Almost two years ago, I came to KYA overweight and exhausted with just a spark of light left in me. Jennifer grabbed onto that spark and she hasn't let go since.
Almost two years ago, I came to KYA overweight and exhausted with just a spark of light left in me. Jennifer Hunt grabbed onto that spark and she hasn’t let go since. I was anxious on my first day with KYA — I had no idea what to expect and it was really hard for me to exercise because I was so out of shape. I looked around at the other people in the class and thought, “There is no way I will ever be able to do that.”
But Jennifer was right there, giving me modifications to suit my level. Bit by bit, I have been able to lift a little more weight, do a few more reps and try new exercises. Even when I think I still can’t do something, Jennifer will say, “Try just one!” and I find myself doing at least one — and usually more.
In the time that I have been training with Jennifer I have lost almost 60 pounds and gained the friendship and support of Jennifer and the entire group of women at KYA. They are all kind, caring people who truly want to see you succeed and have fun while doing it. Hearing the person next to you say, “You got this!” keeps you going and then you are right there for the next person who needs a little help.
Somewhere between sharing life stories and book recommendations we work hard and leave our sessions worn out yet satisfied. Being a part of KYA has made an incredible difference in my life and I am thankful every day that I was able to connect with this awesome group of people. – Kass
But Jennifer was right there, giving me modifications to suit my level. Bit by bit, I have been able to lift a little more weight, do a few more reps and try new exercises. Even when I think I still can’t do something, Jennifer will say, “Try just one!” and I find myself doing at least one — and usually more.
In the time that I have been training with Jennifer I have lost almost 60 pounds and gained the friendship and support of Jennifer and the entire group of women at KYA. They are all kind, caring people who truly want to see you succeed and have fun while doing it. Hearing the person next to you say, “You got this!” keeps you going and then you are right there for the next person who needs a little help.
Somewhere between sharing life stories and book recommendations we work hard and leave our sessions worn out yet satisfied. Being a part of KYA has made an incredible difference in my life and I am thankful every day that I was able to connect with this awesome group of people. – Kass
"It has been two years, and somewhere on that field I left 35 lbs and all that fear."
Convinced by friends to try KYA in spite of arthritis and worn out knees, I can say with 100% confidence that it was one of the best decisions I have made regarding my fitness. I had lost hope that I could do anything other than swim or ride my bike to stay fit, both requiring time I did not have. Instead, I joined KYA and became stronger than ever. The strength translated into improved overall well-being and less joint pain. Although it is a group class, Jennifer Hunt takes the time to discover each client’s needs and accommodates based on that. It’s like having a personal trainer along with fellow trainees, so my creaky, played-out knees don’t prevent me from getting a butt-kicking workout. And… no workout is ever the same. I personally appreciate the variety, and having an instructor there to help me do a deck squat correctly or motivating me to keep going is key for me. Exercising outside is also a benefit. The fresh air is so much better than gym air; I don’t ever want to work out inside again. KYA has done so much more for me than strengthen my muscles. It’s worth every penny. – Wiley
I have to admit that the first day I went to boot camp I was scared. It was something very different for me. It has been two years, and somewhere on that field I left 35lbs and all that fear. It is hard to get there some days, but it is always worth it! It is exciting to watch yourself get stronger and feel better. Jennifer Hunt has been awesome. She has been a great resource for me, and I appreciate that no matter what, she can work with whatever issues you may have. But she will never let you cheat yourself. I was one of those people who would have said, "There's no way I could do that." I'm glad I let that go that day because it changed my life. – Megan
"Every workout jennifer presents is always different. i have never been bored, and sometimes i wonder where she gets this stuff!"
I have been a client of Jennifer Hunt's KYA boot camp for over a year. I started working out with her three times a week around October 2011. When I joined KYA, I had not worked out in a year and had gained about 25 lbs. Not to mention I had zero muscle tone. I am 5' 2" and at the time weighed in at about 150 to 155. When my size 12 jeans were starting to fit snug and I was getting "muffin top," I knew I had to do something. I felt terrible!
My first month or so, I could barely do a push up on my knees. Forget a sit up. I was using 5 lb. weights for lifting, and I struggled through my cardio exercises. Still, I showed up to each class determined to get fit. Every workout Jennifer presents is always different. I have never been bored, and sometimes I wonder where she gets this stuff! Jennifer is always excited to have her class try new and challenging exercises (she doesn't expect us to do a workout that she has not already done, so none of this is impossible). If there is an exercise I cannot do (I am 39, so this old body sometimes has an ache or pain), she has many modifications so I won't miss out on the workout. My favorite workouts are stations, the hour just flies by. I can lift heavier weights, push ups are no problem, and I could do sit ups all day.
