Yesterday morning I got up bright and early to head all the way Uptown to Harlem to workout with the legendary Billy Blanks. This was a free event that I signed up for that was being hosted by Celebrity Sweat in conjunction with the Super Bowl Weekend.
I really didn’t know what to expect! I actually kinda like it that way ;). I put on my new Fabletics outfit (more on that later) to see how it would hold up against the Tae Bo master himself.
The ride from inner Brooklyn all the way Uptown is long, but on a Sunday? I might as well have walked! It’s a good thing Billy (yes, we are totally on a first name basis now) made the travel worth it.
When I exited the station I asked someone where City College was because I had never been. They pointed to very top of a hill. There was an entire park and about 15 flights of stairs between me and Billy. By the time I reached the top I was exhausted! I consider my fitness threshold to be pretty high but man, that was tough! I can already tell that I will be back in the spring to get some work in. Besides, it is one of the most beautiful breathtaking parks I’ve seen in New York City.
There were lots of folks there when I arrived. We got a quick stretch warm up then we heard a motivational message from Evander Holyfield. I totally wasn’t expecting him but it was a very pleasant surprise.
After that Billy Blanks came out to begin the workout. It wasn’t very long or very hard but it was intense! There was tons of the classic moves like jabs, kicks, hooks etc. But what I really liked was the actual instruction, he didn’t stay in front of the class and give a show, instead he was on the floor with us individually showing us how to engage our core and get the most out of each move.
When it was all said and done I burned 400 calories which is nice because I never workout on Sundays and I am sticking to my goal of switching up my routine every week.
The best part though? Billy asked the entire class to sit Indian style around him as he dropped some knowledge. He told us to be strong in our will and in our mind and the rest will come naturally. He encouraged us to use the power that we have inside ourselves. He was extremely genuine and real. I taped a portion of his the with us and you can listen if you have a moment.
httpv://youtu.be/_gPnlcEo_Gw
I have all the respect in the world for this Fitness guru now, and I am now a believer. *runs to download Billy Blanks Workouts*
Fabletics Review
I purchased Fabletics with my own coins. Since the first workout outfit is only $25 (my normal range for outfits) I decided to take the plunge and fork over my cash. Kate Hudson designed the line, and I Love her so it didn’t take much. 🙂
I love the outfit. It stayed up pretty well against Billy! I never had to pull my pants up (a constant problem for girls with big booties like myself) or adjust my shirt. Both pieces stayed put.
I really loved the pockets in the top which I would imagine could be good for runners. The colors are great and the airy mesh in the back is fantastic for when your body starts to heat up.
If this sounds appealing to you, you can sign up here for your $25 first outfit, free shipping, no commitment. Just note that this is a subscription service so after the initial month, you will be charged $49.95 per outfit, but you totally have the option to skip a month. Each outfit can be two to three pieces all with free shipping.
If you sign up with my link, You get me a free outfit. Did I mention it’s my birthday week? *cough, cough* 🙂
Have you ever done a Billy Blanks workout? How often do you purchase workout clothes?
Hi! I’m Nellie. I am a busy mama of three, wife to my high school sweetheart who loves to cook, workout and stay organized! I love to share helpful printables, the best recipes and fitness tips for the modern mom. I strongly believe that every mom can feed their family well, take proper care of themselves and have fun along the way! Read my story.
Get comfortable and be sure to come hang out with me on social. Don’t grab your free fitness journal before you go!
Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Fashionista! Items for ALL budgets! - Brooklyn Active Mama
Monday 8th of December 2014
[…] know that I believe in looking really good when you sweat. This top takes it to the next level! You guys already know I am a fan of Fabletics. This top is really taking workout clothes to the next level! This top is hot, sexy, and cute […]
Mal
Tuesday 1st of July 2014
I sooo want those pants. They were my inspiration for wanting to change my couch potato ways. But alas, they seem to be an older style. Can't find on fabletics. Sigh. Eats another sugary snack.
Nellie
Saturday 8th of February 2014
it was pretty cool! Billy has been around forever but somehow he still moves like a 20 year old!
Stephanie
Wednesday 5th of February 2014
Happy Birthday Nellie! I used to be such a Tae-Bo devotee - I had about a million of Billy's videos. Very cool that you got to do that class. And the outfit is adorable. When I'm ready to buy some new workout clothes, I'll come check this out.
Nellie
Wednesday 5th of February 2014
awesome Stephanie! He really was the king of Tae bo! still is :)
Joi
Tuesday 4th of February 2014
I read this from my phone last night. I LOVE Billy Blanks! When I was in pharmacy school getting my DVD action on daily, he was my go to guy. Now, I have to disagree with you on one thing. I used to get so annoyed with all that walking around and chatting he was doing "showing you how to improve the move". Yeah, Yeah I get it, lol! I think I was just mad bc it seemed like he was dodging the actual workout! Anyway, like I always say, you get the most amazing opportunities. It must be so distracting living there. I would want to do it ALL!
Ha, you are right about our kindred blogging sister action :) ! Your outfit is cute and I'm glad it passed the squat test for you too ;) Happy early birthday my friend!
Nellie
Wednesday 5th of February 2014
lol girl I didn't think about it like that, maybe he was trying to dodge the workout!!