the passion she shows for her students.
“Jackie is a very inspirational and accessible instructor who makes fitness enjoyable by sharing her humor, energy and expertise with her classes. I’m thankful to have stumbled upon her classes this year and hope to take more of them from her in the future,” sophomore Madison Cheek said.
Brooks connects with her students beyond fitness. She helps them obtain an overall healthy lifestyle. Students come to her for advice on all aspects of their lives.
“Jackie is an amazing instructor and person all around,” Leah Pons, a sophomore student of Brooks said. “I enjoy talking to her before and after class about sports, especially basketball and soccer. I also go to her and take her advice when it comes to dietary and workout questions that I may have. Her classes are great stress relievers and help me keep my mind off of school and what ever else may be going in currently in my life. I cannot wait to take another two years of classes from her.”
Brooks encourages people to try new things with their workout. She insists staying with the same routine can get boring and can make you less motivated to keep up with your workout.
“Try new things. Your body needs to cross train,” Brooks said. “Have a healthy balance of cardio, resistance training and core/flexibility training. Have fun! Find something you love, something that makes you feel amazing and strong and keep at it.”