Now, I am toned and healthy. Since last year, I have lost down to 125. I recently bought a size 4 pair of jeans and the muffin top is history! – Brandi
My first month or so, I could barely do a push up on my knees. Forget a sit up. I was using 5 lb. weights for lifting, and I struggled through my cardio exercises. Still, I showed up to each class determined to get fit. Every workout Jennifer presents is always different. I have never been bored, and sometimes I wonder where she gets this stuff! Jennifer is always excited to have her class try new and challenging exercises (she doesn't expect us to do a workout that she has not already done, so none of this is impossible). If there is an exercise I cannot do (I am 39, so this old body sometimes has an ache or pain), she has many modifications so I won't miss out on the workout. My favorite workouts are stations, the hour just flies by. I can lift heavier weights, push ups are no problem, and I could do sit ups all day.
Now, I am toned and healthy. Since last year, I have lost down to 125. I recently bought a size 4 pair of jeans and the muffin top is history! – Brandi
"kya and jennifer have totally changed my body. i actually like my legs for the first time in my life. i feel strong and healthy." – Kristen
"my energy has returned, i slimmed down two sizes, and my stamina and strength have increased."
I have been training with KYA since May 2011 and have definitely seen results. My energy has returned, I slimmed down two sizes, and my stamina and strength have increased. The workouts are tough, but Jennifer makes working out fun. She understands my limitations but also pushes me to do better with each session. Each workout is different, and the hour flies by. I look forward to every session and highly recommend KYA! – Karen
"I essentially 'cured' my chronic back problem that had plagued me for years."
KYA Boot Camp found me in a serendipitous way. While I was searching for my next fitness challenge, a daily email came my way. It was a deal from Living Social on attending boot camp classes with Jennifer Hunt. Needless to say, as much as I desperately needed this, I was hesitant to accept the offer. Much to my satisfaction, I joined and became hooked. I essentially "cured" my chronic back problem that had plagued me for years. Though an avid runner, my core needed tightening, and my muscles needed strengthening. This boot camp resolved these issues; I'm essentially pain free, and I sleep a lot better. Also, Jennifer Hunt is not only a wonderful motivator and mentor, but she is a very knowledgeable, compassionate, and funny person. I highly recommend KYA Boot Camp to ANYONE! Jennifer definitely knows her stuff, putting a lot of effort into each and every workout. She's never repetitive, but always exciting. Thank you, Jennifer, for helping to improve my body, mind, and soul! – Erin
"As a mom who works full-time, i have learned that you have to make time for yourself and sometimes the only time you have is the time before everyone else gets up."
When I joined boot camp I had hit my goal of losing 30 pounds using Weight Watchers. I thought boot camp would help me tone up and keep the weight off as I moved into the "maintenance" phase of the Weight Watchers program. In 4 short months not only did I tone up, but I lost an additional 15 pounds! Jennifer's workouts are always different, and even though I have gotten stronger, I am still challenged by every session. Jennifer is also a great motivator. After much coaxing, she finally convinced me to join the Thursday morning cardio group (boot campers who meet up and run/walk together). I had been toying with the idea of running again (I was an avid runner years ago), but was only clocking 1-2 miles every other weekend - if that. Now I am up to 9 miles a week and I am running my first 10K in March. Getting up at 5:00 AM three times a week isn't easy, but it has been totally worth it. As a mom who works full-time, I have learned that you have to make time for yourself and sometimes the only time you have is the time before everyone else gets up.
– Amanda
– Amanda
"I am not a morning person, nor do I particularly enjoy exercising. so why do I get up for a 5:30am class twice a week? because Jennifer is the best exercise instructor i have ever had."
I am NOT a morning person, nor do I particularly enjoy exercising. So why do I get up for a 5:30 a.m. class twice a week? Because Jennifer is the best exercise instructor I have ever had. Using some basic moves, she crafts a different workout every day usually incorporating every muscle you have. She is knowledgeable about exercise and nutrition and is always available for questions or concerns. She makes exercise modifications -- often while still maintaining count! -- for each individual so that the class is challenging, but not overwhelming. Jennifer is encouraging when it seems like you will never be able to do a proper push up, and she is celebratory when you reach that goal. I am lighter, faster, and stronger after only a few months and I know that Jennifer is going to help me get the body I want.
– Jamie S.
You have been such a motivator for me to get back into shape. I know you're going to keep me motivated no matter what life throws my way. Thanks again!
– Julie, 33, near West End
– Jamie S.
You have been such a motivator for me to get back into shape. I know you're going to keep me motivated no matter what life throws my way. Thanks again!
– Julie, 33, near West End
"the scale said something very nice to me this morning that it had not said in about three years."
