Mother-Daughter Duo Share Their Jazzercise Journey

Believe it or not, we at Jazzercise see nearly every single social media post you tag us in.  Barring any privacy restrictions, we see it, we love it, and we’re celebrating with you in all your Jazzercise victories.
 
We’ve been watching Jazzercise customer Jaime Allison’s posts for some time now. In fact, it’s hard to ignore her amazing transformation.  When we reached out, we quickly learned she’s got a heart of gold, and may be as passionate about Jazzercise as we are! 
 
She and her daughter started on their Jazzercise journey in 2016. When we discovered their discipline and dedication, we knew we had to share their story. 
 
Tell us about the start of your weight-loss journey – what was your inspiration to start on this path?
My inspiration to start my weight loss journey was to be a healthier, happier me! Since I can remember, I struggled with my weight; which lead to an eating disorder and poor self-esteem. I've started numerous weight loss plans and never finished. I would lose weight, gain weight, lose weight, gain weight....it was a vicious cycle. I finally decided I’d had enough. 
 
What were your goals when you started? How have those goals shifted?
My goals when I started this journey were to lose weight, get fit and love my myself! Today my goals have only slightly changed. My goals now are to continue to be fit, maintain this lifestyle and live life to the fullest while doing it.
 
How did you find out about Jazzercise?
I was introduced to Jazzercise in January 2016 through my precious friend Courtney. We were talking one day after we had both joined our hometown community center and she asked if I wanted to try Jazzercise. I said “sure”, even though I was so hesitant. We had been working out every afternoon at 3:30 and I liked getting home to the kids, mommy do’s, etc. So, I thought why not try it?  After that first class I was hooked! 
 
Did you modify your eating habits once you started on this journey?
After 6 months of Jazzercise and losing 10 pounds, my knees started to really bother me. I knew I had to do something different with my diet. So, on September 17, 2016 I walked into Weight Watchers to weigh in and start my weight loss journey.  Seemed like 100th time starting this journey. It almost felt routine. I weighed in at 241.2lbs. Love having a weight loss program and workout program that work so AMAZING together.
 
How did you hold yourself accountable?  How many days a week are you attending Jazzercise classes?
My accountability comes from scheduling my Jazzercise classes, building in a routine, attending Weight Watcher meetings and honestly, social media. There is nothing like having a community of friends to support you, hold you accountable and keep you in check both in person and online.
 
I attend Jazzercise 4 times a week and would do it every day if my schedule allowed it!
 
What challenges have you faced?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve had is dealing with an old ACL injury. When I first started my classes I wore my knee brace. Now after some hard work and dedication I can dance, do lunges and squat like never before. It’s incredible how strong Jazzercise has made me. 
 
So, tell us, how much weight have you lost so far?
I have lost 105 pounds total! 
 
How did your daughter get involved?
My gorgeous daughter Calista got involved with Jazzercise after I asked her to join Courtney and me. She was hooked after her first class, too! As a little girl, she was always into dance so this was the perfect way to help her rekindle her love of dance. I love watching her dance and noticing her confidence build when she does it. Calista has also been a rockstar with her health. She has lost 65lbs working out with Jazzercise and following our food plan. She inspires me daily to be the best I can be so I can be the best mom I can be. 
 
What’s the best part about being able to attend Jazzercise with your daughter?
Best part of attending Jazzercise with my baby girl is seeing her do what she loves. Her beauty radiates and her self-confidence shines. When you watch your little girl struggle with the same difficulties you dealt with all your life, it’s comforting to see her reach her goals. You should see us together when we do the “sexy walk!”  We love interacting with one another. Our friends tell us all the time that they love the way we dance together. She is my biggest fan, supporter and encourager; and I’m hers.
 
What does a typical day of eating look like for you? Do you keep a food journal?
A typical day of food for me is tracking, weighing and measuring every bite. With the program I’m in, I journal my food daily. People often ask me “Do you eat?” Well as a matter of fact, I eat all day long. I’m a snack eater: I love to snack! I make my meals small so I can enjoy my snacking throughout the day. I wake up and drink my coffee with the hubs (my favorite time of the day) and I eat breakfast.  Then my “second” breakfast, a healthy salty snack.  Around lunch time I have a meal, then a snack. And, finally, dinner. I don’t do without or deprive myself. But I have to admit, I have not had fast food fries (my favorite) since I started my journey. Maybe one day I will indulge. 
 
Any advice you’d want to share with others who are considering this journey?
My advice when starting your healthy journey is to stay committed, be consistent, be accountable, stay focused on your goals, and LOVE yourself. Find your “me time!” I’ve become very selfish and it has paid off. Believe me, I find time for my hubby, kiddos and life but I use my time wisely. Cherishing every moment so I can live healthy for the ones I love and adore.
 
Additionally, you have to find your “why.”  This is your journey and yours alone. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. You are you. Every time you look in a mirror remember your “why.” Embrace it and have fun living it, ONE DAY AT A TIME.
 
What surprised you the most about this journey? 
My biggest surprise on this journey has been my will power, self-control and self-love. In the past I have given up easily, given way too many excuses, and been ok with just being “ok”. Not today and not during this journey. I am beyond blessed. 
 
How has losing weight impacted your life?
Losing weight has given me freedom. Freedom to be happy with me and giving me the confidence to feel incredible in my own skin! Thankful that my journey has impacted my relationship with my hubby, kiddos, family and friends. When you love yourself, you can give love to others unconditionally. 
 
What do you love most about your Jazzercise community?  How have they supported you along the way?
The Jazzercise community has been a source of constant support. I can walk into my classes every day and know that I have a shoulder to lean on, a friend to push me past my limits, music to uplift me and an instructor who believes in me. I love that in an hour I can relieve stress, burn calories and smile bigger than I have all day because of the friends that I’ve have made! Each Jazzy friend I have made I will cherish forever. They keep me dancing!
Last but not least, I’m thankful for my instructor Ricardo. From day one he has pushed me to be my best and encourages me daily. Beyond thankful for Jazzercise!
 
 
Do you have a Jazzercise transformation story you’d like to share?  Tell us about it!