For me, the source of my equipment intimidation has always been weights machinery that seems too complicated to figure out and use by myself.  So, I decided to make a date with my fear and scheduled an appointment to work out with trainer Gary Peters at Equinox, who took me through a fast-paced, lower-body focused routine that I would definitely not do on my own. 

From squats with a barbell to chin ups assisted by a HOIST, these moves were challenging and out of the ordinary for me, and, an hour later, I could definitely feel the difference in comparison with my usual resistance training. The day after, I couldn’t sit or walk down the subway stairs, so, I know that it was effective! I can’t wait to go back for more. I also made a point of taking note of the settings and sequence of the moves on my iPhone, so that I can repeat the routine on my own.

So, next time you’re inside the studio or at the gym, don’t let a seemingly complicated Schwinn or a group of grunting guys stop you from mixing up your workout, surprising your body–and seeing major results.

Want to train with Gary? Find him here: gary.peters@pt.equinox.com

I exercised every day: cycling at SoulCycle and Revolve, cross training at Equinox or running in Hudson River Park.

“Ringo” (Japanese for “apple”) is artist Reina Kubota’s personal love letter to the city of New York, on the Hudson River at 66th Street.  Couldn’t agree more.

Post-workout, I cooled off with Ralph’s watermelon/berry combo, from the popular walk-up window near Gramercy Park–one of my favorite spots in the city.

And, I blew out candles on the amazing Birthday Cake from Momofuku Milk Bar surrounded by good friends and family to celebrate mine.  (There was one slice left, it was THAT good!)

Best of all, I spent lots of time strolling around the city with my dog, in comfy tees paired with jean shorts and crazy colorful sundresses.

This is one of my all-time favorite dresses, the “Annette” by Trashy Diva, a keepsake from a special weekend in New Orleans.

Far from exotic, but, out-of-this-world fun.

Back to reality tomorrow!