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How the Shoreline Stays Fit: Locals Share Their Unique Workouts

Hula Hooping

Kailey Mitchell of North Branford, Age 27

Many people retire from hula hooping after grade school, but Kailey Mitchell has found it as a source of exercise, meditation, and income.

"Growing up I struggled with most activities. I knew this was something special. I was always creative and had an interest in well-being. Hoop dance has combined those two worlds and I've finally found my passion."

She discovered the art at a festival in 2011 and since has started Hipnotic Hoopla, a business that sells handmade travel hula hoops in addition to hosting events and workshops.

"No matter where you come from or how old you are, you cannot hoop without a smile. And anyone can do it! All you need is the correct size hoop, instruction, and a little motivation. Burning seven calories a minute is an added bonus!" she says.

Barre

Brittany Stalsburg of East Haven, Age 32

It can be difficult to find a workout that you can still do while you're pregnant. For Brittany Stalsburg, who is due to have her baby on April 13, barre has been her workout of choice.

"As a pregnant woman, barre is...helpful because it really strengthens your core, which helps me carry my growing baby and will also assist me during labor," she says.

She discovered barre when she was looking for something more challenging after having done yoga.

"I love practicing barre because it's a total body workout that I couldn't get any other way," she says. "You burn calories, but you also strengthen and lengthen your muscles to get that long, lean dancer's look."

Strength -Training

Michele Greenhouse of Clinton, Age 44

In addition to working full time and being a mother, Michele Greenhouse still makes working out a priority.

"My typical schedule is strength training five days per week, [and] group class three to four days per week. I train at home, Armazem Fusion Fitness in Branford, and Achieve Fitness in North Haven."

She also recently competed in the East Coast Cup National Physique Committee Competition where she won first place in the Masters 40+ Bikini category.

"In years past, I sought out adventure via running; whether it was a Ragnar, a half marathon, or a duathlon/triathlon, I always had a goal on my calendar. I saw this competition as just that–a goal; something to push me to the next level," says Michele.

CrossFit

John Lynch of Guilford, Age 45

Crossfit has become an increasingly popular fitness routine. But did you know that a Guilford resident was named as the third best CrossFitter in the world? John Lynch has been practicing Crossfit for seven years and recently came in third in the men's 45-49 division at the 2017 Reebok CrossFit world games.

"The most difficult part is balancing family life, working as a full time physician, and having time to train five days a week," says his wife Kristin.

John is a former body builder and also did triathlons.

"The athletes in their 20s can train 4 to 6 hours a day, 5 to 6 days a week, but this is not the case in your 40s if you want to stay injury free," says Kristin. "Listening to your body, getting enough rest, and not overtraining is paramount. The key to staying healthy and fit is finding balance in your life, having goals, and knowing your limitations."

Yoga

Marlene DeSanto of Guilford, Age 84

At 84 years old, Marlene DeSanto is not about to let anything slow her down. When she walks into a room, she exuberates positive energy and a youthful vigor. What's the secret to her vitality? She truly believes in what she calls a "yoga way of life." She has been teaching yoga for more than 50 years and instructs eight classes a week.

"I think my mind is clearer now than it was when I was in my 20s," she says.

In addition to yoga, she enjoys walking and starts each day by stretching. What's even more impressive, she has never missed a class due to illness.