WAY more fun than a regular gym workout! – Diana
The scale said something very nice to me this morning that it had not said in about three years. I just want to thank you again for getting me on the right path that so many other professionals couldn't. – S
I love being motivated by Jennifer and the group to push myself further. I have really seen a difference in my endurance and overall health after just a month of working out with the KYA boot camp! – Annie
Jennifer is wonderful to work with, she is passionate about what she does and is a great motivator. – Carrie
After 10 KYA Bootcamp sessions, already I am 10 pounds lighter and feel much stronger. As difficult as it is to get up early, I am always glad I did! Jennifer varies the workout, keeps up the pace and always ends on time. Her knowledge and enthusiasm are powerful motivators. I would recommend this workout to anyone who needs to add some fun strength training into her life! – Olivia, Busy Mom and Business Owner, Richmond VA
I was very challenged by the instructor:) I think because I was committed and came regularly and joined Weight Watchers around the same time I got better results with your program. The program was good for me, my endurance is up. Keep up the good work helping people get fit. – Darlene
I am feeling much more energized during the day – and that is good – makes me smile. – T. Pierce
I'm a new Mom. And the exercise I used to do doesn't seem to do anything about the weight I've put on since the pregnancy. Also, the older I get, the more aware I am that I need to establish a more permanent exercise regime to maintain my health and general strength. After having started the KYA boot camp workouts, I've already noticed my strength improving and my body responding. I think it's happy I've finally found an exercise regime that works for me. And, miraculously, my schedule, too. I was surprised that folks were prompt. There was a good mix of ages, races, and physical ability. It helped that there was quite a bit of good natured grousing. Jennifer always gave people alternatives to doing stuff, in case it was too hard or too easy – which really helps.
Jennifer is always motivating without ever being too perky (which I wouldn't be able to take that early) and was good at telling folks to stop and take water breaks if it was getting to be too much. It was really nice, for me, that we weren't in a gym. We did the ab exercises on our mats and I got to stare up into the trees the whole time, which was wonderful. But we also had a lot of privacy (who's out at 6 am, after all?). It's an ideal alternative to slogging it out alone at the gym.
I've been saying for months that I just don't have time to exercise. Then I saw this and thought for the first time since I had my baby, "I could actually do that." And I have. I'm not sure why, but in committing to boot camp, I'm much more inclined to actually go. If I pay for a monthly membership at a gym, that's just not enough motivation for me to get up and get out there. KYA boot camp is different.
“Maybe it's the energy of the group (instead of just myself), maybe it's Jennifer's straight forward approach and attitude, or maybe it's just that I can see everyone else actually managing to make it out and make the most of it... but I'm actually getting this done. Unlike other classes or memberships in the past, this one's actually sticking. It's a serious workout, an effective workout, but also one you can adjust to your own limits. No point in going once, pushing yourself too hard and then never going back. This is more about the long haul.
– Midori, Westover Hills Mom and Overworked Graphic Artist
The scale said something very nice to me this morning that it had not said in about three years. I just want to thank you again for getting me on the right path that so many other professionals couldn't. – S
I love being motivated by Jennifer and the group to push myself further. I have really seen a difference in my endurance and overall health after just a month of working out with the KYA boot camp! – Annie
Jennifer is wonderful to work with, she is passionate about what she does and is a great motivator. – Carrie
After 10 KYA Bootcamp sessions, already I am 10 pounds lighter and feel much stronger. As difficult as it is to get up early, I am always glad I did! Jennifer varies the workout, keeps up the pace and always ends on time. Her knowledge and enthusiasm are powerful motivators. I would recommend this workout to anyone who needs to add some fun strength training into her life! – Olivia, Busy Mom and Business Owner, Richmond VA
I was very challenged by the instructor:) I think because I was committed and came regularly and joined Weight Watchers around the same time I got better results with your program. The program was good for me, my endurance is up. Keep up the good work helping people get fit. – Darlene
I am feeling much more energized during the day – and that is good – makes me smile. – T. Pierce
I'm a new Mom. And the exercise I used to do doesn't seem to do anything about the weight I've put on since the pregnancy. Also, the older I get, the more aware I am that I need to establish a more permanent exercise regime to maintain my health and general strength. After having started the KYA boot camp workouts, I've already noticed my strength improving and my body responding. I think it's happy I've finally found an exercise regime that works for me. And, miraculously, my schedule, too. I was surprised that folks were prompt. There was a good mix of ages, races, and physical ability. It helped that there was quite a bit of good natured grousing. Jennifer always gave people alternatives to doing stuff, in case it was too hard or too easy – which really helps.
Jennifer is always motivating without ever being too perky (which I wouldn't be able to take that early) and was good at telling folks to stop and take water breaks if it was getting to be too much. It was really nice, for me, that we weren't in a gym. We did the ab exercises on our mats and I got to stare up into the trees the whole time, which was wonderful. But we also had a lot of privacy (who's out at 6 am, after all?). It's an ideal alternative to slogging it out alone at the gym.
I've been saying for months that I just don't have time to exercise. Then I saw this and thought for the first time since I had my baby, "I could actually do that." And I have. I'm not sure why, but in committing to boot camp, I'm much more inclined to actually go. If I pay for a monthly membership at a gym, that's just not enough motivation for me to get up and get out there. KYA boot camp is different.
“Maybe it's the energy of the group (instead of just myself), maybe it's Jennifer's straight forward approach and attitude, or maybe it's just that I can see everyone else actually managing to make it out and make the most of it... but I'm actually getting this done. Unlike other classes or memberships in the past, this one's actually sticking. It's a serious workout, an effective workout, but also one you can adjust to your own limits. No point in going once, pushing yourself too hard and then never going back. This is more about the long haul.
– Midori, Westover Hills Mom and Overworked Graphic Artist
For location & consultation, contact us at kyawomen@gmail.com.
Photos by Kelly Maceyka and by Sass & Frass Photography